Like so many things in our modern world, its the processing of chocolate that makes all the difference. This isn’t just the New Age Hippy types saying this either (as one, the author feels comfortable making this statement). Food chemists and researchers who analyze the molecular makeup of our diets are of the same opinion. It’s RAW, minimally-processed chocolate that’s the miracle food. Un-roasted, un-cooked plain old powdered chocolate, better known as ‘Cacao’, is far superior in every way for your health. Cacao is one of the few foods on the planet now being called a ’super’-food, as it’s nutrient density is so high and its health benefits are so great. Note that ‘organic’ does not mean ‘raw’. Even the premium organic hot-chocolate powders found in the high-end health food stores is still roasted and usually processed with alkali (called ‘Dutch Processing’, making it easier to dissolve in water, and destroying most of the antioxidants at the same time). This means that 99% of the chocolate products on the shelves are NOT the superfood you wished they were, but it also points the direction to how to include chocolate in your life on an exceptionally health daily basis. We’ll get to some recipes in a moment, but first a few points to help you remember why raw chocolate is where it’s at.

First the question of Caffeine. Many folks are sensitive to caffeine’s effect on their nervous system. It raises blood pressure, shortens tempers and keeps people awake. There are however, significant differences in the alkaloid structures of raw and roasted chocolate. Raw chocolate’s stimulation comes primarily from theobromine, which has little anxiety producing effects. Studies by natural wellness professionals and user reports both note that while commercially prepared dark chocolate has a very stimulating action that caffeine sensitive individuals may find too strong, an equivalent amount of raw cacao does not. The stimulating effects are reported mild, gentle, and without a ‘crash’ that is often associated with caffeine. A reason for mothers to think about creating their own raw chocolate treats for their children, too. The jury is still out on the actual amount if caffeine in raw chocolate; some investigators have found none, some have found small amounts in the ’skin’ of the cacao beans, and others of found only small amounts in beans that have fermented somewhat (an indication of a lower-quality cacao). Either way, if you’ve refrained from chocolate because of it’s caffeine content, raw cacao may just be your answer to enjoying this treat again.

The really big news about chocolate has been it’s antioxidant profile. Chocolate contains significant amounts of polyphenols — the same important antioxidants found in green tea, red wine and green apples — but in greater amounts. Dark chocolate contains an impressive 5% of these compounds, yet raw chocolate is made up of an incredible 10% concentration of these possibly life-extending molecules. Both roasting and processing with alkali (to make Dutch cocoa) reduce antioxidant concentration. Further, the increased absorbability of powdered raw cacao (perhaps the most versatile form of raw chocolate) over cacao nibs give them an edge in ORAC value, a measure of Oxidative Radical Absorbance Capacity.

Maybe the most intriguing constituents of chocolate are it’s mood-altering chemicals besides its stimulation. Many users of raw chocolate find and even greater boost than from commercial chocolates. Like caffeine, some of the molecules attributed to mood-enhancement are also heat sensitive. Tryptophan, a precursor to serotonin, is present in significant amounts and is known to be broken down by heat (and apparently it’s not the Tryptophan in the turkey dinners that makes one tired, it’s the three servings followed by pie and ice cream!). Other natural constituents are dopamine and precursors to dopamine, one molecule called the ‘love chemical’ and another called the ‘bliss chemical’. Add to these monoamine oxidase inhibitors which actually enhance the activity of all of the above mood brighteners. Finally, there’s lots of easily absorbed magnesium in raw chocolate, a mineral associated with serotonin production (many pharmaceutical antidepressants increase serotonin activity), and the ability to relax. Raw chocolate offers the healthiest and most effective means of adding these happy-making nutrients to your daily diet.

Need more be said? Ready for some recipes? The simplest means of eating raw chocolate is snacking on cacao nibs. These are small pieces of cacao beans that mix well with natural granolas or dried fruit. For the absolute most profound positive effects on your health, AND the most versatile form of raw chocolate for your recipes, pre-powdered raw chocolate is the best choice. The powder can be added to any drink, or easily made into bars, drops or other shaped candies. By far the most often enjoyed recipe for raw chocolate powder is the simple chocolate drink: Put one heaping tablespoon raw cacao powder, one teaspoon raw agave nectar, and one teaspoon high quality coconut oil in a blender (note that coconut oil quality varies greatly – a good coconut oil should taste pleasant by itself and have no chemical or rancid flavor which would otherwise be noticed in your chocolate drink). Add eight to twelve ounces of hot (but not boiling water) and blend at low speed for about ten seconds. That’s it; Chocolate magic that’s easily adjusted to your tastes — experimenting in whatever way comes to mind is highly encouraged.

