Saturday, December 23, 2023

Unlocking the Hidden Wonders: ACV Before Bed Benefits

 

Introduction

In the quest for optimal health and wellness, many individuals are turning to natural remedies. One such remedy that has gained immense popularity is Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV). While its uses are diverse, a rising trend that has caught the attention of health enthusiasts is consuming ACV before bed. In this article, we delve into the profound benefits of integrating this practice into your nightly routine.


The Science Behind ACV








Acidic Elixir for Digestive Harmony

The acidic nature of ACV plays a pivotal role in aiding digestion. Before bedtime, when the digestive system naturally slows down, a shot of diluted ACV can stimulate digestive juices, promoting efficient nutrient absorption and reducing the likelihood of indigestion.


Unveiling the Benefits

1. Weight Management Magic

For those on a weight management journey, incorporating ACV before bed can be a game-changer. Studies suggest that ACV may help regulate blood sugar levels and control appetite, contributing to weight loss over time. The acetic acid in ACV also aids in fat metabolism.


2. Balancing Blood Sugar Levels

Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial for overall health. ACV has shown promise in improving insulin sensitivity, potentially lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes. Consuming it before bedtime may provide sustained benefits through the night.


3. Sweet Dreams with Improved Sleep

Quality sleep is paramount for well-being, and ACV may hold the key to a restful night. The amino acid content in ACV can contribute to the production of serotonin and melatonin, promoting relaxation and a more profound sleep experience.


4. Detoxification while You Dream

Our bodies undergo a natural detoxification process during sleep. ACV, known for its detoxifying properties, can complement this process by aiding the liver in filtering out toxins. A nightly ACV ritual may enhance the body's detox capabilities.


How to Incorporate ACV Before Bed

1. Dilution is the Key

To prevent any potential harm to tooth enamel or irritation to the throat, always dilute ACV before consumption. Mix one to two tablespoons of ACV with a large glass of water.


2. Timing Matters

Consuming ACV at least an hour before bedtime allows your body to process it efficiently. This timing aligns with the natural slowdown of the digestive system, maximizing the benefits.


3. Consistency is Key

To experience the full spectrum of ACV's benefits, consistency is paramount. Incorporate this routine into your nightly ritual and monitor the positive changes over time.


Potential Considerations

While ACV boasts numerous benefits, it's crucial to be mindful of potential considerations. Excessive consumption or undiluted ACV may lead to adverse effects, including digestive discomfort and tooth enamel erosion. As with any health regimen, moderation is key.


Conclusion

Incorporating Apple Cider Vinegar before bedtime can be a transformative addition to your health and wellness journey. From aiding digestion to promoting weight loss and enhancing sleep quality, the benefits are abundant. Remember to approach this practice with moderation and consistency to unlock the full potential of ACV.

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Revealing The Top 10 No-Carb Foods Without Sugar

Revealing The Top 10 No-Carb Foods Without Sugar

Crunchy cookies and sugary sodas aren't just empty calories - they're processed carbs and refined sugars that create inflammation throughout the body. And as any trainer worth their salt will tell you, sustained inflammation is enemy number one for health.



Over time, sugary high-carb foods can lead to liver inflammation which in turn increases fat storage. Long-term this internal irritation has also been linked to a whole host of unpleasant outcomes such as diabetes, weight gain, and even nerve damage.



But there is a way to balance blood-sugar and fight-fat without feeling deprived.  With some simple ingredient switches, you'll optimize your insides and slim down without feeling deprived. 



So what nourishing options should be on your grocery list? Read on to find out the top 10 no-carb foods without sugar.



Red Meats (0g Carbs per 100g)



top 10 no-carb foods without sugarSteaks, the perfect no sugar no carb dinner

For protein-dense, metabolism-boosting foods you'll want on regular rotation, look no further than red meats. Beef, lamb, and organ varieties like liver pack serious nutrient density without a single carb in sight.



Specifically selecting grass-fed, pasture-raised sources is key though. Why? Their micronutrient makeup puts conventional cuts to shame. We're talking supremely bioavailable iron for fortifying blood cells and B12 to fuel energetic muscles.



And let me tell you - after a long workout, nothing satisfies like a protein-packed steak salad! These animal products also help repair and rebuild lean tissue.



Butter (0.1g Carbs per 100g)





While this yellow darling has gotten quite the bad rap in recent years, turns out butter is powerful nutrition in one tasty package. Pure butter is packed with retinol to nourish eyes, skin and hair like nothing else.



