Acesulfame potassium, also known as acesulfame K, potassium acesulfame, ace K, and ACK and marketed as Sunett®, is another artificial sweetener yet to be approved by Health Canada. Sunett®, has been deemed safe by the European Union’s Scientific Committee for Food, however many individuals and health organizations disagree.
According to CSPI, spoke out about the inadequate and poor-quality testing of this sweetener.Sunett® is a byproduct of acesulfame potassium ,which has been shown to negatively affect the thyroid in animals if taken in large doses.The CSPI is concerned about the cancer-causing potential of this sweetener. Long-term, up-to-date, & adequate testing is needed before this product can actually be considered safe.
For health reasons this sweetener should be avoided by people who are on a potassium-restricted diet or who have sulfa-antibiotic-based allergies.

ASPARTAME
“EQUAL” &”NUTRASWEET
A natural sweetener made from amino acids, can change levels of chemicals in the brain that affect behavior. Scientific testing prior to FDA approval showed aspartame’s resulted in brain tumors and grand mal seizures in rat studies, as well as depression, menstrual irregularities, constipation, headaches, tiredness, and general swelling in human test groups. When Aspartame is exposed to heat, it breaks down into a toxic ingredient called methyl alcohol. This breakdown may occur even at temperatures reached by diet sodas during regular storage. Aspartame is poison as well as extremely acid forming.
It is suggested by many natural health practitioners that you give up all aspartame
for 60 days. You will notice improvements in your health.

What are amino acids?
(They are the building blocks of protein.
Amino Acids are utilized by our cells which help us with a wide array of vital functions. Amino acids are usually obtained from food sources that are high in protein.
Our body breaks these proteins down then utilizes them to build specific types of protein that are needed by our body.)

Saccharin and Cyclamates are not permitted by Health Canada to be used as food additives.This is due to many health-related concerns, however these artificial sweeteners can be sold as tabletop sweeteners.
Saccharin is marketed as Hermesetas®, while Cyclamates are marketed as Sucaryl™, these are used in Sugar Twin™ and Weight Watchers™. In Canada, saccharin can only be bought at pharmacies. In the late 1960s and early 1970s scientific tests linked saccharin and cyclamates with bladder cancer.

Sugar alcohols also known as polyols, such as lactitol, maltitol, mannitol, sorbitol, xylitol, erythritol, isomalt, and hydrogenated starch hydrolysates are technically not artificial sweeteners. They contain energy/calories), unlike sweeteners such as aspartame, sucralose, and acesulfame potassium.
Sugar alcohols are neither sugars nor alcohols. They have a chemical structure that partially resembles sugar and alcohol. These sugar alcohols occur naturally in a wide variety of fruits and vegetables; They are made from other carbohydrates such as sucrose, glucose, and starch when made commercially. They are only half as sweet as sucrose (table sugar) and they are not completely metabolized by the body. This means they are low in calories.

Xylitol is considered safe and healthy. It is marketed as a natural & healthy alternative to sugar.

Since these sugar alcohols are not technically a form of sugar, all products sweetened with them are usually labled “sugar-free.” Research shows that sugar alcohol has a lesser blood sugar and insulin response , compared to eating glucose however it does influence the body..
Sugar alcohol’s biggest known danger is the potential for abdominal discomfort and laxative effects such as diarrhea when consumed in large doses.

Stevia has become a popular alternative to sugar for sweetening numerous foods and beverages. Stevia is an actual plant . This plant was originally cultivated in Paraguay. . Stevia helps balance sugar levels in the body . Stevia can be found in packs at the health food store or in liquid form.
Stevia that is highly recommended for Diabetics and people with Candida and Hypoglycemia.

Agave

There are over 100 species of Agave cactus in Mexico. Organic agave syrup is a natural product that can sweeten all types of beverages or foods. To produce organic agave syrup, juice is expressed from the core of the plant, then this juice is then finely filtered to create agave syrup. Tasting like a cross between honey and maple syrup, it dissolves easily and is the perfect sweetener to naturally enhance any food or beverage. Because of its low glycemic index it is good for people with Diabetes and Hypoglycemia and Candida.

Kellee Ganci

Kellee Ganci is a Consultant, Coach, Speaker, Writer and Radio Show Host.

