What Are the Benefits of Bee Pollen?

Bee Pollen Vs Royal Jelly Extract

What is the difference between bee pollen and royal jelly extract?  What benefits do they offer?  Let’s do a little comparison on each.

Bee pollen is called the “food of life”.  It contains 18 amino acids, vitamins, calcium, copper, iron, phosphorous, potassium, fatty acids, carbohydrates, rutin, and protein.  Bee pollen is originally taken from plants, compressed into pellets, and extracted from beehives. 

Royal jelly contains acetylocholine, which is a neurotransmitter that allows for the transmission of messages from nerve cell to nerve cell but, more importantly, has been shown to have a positive effect on memory loss which is associated with Alzheimer’s disease.  It contains amino acids, carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and is also considered a bee food. 

Royal jelly is a substance produced by the worker bees that, in turn, is used to feed the queen bee.  It serves to increase her growth and longevity.  This is why queen bees are considerably larger and live longer than worker bees.

What are the benefits of bee pollen and royal jelly in human terms?

Bee pollen builds up the immune system in order to fight allergens.  It can slow the aging process, reduce stress, and is very effective for those who wish to lose weight – or gain weight, whichever the case may be.

Individuals who have taken royal jelly extract assert that it provided improved memory function, overall good health, increased resistance to infections, lowered cholesterol, and prevented anemia as well as other chronic disorders.  In general, they saw a significant improvement in their overall well-being.

It should be noted here that bee pollen was found to increase longevity among a group of people in the Russian mountains.  Their average age is 125.  So there seems to be some similarity between bee pollen and royal jelly in this regard.

Bee pollen has the ability to increase the production of blood cells in those who have anemia, prevents allergies, increases energy levels, builds up the immune system against allergens, and prevents infections; royal jelly plays a similar role in enhancing the immune system as well.

If one looks at the benefits of bee pollen and royal jelly and combines the two, clearly they both provide many of the elements needed to maintain a healthy life and, to a large degree, extend it as well.  Bee pollen and royal extract is a combination that can’t be beat!

How to Increase Your Overall Happiness

Everyday Activities to Increase Your Overall Happiness

Happiness can be a fleeting feeling. The good news is that you can get it back if you put a little effort into it. Find ways to bring happiness back to your life every day.

Some people look on happiness as subjective. In a way, it is. We each have an idea of what brings a smile to our faces. Striving for that “smile” every day is what can increase your sense of wellbeing and give you the ability to handle the rough times that will surely come in your life. Read on for some great ways to lift your mood.

* Sing a song – Music has the ability to evoke memories. What were you doing the first time you heard that song? Is it a happy song or a song that makes you think deeply about things? Singing a song that conjures pleasant memories has the power to increase your good mood. It is an instant mood enhancer.

* Exercise – You are probably turning the other way right now. But, exercise is not the enemy. It is just physical activity. It can be as vigorous as a run or as fulfilling as planting bulbs in the garden. What it does is increase the secretion of endorphins into your system. Endorphins make you feel good. Your mood lightens and you also can see problems from new angles that give a clue to how they can be resolved. Oh, and you lose weight which makes everybody happy.

* Have fun – Are you someone who is always very serious? Take the time to let loose. Watch a funny movie and laugh until your sides hurt. If you like to go to amusement parks, ride all the rides you want as many times as you want. It’s okay to live in a happy moment. The way to do that is to totally immerse yourself in it. Don’t think about tomorrow, just right now.

* Try new things – Many people get upset because they don’t think that they are good at anything. If you are always doing what you have always done, then you won’t get a chance to discover what else you like and are good at. Take a step out of your comfort zone. Try cooking classes, swim lessons, painting or anything else you have longed to do. You may not be perfect (perfection is overrated) but you will be glad you put in the effort.

* Smile – When you turn that frown upside down, your happiness meter starts to rise. Just making a goofy grin in the mirror or at a friend will get you a grin back. It may make you laugh or not, but it will definitely get you thinking positive thoughts.

Are you trying to find your measure of happiness? Sometimes you have to look no farther than you to discover new ways to shine in your life.

How to Have Healthier Skin

You always want to put your best foot forward. That means looking your best. But how can you look your best when your skin has only a dull appearance? Here are some easy ways to give your skin back its glow.

Did you know that your outside can tell others what is going on inside of you? It’s true. For example, if your hair is falling out, it could be that your body lacks essential vitamins and minerals to build healthy hair - like vitamin E.