Believe it or not, butter's much-villainized cholesterol is actually an essential player in hormone production and regulation. Our bodies need this nutrient to function at peak levels. Just be sure to seek out versions free of weird vegetable oils so you maximize benefits.



When enjoyed mindfully alongside low-GI complex carbs, butter is surprisingly satiating too. Something about those healthy fats just soothing satisfied hunger.



Avocados (0-4g carbs)



foods low in sugar and carbsOne of best foods for no carb no sugar diet

When it comes to snacks that won't sink your healthy habits, look no further than avocados. These dense green gems contain monounsaturated fats shown to enhance hormone balance and fat metabolism.



Packed within the avocado flesh you'll also find a hefty load of potassium to naturally replenish electrolytes. Magnesium co-stars too - both minerals vital for eliminating toxins your body battles daily.



Avocados also contain a special plant compound called avocatin B. Current research links this natural pigment to reducing inflammation and oxidative stress on our overworked systems.



Stevia (0-4g carbs per teaspoon)



foods with no carbs and no sugar

Making strides towards better health doesn't always mean going cold turkey on the things we enjoy. Kicking the sweet tooth can be a challenge, no doubt about it. But there are options that can satisfy your sweet fix without sabotaging your nutrition goals.



Meet stevia, your new best friend in the kitchen. Derived from a leaf instead of sugarcane, stevia is beloved for its natural zero carb sugar.



You read that right - it provides all the sweetness with none of the sugar crash, carbs or calories. Some call it the "sugar leaf" since its taste rivals that golden sweet stuff without any of the drawbacks.



Whether you're counting carbs, watching your weight, or managing your blood sugar, stevia takes the guilt out of sweetness.



As a non-nutritive sweetener, it won't spike your insulin or leave you wanting more after an energy slump. Feel free to sweeten your tea, yogurt, or oatmeal to your heart's content without blowing your macros.



Sauerkraut (0.1g Net Carbs per 1oz)



0 carb 0 sugar snacks

If you want a low-carb superfood that aids weight loss and whole-body wellness, then sauerkraut is a delicious secret weapon. Beyond traditional dinner plate potential, this bacteria-busting supports the gut in a major way.



Rich in beneficial Vitamin C and bonafide gut-loving microorganisms, just 1 oz of kraut supplies probiotic potency to aid digestion. The fermentation process creates uniquely bioavailable nutrients too



Studies show optimizing our inner ecosystem through probiotic foods like sauerkraut may assist metabolizing fat more efficiently over time. Its natural acidity also means easily digestible energy



Wild Salmon (0-0.1g Carbs per 3oz)



zero sugar low carb snacks

When hunting for proteins that nourish naturally without carbs, wild salmon reigns supreme. This oily fish is bursting with inflammation-crushing omega-3s shown to undo metabolic damage caused by diets high in sugar and processed carbs.



EPA and DHA work wonders reducing internal irritation linked to chronic diseases. These fatty heroes promote cardiovascular, cognitive and joint wellness from the inside out





Liquid aminos (0 carbs per 5 mil)



low carb no sugar snacks

Liquid aminos are naturally brewed condiments, much like soy sauce, except healthier. Made from fermented soybeans instead of wheat, it's totally gluten-free, carb free and packed full of rich, meaty flavor.



Whether you're stir-frying veggies, basting meats or noodles, or adding a splash to soups and salads, liquid aminos gives you that craveable umami flavor.



This seasoning is also packed with amino acids - the building blocks of muscle. Some claim liquid aminos can help strengthen and tone that lean physique when incorporated into a balanced diet. Even better, the fermentation process avoids gut-inflaming preservatives and gluten that can hamper progress.



While sodium counts are lower than soy sauce, it's still important to keep portions in check. A little liquid aminos goes a long way. But unlike soy, you won't have to compromise on taste or miss out on amino-boosting magic.



Eggs (0.7g Carbs per 3oz)



meals without carbs and sugarFoods without carbohydrates and sugar

When searching for low-carb heroes, look no further than nourishing eggs. Pasture-raised varieties pack extra nutrients, providing compounds like choline and lecithin shown to aid liver fat conversion and weight loss over time.



What's more, eggs boast high quality complete protein, amino acids and an array of vitamins/minerals.