Nutrition, Health, Wellness, Weight Loss

www.wix.com/kelleeganci/services

1) Be totally aware of every mouthful of food. Put your fork down after each bite and take the time to enjoy the flavor and sensation of the food. Don’t rush. Rushing, even a snack, doesn’t give your brain enough time to recognize when your stomach is full.
2) Chew thoroughly and s-l-o-w-l-y. This has the same effect as No. 1.
3) Don’t believe “experts” who say you need a big breakfast when on a diet. The more you eat, the more you want to eat. Satisfy morning hunger with a small breakfast, then, if necessary, have a tiny snack at mid-morning.
4) Use a luncheon plate at all meals rather than a larger dinner plate. You’ll clean your plate with less food. Remember, the less you eat, the less you will want to eat because your stomach will shrink and will not want as much anymore.
5) Slice your food on your plate into small pieces, one at a time, eating one piece before slicing another. Put your knife and fork down while chewing and swallowing. Don’t pick them up again until you’re completely finished with one piece and ready to slice the next.
6) You’ve heard this before: Push away from the table hungry and, in twenty minutes, you won’t be hungry anymore. It’s true! So, stretch your meals out. Since it takes twenty minutes for the brain to assimilate hunger impulses, take half the normal portion, and eat it slowly over twenty minutes. YOU’LL FEEL FULL!
7) Make your snacks healthy ones.Fruit yogurt, is a favourite one. It sure beats reaching for the potato chips. It’s tastier, healthier and fills you up. Good for the whole family.
8) Don’t eat standing up. Make it a rule. If you have to sit down to eat, you’ll do it more slowly and maybe less often.
Note: It is so important to get into good eating habits and to insist on them for our families. We must do this in order to live that longer, healthier, more energetic lifespan.

Kellee Ganci

Kellee is a Nutritional Consultant, Weight Loss Coach, Speaker, Writer and Radio Show Host.
www.wix.com/kelleeganci/services

LENTILS AND RICE WITH A TANGY TOMATO SAUCE
(Serves 6)

2 cups uncooked brown rice
1 pound lentils
2 Tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
1 Tablespoon crushed garlic
Two 16-ounce cans of tomato sauce
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup vinegar
1 medium onion

Cook rice according to directions. Rinse lentils and put them in a pot, covering them with water, and bring to a boil. Then simmer on low heat until almost all water is absorbed and lentils are well cooked. Add extra water if longer time is needed. To make the sauce, first saute the garlic in 1 Tablespoon oil until golden. Add both cans of tomato sauce and simmer 10-15 minutes. Add water and vinegar and bring to a boil. Remove from heat immediately and add salt to taste. Finally, slice onion in thin, small pieces and saute in remaining 1 Tablespoon oil until brown and crispy.

This dish should be arranged as a layer of lentils (on the bottom), followed by a layer of rice, then another layer of lentils and another layer of rice. Sprinkle the onions and the sauce on top before serving.

(chicken or lean meat can be added)

Total Calories Per Serving: 563
Fat: 7 grams

SPINACH WITH DILL
(Serves 4)

1 medium onion, chopped
1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
2 garlic cloves, chopped
2 Tablespoons chopped fresh dill
One 15-ounce can tomato sauce
10 ounces frozen, thawed spinach
1/2 cup water
Salt and pepper to taste

Saute onions in oil. Add garlic and dill to saucepan and continue to saute for two minutes. Add tomato sauce and bring to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes on low heat. Add spinach and water, then bring to a boil again. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes. Serve warm over cooked rice.

Total Calories Per Serving: 94
Fat: 4 grams

Kellee’s Vegan Spanish Paella

Ingredients:

* 1 cup brown rice
* 2 cups boiling water
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 green bell pepper, sliced
* 1 red bell pepper, sliced
* 1 tomato, diced
* 2 cups vegetable broth
* 1 tsp salt
* 1 tbsp paprika
* 1 tsp turmeric
* 1 cup corn (fresh)
* 1 cup black beans (dried….cooked ahead of time)
*
* Preparation:

Mix the rice and boiling water and let stand for 20 minutes, then pour off the water.