Your skin is the largest organ in the body and it’s on the outside of the body. To keep your skin healthy is to keep your vital parts on the inside in a healthy state as well. Start with taking care of your skin.

Skin Care Tips

Skin can only shine when it is well nourished. Part of nourishing it is cleaning it well. There are three steps to a beauty regimen: clean, tone and moisturize.

Cleaning involves removing all of the dirt and grime from your face every day. If you use a professional cleanser, be sure it has all-natural products and contains no drying alcohol. Clean your face on the morning and also before bed. You don’t want to sleep through the night with the dirt of the day on your face. A weekly oatmeal mask can remove deep down dirt from pores.

Toners return your skin to balance. You’ll see a reduced pore size. They also refresh your face and remove any traces of dirt the cleanser left behind. You don’t need a toner with an astringent unless you have oily skin. Dry skin can do without it. Avoid using toners that have alcohol as the first ingredient. They can dry the skin and make it fell itchy and dry

Moisturizing rehydrates the skin. Skin that is properly hydrated looks and feels healthier. It is softer to the touch. Avoid thick lotions that can clog pores and cause pimples. Use a light moisturizer that soaks in quickly without harsh chemicals and perfumes. Olive oil and coconut oil are great natural moisturisers and don't have any harsh chemicals that can exacerbate allergies

Eating and Drinking Your Way to Healthy Skin

Fill your body with good things and it will be good to you. How you eat has a lot to do with your skin.

Drink water - This point can’t be stressed enough. Your body is composed of mostly water. Each body system needs it to survive. Drink at least eight glasses a day. This can be tea, flavored water, and coffee. Avoid sodas because they have too much sugar and calories.

Whole grains - Whole grains contain a lot of fiber. Fiber not only makes you feel full longer, but it also flushes your digestive system of some of the fat from your meal. Many problems with our digestive tract stem from what we are putting into it. We often eat less fiber than we need and experience things like irritable bowel syndrome, constipation and diarrhea.

Fruits and vegetables - Besides being a naturally sweet snack fruits are also full of good stuff like antioxidants. This includes phenols in fruits, quercetin in apples, capsaicin in peppers, beta-carotene in carrots and allicin in onions, to name a few. Antioxidants boost the immune system which will help your skin to act as a better protective barrier against infection.

Look your best with these tips for nourishing your skin inside as well as the outside.

Different Ways to Spark Creativity

Creativity is the catalyst for innovation. Without it, the world as we know it wouldn’t even exist. Someone, somewhere was creative enough to develop new technologies and techniques that have increased both our quality and quantity of life.

The question, though, is how does creativity begin? Does it start as a dream? Does a light bulb suddenly appear over your head? Or is there something specific you can do to spark your creativity and passion?

Believe it or not, we are all creative. While we may be creative in different ways, creativity is within us, juts waiting to be uncovered.

Everyone has different rituals and routines to ignite their creativity, but let’s go through 7 ways to spark creativity and passion in your life:

1. Create a list of 100. Make a list of 100 ideas and thoughts. They don’t have to be connected, but simply write out 100 ideas that come to mind in a single sitting. This may seem daunting, but the purpose is to generate uncensored and unfiltered thoughts that can be used as a foundation for a bigger idea. You can always filter the ideas later on, so focus on quantity, not quality at first.

2. Stimulate all of the senses. Try something different that involves the senses. For example, go to a wine tasting, art museum, concert or even a masseuse. You just might discover a fresh idea by stimulating your body and mind with new things.

3. Surround yourself with positive, inspiring words. Stories, positive affirmations, and motivational quotes are always great starting points to
tap into your creativity. You just might be inspired to look within after reading the inspirational stories or thoughts of others.

4. Go for a country drive. You may be able to think clearer when you’re alone in the car. Turn off the stereo and tune into your own thoughts circulating in your head. There are plenty of creative ideas already within your mind; you just have to become more aware of them!

5. Try the color yellow. This may sound strange, but psychologists believe that the color yellow inspires creativity. Architecture firms have a
tendency to paint their walls yellow.

6. Use the bountiful resources of others. There are plenty of people around the world who love to talk, so get them talking! Ask them questions
and allow their responses to guide your thoughts and ideas. You just may come up with a unique and creative solution by using the brainpower of others.

