VitaBlog The Vitacost Blog: Views and News on Vitamins, Supplements and Herbs

Why Minerals Matter

People are always talking about vitamins, but minerals don’t seem to be as hot of a topic. The fact is, minerals may actually be considered more important than vitamins because they are required for other nutrients to properly do their jobs. Minerals are needed in basically all bodily processes, including strengthening and healing.

A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains can provide you with many essential vitamins and minerals. Unfortunately, this is not a top priority for many people. The nutrients obtained from your diet also may not be properly assimilated, due to potential digestive limitations or the mineral itself. For example, calcium may be difficult for your body to digest and absorb if not accompanied by vitamins C and D, and in the correct ratio with magnesium.

Although you should first try to obtain your nutrients from whole and natural foods, supplements can give you a daily dose of helpful minerals such as iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, selenium and more. Be sure to read the label to find out exactly how much of each mineral your supplement provides, and to determine whether or not the mineral forms are “bioavailable,” or ready for immediate absorption and use by your body. 

For a wide range of readily absorbable mineral supplements, check out Vitacost.com.

 

 

 

 

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Five Power Foods

If you want to get the most out of your body, you have to put the right food in it. These five power foods are rich in numerous nutrients and abundant with antioxidants that can help support your overall health while ensuring your body’s systems run smoothly and efficiently. Does your daily diet contain any of the following?

1. Spinach: Your mother was doing you a favor when she told you to “eat your spinach!” This dark-green, leafy vegetable contains at least 13 different flavonoid compounds that act as antioxidants, protecting your body’s cells from free radical damage. Spinach also contains high levels of vitamin K, vitamin A, manganese, folate, iron and an array of other helpful nutrients. Your biceps may not swell like Popeye’s, but eating spinach will protect and nourish your body so it can reach its highest potential.

2. Walnuts: Not only are they delicious, walnuts are one of the biggest non-animal sources of protein. They are packed with fiber, B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Walnuts have even been approved by the Food & Drug Administration as a heart-healthy ingredient with numerous benefits.

3. Yogurt: It’s alive! Yogurt’s beneficial properties come from its active cultures and “good” bacteria, live microbes that can support healthy digestion. It’s also a great source of calcium, with approximately 400 mg per cup. Check the label though, to make sure it has Lactobacillus acidophilus, and to verify it’s not loaded down with fat or sugar.

4. Salmon: Eat plenty of salmon. Why? Because it’s filled with omega-3 fatty acids (specifically DHA and EPA) and protein, and can be prepared in a variety of ways. If you prefer not to eat fish, you can take a fish oil supplement to get your daily dose of these helpful omega-3 acids.

5. Sunflower Seeds: A handful of sunflower seeds is a good source of vitamin E, vitamin B1, magnesium, copper and selenium. They also contain phytosterols, plant compounds that can help support healthy cholesterol levels already within normal range.

So, next time you’re at a restaurant, look for this dish on the menu: “Spinach-wrapped salmon topped with walnuts, sunflower seeds and drizzled with yogurt.”  Or visit Vitacost.com, where you’ll find hundreds of products, including snacks, supplements and more that can give you the nutrients found in these amazing super-foods.

 

 

 

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Five Basic Health Tips

There are thousands of ways you can improve your health, through certain exercises, foods and supplements. If you want to live healthier, where do you start? Here are five very basic health tips to help your body work more efficiently.

1.    Fluids: Drink plenty of fluids, preferably six to eight glasses of water per day, to keep your body hydrated, your skin healthy and to encourage normal digestion. For some variety, you can also drink tea and juice, but be careful to avoid drinks with high-sugar content.

2.    Balanced Diet: In order to get the vitamins and minerals your body needs, eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Because it may be difficult to include every essential nutrient in your diet, you can use daily vitamin and mineral supplements as well.

3.    Exercise: From a simple walk in the park to an intense workout, any form of exercise is beneficial, as it helps you manage your weight and boosts your mood and energy level at the same time.

