DID YOU KNOW . . .

Iron is necessary for the formation of myoglobin, which is a reservoir of oxygen for muscle tissue, and hemoglobin, which transports oxygen in the blood. The best sources of iron are lean meats, beans, green leafy vegetables, shellfish, enriched breads and cereals, and whole grains. (The World Almanac 2003)

Each person’s DNA sequence contains their genetic instructions, the information that directs all their biological processes. Ninety-nine point nine percent of the DNA between two individuals is identical. (National Institute of Health)

Within 24 hours after you quit smoking, your risk of suffering a heart attack decreases. Within one year after quitting, the excess risk of coronary heart disease is reduced by 50 percent. (American Cancer Society)

Aspartame and NutraSweet are the same compound. (Winters, A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives 70)

Fluoride is derived from Fluorine. Fluorine is poisonous, and at certain levels in the body, can cause irreparable harm to the immune system. (Balch and Balch, Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 31)

Recommended daily allowances (RDAs), which were instituted nearly a half century ago, are merely the bare minimums for fending off deficiency diseases; not requirements for reaching "maximum health". (Balch and Balch, Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 12)

"Table sugar can stimulate the production of fat in the body". (Winters, A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives 380)

The B vitamins help the body convert food to energy, and they have been shown to help lower cholesterol.

Carbohydrates not only provide energy for the body but aid in the "digestion and assimilation of food" (101).

In addition to protecting the body from infection and promoting the healing of wounds, Vitamin C has been found to offer protection against the "harmful effects of pollution" (Balch and Balch, Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 8).

WHY GO TO THE GYM? (Or why build a home gym?)

One of our favorite pastimes is our daily workout at the gym (now, our home gym). While most would agree that regular exercise is important, many still lack the motivation to develop a routine. We've put together a list of reasons we feel making a commitment to your workout routine is advisable.

Cardiovascular Development. Becoming active (running, biking, etc.) helps to strengthen the cardiovascular system and makes you more efficient. Therefore, endurance during physical exercise can increase substantially.

Muscular Development. You not only look and feel better, but muscles become more efficient and, of course, stronger.

Increased Flexibility. Range of motion is improved.

Stress Relief. Exercise provides an outlet for daily stresses. Also, endorphins are released during exercise, providing you with a natural high.

Bad Habits Curtailed. Frequent trips to the gym help to support changes of habit. (For example, you cannot smoke in a gym.) Also, exercise can replace such destructive habits.

Increased Knowledge. Working out may motivate you to learn more about your body, exercise, nutrition, and healthy living.

Relationships. When working out regularly, you meet people with similar goals who can offer you support and new ideas, not to mention their friendship. Also, working out with your spouse can add a new dimension to your relationship.

DEALING WITH STRESS

Yes, managing stress can be challenging. Nevertheless, we have found a few methods that help:

• Exercising (especially running and biking)
• Meditating/Praying
• Stretching
• Reading a good book or magazine
• Writing letters
• Taking bubble baths (by candlelight)
• Watching a favorite movie
• Getting a good night sleep
• Giving and receiving a full-body massage!
• Keeping an open mind
• Maintaining a sense of humor
• Developing healthy eating habits

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