Why Tap Water is HEALTHIER than Bottled

Hello!

"My favourite thing about it, though? It's got to be the cap"

You may have heard that Tap Water is not good for us. The likes of Evian, Buxton and Volvic bottles are used much more widely than ever before. But how would you feel if I told you that buying those bottles is just a waste of your time, money and damaging to your health?

"healthy (BPA free) way to have your daily 8 glasses!"

Incase you thought otherwise, 1 in 4 bottles of water are filled up with tap water. Therefore, the idea that bottled is cleaner than tap is not entirely true. 

Before you get the wrong idea, this post is meant to portray to you how bad it is to keep using those PET bottles of water. 

Chemicals from the bottle (ie. BPA, phthalates) can leach into the water, especially if exposed to heat or if the bottle is old. These chemicals are not good for our body - it's better to drink tap water (UK tap water is generally very clean) in a glass or a steel bottle rather than drinking mineral water in a plastic bottle.

"buying (plastic) bottles is just a waste of your time, money and damaging to your health"

Using reusable, especially Stainless Steel, bottles is good as they're BPA free and can be safely refilled many times. 

"1 in 4 bottles of water are filled up with tap water"

I came across this bottle by Glogg. It is white, fits a good 600ml and keeps water cooler for longer. We all know that water tastes better when it's cooler! My favourite thing about it, though? It's got to be the cap. This is the loop cap which online looks like it's a much smaller nozzle, yet in real life it's the perfect size to drink straight out of.

"better to drink tap water in a glass or a steel bottle rather than drinking mineral water in a plastic bottle."

Put it in your bag and it won't leak when closed. Definitely a trendy, healthy (BPA free) way to have your daily 8 glasses! 

Tell me, do you believe in only drinking bottled water?

*Based on London tap water

RECIPE: Healthier Blueberry Muffins

 Hello!

"get a couple of ingredients... and throw them all together - simples :)"

The same question pops up time and time again, during this point in the week: What's happening in the weekend?! Well, here's an idea that is super fun and super yummy! If you're a total sweet tooth like me, you could never resist a chance at cake, and when you're offered a slightly healthier version - well, why not?

Click HERE to Download

There ya go! Just save a copy, get a couple of ingredients (most of which you may have at home) and throw them all together - simples :)

I hope you enjoy-  and what fruit/toppings would you put in?

Whole Foods Market Haul: First Ever!

Hello!

If you live in the US, a Whole Foods Haul may be pretty usual for you - but for people like me, and possibly other countries in the world, the whole 'Whole Foods' thing is pretty new to us. But boy am I glad Whole Foods has come to Town - I say that but it's still pretty far for me, yet I'm definitely more likely to go!

"boy am I glad Whole Foods has come to Town" 

When you enter whole foods, you see fruits and vegetables, smiling faces and very healthy looking people! I love the vibe of the market and the idea that everyone has the same priorities as you!
Even going to the checkout, the lady there was greeting me with jokes and recommendations, telling me the Snapea Crisps are "dangerously good" and making me even more excited to try them!

I had known there was a Whole Foods in London but never thought of going until I passed it on the way back from China Town with our Bubble Teas on our last trip to London. We had a quick pop in and out of the store as one of my friends and I were literally jumping with joy at the sight of the 'Whole Foods' sign - yet too overwhelmed to actually purchasing anything...

"the Snapea Crisps are "dangerously good""

The second time we went was last week, this time ensuring we were going to buy at least one thing. So we went down to China Town to get ourselves some bubble tea (now becoming some sort of a ritual) and then went to Whole Foods in Piccadilly. As soon as we saw Snapea Crisps, which have been raved about on YouTube, we had to pick these up. If you've tried Sugar Snap Peas, you know how amazing they are - as I am a huge fan of them, I hope I will be of these too.

For your information, there are more than one flavour, I also spotted the 'Caesar' flavour and 'Tomato' - yet 'Lightly Salted' seemed the safest option.

"Chia Seeds are the superfood of the moment"

These two items were no brainers when it came to Whole Foods. Chia Seeds are the superfood of the moment. Superfoods are the foods with a lot of nutritional value per calorie unit. There are so many great things you can do with those tiny seeds: put them on your cereal, in your smoothies or make Chia Seed Pudding.

