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	<title>Busy Momma Wellness &#187; Health Tips</title>
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	<description>Take care of you</description>
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		<title>Five Natural Remedies for IBS</title>
		<link>http://busymommawellness.com/five-natural-remedies-for-ibs/</link>
		<comments>http://busymommawellness.com/five-natural-remedies-for-ibs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 14 Jul 2010 15:41:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Trainer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Health Tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://busymommawellness.com/?p=790</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Irritable Bowel Syndrome encompasses many symptoms associated with the gastrointestinal tract and is much more disruptive than pain and discomfort when attempting bowel movement. For some it is pain every day and can be all day. Moreover, abdominal pain, or alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea may accompany this syndrome. Here are 5 natural remedies [...]]]></description>
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			<a href="http://api.tweetmeme.com/share?url=http%3A%2F%2Fbusymommawellness.com%2Ffive-natural-remedies-for-ibs%2F"><br />
				<img src="http://api.tweetmeme.com/imagebutton.gif?url=http%3A%2F%2Fbusymommawellness.com%2Ffive-natural-remedies-for-ibs%2F&amp;source=busymommaval&amp;style=normal" height="61" width="50" /><br />
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<p><a title="nonfat yogurt with sugar-free chocolate chips and sliced almonds" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/10856561@N00/467592243/" target="_blank"><img class="alignleft" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/230/467592243_f6915b8d0a_m.jpg" border="0" alt="nonfat yogurt with sugar-free chocolate chips and sliced almonds" width="240" height="209" /></a>Irritable Bowel Syndrome encompasses many symptoms associated with the gastrointestinal tract and is much more disruptive than pain and discomfort when attempting bowel movement.  For some it is pain every day and can be all day.  Moreover, abdominal pain, or alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea may accompany this syndrome.  Here are 5 natural remedies to try for IBS.</p>
<p>1. Avoid emotional stress and pressures as this can bring on severe bouts.<br />
2. A high-fiber diet can help alleviate the symptoms.<br />
3. Keep a diary of what you eat and drink to determine the cause of pain. This is your number one plan of attack for future comfort.<br />
4. Peppermint capsules can reduce the pain and bloating.<br />
5. Probiotics have been shown to reduce not only abdominal pain and bloating, but allow for easy bowel movement as well.</p>
<p>Because the symptoms of IBS are often brought on by tension and strain in your lifestyle as well as a poor diet, it is recommended that your diet consist of low-fat, high-fiber meals.  Adding plenty of greens and fruits, including spinach, whole-grain products, and drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water a day can also alleviate the problem.  Also, prune juice may be recommended as a stimulant to improve bowel movement.  Smoking should be avoided as it often intensifies the symptoms.</p>
<p>A daily diary noting the foods you eat will help to reveal the sources of the problem.  Perhaps fried foods are the cause, or you are not consuming enough vegetables or fruits.  A diary can be quite helpful in ascertaining why your bowel movements are not only irregular, but painful as well.</p>
<p>Peppermint is known to reduce the abdominal pain and bloating of irritable bowel syndrome due to the fact that it blocks the movement of calcium into muscle cells in the intestines, and eases muscle contractions.  It is also helpful in eliminating excess gas in the intestines.</p>
<p>Probiotics, which are primarily found in dairy products such as yogurt and fermented foods, offer a natural remedy for IBS.  In a recent study of women with IBS, probiotics were found to be more effective in reducing abdominal pain, bloating, bowel dysfunction, incomplete evacuation, straining, and gas.  Probiotics are probably the best known microorganisms one can utilize to effectively act as one of the natural remedies for IBS.</p>
<p><small><a title="Attribution-NonCommercial License" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/2.0/" target="_blank"><img src="../wp-content/plugins/photo-dropper/images/cc.png" border="0" alt="Creative Commons License" width="16" height="16" align="absmiddle" /></a> <a href="http://www.photodropper.com/photos/" target="_blank">photo</a> credit: <a title="size8jeans" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/10856561@N00/467592243/" target="_blank">size8jeans</a></small></p>
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		<title>Having to Modify Training</title>
		<link>http://busymommawellness.com/having-to-modify-training/</link>
		<comments>http://busymommawellness.com/having-to-modify-training/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 26 Jun 2010 13:31:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Trainer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health Tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Race Training]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://busymommawellness.com/?p=803</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I&#8217;d like to have everyone say hello to my friend Murphy. You know, the one that created Murphy&#8217;s Law! I&#8217;ve been excited this week, got a jump start on training, wrote out my training schedule for the next 14 weeks and then was dealt a blow&#8230;walking pneumonia. I only got 12.3 miles out of my [...]]]></description>
