Author: Chris Brown Title: Eating Healthy — Chocolate Replacement Article: Chocolate. It is one of our favorite pastimes! Every season we wrap it up differently. We see it wrapped as a heart or egg or pumpkin or turkey or Christmas tree. Sometimes we eat it. Sometimes we drink it. We can even cook with it. We can mix it with caramel or peanut butter or have it by itself. Any way you look at it, chocolate is a delicious treat that is always there.

In an effort to be healthy, I have had to give up this wonderful food. Why? It contains caffeine. What a sad day that was when I realized I wouldn’t be able to eat chocolate anymore. What is a person to do? I couldn’t go through life depriving myself, right?

The good news: I found a chocolate replacement: Carob Powder!

Carob is very healthy. It is loaded with calcium! Carob contains 352 mg per 100 grams; whereas, milk contains 120-130 mg of calcium per 100 grams. For those of you watching your calories, carob contains about 60% less calories than chocolate. It is also high in phosphorus, potassium and magnesium. Carob has approximately 8% protein and contains vitamins A, B, B2, B3 and D.

Carob is also significantly different to chocolate’s chemical make up. That is good news for those of you that are allergic to chocolate. It has been found that people with allergic reactions to chocolate, do not have the same reactions to carob!

Carob does not contain caffeine or theobromine. Both of those are stimulants which can be addictive and cause allergies. That takes all the fun out of eating chocolate, doesn’t it?

Carob Powder is a wonderful chocolate replacement. In recipes, it can be replaced for cocoa or chocolate. To replace cocoa in a recipe, it is a 1:1 ratio. To replace chocolate in a recipe, you can use 3 T. of Carob for every square of chocolate.

Now, I have a wonderful, healthy alternative to chocolate. I use carob powder to make hot chocolate. I use it for my kids when they want chocolate milk. I use it in baking when I am making chocolate treats. It’s one more way that I can be healthy and still eat all the great things that life has to offer!

As always, when cooking use the best ingredients you can afford. Buy organic whenever possible. Do your best to keep those nasty toxins out of your diet. Use raw and unprocessed whenever possible. Eat healthy, feel healthy, be healthy. Enjoy life. Chris Brown is a contributor at Christian Home Business Today.com, which helps people get started with a Christian Home Based Business, or make the most of their existing businesses. Chris Brown writes on topics useful to Home Business owners (like eating healthy foot made at home). See the latest articles at Christian Home Business Today. Syndication Source: ThoughtSearch.com

Author: Kristian Phillips Title: Half And Quarter Bottles Of Wine Article: Ever opened a bottle of wine to find that you really can not finish the whole lot in one sitting? You don’t want to let it go to waiste – so what do you do? Cooking with the remains of a bottle is always an option but seems rather a shame if it is a particularly good wine.

Now there is an answer to this problem. Previously quarter and half bottles of wine were the province of mass market producers and could only be found on the shelves of supermarkets or in the buffet at railway stations. Now wine producers have realised that there is a market for these. Marketeers have come to the conclusions that there are some people who live alone or have a partner who does not drink wine. They still want to treat themselves to a glass of wine but do not want to have to buy a whole bottle so more and more companies are starting to produce quarter and half bottles of wine.

A half bottle of wine is great to share with someone special – you can have a glass of wine without having to finish a bottle (ending up with a headache in the morning). It allows you to enjoy your glass of wine and feel that you are getting your money’s worth.

Half and quarter bottles of wine are also a great way of drinking if you are trying to cut down on the amount you drink or if you just want to keep track of the number of glasses that you are imbibing over an evening. You can count the bottles and know the exact number of units you have drunk.

One of the best ways to find out which wines are available in quarter and half bottles is to look at an online independent wine retailer. Many supermarkets offer smaller bottles of wine but they are often from big wine producers and they will not have the same variety as an independent wine retailer. These type of websites are able to source wine from the vineyard and from a variety of producers so that the wine they have on offer is a far wider range than you would find in any supermarket.

For a great range of smaller or full size bottles of wine or just to browse wine in general, it is a good idea to consult an independent online wine retailer. You can browse wines in your chosen price range, and you can research before you buy. Fiona Muller has been writing for over 20 years. She is a qualified journalist and has worked in food and drink writing for the last few years. For more information on wine, go to – www.laithwaites.co.uk Syndication Source: ThoughtSearch.com

Author: Jay Snaric Title: Restaurants Can No Longer Hide Waist Bulging Menus Article: A big applause for New York City health officials and a federal judge who have now made it mandatory that NY restaurants clearly post complete caloric content for each item on menus and menu boards. Restaurants with at least 15 chains nationwide, such as McDonalds, Starbucks, TGI Fridays, and Olive Garden, must comply with the new law or face monetary penalties.