In the meantime, heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat and sautee the onion and garlic until the onion is transparent, about 5 minutes. Add the peppers and tomato and continue to sautee over medium heat for three minutes.

Add the rice and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the salt, paprika and turmeric. Cover and simmer until the rice is tender, about 20 minutes.

Add the corn and beans and cook about one minute longer.

(if you are not Vegan ….chicken or lean meat can be used instead of the beans)

Do you use packaged and canned foods to prepare meals?

Try using fresh ingredients! There is a world of difference in taste and nutrition value.

Kellee Ganci is a consultant, coach, speaker and radio show host.
Nutrition, Health, Wellness,Weight Loss

Adequate silica is necessary for strong bones, strong, flexible joints, and the prevention of osteoporosis. This mineral  enhances both vitamin D and calcium, both well-known nutrients for bone health. Without silica, they are hardly enough to prevent a weakening of the bones.

Silica is also necessary for cardiovascular and lung health. Silica helps to fortify blood vessels, improves  circulation and strengthening of the heart. Silica nourishes the lungs by helping to repair lung tissue. There are also benefits of taking silica supplements for potential Alzheimer’s patients. Aluminum; found in some drinking water, is known to contribute to this brain disease when it is consumed over a period of time. Silica counteracts aluminum.

The health benefits of silica supplements will not manifest overnight, but over time, plentiful supplies of this mineral can slow signs of the aging process and prevent common degenerative diseases. Foods containing a high amount of silica are:

• Cucumbers

• Onions

• Whole Wheat

• Grains

• Alfalfa

• Leafy Vegetables

Kellee Ganci

Kellee  is a Consultant, Coach and Speaker as well as a Radio Show Host.

Nutrition, Health, Wellness and Weight Loss

www.wix.com/kelleeganci/services

Did you know that vaccines are loaded with Mercury and Aluminum?

Do you really want these nasty additives in your body?

Mercury is a fat soluble metal. It is stored in the body’s fat.60% of the brain contains fat and therefore this is a common site for mercury to be stored.

Aluminum is a significant neurotoxin.There is the possibility that it shares many common mechanisms with mercury as a neurotoxin. They are both toxic to neuronal neurotubules, interfere with antioxidant enzymes, poison DNA repair enzymes, interfere with mitochondrial energy production, block the glutamate re uptake proteins, bind to DNA, and interfere with neuronal membrane function. Aluminum has also been linked with Alzheimer’s.

Of course many people choose to take the vaccines but I would rather risk getting the flu then have the long term side affects of these additives.

Dangerous additives in Flu Vaccines

Muscle pain, respiratory tract infections, eye problems, abnormal blood pressure, asthma, hives and gastrointestinal problems. The more subtle, long term effects, affect everyone. Renowned immunogeneticist Hugh Fudenberg,says that people who have had five flu shots over a ten year period, have increase their risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease ten times.

The reason being that the flu vaccine contains aluminum and mercury. As these heavy metals gradually build up in the brain they cause difficulty in multitasking, trouble with arithmetic, difficulty with thinking and language skills and memory loss. Another toxic ingredient found in the flu vaccine is formaldehyde, which is known to cause cancer.

Build a Strong Immune System to Stay Healthy During Flu Season

Have you ever known anyone who never seems to get sick? The reason is because they have a strong immune system. Anyone can build a strong, healthy immune system. The requirements are plenty of exercise, a healthy diet, quality sleep is essential (always sleep in a completely dark room to maximize melatonin production for high quality sleep.)

A healthy  diet has all the daily requirements of key vitamins and minerals that allow the body to defend against viruses. Garlic has powerful antiviral and antibacterial properties. Limit sugar intake from all sources. A couple of grams of sugar severely limits the white blood cells ability to prevent infections for several hours.

Healthy levels of intestinal flora are also essential to good health. Adequate levels of intestinal flora promote white cell reactions against viruses and bacteria. Daily intake of probiotics from  water kefir and plain organic yogurt will help repopulate intestinal flora which is depleted by GMO foods, processed foods and antibiotics.

The most important nutrients for the immune system are:

Vitamin A from beta carotene(10,000 IU/day)

Vitamin C(1000 mg/day),

B6(100 mg/day),

B12 (2000 mcg/day),

Kyolic garlic(2 tablets three times per day

Zinc(50 mg/day).