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<p><a title="Murphy's law" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/34113574@N00/1398384747/" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1108/1398384747_6b73465c6d_m.jpg" border="0" alt="Murphy's law" width="240" height="160" /></a><br />
I&#8217;d like to have everyone say hello to my friend Murphy.  You know, the one that created Murphy&#8217;s Law!</p>
<p>I&#8217;ve been excited this week, got a jump start on training, wrote out my training schedule for the next 14 weeks and then was dealt a blow&#8230;walking pneumonia.  I only got 12.3 miles out of my 20 planned.  It was difficult, but I just figured that was because of my allergies that have been horrible for weeks due to our horrible weather and mild winter.  Alas, it is partly from it.  All the drainage from my allergies helped cause it.</p>
<p>I went to run my 10k route on thursday and I had to walk after 4.5 miles.  This is a well traveled road and I&#8217;m always worried someone I know will pass (and has) and see me, so I NEVER WALK.  It&#8217;s the competitive in me. lol  But I was done.  In fact, not only did I walk, but I mentally called out to everyone that I knew could possibly drive by and hoped with all my might that hubby would drive by to pick me up.  I felt so bad that if one of the engines or medics had driven by I would have flagged them down and sucked up the embarrassment for a courtesy transport.  Needless to say I finally got home, took a shower and headed to the clinic.</p>
<p>I bet the doc got a good little laugh at me after I left.  I asked if I&#8217;d have to stop running and he said no, just listen to my body.  Of course he knew that this was going to make me so tired I wouldn&#8217;t think of running and my lungs would burn just walking around the grocery store right?</p>
<p>I&#8217;m disappointed that this happened right now, but not swayed.  I won&#8217;t go running again until Monday at the earliest and will scale everything back.  I won&#8217;t be able to put up a good training schedule until I see how fast recovery really is and where this leaves my lung capacity.  Already having asthma I&#8217;m just not sure how fast it will heal.</p>
<p>I&#8217;m listening to my body and sleeping and resting.  I really have no choice.  But I want to recover quickly and not prolong this any more than necessary.  Walking pneumonia is definitely not fun.  Take this from someone that has had asthma from an early age and has always done many sports.  I&#8217;ll take my asthma any day to this as I know that I can use my inhaler and get at least a brief reprieve.  Right now there is the constant labored breathing and no relief until some more healing has happened.  My fingers are crossed that much of it is done over the weekend.</p>
<p><small><a title="Attribution License" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank"><img src="../wp-content/plugins/photo-dropper/images/cc.png" border="0" alt="Creative Commons License" width="16" height="16" align="absmiddle" /></a> <a href="http://www.photodropper.com/photos/" target="_blank">photo</a> credit: <a title="szalik" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/34113574@N00/1398384747/" target="_blank">szalik</a></small></p>
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		<title>Natural Sunburn Relief</title>
		<link>http://busymommawellness.com/natural-sunburn-relief/</link>
		<comments>http://busymommawellness.com/natural-sunburn-relief/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010 15:15:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Trainer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Health Tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://busymommawellness.com/?p=788</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[While there are many topical creams and anti-inflammatory medications you can use to alleviate the pain and soreness associated with sunburn, there are natural sunburn relief products which can relieve the discomfort as well. I sunburn much more easily as I&#8217;ve gotten older, BUT I also am not outside as much as I was growing [...]]]></description>
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<p>While there are many topical creams and anti-inflammatory medications you can use to alleviate the pain and soreness associated with sunburn, there are natural sunburn relief products which can relieve the discomfort as well.  I sunburn much more easily as I&#8217;ve gotten older, BUT I also am not outside as much as I was growing up. However, my hubby is of more nordic nature and we&#8217;re used to treating sunburns.  These natural alternatives do work well.</p>
<p>Aloe Vera, which is used in the treatment of burn victims, is quite effective in the treatment of sunburn.  Simply apply a thin layer to the affected area and repeat the application every hour.  I will apply the aloe every 30 minutes or so if hubby can&#8217;t sleep well because of the sunburn.</p>
<p>Herbal teas can offer a respite from the discomfort of sunburn as well.  Non-herbal black tea is one of them.  Steep six bags in four cups of hot water, cool, and apply it to the affected area with a cotton cloth.  In fact, tea bags have long been known to alleviate puffiness and burns to the eyes as well.  Place a cooled teabag on each closed eyelid, lie down, and let the tea do its work.</p>
<p>Try an herbal bath using either chamomile or lavender essential oils.  This is another effective means by which you can relieve severe sunburn symptoms.  You may want to try tea tree oil, which helps heal skin burns and other skin irritations, and products rich with it can be helpful as well.</p>