There are lots and lots of recipes out there, and great reading on raw chocolate’s health benefits and preparation. You’ll cacao powder often combined with other super nutritious foods in smoothies and good-for-you deserts. Natural organic candies start with the same ingredients as the drinks, but without the liquid. Mixing the chocolate and coconut oil is easiest with your hands (as this gently melts the coconut oil) — making a paste to which you can add any little natural crunchy treats. As you’re not baking anything, there’s little to go awry, and really, so many possibilities. By using raw chocolate, you’ll open up a whole new world of cooking for yourself and your family — and if you hadn’t before, you might just find yourself really motivated to treat yourself to natural health and wellness.

What is Cancer and Why Is It Greater Prevailing Than Ever?

All living things are comprised of a range of cells, such as kidney cells, brain cells and skin cells.

Cancer develops when a particular cell mutates, then begins to grow and divide. Eventually, these cells form a mass called a malignant tumor, which often starts to invade surrounding tissue and organs.

Are Super Foods The Way To Go?

It is thought that up to one third of cancer related deaths could be diet related. Many of the foods we eat today can in fact be harmful to the cells in our bodies, particularly ‘rapid food’, which often takes in steep rates of saturated fat.

A considerable European study has recently shown that ‘junk food’ may in fact be a primary basis of cancer of the pancreas, the urinary tract and of the womb, which makes saturated fat especially breakneck for women. There is however, an abundance of super foods that comprise cancer fighting anti-oxidants and enzymes. These foods fall into a number of categories and it is greatest to look at their properties separately.

Fruit and Vegetables

Time and time again we are reminded of natures way of maintaining a sustaining body. Raw carrots are rich in beta carotene and substances called falcarinol and polyacethylens, which can help to impede a wide diversity of cancer including, breast, stomach, throat, lung, prostate, bladder and intestinal. Sweet potatoes are thought to have a number of cancer fighting properties including carotenoids (beta carotene is one form). Turnips and their leaves contain a substance called glucose molaes, which is said to attack cancer cells.

Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale and sprouts are rich in the anti-oxidants; lutein and zeaxanthin which are thought to be particularly affective at inhibiting breast and prostate cancer. Broccoli and sprouts also incorporate a substance called phytochemical sulforaphane, which is a by-product of glucoraphanin and is especially useful at impeding bowel cancer. Kale is thought to retain indoles, which are nitrogen compounds and are said to limit lesions in estrogen sensitive areas, such as the ovaries, mutating into cancerous cells.

Beetroot is full of anti-oxidants that specifically attack lung cancer cells.

Tomatoes carry vitamin C and a carotenoid called lycopene that fights oxygen molecules which are also known as ‘free radicals’. Free radicals are often believed to trigger cancer cells. Lycopene is notable in its aptitude to aid the joust against rectal and colon cancer, as well as prostate, breast, mouth and cancer of the pancreas. Cooked and canned/pureed tomatoes are said to be especially concentrated in lycopene.

Avocados have prolific amounts of an anti-oxidant called glutathione. Glutathione attacks free radicals and stops the absorption of certain saturated fats into the intestine. Avocados incorporate exorbitant levels of beta-carotene and potassium, which is also very gainful for the heart. Citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes possess stiff amounts of vitamin C, folic acid and monoterpenes, which can a helping hand to dispose of carcinogens from the body and are believed to repress cancer cells.Papayas carry prolific amounts of vitamin C and folic acid, which are both highly practical anti-cancer components.

Soya bean products such as tofu include phytoestrogens and isoflavones, which when absorbed in sensible amounts (no deeper than four or five ounces per day) are thought to block and relief repress cancer cells from forming and are particularly associated with lowering the risk of breast cancer. Incidences of breast cancer are significantly lower in Asian countries where soy products are consumed regularly. However, caution must be exercised, as research suggests that eating too much soy may basis hormone imbalances which can in fact stimulate cancer cells.