Health officials, who acknowledge that more than half of New Yorkers are overweight, believe that the blatant posting of calories will lead people to think twice about eating a 1000 calorie lunch when many diets only allow 1200-1500 for the whole day.

Officials are hoping that this ‘dieting by guilt’ approach will help to decrease waistlines, as well as the heart disease, cancer, and diabetes that obesity contributes to. High level ranking officials from the surgeon general’s office, as well as the American Cancer Society, have confirmed that obesity absolutely increases risk of all three of these top leading diseases. They have also acknowledge that obesity has reached epidemic status in the United States.

Several years ago New York banned smoking in all bars and restaurants. Based on this, the new law of posting calories makes lots of sense, since obesity now kills more U.S. citizens than smoking.

The next time your lunch break includes a Big Mac, Large Fry, and Large Coke from McDonalds be aware that you have just consumed 1350 calories. As mentioned earlier, most diets allow 1200 to 1500 for the entire day. Top it off with a fancy Starbuck’s drink on your way back to the office, and add another 300-400 calories, with some drinks approaching 800 calories.

With some quick arithmetic, it’s not hard to see why obesity is an epidemic. Any extra calories that you bring in that you don’t burn gets converted to fat in stored in your adipose tissue (fat). Our bodies are very efficient at doing this which is why it is so easy to gain weight.

“Something needs to be done about the obesity epidemic. It all begins with education, and our schools and society are dropping the ball. We all need to do more to end this epidemic. We need to do a better job getting the word out about nutrition. I think the courts made a very good decision today requiring that the calorie facts be posted by the restaurants. It is at least a start.” Professor Jay Snaric, author of the 9th Law Diet Plan.

Next time your eating out you might think twice about what you order. Professor Jay Snaric has been teaching college nutrition and health for 13 years. He has an earned graduate degree from NYU where he mastered human physiology. As a service to the community he offers a FREE comprehensive diet plan. Visit Secretloss.com Syndication Source: ThoughtSearch.com

Author: Kristi Ambrose Title: Being Alkaline Means Being Healthy! Article: Many of you may have heard the word alkaline and you may have never known what it was or why it’s important! This article will help you understand it a little better and help you realize why you should try to alkaline your body! The word alkaline by definition means relating to or containing an alkali; having a pH greater than 7; “alkaline soils derived from chalk or limestone”.

Many naturopathic doctors affirm sustaining alkaline-acid balance in the physical structure done through consumption of particular foods because it is believed by many to elevate optimal health and prevent diseases such as cancer. The theory behind the alkaline-acid balance is that due to our body’s pH being somewhat alkaline (normal range is 7.36-7.44) the food we eat should reflect this.

This hypothesis suggests that we should consume about 75% alkali (base) forming foods and 25% acid processing foods. Foods that contain this “alkaline” include things such as;

Veggies (especially green ones)
Grains – flax, millet, quinoa and amaranth, oats, wild rice
Protein – beans, some nuts: Almonds, pignoli, fresh coconut and chestnuts, tofu, cottage cheese, milk, cream, goats milk, eggs, whey, yogurt
Beverages – herbal teas and green tea, ginseng tea, Banchi tea, green juices, fruit and veggie juices
Condiments – sweeteners such as raw, unpasteurized honey, dried sugar cane juice (Sucanat), brown rice syrup, Stevia (natural sweetener). Most herbs and spices such as: garlic, cayenne pepper. Miso. Most unprocessed, cold pressed oils are neutral or alkaline forming.

Excess Acid and the symptoms associated with it includes things such as; indigestion, hives, leg cramps, muscle spasms, arthritis, headaches. Low energy, nasal congestion, colds, flues and infections, nervousness, irritability, anxiety, stress, cysts, and diseases. Obviously being overly Acidic will bring nothing good to the table for you.

I know a lot of people have a hard time eating good stuff but, honestly I would rather eat right and live long and healthy. Then, to eat crappy and live a short uncomfortable life! If you follow certain Alkaline diet, you can automatically assume that your alkaline levels will be properly infused.

There are several different diets out there that can be followed which will help you figure out what type of stuff you can and can’t or shouldn’t eat. I mean really if you follow these diets, you could start feeling better within a 3 day period.

I found a few websites online that have actual guides you can download to your computer and ebooks that will help you figure out a diet that will help you along the way. These websites also include other things such as food charts, alkaline food lists, diet plans and much more. These are terrific if you’re new to the alkaline world and have no idea what you are doing! Good advice for bad habits.

Don’t we wish we had a guide for every bad habit we have? I know I do! Live a longer, happier, healthier life! This author is a HUGE fan of alkaline diet Syndication Source: ThoughtSearch.com

As most guide books state, the best you can find in Colombia is people. Also tourists that have stayed in the country advise new visitors to try to get in touch with locals because they are amongst the friendliest people on earth, thus before going somewhere, it is important to know which are the best places not only to have fun but to meet people.