Nutrients with powerful antiviral and immune system strengthening ability are astragalus and propolis which can safely be taken year round. Elderberry syrups and extracts have been proven to speed recovery time from colds and the flu.

New research  found that vitamin D is highly effective at stopping flu infections in children.

Getting a flu shot may seem like the convenient, easy solution. Unfortunately, there are a number of possible short term side effects and due to toxic additives, the risk of certain diseases is multiplied. Eating healthy, getting plenty of rest and exercise on a daily basis, will build a strong immune system able to make frequent battles with the flu a thing of the past.

VACCINATION: KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Only a few provinces in Canada have enacted legislation requiring proof of immunization for school entry. These provinces are Ontario, Manitoba and New Brunswick and all three provinces have exemption clauses written into the legislation which guarantee parents the right to refuse vaccination for their school age children for reasons of conscience or religion or if they believe vaccines would be harmful to their children’s health. Medical exemptions are permitted as well if a health problem is deemed to be a contraindication to vaccination. There are no laws in Canada that can force vaccination on anyone, and there are no laws that require infants to be vaccinated.

Kellee Ganci

Kellee Ganci is a Consultant, Coach, Speaker, Writer and Radio Show Host.

Nutrition, Health, Wellness and Weight Loss.

Kellee is a Whole Food and Natural Health advocate.

www.wix.com/kelleeganci/services

Organic Apple Cider Vinegar is used for stopping most allergies like pollen, dander, dust, animals food, etc. When apple cider vinegar is taken either as a daily tonic or at the first sign of an allergy (i.e., sinus headache, stuffy nose, watery eyes), one can completely stop the histamine response or allergic reaction.
There are a couple ways you can drink apple cider vinegar. One way is to put 1/8th cup ACV in 8 oz of water and sip it throughout the day. The other method is to gulp the mixture at once. Sometimes you just have to take this dosage once to stop the allergy and sometimes you need to take it up to three times a day. If taken at the onset of symptoms, allergies will usually disappear between 1 -3 hours after taking the first dose of Apple Cider Vinegar. If you’ve been experiencing allergies for a day or more, your symptoms will disappear after about 24 hours. If they don’t, make sure you continue to take water/vinegar mixture for several days!
Apple Cider Vinegar Tablets or Capsules have not been found to be effective whatsoever in curing allergies.
Recipe: 2 TBLSPOONS (1/8th cup) of organic ACV in 4 oz of H2O, up to 3x/day. Increase amount as necessary being careful to note if heartburn is caused. If heartburn, drink milk and lots of water. If Organic is difficult to find in your area, try a name brand like Heinz Apple Cider Vinegar. A more bitter taste, but it still works!Apple Cider Vinegar can also be used to help relieve migraines, sinus headaches and HOT FLASHES!

Kellee Ganci

Kellee is a Consultant, Coach, Speaker, Writer and Radio Show Host.

Vitamin B12 and Why the Body Needs It

Vitamin B12 has several different forms and compounds although the essential ingredient is the mineral cobalt. The forms that are active in human metabolism are Methylcobalamin and 5-deoxyadenosylcobalamin.

Vitamin B12′s most significant role is in the formation of red blood cells and nerve cell maintenance. It also plays a vital role in the formation of DNA and RNA and has been seen to suppress the amino acid homocysteine, a known promoter of atherosclerosis, a thickening of artery walls due to plaque desposits.

B12 Deficiency Symptoms

A person deficient in B12 can exhibit Alzheimer-like symptoms. The most common presentation of B12 deficiency however is anemia. B12 is essential for the maintenance and formation of red blood cells. It is these red blood cells that provide the body with nutrients, energy and oxygen. They also remove the waste product carbon dioxide (CO2), from the body. Without red blood cells, a body can be starved of oxygen and face a toxic build-up of CO2.