<p>Another way to relieve the pain of sunburn is to apply cold compresses by using cool tap water on a cotton towel and apply it to the affected areas.  Also, a cool bath is also recommended.  Do not shower as the pulsating water on your sunburned skin will cause further pain and burning sensation.</p>
<p>An oatmeal bath will not only relieve the itchiness accompanying dried sunburned skin, but sooth and alleviate the burn as well.  There is powdered oatmeal available with which you can add to a tub of cool bathwater.  But don&#8217;t wait to do it.  It does make a mess to clean up, but grab those uncut oats from your cupboard and throw them in the bathwater.  It&#8217;s quick and everyone has them.</p>
<p>While some people look forward to getting a great summer tan, bathing in the sun too long can have caustic affects.  Use SPF 15 or higher sun block, depending on your skin tone, to prevent severe burning.  Apply it before you go out into the sun and every 20 minutes thereafter. </p>
<p>The rule of thumb when sunbathing is:  20 minutes in the sun and 20 minutes out of the sun.  In this way, you can acquire a tan comfortably and safely.  For some of us that live in areas that don&#8217;t get as much sun, it&#8217;s a major deal to get our skin prepared.  Build up skins natural protection by not getting burned.</p>
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		<title>Should You Choose a Sport Drink Over Water?</title>
		<link>http://busymommawellness.com/should-you-choose-sport-drink-over-water/</link>
		<comments>http://busymommawellness.com/should-you-choose-sport-drink-over-water/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 22 Apr 2010 13:04:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Trainer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health Tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://busymommawellness.com/?p=762</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[One of the most important aspects of working out is making sure you are staying well-hydrated. The question many ask is whether to choose a sports drink over water? The answer depends on factors such as the length, intensity and type of exercise while considering personal preferences. Your diet also plays a role in whether [...]]]></description>
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<p>One of the most important aspects of working out is making sure you are staying well-hydrated. The question many ask is whether to choose a sports drink over water? The answer depends on factors such as the length, intensity and type of exercise while considering personal preferences. Your diet also plays a role in whether a sport drink will be beneficial.</p>
<p>Exercise raises the body temperature, which causes sweating and loss of water and salts. However, most people working out at a low to moderate intensity for sixty minutes or less are able to stick to water. It’s the perfect choice for rehydration. Not only is it calorie free but it also moves rapidly from the stomach through the body via the blood stream. For an added bonus, it costs much less than sports drinks.</p>
<p>Let’s take a look at both water and sports drinks to see the pros and cons of each. This will allow you to make a more informed decision as to which one you choose.</p>
<p>Water</p>
<p>This is the usual and natural choice to rehydrate the body. It happens to hydrate better than sports drinks, both before and during any exercise routine. With it being less expensive in comparison to other choices, it’s also more readily available. Since you need to drink ½ to 1 cup of fluid for every 15-20 minutes of exercise, water is obviously the less expensive choice. </p>
<p>One problem with this choice is the fact that some people find that water is bland in taste. As a result of this blandness they will drink less than necessary. Water is the best option, but it only works properly if you drink enough to remain hydrated.  If taste is your only reason for not choosing water, there are many ways to flavor your water lightly.</p>
<p>Sports Drinks</p>
<p>Many people find sports drinks to be more tasty and appealing than water due to their variety of flavors and colors.  People are more likely to consume more liquids with sports drinks as a result of these factors. However, they do not hydrate the body as well as water.</p>
<p>They won’t quench your thirst the same way water does. This will result in you drinking more of it. The carbohydrate content in these sports drinks may give you a boost, in addition to the replacement of electrolytes which you may have lost while perspiring.</p>
<p>But pay attention to the calories and sodium in the sports drinks.  Many do not need the sodium and this will cause water retention and can lead to other issues if taking in too much. </p>
<p>Water versus Sports Drinks for Children</p>
<p>Kids are more susceptible to dehydration than adults when actively participating in physical activity. There are several reasons for this:</p>
<p>* They have a lower sweat rate (not only on a per gland basis, but in general).<br />
* Tolerance for extreme temperatures is less efficient.<br />
* There is more skin surface in relation to their body weight being exposed. As a result heat is gained in extreme temperatures.<br />
* Their hearts pump less blood.<br />
* They have a slower adjustment to exercising when doing so in a hot environment.</p>
<p>Since children are more likely to consume sports drinks over water, give your child a sports drink to consume before, during and after sports. This can reduce the risk of dehydration significantly, thus preventing other heat-related illness as well.</p>
<p>Sports drinks may have the added benefit of calories which could enhance energy and endurance. They are also handy for reducing muscle damage when extreme sports are part of your physical fitness routine. This would include marathons and other workouts that take more than 60 minutes. </p>