4.    Moderation: When it comes to life’s little indulgences, moderation is the key. This applies to sugar, alcohol, certain types of fats and any other unhealthy food or activity.

5.    Sleep and Relaxation: It’s very important to make sure your body gets the rest it needs to recuperate from the pressure of daily life. Get at least eight hours of sleep per night and engage in relaxing hobbies or activities, such as meditation, yoga, painting or simply spending time with friends or family.

 

 

 

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Going Green (Part 3)

Hello, all my bargain shoppers and coupon clippers out there! We would all love to buy healthy, organic products that help protect the earth’s natural resources, but who can afford it in today’s economy? Well, pay attention! Listed below are the top ten money-saving tips for my frugal friends when buying organic…

1. Do Some Research: You may have a lot more choices for organic food in your community than you realize. Research organic associations and organizations in your state to find out what is available to you.
2. Shop at Farmers' Markets: They are great sources of fresh local produce. A just-picked tomato from a local farm tastes better than a tomato that's traveled thousands of miles before reaching a supermarket shelf.
3. Join a Co-op: A food cooperative is a member-owned business that provides groceries and other products to its members at a discount. Many of the products lining the shelves of co-ops are organic and much of the produce comes from local family farms.
4. Buy in Bulk: Buying in bulk is a great way to stretch your food dollar. For beans, grains, lentils and nuts, head straight for the bulk containers. Just make sure you have a cool, dry place in your kitchen to store your dry goods for a few months. Be sure to bring your calculator along on any bulk shopping run because not all buys are worth the bother. Do the math.
5. Buy In-Season: The absolute best time to buy an organic fruit or vegetable is at the peak of its growing season. Stock up on in-season fruits and veggies and preserve or freeze the extras!
6. In the Off-Season, Buy Preserved Foods: When the weather turns cold, turn to preserved foods. Steer clear of high-priced, in-store produce and buy canned, frozen or dried organic fruits and vegetables instead.
7. Love Your Freezer: Your freezer is good for more than TV dinners and frozen pizzas. Just haggled a great deal on a whole bunch of organic fruits and vegetables? Freeze your leftovers and pull them out as treats during the winter. 
8. Clip Coupons: Snatch up all the coupons for organic food that you can find. Check store fliers, the Sunday newspaper and even the inside of food packages. Organic foods sold under such brands as Cascadian Farm and Amy's often have coupons on the inside of their packages.
9. Grow your Own: If you're really serious about garden-fresh organic produce, why not plant your own? Embrace your green thumb!
10. Shop Online: Can't find a local source for the organic food you want? Don't give up… go online! You may be able to order the organic foods that you want online. Vitacost offers thousands of organic products at low prices!

You can buy organic on a fixed budget! Just follow the above advice and reap all the benefits that organic products can offer.

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

Noni Who?

Acai, goji, pomegranate, noni….what is with all the attention these exotic fruits have been receiving lately? Nearly every fruit is high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals… that’s why we are supposed to eat at least 2-4 serving of fruits per day! Here is the scoop on noni fruit…

Noni is a small evergreen shrub that grows in tropical regions of the Pacific, including Southeast Asia, Australia and Polynesia. Its leaves and fruit have traditionally been used to make dye and to soothe minor skin irritations. Today, the fruit is most commonly combined with other fruits (grape or berry) to make juice. Supplements of the fruit and leaves are also available in capsules, tablets and teas.

Noni is very high in potassium and antioxidants. Noni contains many vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, C and E), minerals (calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and selenium), protein, pectin, amino acids (including all essential amino acids), phytonutrients, polysaccharides and digestive enzymes. It may support healthy immune system functioning, normal physical stamina and endurance, normal inflammatory response, brain health and normal menstrual cycles in women. Noni… definitely a fruit worth paying attention to!

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

Pass the Honey!

I like honey in my tea and on toast…but would I apply it to my skin? Sure, why not! 

Raw honey, when applied topically, may help soothe minor skin irritation.  Raw honey contains many vitamins, minerals and enzymes, as well as sugars, all of which may have skin-soothing properties.

