Product Review: "All" Free and Clear Liquid Detergent

Couple of years ago I had 2 anaphylactic shock, the first one was not so bad, my throat swelled up so much that I had to go to the ER for an epi cocktail shot to open up the airway. The second shock was severe, my face swelled up so bad that I was not able to see, I was barely breathing.

So ever since then, my home have changed quite a bit to accommodate my life threatening allergic reaction. One of the biggest change was laundry detergent. Thanks to my wife, she did her research and was able to find a detergent that will not trigger an attack for me. This detergent have no smell, it's gentle for the skin and does not aggravate my skin. Thumbs up!

Spice it up with Oregano and benefit your health!

Usually we think of Oregano just as a spice that makes our food taste better.  But the herb actually has some health benefits it’s a source of: iron, manganese, dietary fiber, calcium, vitamin C, beta-carotene, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin K.  In fact 2 tsp of oregano is just over 20% DV of vitamin K.  Having adequate amounts of vitamin K allows your blood to clot normally and helps protect against osteoporosis.

photo credit: thomas pix

The Power of Fennel

Just recently I have been trying to experiment with other vegetables and Fennel has been the latest.  Fennel is known for being great in Mediterranean cuisine.  I am still playing around with recipes and getting the hang of preparing it(I love the taste!).  When I feel like I have it mastered Ill be sure to send some recipes along!

Fennel is a great source of calcium, dietary fiber, potassium and manganese while adding a crunchy and slightly sweet flavor.

How to choose fennel
Select fennel with firm, crisp, pale bulbs with feathery fresh leaves. Refrigerate and use within 4-5 days.
photo credit: kevindooley

Product Review: Magic Bullet

As a lazy guy that helps my wife "cook" periodically, the magic bullet is awesome. First of all, I hate washing traditional glass blender, it's heavy, its huge and I need to wash the blender gasket, the blade, plus my glass. But with the magic bullet, the lazy factor allows me to wash the blade, finish my drink, THEN i wash the same cup I blend in. Yes, as a guy this is very important :)

I think the size factor also make this blender attractive, I can make several different things in a short time. Besides smoothies, I can make pasta sauce, microwave the container, make a veggie omelet without the mess.

I have owned the unit for 2 years now, for $49 - it is a good investment. Thumbs up!

Video Health Tip - Ep3 - 2% Milk

Avoid Weight Gain While Traveling

Traveling is a big part of our culture.  And it is not just a luxury but often times a necessity to decrease stress and rejuvenate from a hectic work schedule.  Personally I am returning from a wonderful weekend in Chattanooga with lots of friends.  But like every traveler I face the same obstacle how to enjoy my trip and not gain weight.  So I thought I would share some tips that I use to avoid gaining the travelers bulge.
photo credit: Gúnna

1. Avoid "junk food"!  chips and soda may travel well but it's calories will travel with you a lot longer.  Good alternatives bring snacks such as carrot sticks, celery sticks, cucumbers, and radishes.

2. When choosing a restaurant think about where you know you can get some nutrition not just a low calories meal; think fresh fruit and vegetables.

3. If you are eating with friends or family make the conversation and the company the center of attention not the meal.  I am not saying that you should not be paying attention to what you are eating(you should be careful when putting food on your plate, focus on good foods and a portion control if only high calorie foods are available ).  What I am saying is that if the conversations and the people are the focus you will eat slower, feel full sooner and not over eat.

4. If fast food is a must look up nutrition information before hand, know what you are taking in.

5. Plan activities that keep you moving.  This trip we played Frisbee, went walking, and some even canoed!

6. Make sure that you are getting real exercise! Schedule it in, even if it is only 10-15 minutes here and there, getting some solid (pushing yourself) strength training as well as aerobic activity will help burn some extra calories and keep you on track to get right back on your normal routine when you return home.

A scientific question: What is the color of your urine?

Your urine should be  clear or  straw color,  if it's dark or has a strong odor, chances are you may be dehydrated. If  you increase your water intake and the color still remain dark, then it's time to consult with your physician. So what if  its bright yellow? Don't be alarm most likely it's from the B vitamins in your multivitamin.

photocredit:jurvetson