Each contains a mere 0.6g carbs to fuel growth and repair cells. Digestible, nourishing protein paired with healthy fats leaves your belly satisfied for hours.





Kale (0g Carbs per 100g)



Kale - one of the most vitamin packed top 10 no-carb foods without sugar.

This is one of nature's most nutrient-dense supergreens. Kale packs more vitamin C than oranges, more calcium than milk and potassium that rival bananas - all for 0g carbs!



Regular eaters of kale can also enjoy antioxidants and phytonutrients that lower inflammation and balance blood sugar.



Whether steamed as a hearty side dish or blended into antioxidant-packed smoothies, kale can help boost immunity, improve ,digestion and give radiant skin.



Pecans





When scanning for low carb no sugar snacks, pecans take center stage at a mere 1g net carb per large ounce.



They are packed with valuable minerals zinc and copper, plus vitamin B1 and magnesium to fuel both brain and body. But most impressive, heart-healthy monounsaturated fats which satisfy substantially for hours on end. Reports show diminished desires for less nourishing processed bites post-pecan treat!



Work them regularly into your routine for smooth, steady energy, mental sharpness and robust wellness.





Top 10 No-Carb Foods Without Sugar - Bottom Line



Achieving better health means fueling your body with nutrients that nourish every cell, not crankiness from cravings.  Use This list of top 10 no-carb foods without sugar to avoid the pitfalls in your diet, or simply as a way to eat healthier every day.



By eating less simple carbs, not only will you enjoy a slimmer waistline, but avoid the body-wrecking inflammation that comes with it. 



If you would like to know more about low-carb diets, check out our post on Quick Start keto guide for beginners.





https://nowhealth.online/top-10-no-carb-foods-without-sugar/

Monday, December 18, 2023

Buckwheat Benefits For Health: And Why You Need This In Your Life

Buckwheat Benefits For Health: And Why You Need This In Your Life

Today, we're going to delve into the world of buckwheat – not the Little Rascals' sidekick, but the real-deal seed that's making waves in the health food scene.



Contrary to its deceptive appearance as a cereal grain, buckwheat is, in fact, the seed of a plant with a distant relation to rhubarb. So, no, it's not related to wheat, and yes, it's gluten-free.



Buckwheat is an often overlooked seed that offers incredible nutrition and benefits for both humans and the environment. So read on to find out more buckwheat benefits for health.



What Is Buckwheat?



Buckwheat Benefits For Health

Despite being called "wheat", it's actually not a true grain at all. Buckwheat is what they call a "pseudo cereal" - basically that's a seed that gets used like a grain in cooking.



Other pseudo cereals you may know are quinoa and amaranth. They're from different plant families than regular grains like corn or wheat. And buckwheat is no exception - it comes from the rhubarb and sorrel plant group.



You can find buckwheat whole or ground up. As a whole groat, it's similar to oats or quinoa in how you cook and eat it. But you may know it better as buckwheat flour - perfect for pancakes or crepes.



Buckwheat is Packed with Protein and Nutrients



Like most grains, it packs carbs...but get this - per 100g of raw buckwheat seeds, you get a solid 13 grams of protein. That's more than rice, wheat, oats and barley.



What's even better is buckwheat contains all nine essential amino acids - the building blocks our bodies can't produce themselves. This means buckwheat protein is "complete", unlike most other grains.



The Protein Power of Buckwheat



- Buckwheat contains 13g of protein per 100g of raw seeds. That's more than...

- Rice (7.1g protein), Wheat (12.6g), Oats (16.9g), and Barley (9.9g).

- But here's the catch - buckwheat contains ALL 9 essential amino acids:

Essential Amino AcidBuckwheatIsoleucine✔️Leucine✔️Lysine✔️Methionine✔️Phenylalanine✔️Threonine✔️Tryptophan✔️Valine✔️Histidine✔️



Other grains are missing some essential amino acids:



Missing Amino AcidsGrainX Lysine RiceX Lysine, X Threonine WheatX MethionineMethionine OatsX Lysine, X TryptophanBarely



So, while buckwheat has less protein than oats - the quality is superior since it contains a full profile of essential aminos. No other grain can claim that.



Is buckwheat good for your skin?



While more famous as a nutrition powerhouse, buckwheat also deserves accolades for its skin and hair-boosting perks. Loaded with B vitamins like riboflavin and folate, it energizes your appearance from the inside out. The antioxidant rutin fights free radicals for a more youthful complexion too.