Cacao Powder is basically chocolate - but the raw, good-for-you kind. I was in search of this but had only found cocoa power thus far, which is great for making healthier hot chocolates, yet cacao powder seems like one step up, and I am excited to give it a go!

"let's hope these babies are satisfying"

I have been loving dates. Having a big box of medjool dates at home meant that I'd freely have a couple when I want something sweet and super yummy! Running out of those, I was left feeling empty - let's hope these babies are satisfying! I love dried fruit and seeing these mango and pineapple sachets in the store, I had to pick them up! These were actually near the checkout line, which is a very smart place to put them!

"Too many good things all in one place!"

A simple 5 item shop left me satisfied with my shopping trip in Whole Foods - still being overwhelmed with the amount of amazing things they have on sale there, I was unsure of what exactly to pick up! If you've been to whole foods for the first time, I'm sure you'll understand what I mean: Too many good things all in one place! 

What's your favourites from Whole Foods / Health Food Stores? 

Purchase of The Week: Vaseline Active Fresh Deodorant

Hello!

The name of this product is a bit of a mouthful, the packaging resembles a mushroom and the words 'Antiperspirant' and 'Cream' together makes me feel a little skeptical about this product. Well, you never know unless you try and that's why the POTW* is this very product.

Seeing as it is new, the product was on sale, so I thought 'What the hey?' and picked it up. Summer means sweaty people and sweaty people mean B.O. We can't prevent other people smelling up the train or the classroom but the best we can do is make sure we don't add to the smell!

See what I mean by 'Mushroom'?!

There are many ways to prevent smelling throughout the day, but it begins with a good deodorant in the morning. Later on, you can have a body splash in your bag - but anti-persirants are key!

Overall, the 'mushroom' head does seem quite practical as it would fit perfecting under the arms hence it's a good idea! Vaseline has a great reputation and lets hope it doesn't go against my high hopes!

What's your favourite deodorant for the summer? 

*POTW= Purchase Of The Week 

Top Ten Benefits of Aloe Vera

Hello! 

Having seen Aloe Vera Water in many stores and even local newsagents now, I thought it would be really interesting to see the benefits of Aloe Vera. Thats when Kirsty came in contact with me.

 Kristy Jones lives in Liverpool and is an avid writer and blogger. Her areas of interest are food, reviews (Book/Movie), Travel, Fashion, Lifestyle and Fitness. She works as a guest blogger on her chosen areas of interest and currently writes on behalf of European Health Card. 

Right so here are the health benefits of Aloe Vera and why growing an Aloe Plant this year may not be a bad thing:

 The healing powers and restorative benefits of aloe Vera make it something of a jack-of-all-trades in the health community. The gel inside of the green spikey plant has powers that range from healing burns to supporting bodily functions. Here is a look at ten different uses you have with just one simple plant-

1. It soothes burns- One of aloes most revered qualities, just rub the gel on your sunburn and you'll instantly feel it cool down. It also helps in making it heal faster.

2. It gives you smooth skin, too- If you apply it to an area of your face with acne, the anti-inflammatory properties of aloe will reduce the redness and size of acne.

3. It even helps your skin during an allergic reaction- If you consumed something you are allergic to and are experiencing puffy, red skin, aloe Vera can be applied to reduce the swelling and treat the itchiness. You should still go to a hospital, but aloe Vera will at least reduce the physical symptoms.

4. It can do wonders to reverse the signs of aging- If your body is starting to show the signs of getting older and you want to reduce wrinkles or crow's feet, apply aloe Vera to the areas affected for minor relief. The plant's special ability is so magical that it can actually reduce some of the signs of the aging process.

 5. You can use it in the shower- Aloe Vera makes an excellent body scrub, as you will smell excellent and feel smoother after applying it to your skin. You can also use it in your hair, giving you a silk-like smoothness to it.

6. Give your immune system a boost- Aloe Vera provides a boost for your immune system. Just drink a small amount to give your body a natural enhancement that will keep colds away and also enhance your digestive system.