7. Take a break. If you’re under stress or pressure, it’s time to relax. After all, our minds need a break! Your relaxation routine doesn't have to be extravagant; it can be as simple as playing a Sudoku puzzle or going for a 15-minute walk. By refreshing your body and mind, you will actually return more creative than ever.

Everyone is unique, so you may have a different way to spark your creativity. That’s okay! You can use these seven creativity tips as a guide to help you uncover unique solutions to ordinary problems.

How to use Technology for Healthier Dieting

Technology is a powerful tool for your diet. It can provide support, answer questions, and track progress. A new diet can benefit greatly from technology resources.

Try these ways to use technology to your advantage with your diet:

1.      Create an online blog or website. Blogs and websites can be virtual food diaries.

·        Instead of a paper version, consider an online blog or website to keep track of your diet goals.

·        Blogs and websites can be shared with others to inspire them to try a healthier diet.

·        It’s easy to update a virtual diary with technology. Writing from a phone, tablet, or computer will keep you accountable.

2.      Use online diet support groups. Instead of attending meetings at a community center or library, consider online support groups. They’re available all day, and you can wear your favorite pajamas or bathrobe.

·        Virtual support groups offer help ranging from diet tips to restaurant recommendations.

·        Online support groups protect your anonymity. User names can be different from real names, and addresses aren’t required.

3.      Photograph your food and post it online. Studies show that taking pictures of your food makes you focus more on dieting goals. Food choices become more important if they’re attached to a required photo. Dieters prefer to show the world their kale salad and sweet potatoes instead of the brownies with sprinkles.

4.      Use social media. Facebook, Twitter, and other social networks can keep you accountable and on track with your diet.

·        Posting your diet goals on social media and sharing them with friends is an easy way to track progress. Additionally, your friends can help you stay focused and avoid temptations.

·        Social media can help you connect with others starting healthier diets.

·        It’s easy to share recipes, photos, and diet plans on social media. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other networks can also be a source of ideas.

5.      Use fitness watches and bracelets to track diet goals. The Jawbone, FuelBand, Fitbit and other fitness trackers can help your diet. They track calories and activity levels, so you’re always aware of progress.

6.      Get a smart scale. It’s time to upgrade the bathroom scale. New versions can keep track of body mass, body fat, and previous weigh-ins.

·        Smart scales can sync with phones and computers, so data can be downloaded.

·        New scales can convert the data to simple charts and graphs. They can be shared on social media or added to blogs. 

7.      Set diet reminders on a phone. A smartphone can help diet progress with notifications and reminders.

·        Notifications can range from reminders to eat to grocery shopping tips.

8.      Play video games. It’s time for the kids to share the video game controllers. Instead of chasing a monster, you can try fitness games designed specifically to lose weight.

9.      Use online food guides. Knowing the nutritional information for all the food you consume is essential for staying on a healthier diet. Online food guides can help you keep track of calories, vitamins, minerals, fats, and other data.

·        Online tools can reduce the time you spend thinking about food, so you can plan better goals.

·        Apps can help you keep track of nutrients and make better grocery shopping decisions.

·        Online guides can be downloaded to multiple devices and checked throughout the day. They can be consulted in a store, restaurant, or home. Instead of hunting for information in a book, it’s easier to enter a brand name or scan a bar code to get the same data.

Technology can be your ally during diet changes. It can help you stay focused on goals while providing important sources of support.

Use Nutrition to Fight Cancer

Cancer is a disease that we all wish didn't exist. It ravages the body and the lives of those around the sufferer. No one can predict who will and who won’t get cancer. But, one way that you can reduce your risk of certain kinds of cancers is through watching your nutritional intake.

You are what you eat. Even when you are young, eating poorly will eventually catch up with you. Eating a natural diet not only helps your body by boosting your immune system, it also keeps the body operating in good condition on the inside.

One cancer that is a big concern these days is breast cancer. Besides having yearly mammograms when you turn 40, women can also make nutritional changes to lower their risk.

Fruits and Vegetables

One way to do that is to eat more fruits and vegetables. These foods contain complex carbohydrates as well as other substances like antioxidants. Antioxidants fight free radical damage in the body. Free radicals are by-products of cellular metabolism. They also come from the environment, second-hand smoke, foods and stress.