 

Numerous beauty products and soaps also contain honey because it contains superb cleansing and moisturizing properties. So do a little investigating and check out the amazing health benefits of honey. Millions of hardworking bees can’t be wrong!

 

 

 

 

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

 

 

 

 

Should You Switch Your Pet to Organic Food?

Many people are choosing to buy organic foods in order to live a healthy lifestyle and protect the natural environment. But should pet owners also make the switch for their pets? Organic pet foods can be found virtually everywhere, but what exactly are the benefits of organic pet foods?

The main benefit of changing to organic pet food is enhancing your pet’s health. Many of these foods support canine and feline health by including essential vitamins and minerals such as B12, vitamin E, and zinc oxide. They are usually prepared with natural ingredients such as organic turkey, brown rice, vegetables and flaxseed meal.

You may think that organic pet foods may be too expensive for your budget, but not true! There are many affordable organic pet foods and snacks available. Many pet owners who have made the switch state that they now feed their pets less, because the food is more filling and nutritionally sound.  So should you make the switch to organic pet food? The answer should be quite clear… doesn’t your pet deserve the very best?

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

Fruits and Vegetables

We hardly need clinical studies to convince us that eating fruits and vegetables supports good health. Fruits and vegetables are high in vitamins, minerals and fiber and are readily available across most of the country. So why then don't most American's eat right?

A recent study cited availability, cost, confusion, time constraints and taste concerns as the top five reasons why people don't follow a balanced diet. Fast food is quick and easy and vending machines everywhere miraculously transform potato chips, candy bars and assorted processed snacks into a meal formerly known as lunch. Food low-in-nutrition is often cheaper than fruits and vegetables and the shelf life and storage capabilities superior.

Some say dietary supplements are one way to compensate for a bad diet. And most agree to the benefits of multivitamins. However, it's important to keep in mind that dietary supplements are just that, supplements, and that currently there is no replacing the nutritional benefits of whole food in diet, at least not in the strictest sense.

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

Pure Blueberry Juice Provides a Nutritional Blast!

Consuming blueberries is a delicious, nutritious way to support overall health! Rich in vitamins (C and E), minerals (magnesium and potassium) and other health-supporting nutrients (antioxidants and amino acids), blueberries may help maintain healthy energy levels, immune system function and  total body wellness! Also for those interested in keeping their skin youthful looking, the vitamin C in blueberries may contribute to the creation of collagen, the main protein found in connective tissue which gives skin structural support.

The blueberry is one of the most potent sources of antioxidants among fruits and vegetables. Antioxidants are vital to your health because they help protect the cells in your body from the damaging effects of free radicals.  In addition, ellagic acid, an antioxidant found in blueberries, may support urinary tract health.    

Drinking blueberry juice is one of the most delicious and nutritious ways enjoy the benefits of this powerful little fruit.

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

Artichoke: The Gourmet Treat That Also Promotes Digestive & Liver Health

Stuffed with breadcrumbs or with hearts removed and baked into a cheesy dip, you probably know artichokes better as a gourmet treat than an herbal remedy. But artichoke extract is known to provide a variety of health-promoting benefits, from encouraging healthy digestion to strengthening liver function.

Made from the long, serrated basal leaves of the artichoke plant, artichoke extract is believed to enhance bile production, which helps the liver regulate its production of cholesterol. Bile also plays a part in the removal of toxins from the body, so its healthy flow is important to overall health.

Artichoke may also stimulate production of digestive juices, promoting healthy digestion. An informal study in 2001 showed that supplementing with artichoke extract for six weeks notably improved symptoms of individuals suffering with irritable bowel syndrome. More research, however, is needed to confirm these effects. 

The recommended daily dose of artichoke extract is one to two capsules with meals daily. You may also find artichoke in combination formulas with milk thistle, which also promotes healthy liver function.

Disclosure of Material Connection: This blog is written exclusively by employees of Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com and writers of the VitaBlog have a material connection to any links contained within. This disclosure is made in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.5 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”