7. Aloe Vera helps fight mouth problems- If you have gum disease or even something as small as a cut in your mouth, aloe Vera will help in healing those problems and preventing continuous bleeding. It also fights bacteria, giving you a cleaner feel after brushing your teeth.

8. It can help those with diabetes- Aloe Vera or supplements containing aloe Vera are an all-natural alternative to fighting high blood sugar levels in diabetics. After a few months of use, you will notice a significant improvement and will feel excellent.

9. Help fight asthma- If you are feeling short of breath, just boil some aloe Vera leaves in hot water and breathe in the steam. It creates an excellent, all natural smell, and will open up your airways.

10. Fight ear and eye infections- Aloe Vera works great as a general anti-inflammatory and as an anti-irritant. These powers even stretch into infections of the eye or ear, where some applied aloe Vera can reduce the pain and swelling.

A European Health Insurance Card will get you access too many things that can fight the above mentioned ailments, but a simple application of aloe Vera can do wonders as well.

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So, I hope you enjoyed the post by Kirsty, have you used Aloe Vera in your beauty regimen or tried Aloe Vera Water? 

Healthy Chocolate - Is it really tasty?

Hello!

Hearing the words 'healthy' and 'chocolate' together sounds a little weird... And slightly untrue! However, it might be a bit more normal to hear after you've read this post!

Healthy Chocolate. Oxymoron - yet couldn't be truer with Conscious Chocolate! Conscious chocolate is chocolate (duh!) made with raw products. It is sweetened with Agave Nectar which is obviously better than the over-processed and bleached white sugar found in regular chocolates! 

The oh-so-raw chocolate has a different texture to your regular dairy milk. It has a truffle-like texture which is very soft. If you try to break the chocolate into pieces, it doesn't snap, it kind of slowly breaks apart - sort of like caramel  (Does that even make sense?!).

Conscious chocolate have a wide range of flavours to choose from, ranging from 'Goji and Coconut' to a nutty chocolate bar to a cherry flavour and loads of flavours in between! 

I got to try the 'Essential Orange' and 'Mint Hint'. You're bound to find something that catches your attention! 

I love the 'Essential Orange' flavour. The chocolate is more on the dark chocolate, bitter taste - which I wasn't too fond of at first but it definitely grew on me! As I had more of the orange, I started liking it more and more. It's true what they say about your taste buds adapting! 

However, I wasn't a huge fan if mint to begin with so naturally, I preferred the Orange flavoured chocolate! 

I like how they didn't try to fool us with the nutritional information. Sometimes products show the nutritional information about 1/5th if the packet and we assume it's the whole thing - however, Consious Chocolate give us info of the whole thing! Also, all the products are natural, minimal process and still taste great. Good going, conscious!

The products are packaged in 3 wrappers. 

1) it is wrapped in a bit of paper

2) it's put inside a foil baggie (as shown in the picture) 

3) it is then inside the main packaging with the name if the flavour

Just to mention, I love the packaging and how all the flavours have different outer package! The paper packaging (1) is good as it keeps the chocolate together and not melting on your hand as you get it out, the foil baggie keeps the chocolate fresh and the other packaging to name the flavours! 

Overall the chocolates from 'Conscious Chocolate' taste so yummy and it's nice to know they're not processed and are raw. Oh, and I have to mentioned the scents of them - they are so good! Like you open the first packaging and the scent lingers! It's a lovely strong scent of the essential flavours -yum! 

So, is it a little more normal to hear 'healthy chocolate' after reading this? Or are those two words together will never sound normal! Try out 'Conscious Chocolate' (link here) and then tell me these two words are made for each other: Healthy Chocolate! 

What are your favourite healthy desserts?

*Conscious Chocolate did send the two products to me for review purposes, but all of the information is honest and not biased

Health Benefits of Raisins

Hello!

I know raisins are a very controversial food - some love them and others hate them… I, for one, am definitely do not agree with the latter!
I LOVE raisins and having consuming it a lot recently, I was interested in the health benefits of it - and seeing as you're reading this, I guess you are too - so let's crack on!

Promotes Efficient Absorption of Vitamins, Proteins and Nutrients
This leads to a better immune system which helps fight off disease!