Figs comprise a form of benzaldehyde, which is renowned for its adeptness to shrink tumors. Grapes, particularly the red varieties, include resveratrol and ellagic acid which combine to block the enzymes that are responsible for the success of cancer cells. They also subsume strong anti-oxidants called bioflavonoids. Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries and other berries that are red or black in color consist of a wide variation of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and plant compounds that are thought to be very worthy against multitudinous forms of cancer.

Herbs and Spices

Rosemary is said to have detoxifying properties and can repress the advancement of tumors. Laboratory tests have revealed that it is principally sufficient against breast and skin tumors. Tumeric belongs to the ginger family and it is thought to help reduce the inflammation that is connected to stomach, bowel and colon cancer.

Root ginger has been used by Chinese medics for centuries and is well regarded for its various healing benefits. It can be used as a spice in savoury and sweet dishes and as a herbal tea. Garlic is well renowned for its blood thinning and anti-bacterial properties. It can also support to wipe out oxidants that purpose cancer, such as carcinogens and free radicals. Eating raw or cooked garlic has been found to be far numerous compelling than taking garlic supplements.

Licorice root takes in a chemical called glycyrrhizin which is considered to help block the maturation of prostate cancer cells, though an excessive consuming of licorice can lead to raised blood pressure. Chilli peppers are rich in a substance called capsaicin that is regarded to be a preventative against intestinal cancer.

Beverages

Black, green and white teas retain antioxidants which are also known as polyphenols. These antioxidants are considered to expressly defend against cancer cells and stop them from dividing and spreading. White and green tea is regarded as being particularly efficient against lung, colon, rectal and stomach cancer as well as cancer of the liver and pancreas.

Who doesn’t like red wine? Red wine also takes in polyphenols and a substance called resveratrol which has been discovered to be present in grape skin. These antioxidants are known to counter free radicals. It is thought that the pinot noir grape range takes in the largest amounts of resveratrol, particularly in wines where the grapes are grown in cooler, rainy climates, such as Chile in South America. If However, alcohol is consumed in gigantic amounts it can actually be a antecedent of cancer, so it is greatest drink no deeper than one glass of red wine per day.

There are numerous other foods that are considered to be excellent cancer preventatives. Seaweed and sea vegetables subsume fiber, proteins, beta-carotene, folic acid, and a fatty acid called chlorophylone. These forms of vegetable are said to a helping hand counter breast cancer. Nuts and seeds are naturally stiff in omega-3 fatty acid, which is essential for brain function. Nuts also emcompass a mineral called selenium and are rich in antioxidants such as quercetin and campferol. Nuts and seeds are regarded as primarily sufficient at repelling prostate and colon cancer cells, as well as being a natural preventative against the threat of heart disease.

Mushrooms have prolific amounts of potent compounds called polysaccharides. These compounds are thought to build up resistance against cancer cells. Certain varieties of mushroom are perceived to be particularly efficient, these include; reishi, shiitake and maitake, and are widely used in Japanese cuisine.

The benefits of eating a energy-giving, balanced diet have become deeper apparent as research into cancer and other destructive diseases evolve. A diet rich in vegetables, fruit and lean meat is much more of a priority in our daily lives than it was twenty years ago and medical advice suggests that eating at least five portions of fruit or vegetables per day can significantly lower the risk of bounteous forms of cancer and heart infirmity, as well as preventing obesity. The threat of obesity is a volatile contention and for the basic time in many years the life expectancy of our children is thought to be lower than our own, which is an extremely worrying statistic.

You are still reading..well, aren’t we all..?

Fruits, vegetables, red meat, fish, red wine etc. – what should we eat, when and how much ? What vitamins, minerals, and trace elements should we add to our diet? And the questions just keep on piling-up…

Where are the answers? Is there a new discovery not known to all of us? THERE IS – Antioxidants.

You’re right it is not a fruit, nor is it a vegetable however, scientific studies revealed that this is, by far, the most important substance we should all be looking for in our food, and the higher the antioxidant level, the better.