<p>However, for workouts lasting shorter periods of time or of lower impact, water is by far your better choice. It’s also more readily available and has the ability to hydrate the body quickly if enough is consumed. </p>
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		<title>3 Mental Benefits of Weight Training</title>
		<link>http://busymommawellness.com/3-mental-benefits-of-weight-training/</link>
		<comments>http://busymommawellness.com/3-mental-benefits-of-weight-training/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010 14:58:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Trainer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health Tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://busymommawellness.com/?p=746</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I touched on the top 3 reasons I promote weight training to women. I wrote that article about the health benefits specifically. But weight training can benefit you so much mentally. photo credit: greg westfall. 1. Confidence. How you think of yourself is a huge key in how others will think of you. When you [...]]]></description>
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<p>I touched on the <a href="http://busymommawellness.com/3-reasons-weight-training-is-important/">top 3 reasons I promote weight training</a> to women.  I wrote that article about the health benefits specifically.  But weight training can benefit you so much mentally.</p>
<p><a title="angie" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/37129284@N02/3896838102/" target="_blank"><img class="alignleft" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2459/3896838102_1273912e8e_m.jpg" border="0" alt="angie" width="227" height="240" /></a><br />
<small><a title="Attribution License" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank"><img src="http://busymommawellness.com/wp-content/plugins/photo-dropper/images/cc.png" border="0" alt="Creative Commons License" width="16" height="16" align="absmiddle" /></a> <a href="http://www.photodropper.com/photos/" target="_blank">photo</a> credit: <a title="greg westfall." href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/37129284@N02/3896838102/" target="_blank">greg westfall.</a></small></p>
<p>1.  Confidence.  How you think of yourself is a huge key in how others will think of you.  When you weight train your posture improves as you strengthen your muscles.  You&#8217;ll hold yourself up taller and this brings the perception that you are more confident&#8230;even if you aren&#8217;t yet.  Stand tall and be proud of your accomplishments with your workouts.</p>
<p>2. Renewed energy.  It goes along with that confidence issue.  Weight workouts and re-energize you.  Plus you will be so proud of finishing your workouts successfully that you will be ready to take on the world and get other projects done as well.</p>
<p>3.  Appearance changes.  When we feel better about what we see in the mirror our whole outlook changes.  When you weight train you get muscle definition.  Definition is hot no matter how you look at it.  With each muscle that starts to show you will move right up to our favorite number 1 again, confidence <img src='http://busymommawellness.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' />   Plus your clothes will look all the better when your muscles are toned up to what they are made to look like.</p>
<p>Weight train for all of the benefits combined.  Considering we are emotional beings, we can benefit immensely from the physical and emotional.  Whatever keeps you working out is a good reason to use.</p>
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		<title>Antioxidants For Youth</title>
		<link>http://busymommawellness.com/antioxidants-for-youta/</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:15:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Trainer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Eating Habits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health Tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://busymommawellness.com/?p=709</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Growing old gracefully is something we are all looking to do. Some go under the knife to get that youthful look while others opt for a more natural way to maintain that healthful glow. The way to make peace with age can be found in the types of foods that we eat and the miracle [...]]]></description>
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<p>Growing old gracefully is something we are all looking to do.  Some go under the knife to get that youthful look while others opt for a more natural way to maintain that healthful glow.  The way to make peace with age can be found in the types of foods that we eat and the miracle ingredients they contain.</p>
<p>One hidden “miracle” is called antioxidants.  They have graced the pages of magazines, medical journals and every product from hand cream to supplement pills.  It&#8217;s spouted how great they are, but what are antioxidants and what can they do to keep you looking your best?</p>
<p>Antioxidants are substances that fight the aging process that goes on in your body.  They are not produced by the body so to get the benefit of these power-packed substances you must ingest them.  A variety of foods contain antioxidants.</p>
<p>Let’s go back to the beginning.  The body continually replenishes its cells.  Through a process called cellular metabolism, the body produces energy, more cells and repairs any damage.  One by-product of cellular metabolism is unstable molecules called free radicals.</p>