Other symptoms of B12 deficiency include:

* anemia

* weakness

* fatigue

* tingling, sore or itchy tongue

* numbness and tingling in the hands and feet

* loss of appetite

* weight loss

* poor coordination

* confusion and forgetfulness

* depression

* dementia

Vitamin B12 Recommended Daily Intakes and At Risk Groups

Certain groups are at risk for B12 deficiency. These include:

* the elderly

* those with gastrointestinal diseases such as celiac and Crohn’s disease or who have had gastric surgery

* people with pernicious anemia

* strict vegetarians and vegans

* pregnant and lactating women who are vegetarians or vegans

All natural sources of B12 come from meat, which means that vegans and vegetarians must consider a dietary supplement of B12.

The National Institutes of Health’s Office of Dietary Supplements recommends the following daily intakes of vitamin B12:

* Birth to 6 months; 0.4 mcg 0.4 mcg

* 7-12 months; 0.5 mcg 0.5 mcg

* 1-3 years; 0.9 mcg 0.9 mcg

* 4-8 years; 1.2 mcg 1.2 mcg

* 9-13 years; 1.8 mcg 1.8 mcg

* 14+ years; 2.4 mcg 2.4 mcg 2.6 mcg 2.8 mc

Most people on a regular, balanced diet will easily receive the recommended daily allowance or RDA required. B12 can be found in fish; meat; poultry; eggs and milk products. For vegans and vegetarians, cereal products are now fortified with vitamin B12 and nutritional yeast is also loaded with B vitamins including B12, although a supplement is still recommended for vegans.

B12 deficiency is typically treated with intramuscular shots of vitamin B12, particularly for those people that have an absorption problem. High doses of oral B12 may be sufficient for everyone else, although injections remain the most common treatment method.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can have serious consequences unless addressed. A prolonged deficiency can cause permanent nerve damage and continued cognitive impairment. The benefits of B12 outside of its metabolic role, is that of an energy and endurance booster and preventer of heart disease. B12 can interact with some medications and vice versa, so be certain to check on medication reactions prior to adding B12 as a dietary supplement.

Kellee Ganci

Kellee Ganci is a Speaker, Consultant, Coach,Writer and Radio Show host.

Nutrition, Health, Wellness

Eat Well, Live Well

www.wix.com/kelleeganci/services

The fact is that these effects are completely hidden from our view. Did you know that one of alcohol’s major negative health effects is the risk of stroke?

This effect may be related to its impact on our blood pressure.

Alcohol is also loaded with calories. Not a good thing when you are trying to lose weight or maintain your body weight.

People with diabetes should be cautious about drinking alcohol. To much alcohol can make blood sugar levels fall too low and diabetics  who take insulin shots or oral diabetes pills are at more risk for low blood sugar when they drink alcohol.This is because alcohol interferes with the positive effects of these medications.

Anyone with Celiac Disease should stay clear of grain alcohols. While the distillation process should eliminate gluten there is proof that they are not always completely eliminated. Many liquors are made with grain alcohol. The booze to steer clear of include:

• Whiskey
• Bourbon
• Gin
• Beer

Some liquors that are usually free from gluten include:

• Wine
• Rum
• Tequila
• Sake
• Some vodkas
• Celiacs must do their research before they start drinking any alcohol.

Red wine in small amounts (about  6 oz per day)  is known to be heart healthy. Resveratrol which is found in red wine and red grape juice has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system.

      White wine however, does not do the same thing and is usually much higher in sugar. Diabetics and people with Hypoglycemia should steer clear of white wine.

No matter who you are or what you like to drink , it is important that you keep it in moderation. The liver can’t handle large amounts. People who drink large amounts of alcohol  for many years often suffer from cirrhosis of the liver.

Small amounts are fine but remember there are many negative health effects when consuming alcohol. Drink cautiously.

Kellee Ganci

Kellee Ganci is a Nutritional Consultant, Weight Loss Coach, Speaker, Writer and Radio Show Host.    http://www.blogtalkradio.com/kelleeganci

www.wix.com/kelleeganci/services

Almonds are also known to have great medicinal value.

Good for brain

Almond is a source of many nutrients which helps in development of the brain development. Almond induces high intellectual level and has been considered as an essential food item for growing children.

Regulates cholesterol

Regular consumption of almonds helps to increase the level of high density lipoproteins (HDL) and reduce the level of low density lipoproteins (LDL), thereby effectively controllingcholesterol levels.