What is an Antioxidant?

Antioxidants are substances that protect cells from the damages caused by unstable molecules known as Free Radicals. Free radical damages lead to cancer as well as rapid aging. Antioxidants interact with and stabilize free radicals, thus preventing the damages. The National Cancer Institute wrote “…considerable laboratory evidence from chemical, cell culture, and animal studies indicates that antioxidants slow or possibly prevent the development of cancer…”

How and Why?

Free radicals are molecules with incomplete electron shells which make them more chemically reactive than those with complete electron shells. Exposure to various environmental factors (we are all exposed to all of them!) leads to free radical formation. In humans, the most common form of free radicals is Oxygen. When an Oxygen molecule (O2) becomes electrically charged or “radicalized”, it tries to steal electrons from other molecules, causing damage to the DNA and other molecules. Over time, such damage, if not taken care of, become irreversible and leads to cancer and speedy aging. Antioxidants are often described as “mopping up” free radicals, meaning, they neutralize the electrical charge and prevent the free radicals from taking electrons from other molecules.

O.k., now that we know what’s the most important substance for our Health, Wellness and Longevity, let us examine what’s out there for us to consume..

The scientists at the National Institute on Aging, NIH, Maryland, came up with a method to let us know who has the best available Antioxidants (by “who”, I mean which food..). This method is called ORAC – Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity.

There is ONE STAR that is way-up in the ORAC test. It was not known to the western world until recently. This STAR is 10 times stronger than anything we knew !!!  You surely wonder what this ORAC STAR is, well, a little bit of patience…

We are told to consume 5-7 fruit & vegetable servings every single day (ha ha..), drink a glass of red wine every single day (a good idea but, how on earth ??) and so on and on and on..come on, get realistic – we are all so busy that we hardly find the time to eat properly!

Would someone PLEASE get us a SINGLE (or max 2) FOOD Product that when consumed, will provide our body with all (or most) of what’s needed ? PLEASE!?

Guess what ? – ACAI !!!

This strange word is A SINGLE Fruit’s name. Here’s what this magic fruit includes:

A M A Z I N G!!!

Here’s a SINGLE FOOD ITEM, ACAI, that is, literally, a “LIFE IN A BOTTLE” !

Where can we get it?

Well, we could climb 90ft high palm trees in the Amazon rainforest (that’s the only place on earth the ACAI grows) or, we could buy variations which are available on the market place. There are  a few ACAI products (or, so-called..Acai products) out there which one can choose from. I investigated almost all of them (and they are not cheap but, can you put a price tag on your health..?).

To my humble opinion (well, not only mine, read the P.S.) there is only 1 Acai product that enables us to get the majority of the outstanding content. The reason being is the manufacturing process. This manufacturer uses a combination of Acai pulp and freeze-dried powder in its scientifically formulated blends. This fruit drying method (which, by the way, is patented), retains all the natural goodness of the fresh ACAI – A TRUE BLESSING TO ALL OF US!

This article has been written for your general knowledge, and has no intention of selling you anything..If you are genuinely interested in exploring the essence of this magical fruit, you will have to email me (you may find my email in the resource box – no spam!).

Working for Your Health,

David Smith

P.S.

Here’s what Dr. Alex Schass, the World’s leading

independent researcher, said about the benefits of

this drink on OPRAH’s :

ACAI

Nature’s Energy Fruit

It may seem odd to start this list of superfoods with one you’ve likely never even heard of. But studies have shown that this little berry is one of the most nutritious and powerful foods in the world! Acai (ah-sigh-ee) is the high-energy berry of a special Amazon palm tree.

Harvested in the rainforests of Brazil, Acai tastes like a vibrant blend of berries and chocolate. Hidden within its royal purple pigment is the magic that makes it nature’s perfect energy fruit. Acai is packed full of antioxidants, amino acids and essential fatty acids. Although Acai may not be available in your local supermarket, you can find it in several health food and gourmet stores (often in juice form). A new product featuring the unsweetened pulp is now also available, and I highly recommend that you choose this form of Acai.

Acai pulp contains:

* A remarkable concentration of antioxidants that help combat premature aging, with 10 times more antioxidants than red grapes and 10 to 30 times the anthocyanins of red wine.

