Foods That Promote Liver Health

It is not something that people think much about, but the liver is one of the key players in the body’s digestive system. The food and drink that we take, including medicine, passes through the liver. Therefore, we need to treat it right so it can do its job and stay healthy. Part of treating the liver right is by eating foods that promote liver health. Here at Italian Home Kitchen Blog, we love to write, read, eat, and to read about eating. We also love to write about foods that are good for the body.

Everyone needs a liver to live. In fact, it is the body’s largest gland and it had a number of functions, including:
• Destroying old red blood cells
• Detoxifying the blood by ridding it of harmful chemicals
• It produces bile, which is needed to digest fast
• It stores iron and vitamins
• It breaks down insulin, hemoglobin, and other substances
• It stores sugar as glucose, which is needed for a quick energy boost

Every day, the liver works extremely hard to protect the body from adverse effects from disease, toxins, and pollution, and it is easy for it to become overworked, which can compromise one’s health significantly. Fortunately, there are foods that promote liver health. Some of the best foods to detox the liver include:

• Carrots and Beets: High in Glutathione, plant–flavonoids, and beta–carotene
• Tomatoes: Rich in Glutathione protein that helps detoxify the liver
• Spinach: Super rich in Glutathione when raw
• Grapefruit: High in Glutathione, vitamin C and antioxidants
• Citrus fruit: High in vitamin C, which helps stimulate the liver
• Walnuts: Good source of Glutathione, omega–3, and amino acid arginine, which is also good for the liver
• Turmeric: The liver’s favorite spice and helps improve detoxification
• Cabbage: Contains isothiocyanates, which provide detoxifying enzymes
• Avocados: Helps the body to ptoduce Glutathione
• Garlic: High in sulfur that activates liver enzymes that get rid of toxins
• Brussels sprouts: High in antioxidant glucosinolate and sulfur
• Apples: High in chemicals that cleanse the digestive system
• Dandelion: Assists the liver to break down fats
• Leafy green vegetables: High in plant chlorophyll’s that increase bile production, absorb chemicals, neutralize chemicals, pesticides, and heavy metals, and lowers the burden on the liver
• Cruciferous vegetables: Increase production of glucosinolate that helps flush out toxins
• Alternative grains: Increase the load on the liver’s detoxification function
• Asparagus: Helps in the cleansing process
• Green tea: rich in plant antioxidants known to assist liver function
• Olive oil: Suck up harmful toxins in the body

If the liver is prevented from producing even one of the many enzymes the body requires, there will be impairment in overall body function, which will result in greater metabolic stress. It is, therefore important to eat foods that promote liver health. Follow us for the most delicious articles on the web.

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Why Eggs Must Be Kept Refrigerated In America

It has become so commonplace for Americans to put a carton of eggs into the refrigerator as soon possible, that most of us don’t even realize that we are doing it. In the past — before refrigeration — and in many other countries, many people leave their eggs out in the open at room temperature, often on display in a decorative bowl. For Americans, we might be tempted to say, “that is not safe,” or “that is a quick way to get sick!”

Pre-Washed Eggs

However, not refrigerating eggs is only a health concern within the United States and a few other countries. Why is this? The answer has to do with the way eggs are cleaned, processed, shipped to stores, and held in stores. In modern America, the egg industry always washes eggs powerfully to end up with a nice and clean product for their customers. After all, we all open the container to check and see if any eggs are broken. The egg industry knows this and wants their product to be shiny, clean and look appealing.

Washing the eggs, however, is where the eggs lose their ability to be stored at room temperature. During the washing process, hot water and soap are used to scrub the eggshells of any dirt. This process actually removes the outer protective coating that eggs have occurring naturally. You can notice the difference in the feel of the eggshell. If you feel store-bought American eggs, they will feel a bit rough and porous, like a light sandpaper. If you were to feel an egg right directly from the hen-house, it would feel much smoother — due to it still having its protective layer.

Shipping of Refrigerated Eggs

When eggs are shipped and stored at your local grocery store, they are already kept below 40 degrees Fahrenheit to prohibit the growth and development of diseases such as salmonella. We all know that once food and produce has been refrigerated, you cannot let it sit out and get warm, then simply return it to the refrigerator. The same goes with eggs from your local supermarket. Even if they left the protective coating on, the eggs would be refrigerated during shipping, leaving you with no option but to continue to keep them refrigerated.

Is It Safe To Eat Raw Eggs?

While we are on the topic of eggs and health safety, it is the perfect time to bring up whether or not it is safe to eat raw eggs. The answer will apply to all eggs, whether they have been pre-washed, have been refrigerated, or if they are being sold in another country. Yes; contrary to popular belief, it is safe to eat raw eggs — most of the time. While that answer seems like it is contradictory, it is actually just a polar yes/no.