Aids Digestion
Due to the high fibre content of raisins, it helps maintain regular bowl movements (avoid constipation) and therefore toxins and waste materials can be easily passed out of your body. In addition, Raisins are naturally sweet, so the fruit sugars are easy to digest, unlike the processed sugars in many of our foods today! These natural sugars are said to help the spikes or plunges in insulin levels which can be dangerous for diabetes patients (medium Glycemic Index)

Protection against Cavities and Tooth Decay
Due to the 'oleanolic acid' in Raisins, growth of harmful bacteria is prevented. This also reduces risk of gum disease

Source of Calcium
Keep your bones and teeth strong! Due to content of micronutrient 'Boron', calcium absorption is helped, therefore more calcium for your body.

Source of Iron & Copper
Which is necessary for Red Blood Cell Formation

Reduce Body Acidity
Raising are a source of Potassium and Magnesium - this helps reduce body acidity. Potassium is also said to reduce Blood Pressure

Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Bacterial Properties

Source of Antioxidants
Prevents development of Tumours

Vitamins A, C, B6, F, K

Ways to Consume in your Diet...

I love to add raisins to my breakfast. In the picture above, I've topped wholewheat toast with Peanut Butter, Flaxseed (see their benefits here) and Raisins! So yummy, honestly! I love to have this with a bowl of fruit and a chai tea latte! You have to try it! 

Also, to a bowl of Shredded wheat, I like to add raisins - and if I feel like some peanut butter, I add that too, and occasionally some flaxseeds! Do you see a trend, here? haha!

Also, if you like raisins and shredded wheat, try raisin wheats as a snack or as breakfast - as shown in this post!

I hope you found out more about raisins, decide to maybe consume some and gain from their benefits! So, tell me, do you love/hate raisins?! 

source: 1 // 2 // 3  

Can Your Diet Really Cause Acne? -Guest Post

Over the years, a debate has ranged as to whether there is any relationship between diet and acne and if any, to what magnitude. Dermatologists have differed with those supporting the theory but this has slowly come to change as research reveals that some certain foods could definitely contribute to acne and other health cases.  One of the supporting evidences about the link between acne and diet is that an increase in bacteria, hormones, sebum and hyper production of follicular cells can be directly associated with acne. There are certain foods known to contribute to excessive proliferation of the aforementioned substances in the body and the question that we should ask is whether these really have an effect on your skin condition.

First, it is good to note that diet plays a major role in the treatment of acne. People with some skin conditions or those trying to fight wrinkles and aging process can effectively do it by eating the right diet. With this is in mind, it is obvious that if diet can be used for treatment and rejuvenation of the skin, the same can on the other hand be instrumental in the development of acne.  Before going far however, it is good to answer a few questions so as to establish the truth about this matter.

What causes acne?

Acne occurs as a result of blockage of hair follicles which might be caused by a number of factors. One, the follicles can be blocked by dead skin cells, oil secretions and bacteria and this is evident especially in the facial skin, neck, shoulders, chest and on your back. These parts of the body are known to have many oil glands or sebaceous which help to protect and moisturize the skin tissue. However, dead skin cells can easily block these glands while oil can also accumulate leading to bacterial reaction. This reaction results to inflammation which is linked to acne.

What foods can contribute to acne?

For long, junk foods such as French fries, processed drinks and chocolates have been associated with acne. However, this cannot be taken as a wholesale issue since not all people have reacted negatively with these foods leading to acne. It is however important to point out that some people normally develop acne when they eat these foods owing to the increase of fat in the body which is at some point released through the skin pores leading to some level of blockage. Research has also shown that some people develop acne when they drink milk that is highly concentrated with fats.

Some researchers have also pointed at foods that lead to the production of excess insulin levels as a major contributor of skin inflammation. Such foods include processed sugar and sugary foods that cause an increase in insulin thus leading to endocrine response and hormonal surge. This leads to an increase of pore-blocking cells and excessive activity by oil gland. It is not however conclusive as to whether diet and acne should be linked but it is good to assess your skin and its reaction to different foods. When all is said and done however, you should bear in mind that proper diet leads to a healthy skin and body. 

Molly Garner is a beautician by profession. She is contributing article on behalf of CoLaz Beauty Salon they offer laser hair removal, advanced acne treatments and beauty treatments.