As all the big cities of South America, Bogota has a very rich nightlife with the right atmosphere to meet the locals, therefore there are many web sites that give information about restaurants, bars, cinemas, discotheques, shows, theater and all the events that are considered special each week.

It is well known that the best areas of the city to enjoy through the night are in the north part of the city, some examples are El Parque de la 93 which is located in one of the most exclusive zones of the city between the 93A and 93B streets and the 11th A and 13 avenues; La Zona Rosa which is the main nightlife zone of the city because it comprises a great number of bars, restaurants and nightclubs that can that please every taste; La Calera which is a route through the east hills of the city and has a wide variety of restaurants and nightclubs; and the called Zona T in Chapinero with an amazing range of establishments.

Getting into more detail, Bogota has some places and offers some activities that are ideal in order to meet people. In terms of places El Salon, located on Calle 93A No 11-30, is a restaurant that opens from 7 a.m until 3 a.m during the weekends and until 1 a.m on week days and has original live shows performed by the waiters who are artists or in other words, by the artists who are waiters. There are twenty artists that sing, dance, act and besides wait at tables. While some of them are taking the orders, others grab a guitar and go from table to table singing a song. When the hit of the night is on and the place has reached the proper atmosphere the waiters take their dance couples and give an excellent dancing show.

In terms of activities, La Chiva is a very good way to run La calera route and to see the best of the city while passengers sing and dance. La Chiva is like a big bus but has more space and does not have any glass on the windows, it is a typical and colourful means of transport and lately it has been transformed into a rolling nightclub. Some of the chivas include in their prices drinks, food and the entrance to some discotheques.

No doubt Bogota is full of alternatives to get to know the friendly locals, you just have to take the time and search for the right places. Gaizka Pujana is the co-owner of Barcelona Homes, S.L. which is a company
specialized in providing short term tenancy solutions in Seville and Barcelona through its
web pages apartments Costa del Sol
Holiday apartments Barcelona
Apartments in Seville Syndication Source: ArticleMind.com

Vitamin B7 (also known as biotin) is part of the B-complex group of vitamins. Vincent Du Vigneaud discovered biotin in 1940 after following up on research completed by M.A. Boaz in 1927. The main function of B7 is to assist in the reaction that helps your body’s cells convert carbohydrates, fats and protein into an energy source that they can use. However, that’s just one of the many things that this vital vitamin does. In the following article I am going to help you learn a little more about biotin by discussing four things you should know about vitamin B7.

1) IT IS A WATER SOLUBLE VITAMIN:- There are two types of vitamin; fat soluble (which dissolve in your body’s fat cells) and water soluble (which dissolve in water). The two types differ in a number of ways. First, fat soluble vitamins are quite stable and difficult to destroy. Water soluble vitamins on the other hand are a lot more sensitive and can be destroyed by strong heat and light. Secondly, fat soluble vitamins can be stored in the body whereas water soluble vitamins cannot.

Vitamin B7 is a water soluble vitamin. This means that you need to make sure you get your recommended daily allowance (RDA) of biotin each day which is 0.03mg for men and 0.01mg for women. You also need to make sure that you store, prepare and cook foods containing B7 in a way that ensures this vitamin is preserved.

2) IT IS PRESENT IN NEARLY EVERY FOOD:- Almost every food contains at least a trace of vitamin B7. However, certain foods are much richer sources of the vitamin. Egg yolks, liver, milk, mushrooms and nuts are some of the best biotin sources around. Therefore, if none of these foods are currently part of your diet perhaps now is the time to start eating them.

3) THERE ARE A NUMBER OF FACTORS THAT CAN LEAD TO DEFICIENCIES:- Unlike most other vitamins, not consuming enough B7 is not the only thing that can cause a deficiency. Alcoholism can cause a deficiency by inhibiting the absorption of this vitamin. Some genetic disorders can also increase your vitamin B7 requirements which can then cause a deficiency even if you consume the RDA. Therefore, if any of the above factors apply to you then you may want to consider supplementation.

4) IT CAN ASSIST WITH DIABETES CONTROL:- Research has suggested that vitamin B7 can help people who suffer from diabetes (a condition where the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels effectively) in a number of ways. First, it can help lower blood sugar levels reducing some of the damage that diabetes can cause. Secondly, it can help protect against the neuropathy (nerve damage) associated with this condition. Therefore, if you suffer from diabetes this is another good reason to get your RDA of vitamin B7.