Believe it or not, sushi is the best example of the yes/no answer. Yes, raw fish is safe to eat — most of the time. The sashimi fish has to be very fresh, prepared correctly, and be kept at a reasonable temperature. Sashimi-grade fish goes through a stricter quality and safety screening than fish that is graded to be cooked. Often, every single piece of fish has been checked for foodborne illnesses before being served. You can still get food poisoning from eating sushi and sashimi, but the chances are much lower due to the strict quality and safety testing.

The same goes for eggs. The possibility of getting salmonella from eating a raw egg is definitely there, but this does not mean that you are going to immediately get sick with salmonella or other contaminates as soon as you eat your first raw egg. The reason eating raw eggs is often discouraged — and the reason why breakfast menus usually have a warning about eating raw or undercooked eggs — is because the testing process for eggs is nowhere near as strict as the process for sushi. In-fact millions of eggs could be shipped between tests for salmonella, listeria and other foodborne illnesses.

When you hear about egg recalls due to salmonella, this is usually because either one of the tests done on egg batches has tested positive – and requires a recall of all eggs shipped since the last negative test — or because a batch of shipped eggs has led to an outbreak of salmonella poisonings.

The best way to still be able to eat raw eggs and not have to worry about getting food poisoning, salmonella, or any other sickness, is to buy eggs from a trusted provider. For example, we have the pleasure of living in Arizona — home to the company Hickman’s Family Farms. This provider of farm-fresh eggs proudly states that it has never in its 71 years been the source of salmonella outbreaks and poisonings. How can they keep such an amazing track-record like that? Extra testing, and testing more often. Putting quality above extra profits, Hickman’s wants to ensure that customers can purchase their eggs and be perfectly confident in eating the eggs raw, without the worry of getting sick.

What it all comes down to is quality of not only the product, but the processes behind raising the eggs, shipping them, testing them and storing them. So next time you have the urge to eat raw cookie dough, but have someone telling you it is not safe, remember that the majority of the time it is perfectly safe, and the chances of you getting sick are rare — especially if you used fresh Hickman’s eggs in your cookie dough.

Don’t Miss Unite Rutgers Half Marathon 2015

New Jersey’s second largest half marathon is the Unite Rutgers Half Marathon. It will be held on April 12th 2015 at one of the oldest colleges in that nation, Rutger University. This scenic race is generally very flat that takes you through the beautiful Rutgers college campus. As you are running to the finish line there will be thousands of fans cheering you on! With so many athletes competing, a lot of volunteers are needed. The best part is that CGI Racing offers runners a free race entry, if they volunteer. Registration is open, but you should register as soon as possible to get your spot in the race. After completing the race you will receive all kinds of perks. From the Unite race you will receive their custom coffee cup, a finishing medal, training plans, and there are even a few special perks for groups of 20 or more. Register as soon as you can, so you can come and enjoy this exciting event, meet new people, and run for charity.

Do You Want To See What Last Year’s Race Was Like? See The Video Below:

Are You Ready To Register? Follow The Banner Below To Learn More:

Want A Great Memory? Try This Advice.

Your memory is a invaluable resource that you can work on improving every day. In order to keep your memory sharp, you will need to do some exercises that promote memory building. This article will give you some wonderful tips that will improve your memory if used on a daily basis.

One fun way to improve your memory is by playing games designed to challenge your brain. It is important to exercise your brain, just like it’s important to exercise your body. You can increase your memory skills, focus and concentration by exercising your brain. Good memory games are crossword puzzles, brain teasers or puzzles, and word searches.

Your memory is only as good as the effort you put in to maintaining it. If you believe that you have are eventually going to have a poor memory no matter what, then it can become a self-fulfilling prophesy. Give yourself positive reinforcement when you do recall something correctly and forgive yourself if you make a mistake. Your memory should begin to improve in no time. Of course, you also need to be eating and sleeping well – and go easy on the alcohol!

If you are searching for ways to increase your memory, then work with others and collaborate on ideas with them. When you do this, your brain fires in a different way than it does when you work on something alone. Bounce ideas off others and see how differently you begin to think.

You have been given some wonderful ways to improve your memory. Use the tips that you have learned to keep your memory sharp and working properly. Your memory is something that if you don’t actively work on, it will not be there when you really need it. Stay on your toes and follow the advice you have been given.