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Editors Notes: 

Hello! 

I hope you enjoyed the really informative post by Molly Garner, I loved reading it and found it really interesting! Do you think diet causes acne? 

Health Benefits of Flaxseed

Hello!

It's been a long time since I've done one of these, and since I had this on my peanut butter toast this morning, I was wandering why exactly these little Flaxseeds were actually meant to be so good for you, and to my surprise, there are more health benefits than I had thought! 

If you don't know what Flaxseeds are, they are basically seed like sunflower seeds, chia seeds etc. They are also called Linseeds, which is what they're called in England.

Flaxseeds are getting more and more well known recently and many people add them to many different meals and snacks… but what is the big deal about these teeny tiny seeds?

- Very High Fibre Content, hence lowering bad cholesterol, stabilise blood sugar, help proper functioning of intestines.

- Source of Antioxidants, these are also very good and also helps to balance female hormones

- Has healthy Omega-3 Fatty Acids, this reducing inflammation, prevents heart disease, arthritis, asthma, diabetes and some cancers - by blocking enzymes that are involved in hormone metabolism and interfering with the growth and spread of tumour cells

- Also a source of B Vitamins, Magnesium and Manganese

Some call it the 'most powerful plant foods on the planet', and clearly these benefits are the reason why!  However, be aware that Flaxseed Oil doesn't contain the fibre nor phytochemicals (antioxidants) of the whole flax seed. In addition the benefits of the flax is easily damaged by heat and oxidations, so be aware to store in a dark, dry place.

You can eat them sprinkled on yogurt, on cereal, porridge, shakes, cereal bars, juice, baking (flaxseed muffins), pb toast like I did or even find them in seeded bread!

Have you tried Flaxseed? If so, what do you eat them with/on? 

sources: image, info, info

Healthy, Yummy, Quick Snacks

Hello! 

New year. New, healthier, you!
So, with the Christmas and winter, we tend to have slightly overindulged with the oh-so-yum Chocolate and pies that are available! So, we need to get set on a healthier route again, right?

I, too, may have received one too many chocolate gifts for Christmas which I will need to hide away from now on!

Here are some easy snacks which are yummy as well as healthy. A lot of the time we think healthy tasting disgusting - and yes, honestly, sometimes it does! But these ideas taste so yummy, you won't think they're healthy!

1. Cereal in a Bowl - without the milk

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I LOVE Raisin wheats by themselves. They provide a serving of dry fruit, as there are raisins inside the mini wheats. Also, they are a great serving of wholewheat and fibre. Many of us don't have enough fibre in our diets due to the fear of Carbs, yet we need the 'good' carbs in our life and fibre to help with digestion! So, Raisin wheats are sweet and crunchy. A perfect easy-to-grab snack.


2. Carrots with Hummus 

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Carrots are veggies. Veggies are good for you! I am not likely to eat just a plain carrot on it's own. Hummus is a dip made from Chick Peas. Chick peas are full of protein, low in fat and taste nice. Therefore, hummus tastes nice! Pairing these two items is a match made in heaven. I wasn't a big hummus fan myself until a few days ago, and I've been having this for the last two days straight!
Just get baby carrots or cut slices from big carrots and dip in the hummus (about 2 tablespoons) - enjoy!
You can also eat with cucumber slices, pepper slices and even grapes - yes, I tried it with grapes and it's nice!


3. Apple and Peanut Butter

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Many people will look at this and think 'Ergh.. Peanut butter is NOT healthy' - let me tell you: it is! Actually, I once told somebody about this and they said 'How can peanuts mixed with Butter be healthy, have you lost your mind?!' - well, actually peanut butter is not peanuts and butter - contrary to the name! It is actually roasted peanuts blended to a spread-like consistency. Therefore, no saturated fat is in natural peanut butter! It is all the good unsaturated fats! These improve cholesterol levels and lower risk of heart disease. Though, peanut butter is calorie dense, so 1tbsp with an apple is perfect! Peanut butter tastes incredible! Apples are also a natural teeth whitener, so eat up for those pearly whites!

Those are my 3 favourite go-to snacks! I hope you have a healthy, tasty and happy New Year!

What are your favourite snacks?