Sometimes it’s easy to assume that in order to be healthy, we probably have to go out and buy all the expensive products on the market and get the latest and greatest in pills, products and workout wear.
The truth though, is that sitting in your cupboard, or in your pantry, you already have some of the best, natural health products and you don’t even have to pay a cent.
Read on, and then check your cupboard to see which ones you already own!
- Coconut Oil – The uses for coconut oil are many, and if you have some in your house, don’t just leave it sitting on the shelf and pull it out only when you need it for a recipe. A source of healthy, saturated fat, consuming coconut oil daily can help suppress appetite and maintain hunger levels, contributes to healthier skin, improves digestion and elimination and is important for brain health. It is also very good for oral hygiene: 3-4 days per week, swish around 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes. Known as oil pulling, it helps remove toxins within the mouth that you may be missing with your toothbrush, and is a great way to reduce issues of halitosis.
- Lemon – You may have heard that it is a good idea to start your day with warm water and lemon, and it’s not just a gimmicky weight loss trick. Lemon, while it seems acidic, is actually alkalizing to the body. Consuming lemon water first thing in the morning helps gently wake up your digestive system and stimulate your digestives enzymes. Proper secretion of digestive enzymes is essential for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, and consuming food without proper stimulation may yield in you missing certain nutrients, or leading to things such as indigestion and bloating because your food is not broken down properly. Furthermore, the alkalization via the lemon means it helps reduce any toxins within the body that are remaining from the day before and helps promote daily detoxification.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Apple cider’s biggest health help is in digestion. Since apple cider vinegar is a fermented product, it is great for boosting a healthy digestive system, promoting the growth of good bacteria within the gut and eliminating the growth of unhealthy bacteria. The daily consumption of apple cider vinegar, like lemon, is also alkalizing to the body and can be great for reducing issues of nausea, bloating or an upset stomach. Furthermore, ACV is a great way to naturally reduce acid reflux. If you suffer from this common condition, begin consuming apple cider vinegar daily. You can take it on its own as a shot (1-2 tablespoons), or mix the same amount in with water and drink up. It is best taken first thing in the morning.
- Flaxseed – Having a daily intake of essential fatty acids is important for proper digestion, better skin health, energy levels and proper brain function. And while you could go to the local pharmacy or health food store and spend $50 or $60 on fish oil supplements or Omega 3 Oil, you could also just use the flax you have in your cupboard. Flax seed - also known as linseed – is an excellent source of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids and is a great way to get your daily intake of essential fats. Not only that though, linseed is also high in fiber, which means it helps fill you up and suppresses your appetite. The result? You eat less and reach your health and weight loss goals more quickly.
By: Laura Peill – (Check out her blog Viand Nutrition & Facebook)
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