<p>Free radicals are molecules that damage your body.  They are unstable because they are missing an electron.  To get another one and become stable, free radicals will steal electrons from cells.  That theft damages the cells in a variety of ways.  </p>
<p>The results are visible and invisible changes to our bodies.  The development of diseases like cancer, diabetes, arthritis and neurological deficiencies may begin to affect you as you age.  Also, skin wrinkles and brittle bones are a problem.  Free radicals enter our body from outside sources as well: cigarette smoke, radiation and the sun’s UV rays.  The more free radicals we encounter, the greater the damage that can be done.  </p>
<p>Antioxidants have been shown to be of great help in the free radical issue.  Antioxidant substances combine with free radicals and neutralize them.  Once they are neutralized, they can no longer do any damage.  Scientists don’t have any idea of a recommended daily dose of antioxidants to correct free radical damage and the diseases that come with age, but they do know that eating foods rich in antioxidants makes a huge difference in how we live.</p>
<p>Where do you find antioxidants?  They are all around us.  Look no further than your local farmer’s market or produce aisle in the grocery store.  Fruits and vegetables contain the principle sources of antioxidants.</p>
<p>Examples of antioxidants include:<br />
* Vitamin C<br />
* Vitamin A<br />
* Vitamin E<br />
* Lutein<br />
* Lycopene<br />
* Beta-carotene</p>
<p>Certain minerals like zinc and selenium also function in the body.  They are not antioxidants but they boost the immune system to fight against free radical damage.</p>
<p>Antioxidants are also found in nuts, legumes, cold water fish, seafood and red meat.  So, eating a varied diet of fruits, vegetables and the foods just named will increase the amount of antioxidants in your system and help reduce the incidence of disease.  Eating fruits and vegetables in their natural form instead of juices brings the benefit of other nutrients found in the foods.  Juices also contain a lot of sugar that is not needed by your body.</p>
<p>Food does more than stave off hunger.  Natural substances found there can cause us to live longer and stay free of disease as we age.  As you can see from the above list, there is a big reason why we&#8217;ve been taught to eat fruits and vegetables from all colors of the rainbow.  Our bodies thrive on multiple sources of nutrition and science is now able to show us many more reasons why.</p>
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		<title>Foods with Power</title>
		<link>http://busymommawellness.com/foods-with-power/</link>
		<comments>http://busymommawellness.com/foods-with-power/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010 13:51:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Trainer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Eating Habits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health Tips]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Top Ten Power Packed Foods What is the secret to a long and healthy life? The answer can be in the food that we eat. As you well know, all foods are not created equal. Choosing and eating the right foods may help increase your life expectancy as well as the quality of your life. [...]]]></description>
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<p>Top Ten Power Packed Foods</p>
<p>What is the secret to a long and healthy life?  The answer can be in the food that we eat.  As you well know, all foods are not created equal.  Choosing and eating the right foods may help increase your life expectancy as well as the quality of your life. </p>
<p>Here are ten of the top power packed foods designed to give you energy, vitality and all around good health!</p>
<p>1. <strong>Beans</strong> – If they give you gas, take precautions before you eat them.  Soaking them first can help.  Beans of all kinds (kidney, navy, lentils, chickpeas, Northern) are high in protein.  This is plant protein so it contains very little fat, carbs and calories.  If fiber is a problem in your diet, eating a healthy portion of beans each day can keep your digestive system healthy.</p>
<p>2. <strong>Oatmeal</strong> – Oatmeal has become popular as a food that lowers blood cholesterol.  You can make it yourself with rolled oats or eat the instant kind if you are in a hurry.  Oatmeal is a filling grain that also provides much needed fiber to keep hunger at bay and your blood sugar constant.  For maximum health benefits, choose the old school rolled oats.  Instant oatmeals in packets contain a lot of sugars and have extra processing breaking down their natural fibers.</p>
<p>3. <strong>Fruits</strong> – Fruits are filled with antioxidants such as Vitamin C and A.  Antioxidants fight free radical damage in the body and reduce the risk of cancer.  Berries such as blueberries and grapes have the highest amount of antioxidants.  But choose an array of fruits in a wide variety of colors for maximum health.  The antioxidants in fruit boost the immune system to fight the effects of aging in the body.</p>
<p>4. <strong>Allium foods</strong> – This class of foods includes garlic, onions, leeks and shallots.  Garlic is known for lowering cholesterol.  Allium vegetables help guard the body against the risk of cancer and many other ailments.  They also help lower blood pressure and prevent blood clots.  Eating these power packed vegetables in their natural state especially garlic increases their health benefits.  </p>
<p>5. <strong>Salmon</strong> – Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids reduces the risk of heart disease and other conditions like atherosclerosis.  Wild salmon is a fatty fish but it contains good fats that have been proven to improve health in children and adults.  Salmon is rich in protein which is of great use after an exercise session to build muscle tissue.</p>