As you can see there’s a lot more to biotin than helping your body get energy from the foods you eat. I hope this article has given you a greater understanding of this important vitamin and its role in your body. Tom Parker owns and operates a number of useful fitness resources and websites. You can learn more about vitamin B7 and the other twelve vitamins by visiting his websites. Syndication Source: ArticleMind.com

Author: Wendy Moyer Title: All About Single Cup Brewing Article: It’s early in the morning, and you only have a short amount of time before you need to leave for work. You desperately want to have a cup of your favorite coffee before you leave, but you don’t feel like brewing a whole pot. You could only brew a few cups, but then you’ll have to clean your coffee pot and machine, and you don’t want the extra dirty dishes.

It sounds like you need to invest in a single cup coffee brewer. Single cup brewers are extremely convenient, giving you the ability to brew an individual cup of coffee. The best part of it all is that you can use your coffee mug with the machine. This means that there are no extra dirty dishes to clean!

The best individual cup brewers offer several brew sizes, such as 9.5 ounces, 7.25 ounces, or 5.25 ounces. If you need a huge cup of coffee, you’re set! And even if you just want a small mug, you don’t have a thing to worry about.

The blue backlit LCD display is easy to read, allowing you to brew your individual cup of coffee with ease. These brewers also include a water reservoir, and some with aesthetically pleasing, sleek designs and chrome detailing. The digital clock and timer adds extra convenience.

Some single cup brewers come with a variety pack of k-cup or pods of coffee such as Colombia, Sumatra, French Roast, Paradise House, and Colombia Decaf. This lets you try new flavors and widen your horizons – you might just find a new favorite blend!

High quality gourmet coffee beans dealers that offer single cup brewers will also offer a wide variety of k-cups or coffee pods that you can use with your machine. Some companies even have variety packs for sale so that you have the opportunity to try a wide variety of blends without buying a large amount of any specific kind.

On the other hand, you will have the opportunity to purchase k-cups or pods of your favorite blend, whether it is French Roast, Colombia, Decaf Colombia, Italian Classico, or another gourmet blend.

Stop debating on whether you should brew that pot of coffee and purchase a single cup brewer. This way, you can brew your cup of coffee without having to worry about the hassle of a conventional coffee maker! Fewer dirty dishes, more convenience: what more could you want? Wendy Moyer is an independent journalist. Diedrich.com and CoffeePeople.com are trusted resources that offer consumers the chance to purchase high quality gourmet coffee beans, coffee K cups, organic espresso coffee beans – further information can be found on the Diedrich.com and CoffeePeople.com websites. Syndication Source: ArticleMind.com

Author: Wendy Moyer Title: All About Coffee Bean Region Origins Article: Isn’t it funny how coffee from Africa tastes different than coffee made from beans originating in South America? Beans that are grown in various regions adapt various flavors due to the soil and surrounding environment. This article will describe the type of coffee beans that come from three different regions of the world.

1. Africa
Africa is where coffee was born, and the region has a very distinctly flavored bean. Coffee beans that are grown in Kenya have a bold flavor that has an overtone of black currant. This berry flavor is very unique and gains fans from across the globe.

East African coffee beans, in particular, are loved for the intense body they yield, as well as their spicy acidity. Coffee originating from Africa may not be prized by all coffee lovers, but even those who dislike the taste will appreciate its unique flavor.

2. Indonesia
Indonesian coffees have been popular since they were imported by the Dutch in the 17th century. Their delicate acidity contrasts greatly with African coffees, but their flavors are just as rich and deep.

Coffee beans from Sumatra echo this sentiment; their thick, lively body attracts various types of fans. The earthy flavor is extremely pleasant, and the coffees’ musty sweetness adds an air of elegance to the beverage.

3. Americas
The largest amount of coffee (in the world!) is produced in Central and South America. These regions yield coffee beans that are notorious for their crisp acidity and ideal balance of flavor. The coffee’s mellow body is agreeable to most.

Costa Rican coffee is extremely crisp and is frequently enjoyed iced. The earthy taste is accompanied by a butterscotch flavor that compliments the beans’ medium body. This coffee is called the “Burgandy of Coffees.” That statement alone speaks volumes.

Coffee beans that originate from Colombia have a clean and sweet flavor, the perfect taste for first thing in the morning. Colombian coffee has a caramel top note that is alluring and seductive.

Coffee beans grown in Huehuetenango have a more chocolatey taste that, while very sweet in flavor, is also dry. This creates a perfect balance of flavor that is mind-blowing. Its clean, snappy flavor is sure to start your day off on the right foot.

It’s interesting how the regional origin of a coffee bean has such an affect on its flavor. If you tend to only drink Colombian coffee, it may behoove you to try coffee from a different region. You’ll be surprised as to how much you appreciate the varying flavors and sensations. Wendy Moyer is an independent journalist. Diedrich.com and CoffeePeople.com are trusted resources that offer consumers the chance to purchase high quality gourmet coffee beans, coffee K cups, organic espresso coffee beans – further information can be found on the Diedrich.com and CoffeePeople.com websites. Syndication Source: ArticleMind.com