How to Plan Your Day Off From Work For Maximum Relaxation

It’s your day off and you are ready to take full advantage of it. You don’t have any errands to run and there are no responsibilities to hold you back in your seizure of the day. So, what is the best way to just hang around all day and relax? Here are some suggestions to give you the most relaxing day off:

Day Off Food

This is very important to a relaxing day off. Make sure that whatever you plan on having for the day is very easy to make, and doesn’t require hours of preparation or cooking. remember, the longer you spend cooking and prepping, the less time you are spending just relaxing.

Pick The Movies For The Day Early

What is a good day off from work or school without a small movie marathon? To maximize the time that you have to watch television or movies, make a list of the movies and shows that you plan on watching during the day early. Having a prepared list will save you time searching for the next movie to watch, or aimlessly navigating the lists on Netflix or other streaming movie services.

Setup You Spot in the Living Room

Making sure that the spot you will be in for the rest of the day is something you should take special interest in. Imagine it like setting up a blanket fort, make sure you have all your necessities close by including:

• Remotes for Television, DVD Players, etc.
• Cell phone, Charger, Tablet, Tablet Charger
• Cards, Games, or other Hobbies

It Is Okay to Take Naps

This is a tough one for some to accept, but it is okay to take naps on your day off. Most people are worried about taking naps on their day off, as they believe that it is cutting into their time that could be spent doing other things like watching TV. The truth is, a nap is very good for your day off and does not need to take up too much time. Give yourself 15-20 minutes for a nap, and you will be very surprised as to how much it helps you relax on your day off, and stay relaxed when you go back to the normal grind.

Basically, your day off is a day to concentrate on you and you alone. Make sure that YOU are the subject of everything you do, and you will have a nice and relaxing little vacation from everyday life.

Need Weight Loss Advice? Read This Article!

Reading this article shows you are motivated. It shows that you have already begun to think about losing weight, and that is the first step. You are not in denial, and that is great. This article will provide tips that will help you successfully reach your target and your goals when it comes to weight loss.

To properly lose weight, you must eat enough calories every day. You can’t pursue starvation diets without harming your body. If you don’t eat, your body slows your metabolism and hoards fat. In addition, starvation diets can cause binge eating down the road, which will only cause you to regain the weight quickly.

Losing weight starts with a plan. Figuring out what changes you need and want to make and sticking to it will help you stay on track. Determine what sort of foods you are going to eat and stock up. Find out where you are going to work out and how often you can fit it in your schedule. Making these and other plans related to your weight loss will be am important key to your success.

Walking can be a great way to burn calories and lose weight. If you wear a pedometer as you walk throughout the day, you can track how many steps you take. Experts say that people trying to lose weight should take 5000 steps a day. Wearing a pedometer can also give you the inspiration to take more steps each day and continually take more than the day before.

Now armed with the right attitude, and the proper education, weight loss ought to seem like much less than a pipe dream. It ought to seem like a real, possible, very attainable reality. I hope that in some way this article has given you that feeling, and wish you the best of luck in your weight loss endeavor.

Join a Running Team and Participate in the Love Run

Have you ever considered participating in a running marathon, but weren’t sure where to begin, or even if you had the running strength to participate? Well, we are here to show you how you can get involved in an annual running marathon, how easy at can be, and we want to inspire our readers to take the plunge and be a participant in the upcoming year’s most talked about half marathon: The Love Run.

The Philadelphia Love Run is an annual half marathon that happens in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and offers a day of exercise and fun for all those who participate in the race, spectate, or volunteer in the booths and other positions during the race. The main goal of this race, is a charitable goal. The race is run in support of the Campaign for Philadelphia Education Fund, helping promote education in the City of Philadelphia. Not only is this race for a good cause, but the community that organizes around this event, and the smiling faces of those in attendance, will leave a smile on your face.

Joining The Love Run As a Team

While anyone can register to participate in the marathon as an individual, you can also sign up a group of runners for a team participation. This team participation will allow you and your favorite runner pals to enjoy the race together, and work as a team, and also comes with the following benefits:

• Club Discount – any team with 20 or more runners is eligible for a team discount
• Full Use of the Team Reserved Port a Potty (A very nice advantage)
• Receive a Free Tent (10 x 10) at the Finish Line Festival
• Eligible to Win $1000 for your team or for donation to your favorite charity

WHERE

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Art Museum, Eakins Oval

WHEN

March 29, 2015
8:00 am

***NOTE: You Must Have a Minimum of 10 Members to be Eligible to Race as a Team ***

Registration Opens 08-15-14 and Team Eligibility is Limited. Reserved Spots Sell Out Fast, So Take Advantage Quickly!