<p>6. <strong>Flax seed</strong> – Like salmon it contains omega-3 fatty acids.  These seeds also contain omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids.  You get a lot of power to fight high cholesterol, heart disease and diabetes with this seed.  Ground flax seed can be added to fruit smoothies, sprinkled in yogurt, eaten with cereal or added to pancake mix to name a few.</p>
<p>7. <strong>Peppers</strong> – Peppers are colorful.  They contain antioxidants like beta-carotene and Vitamin C.  Peppers range from mild and sweet to so hot you’ll be calling the fire department.  All peppers contain a substance called capsaicin.  Capsaicin has the properties of an anti-inflammatory, a pain reliever, lowers cancer risk and heart disease.  They are good in salads, salsa and all sorts of healthy dishes.</p>
<p>8. <strong>Nuts and seeds</strong> – Nuts are high in fat but those fats are the good kind.  Peanuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, walnuts and pistachios are all providers of good fats and protein.  Crush them into a fine powder and use as a coating instead of higher carb bread crumbs.  Nuts help to lower cholesterol.  Eat them right out of the shell with no additives.  Just be aware of your portions.</p>
<p>9. <strong>Açai</strong> – This berry has been in the news lately.  It is rich in antioxidants and increases energy.  You can get more done and look better while doing it.  You can get Acai juice and supplements in your health food store.</p>
<p>10. <strong>Yogurt</strong> – The fat free variety is good for you.  Yogurt contains calcium, Vitamin B, and protein.  If you don’t drink milk, yogurt is an alternative to get your calcium in to build strong bones and teeth.  Live yogurt also contains friendly bacteria to help promote a healthy digestive system. </p>
<p>Building a better healthier body begins with what you eat.  Try these super foods to get started on the right foot.  </p>
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		<title>Effective Steps for Managing Anxiety</title>
		<link>http://busymommawellness.com/effective-steps-for-managing-anxiety/</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2010 13:13:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Trainer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Everyday]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health Tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Take Care of YOU!]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Have you ever been in a situation that brought on sweats, rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath? You probably weren’t having a heart attack but an anxiety attack. If you suffer from anxiety disorders, learning to manage it is the first step to overcoming it. Anxiety is characterized as extreme reactions to fearful situations. When [...]]]></description>
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<p>Have you ever been in a situation that brought on sweats, rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath?  You probably weren’t having a heart attack but an anxiety attack.  If you suffer from anxiety disorders, learning to manage it is the first step to overcoming it.</p>
<p>Anxiety is characterized as extreme reactions to fearful situations.  When someone follows you into a dark area, those anxious feelings of a racing heartbeat and sweaty palms gives way to heightened senses and a rush of adrenalin that can save your life.  This is the fight or flight syndrome.  </p>
<p>In the case of frequent anxiety, the fearful feelings are dread of a particular situation and not the situation itself.  Getting caught in traffic can cause an anxiety attack over what might happen when you get to work late.  Starting a new job can bring on anxiety attacks.  You don’t know anyone and fear of that unknown can send you into a panic.</p>
<p>Everyone experiences panic or anxiety in small ways.  Like the fight or flight example, it can save your life.  In new situations, we get panicky but when the outcome we fear fails to materialize, the anxiety stops.  For someone with chronic anxiety, this is not the case.</p>
<p>Every situation that brings anxiety is not life-threatening.  More than likely it is an extremely stressful situation that has brought on the anxiety as a way of dealing with it.  Unchecked anxiety of this type can lead to depression.</p>
<p>If you suffer from anxiety attacks on occasion or a more frequent anxiety disorder, there are steps you can take to keep your anxiety under control.  </p>
<p>1. <strong>See a professional.</strong>  This is always a good first step.  Self-diagnosis of any type of physical or mental condition is unwise and can be dangerous.  A professional psychologist can help you understand your anxiety and prescribe medication or other effective techniques as needed.</p>
<p>2. <strong>Get a good night’s sleep.</strong>  During the sleep cycle, your body repairs itself.  You feel more rested after several hours of restorative sleep, reaching the REM stage.  Most people need eight hours a night which varies within an hour or two each way.  Not getting enough sleep for days on end will ensure that your body doesn&#8217;t work correctly.  This will include your reaction to real or thought up events.</p>
<p>3. <strong>Exercise on a consistent basis.</strong>  Exercise helps you to use oxygen more efficiently.  It helps to get more oxygen to the brain.  It also increases focus which may help you see solutions to problems rather than simply worrying about them.  It also uses up the endorphins that occur during the normal stress of the day.</p>