These particles bombard the organs and cause the signs of aging and the breakdown of body systems that can lead to diseases like cancer. Here are some types of fruits and vegetables that are particularly good for fighting cancer:

Cruciferous veggies - These are your broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. They contain sulfur compounds that help fight cancer.

Alliums - This is a type of vegetable family that includes onions, garlic and leeks. They may make you cry when you cut them, but they are good for you. Garlic helps lower cholesterol. All of them contain antimicrobial properties. In addition, they can slow or retard cancer growth.

Berries - Raspberries, strawberries and blueberries are just a few of these fruits that contain lots of antioxidant substances. Antioxidants can increase your resistance to disease as they help your body fight back. Consume as many antioxidants as you can naturally. These and other fruits contain phenols, which help boost the immune system.

Soy

Soy is a form of plant protein. When it comes to protein, we often get the bulk of it from animal sources. The disadvantage of this is that animal meat also contains a lot of fat. It is the fats that we don’t need. Soy provides all the benefits of lean protein without that added fat.

Legumes and Nuts

This group includes beans, lentils and peanuts. Legumes are rich in protein and low in fat. Beans are also high in fiber which flushes fat out of your system as it passes. Fiber also prevents constipation and helps your digestive system to function properly. Nuts contain protein and fat. Healthy fats and oils in nuts are crucial for your body’s cells.

While no one can predict cancer in any one person, you can reduce your risk significantly with a healthy diet.

Keeping an Exercise Journal

The Exercise Journal Miracle for Women Who Keep Meaning to Exercise There’s a big difference between buying a gym membership, and using it on a regular basis. Keeping an exercise journal is one tool for making your workouts more consistent and effective. Take a look at the benefits of tracking your time on the treadmill. Benefits of Keeping an Exercise Journal 1. Increase awareness. Writing in a diary encourages mindfulness. You’ll know for sure how many times you visited the gym last week. At the same time, you’ll also be able to relax and enjoy the rest of your day once you’ve documented the necessary information. 2. Clarify goals. You could miss out on the fun of being fit if deep down you’re trying to transform yourself into Superwoman. Aiming for reasonable targets like taking 2 inches off your waistline will give you more victories to celebrate. 3. Hold yourself accountable. You’re less likely to skip your ab work if you know your diary will become lasting evidence of that fact. You’d rather do those sit ups than keep thinking about them. 4. Recover from lapses. Then again, holidays and weddings interfere with the soundest plans. Taking a long term view will show you how to bounce back from a few hectic days. 5. Collect data. Imagine running a business where you neglect to keep records about your customers or finances. Data is just as essential when you’re trying to figure out how to run a faster mile. 6. Manage medical conditions. An exercise journal may be especially useful if you’re living with a chronic condition. Lifestyle adjustments could reduce the symptoms of diabetes or arthritis. How to Keep an Exercise Journal 1. Design your format. If you’re a techie, organize your data with a mobile app on your phone. If you prefer pen and paper, buy a journal with a pretty cover. 7. Define your scope. You may want to track just the basics or paint a more detailed picture. At a minimum, try to capture how long your workout lasted and the level of intensity. 8. Examine your feelings. Many women find it helpful to understand how emotions affect their fitness plans. It’s motivating to see how a half hour of cycling enhances your mood. On the other hand, if you leave a Cross Fit session feeling drained, it could be a sign of over training. 9. Add images and quotes. Pictures and inspirational sayings may provide an extra boost. Looking at your children’s faces may encourage you to pass on healthy habits. A line from a favorite song could make you feel like dancing. 10. Schedule updates. Most studies find that exercise journals have more impact if you write in them each day. Recording your performance on the spot also helps to ensure accuracy. Experiment with a system that will work for you. That could mean bringing your notebook to the gym or filling it out before bed. 11. Vary your routine. Our bodies adapt to any familiar movement so walking a mile will soon require less effort than it used to. If you want to advance, you’ll need to make things more challenging. Many experts suggest that a 10% weekly increase in weight, intensity, or distance is usually a safe guide. 12. Review your records. Use your journal to reflect on how far you've come. Maybe you’ve worked your way up from 5 pushups to 15 over the course of the year. 13. Consult with others. Reserve your journal for your eyes alone or share it with your health team. Your physician or personal trainer can give you more detailed recommendations when they learn more about you. Write your workout program down on a piece of scrap paper or a custom-designed template. Either way, you’ll be more likely to reach your fitness goals when you monitor your progress with an exercise journal.