Get All The Information and Registration Details You Need at the Official Site of the Love Run Below:

Learn All You Need To Know About Allergies

All around the glove, people are dealing with allergies and its symptoms. You can find a variety of allergies amongst most people, though the treatments for all can be very similar. Read this article to learn how to deal with your allergies better or possibly even get rid of them once and for all.

It is best not to carpet your floors or place rugs in your home. Carpet is very hard to clean and the fibers inside the carpet hold onto mites, dusts, pollen, dander and other particles that could irritate allergy sufferers. Instead, use flooring such as tile or hardwood that can be easily mopped.

Before retiring, shower and shampoo your hair. Your hair and skin can accumulate pollen, causing you to experience an allergic reaction during sleep. Washing these allergens off doesn’t take long, but it can have a huge effect on your comfort level.

Ideally, your bathroom should be well-ventilated at all times as a precaution against mold and mildew. Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments. After you shower, use a fan and hang up wet washcloths and towels. If this isn’t a option, open up a window in order to let fresh air circulate around.

Are you aware that your allergic reaction may be caused by your body? That’s the truth! All throughout the day, your body takes in lots of pollen and dust which can stick to your clothes and hair. When your day is done and you go to bed, these substances could wreak havoc on your airways. Take a shower and don clean pajamas prior to going to bed to prevent issues from developing.

After having read the advice above, you should know more about how to properly deal with your allergies. You can do a lot with a few allergy tips. You don’t have to continue suffering without action. You can make a change!

Prevent Allergies in Your Home with an Indoor Home Air Quality Check from Your Local HVAC Contractors:

Take Good Care Of Your Skin With These Techniques

Having nice skin is not only reserved for famous people. You can have healthier, more attractive skin yourself. You can achieve this in a number of ways. All you have to do is begin testing ways that are going to work for you to give you healthier skin. You can begin your research here by reading about some of the methods.

If you are trying to treat oily skin, enlarged pores, and acne in the same area of the skin, a wash containing lemon juice can help. Lemon juice acts as an astringent, closing the pores and tightening the skin. In addition, it dissolves excess oil.

If you’re in the market for a good soothing mask, consider trying out a honey mask. It reduces redness and makes skin glow. It is also suggested to reduce acne.

Purchase pomegranate pills from your local health store to help protect your skin from the sun. The pomegranate allows your skin to tan rather than burn. These are natural, harmless pills derived from fruit. The only thing it will do is make your skin look better.

Avoid sun damage by always wearing SPF 15 or higher sunscreen. Put on sunscreen to aid in preventing peeling skin, wrinkles and sunburn. If you apply sunscreen every day, your skin will look much younger. It can slow down the signs of aging, like wrinkling and development of fine lines.

It is important to avoid tanning salons when you want to maintain good looks. Tanning may make you look healthy when you are young, but over-time it actually has the opposite effect. Tanning beds are especially harmful to your skin and causes premature aging. To keep you looking younger avoid tanning beds.

The skin responds well to nurture and care. Well-cared for skin radiates beauty. Always stay patient; skin results take time. Your should treat skin care as an important part of your life. Apply the advice in the article you just read, along with other tips you may read about. Within a few months, you will wonder why you didn’t start a skin care routine sooner.

Surefire Ways To Ensure You Are Getting The Proper Nutrition

So, you’ve done it. You’re ready to better your nutrition, correct? Well, now is the perfect time. You probably have questions on how to start, but do not worry, this article can help you start. Listed below are some tips that will help you get safely improve your daily nutrition.

Protein is a crucial part of your diet and many people don’t consume enough. The best form of protein is lean, red meat, like steak. Chicken and pork are also good sources. Protein makes you feel full and aids the growth of muscle in your body, making it one of the most important nutrients to consume during any diet.

Smoothies are a great diet drink that can also act as a meal or desert. All you need to make it is a blender, along with any ingredients necessary for the smoothie of your choice. Fresh fruit, yogurt, and milk are the main ingredients and all of those are exceptionally healthy foods.

If you suffer from hot flashes related to menopause, studies have shown that eating soy foods can help. Consuming soy will help prevent hot flashes in women going through menopause. In Japan where soy foods are much more common, the women rarely suffer from menopause symptoms like the women in the United States.

You should not totally avoid red meat. While it is generally higher in saturated fat, you can cut this by removing its skin. Opt for leaner cuts of red meat such as beef, pork and chicken. They still contain a vast amount of protein and as long as they are skin-free, the fat is removed or reduced, and nothing unhealthy is added to them, they make healthy additions to any diet.

Now you should be much more prepared when it comes to what you need for your nutrition. With any luck, the previous tips should have given you some helpful advice that you can apply to your diet from now on so that you can start leading a much healthier life.