<p>4. <strong>Meditate.</strong>  Meditation is more than chanting mantras.  Yoga is an exercise that involves quieting the mind and controlling your breathing.  Simple mediation such as taking 5 minutes to clear your mind everyday can work wonders in the fight against anxiety.  Take some deep breathes and relax your shoulders.  You&#8217;ll be amazed at how much this simple act can relax you.</p>
<p>5. <strong>Manage the worry.</strong>  When you feel your pulse start to quicken, count backwards from ten.  As you count, focus on the situation.  What has actually happened? Resist the urge to read anything more into the situation than what is real.  </p>
<p>6. <strong>Don’t use alcohol.</strong>  You might think that the glass of wine is relaxing your tension but alcohol is a depressant.  In anxious situations you could rely too heavily on it and gain another problem in the process.  It will also increase your feelings of anxiety and keep you from sleeping soundly.</p>
<p>7. <strong>Find some relaxing activities.</strong>  Stress can rob you of your energy.  On a regular basis, do something you like such as gardening, painting, reading or listening to music.  In otherwords, find a hobby.   </p>
<p>Anxiety can come into your life at any time.  It’s normal.  When the anxiety becomes frequent you could be at risk for more serious conditions.  If you feel your anxiety is starting to take over your life or increasingly causing you problems, seek professional help immediately.  There is no need to suffer this terrible condition in silence. </p>
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		<title>Choosing To Live Stress Free</title>
		<link>http://busymommawellness.com/choosing-to-live-stress-free/</link>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:12:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>DrMommy</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Everyday]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health Tips]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[When life gets in the way we always seem to stress out. That seems to ring truer for females. There are many ways to relax and be stress free, without spending a fortune. Changing your lifestyle and reducing your stress will prolong your life. Let&#8217;s learn how to protect your health when the going gets [...]]]></description>
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<p>When life gets in the way we always seem to stress out. That seems to ring truer for females. There are many ways to relax and be stress free, without spending a fortune.</p>
<p>Changing your lifestyle and reducing your stress will prolong your life.</p>
<p>Let&#8217;s learn how to protect your health when the going gets tough.</p>
<ul>
<li>The first thing you do is to try to determine the reason why you are stressed. Go through your day and write down any time you feel stressed and what has caused that emotion. Make a list, as hard as it sounds it will be extremely helpful. You will be able to manage your life when you have a concrete list of what the stressors are in your life.</li>
<li>Now that you have your list, determine what you can eliminate. Sometimes, the main culprit is overbooked or over scheduling yourself. In turn this will create stress, because you will feel that you cannot accomplish your daily tasks. Learn to delegate household responsibilities. If you are feeling overwhelmed because you have too much to do, pick up takeout food or a prepared meal to lessen your stress.</li>
<li>Prioritize and make a list of what needs to be done in the morning, end of the day and end of the week. Focus on the task at hand and move down your list. As you progress down the list will start to feel less stressed and more able to accomplish your tasks and not feel overwhelmed.</li>
<li>Regular exercise will reduce your stress. You do not have to join a gym or spa, a simple walk around the neighborhood is great exercise and will not cost a dime.</li>
<li>Breathe. Abdominal breathing will increase the amount of oxygen in your blood stream. This in turn will trigger the brain to reduce the concentration of stress hormones.</li>
<li>Get a good night&#8217;s sleep. Sleeping 8 to 10 hours will help your body relax and reduce the surge of stress.</li>
<li>Listen to music. The music does not have to be calming music, it can be any type of music that you enjoy. Listening to your favorite tunes is the best remedy for stress.</li>
</ul>
<p>And last but not least, stop being so hard on yourself. We tend to be our own worse critics. Instead of beating yourself up, try writing down your negative thoughts and follow them with a positive thought. Positive thinking is healthy and will relieve a lot of self induced stress.</p>
<p>************************************<br />
Well, this is my last day at Busy Mom Wellness and I just have to thank Val once again for her generosity in allowing me to take over her blog for a couple of days. I truly hope that I have shared some information that you, the reader, find valuable and useful.</p>
<p>Remember that I am giving away a copy of my e-book, <a href="http://wahmcart.com/x.php?adminid=2172&amp;id=7575&amp;pid=4563" target="_blank">Eat Right and Feel Great</a>, so be sure to leave your comments about the posts. It is not too late to leave a comment on the first blog post I did. If you comment on both, I’ll give you an additional entry; and if you tweet this blog post with the hashtag #drmommytalkshealth, I will give you another entry.</p>
<p>And don’t forget that I will be having a Grand Prize giveaway as well. My latest program <a href="http://raisingahealthykid.com/" target="_blank">Raising a Healthy Kid</a> is a membership option for parents. I am giving away a 3 month subscription to one lucky commenter on each blog I visit during the Dr. Mommy’ s Healthy for the Holiday Tour. If you tweet the blog tour with the hashtag #drmommytalkshealth you will get an additional entry or the giveaway. If you are a parent with a picky eater be sure to check this membership option out.</p>