* A synergy of monounsaturated (healthy) fats, dietary fiber and phytosterols to help promote cardiovascular and digestive health.

* An almost perfect essential amino acid complex in conjunction with valuable trace minerals, vital to proper muscle contraction and regeneration.

The fatty acid content in Acai resembles that of olive oil, and is rich in monounsaturated oleic acid. Oleic acid is important for a number of reasons. It helps omega-3 fish oils penetrate the cell membrane; together they help make cell membranes more supple. By keeping the cell membrane supple, all hormones, neurotransmitter and insulin receptors function more efficiently. This is particularly important because high insulin levels create an inflammatory state, and we know, inflammation causes aging.

Goodness only please

Fitness drinks are aimed at those who lead active and physical lifestyles, whether it is on the treadmill at the gym, fighting for gold at an Olympic games or just trying to lead a healthier lifestyle. However, they are not restricted to this market. They taste good, contain no caffeine and offer a healthier alternative to sugars.

However, fitness drinks can contain quite a few calories – anything up to 130 calories per 20 ounce bottle, and unless you are an athlete and your workout burns a significant amount of these calories, be careful. You may prefer to choose a fitness drink like Skinny Water, which contains no calories.

The Body

Everyone knows that what you put into your body has a direct impact on your health this is why added nutrients in our diet is so essential today. Fitness drinks are one way of giving your body nutrients through liquid intake. However, one drink goes further in the sense that it offers you a way to lose weight while working with your body to maintain fitness and health. This product is Skinny Water, and it helps suppress appetite while regulating metabolism and keeping blood sugars steady. There are three important factors needed for losing weight.

Skinny Water contains two ingredients, which have proven very beneficial to maintaining good health. These are Super CitriMax and ChromeMate. Very scientific sounding names, but the low-down is this: Super CitriMax is a natural and safe product that does not contain calcium potassium. It is a fruit extract appetite suppressant, which helps the body reduce fat production without interfering with the nervous system.

ChromeMate helps the body produce the proper amount of insulin in the body as well as maintaining healthy amounts of blood sugars and correct cholesterol levels.

Most conventional drinks, like sodas, contain high levels of sugar, which not only affects your metabolism but also affects the body’s ability to burn calories. It makes good sense to avoid sugar-laden drinks and concentrate on fitness drinks that contain no carbohydrates or calories.

At the start of a diet, we usually eat considerably less and this affects our blood sugars. This may cause dizziness and weakness and it is not good for our overall health. The body then starts to crave sugar in order to get the blood sugar level back up again. Skinny Water helps to control blood sugars and keep them at a safe level.

Another factor, which plays a role in burning calories, is your metabolism. If it is low, you will not be burn all your calories and this is a contributor to weight gain. Skinny Water helps prevent this happening. Firstly you are not taking in any additional calories and secondly it helps burn those that you already have already taken in.

A stitch in time…

You body loses water very quickly, 1-2 litres per hour during exercise. The fluids we lose through sweating contain essential electrolytes, which need replenishing. However, our body can only consume a certain amount of replacement fluid at one time. The solution to this is to drink fluids that contain electrolytes like potassium or sodium. These help one’s body absorb more fluids and support re-hydration at a cellular level.

Let’s look at the benefits of Skinny Water. It contains electrolytes and it quenches your thirst while keeping the body hydrated during exercise. It contains naturally derived sugars that help your body burn fat in a natural way while reducing sugar cravings. It also suppresses one’s appetite, which prevents overeating. Skinny Water keeps blood sugars level and boosts your metabolism.

Skinny Water boosts your immunity because it contains powerful antioxidants like vitamin A, C and E. These protect you against fatigue and soreness.

Skinny Water can leave you feeling refreshed and full of energy whether you are physically active or not and they come in a variety of flavors suited to individual tastes which are also suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Another piece of information worth noting is the following: even if you are not active in the gym or on the track, Skinny Water can still help you lose weight. Taken half an hour before a meal, the ingredients in Skinny Water help to control your hunger and curb your appetite to prevent overeating. This is extremely helpful for somebody that is looking to curb his or her appetite.