Good for the heart

The mono-saturated fat, protein and potassium contained in almonds are good for the heart. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and reduces the risk of heart diseases. The presence of magnesium in almonds helps to avoid heart attacks. Almonds help reduce C-reactive protein which causes artery-damaging inflammation. Almond is also a source of folic acid. They therefore help to reduce the level of homocystein, which causes fatty plaque buildup in the arteries.

Regulates blood pressure

The potassium present in almond helps to regulates blood pressure. Almonds are very low in sodium which also helps in containing blood pressure.

Prevention of cancer

Almonds improves the movement of food through the colon, thereby helping to prevent colon cancer.

Protection against diabetes

Almonds also help in reducing the rise in sugar and insulin levels after meals. This offers protection from diabetes and hypoglycemia.

Good in pregnancy

Almonds contains folic acid. Folic acid helps to ensure no birth defects in newborn babies.

Reduce weight

Unsweetened almond milk helps one to reduce weight. The mono-saturated fat contained in almonds satisfies appetite and prevents over-eating.

Avoids constipation

Almond contains fiber. Fiber rich food help avoid constipation.

Boosts energy

The presence of manganese, copper and Riboflavin helps in energy production.

It is believed that one avoids the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by consuming almonds on a daily basis. Consumption of almonds is also good for improving complexion and boosting immunity.

But just like any other food, even almonds have their cons. They contain oxalates and excessive oxalates can cause crystallization. So people having kidney or gallbladder problems should avoid eating almonds.

Both sweet and bitter almonds are available. Usually, sweet almonds are edible and bitter almonds are used to make almond oil, which is used to add flavor to food. Almonds are usually eaten raw, but people also add them as ingredients in salads. Almond milk is a delicious drink.

Other health benefits are  relief from constipation, respiratory disorders, cough, hearth disorders, anemia, impotency, and diabetes. It also helps in hair care, skin care (psoriasis), and dental care.

You can eat almonds directly, preferably eat them on an empty stomach to ensure absorption of their nutrients. You can soak them in water overnight and eat in the morning. You can also garnish various dishes with crushed almonds.

Have you had your almonds today?

Kellee Ganci

Kellee is a Consultant, Coach, Speaker and Radio Show Host.

www.wix.com/kelleeganci/services

All packed foods are usually filled with hidden sugars. Most of them are way over the recommended limits.

Breads and cracker contain sugar. Cereal bars and granola contain sugar.

Tomato-based products contain sugar. Dairy products contain sugar. Canned soups and frozen dinners contain SUGAR!

Most people eat all of these foods on a regular basis.

Excess sugar intake has been linked to inflammation , which can trigger a series of poor health conditions. These include heart disease,high blood pressure and stroke. Not to mention obesity! Sugar occurs naturally in some foods such as milk and fruit. These natural sugars are less alarming because they’re in nutritious foods.

Stay away from any words ending in “ose” these are simply chemical names for sugar. Stay away from all chemical sweeteners. They bring an entire new set of health concerns.

If you want something sweet in your coffee or tea try all natural sweeteners such as Xylitol, Stevia, or Agave.

Problems associated with excess sugar consumption are:

headaches and migraines

decrease in vitamin E reserves

decrease in the quality of vision

lower immune system response

hyperactivity in children

LDL (bad) cholesterol

limited learning capacity

increase in symptoms of depression

prevents bowel movements

reduce sensitivity to insulin

damage human DNA structure

hinder the absorption of calcium and magnesium

can cause hemorrhoids

prevents the release of growth hormone

leads to the formation of kidney stones

causes allergic reactions to certain foods

produces excess digestive tract acidity

alter the structure of protein

interfere with normal homeostasis

restricts enzyme activity

increases fat content in the liver

increases fluid retention

leads to copper deficiency

promotes sluggish digestion

debilitate adrenal gland function

Is it time for you to say good-bye to sugar?

One other thing to consider, if you are vegetarian or vegan; sugar is usually filtered through animal bone ash.Using Agave, and other all natural sweeteners is the way to go for so many reasons.

Kellee Ganci

Kellee Ganci is a Consultant, Speaker, Coach &  Radio Show Host.

www.wix.com/kelleeganci/services

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/kelleeganci/2011/11/16/simple-health-tricks