<p><strong>About the Author</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://s5.photobucket.com/albums/y159/busymomma/blog%20stuff/?action=view&amp;current=Sutherland2cropped300.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="alignleft" style="border: 0pt none;" src="http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y159/busymomma/blog%20stuff/Sutherland2cropped300.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" width="106" height="106" /></a>Dr. Daisy Sutherland, is the Founder and CEO of Dr. Mommy, LLC.  She is a doctor by profession, devoted wife and mom to 5 beautiful children.  She is a speaker, writer, and motivational coach/mentor and Health/Wellness advocate. Her passion is to help others to live happier and healthier lives. Dr. Mommy&#8217;s dedication to help families is evident from her work online and offline but more importantly it is evident from the energy she exudes when talking about her true passion.  Dr. Mommy&#8217;s mission is to help families in health, wealth and sanity.  For more information about Dr. Mommy and her mission visit her today at http://drmommyhelpsmoms.com or http://drmommyhealthtips.com</p>
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		<title>Asthma and Exercise</title>
		<link>http://busymommawellness.com/asthma-and-exercise/</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Nov 2009 08:48:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Trainer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health Tips]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[We all know that exercise is crucial to good health. Our doctors tell us so, we read articles in magazines and online, and new studies about the benefits of exercise are all over the news. For most of us, getting enough exercise is a matter of getting motivated and making the time for it. But [...]]]></description>
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<p>We all know that exercise is crucial to good health. Our doctors tell us so, we read articles in magazines and online, and new studies about the benefits of exercise are all over the news. For most of us, getting enough exercise is a matter of getting motivated and making the time for it. But for asthma sufferers, exercise can be a very scary concept.</p>
<p>Asthma attacks are no laughing matter. They cause great difficulty in breathing, and if they&#8217;re untreated or treatment is not effective, a trip to the emergency room is necessary. Asthma is the cause of a huge number of missed days at work and school each year. So many asthma sufferers avoid exercise altogether for fear that it will trigger an attack.</p>
<p>Exercise-induced asthma is usually caused by breathing through the mouth during exercise. When we breathe through our noses, the air is warmed and moistened before it reaches the lungs. But when we breathe through our mouths, as we tend to do during exercise, the air that goes into the lungs is much colder and drier. This causes sensitive muscles in the airway to contract, constricting the airway. This can cause an asthma attack in chronic asthma sufferers, as well as some people who do not otherwise experience asthma symptoms.</p>
<p>There are also other factors that may cause exercise-induced asthma. Two of the things that often cause regular asthma symptoms, pollen and pollution in the air, can also contribute to exercise-induced asthma. And in some particularly sensitive people, just the increase in the amount of air inhaled and exhaled can trigger an attack.<br />
<strong><br />
Preventing Exercise-Induced Asthma</strong></p>
<p>Exercise-induced asthma is no reason not to get the exercise your body needs. There are things you can do to prevent it, such as:</p>
<p>* Avoid exercising in cold weather. Work out indoors instead. If you must exercise outside when it&#8217;s cold out, wear a scarf or bandanna over your mouth and nose to help warm the air you breathe.</p>
<p>* Take the time to do a 15-minute warm-up and a 15-minute cool-down each time you exercise. This will help the lungs adjust to the fluctuations in breathing.</p>
<p>* Avoid things that have triggered attacks in the past when exercising. If the pollen count is high or air quality is low, postpone your workout or keep it indoors.</p>
<p>* Talk to your doctor about medication for exercise-induced asthma. He may suggest using your regular inhaler 15 to 20 minutes before exercising. If you&#8217;re particularly active, he might prescribe a long-acting asthma medication that will help prevent exercise-induced asthma for 12 hours.</p>
<p>A diagnosis of asthma does not mean you can never exercise safely. It just means that you&#8217;ll need to take a few extra precautions. There&#8217;s no reason that asthma should stand in the way of physical fitness.</p>
<p>As I studied the info for this I laughed my ass off.  I was diagnosed with asthma at around 6, so was my nephew.  Guess what I wasn&#8217;t prescribed my first inhaler until I was 28 years old! I don&#8217;t let my nephew pansy out at his soccer games because of it either.</p>
<p>If you want an excuse you&#8217;ve got it.  It&#8217;s an easy one.  But there are MANY going with the day-to-day that you wouldn&#8217;t know have it.  I mean many of us that are jogging 10k&#8217;s a few times a week with our asthma and barely touch our inhalers even though it hurts.  I was just brought up to not use meds and I&#8217;m thankful for that upbrining with my doc and family as well.  I turn to an inner slowing and alternative methods if it&#8217;s not too bad.  Yes, I do turn to my inhaler if I know better.  I&#8217;m not an idiot that spurns modern medicine!</p>
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