The high amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids in buckwheat also maintains skin elasticity, keeping wrinkles and lines at bay.



But buckwheat's beauty bonuses don't stop there. As a high-protein food, it supplies amino acids - the building blocks for keratin. And we all know keratin equals strong, shiny strands and nails.



Buckwheat Benefits For Health





Aside from actually being quite tasty as a health food, buckwheat has some solid health benefits that shouldn't be ignored.



Buckwheat Fiber Power

As a fibrous food, buckwheat helps keep everything moving along smoothly. The soluble and insoluble fibers support the intestines and help break down and absorb nutrients from food.



According to research, the more fiber we consume the lower the risk of obesity and heart disease.



Supports metabolism

On top of fiber, one cup of buckwheat packs over half of an adult's daily niacin needs. This B vitamin, also known as vitamin B3, converts carbs, lipids, and proteins into energy that we can use.



Without adequate niacin, our cells wouldn't be able to use these macronutrients properly. Buckwheat ensures we get enough of this crucial player in metabolism.



Weight loss and buckwheat

That feeling of fullness (satiety) after eating is so important for maintaining or losing pounds. The more satiating a food is, the longer it can curb your appetite between meals.



Protein comes top of the list of macronutrients that keep us satiated. So, it should come as no surprise that buckwheat, with its higher protein content, is great for weight loss.



A little can go a long way in terms of feeling nourished without overdoing it on calories.



Blood Sugar Regulation

Being slower to digest means it takes the body longer to break down complex carbs from foods like buckwheat. This helps prevent blood sugar from spiking sharply after meals and instead keeps levels stable over an extended period.



Unlike simple carbs that rush through digestion, complex carbs provide a more gradual release of energy to power the body for sustained periods.



This makes it an ideal option for diabetics and anyone wanting to control their blood sugar levels.



Heart Health Potential

Buckwheat has even shown promise for cardiovascular health in early animal tests. Compounds in the seed - particularly rutin - help heart health. Rutin also helps lower blood pressure, and reduce cholesterol levels over time.



Cholesterol Support

As mentioned, this seed does amazing things for Cholesterol levels. Aside from rutin, another reason is due to its high fiber content.



The Fiber binds to cholesterol and flushes it out of the body before it gets the chance to linger on and do any damage. This makes buckwheat an excellent option for breakfast or as an evening meal.



Gluten-Free Whole Grains

If that wasn’t enough, buckwheat offers gluten-free dieters a way to get whole-grain nutrition. As an alternative to wheat and barley, it delivers the same mix of minerals, B vitamins and fiber when ground into flour or enjoyed as toasted groats.



Just bear in mind that a small number of people do have allergies to buckwheat. So do your due diligence and find out if this grain also agrees with you before proceeding.



why sprout buckwheat?



buckwheat benefits for skin

Ok, so maybe you're convinced that these tiny seeds are worth a try. Great, welcome on board! But before you go full buckwheat mode, you should know something .... they are even better sprouted. This involved soaking the seeds in lukewarm water overnight for those nutritious green sprouts to appear.



Here are some compelling reasons why you should sprout those buckwheat seeds.



Improved Nutrition Absorption

Improved nutrition absorption: Soaking buckwheat overnight allows it to sprout, multiplying its nutrient levels. The sprouted seeds become enzyme- and probiotic-rich living foods. Cooking time decreases too, so it's a quick nutrition boost.



Cost-effective: Compared to dry buckwheat, sprouted packs higher levels of B vitamins and other minerals. All that enzyme action concentrates nutrition into each crunchy morsel.



Gentler to your insides: The sprouting process breaks down complex carbs and proteins into simpler forms. This makes buckwheat gentler on your digestion to move along smoothly.



Less antinutrients: Buckwheat naturally harbors some lectins and enzyme inhibitors that block nutrient absorption if left intact. Thankfully sprouting lessens these antinutrients.



Alkalizing: The effects of alkalizing from sprouting may counteract acidity from highly processed foods. An alkaline environment is thought better support overall wellness.



How to use buckwheat



One of my favorite ways to eat buckwheat is by pouring some out in a bowl stirring in 3 tablespoons of yoghurt and leaving it overnight. Enjoy in the morning with blueberries or a handful of pumpkin seeds



Check out the video below to find out another great way to use buckwheat in breakfast. These make a great alternative to porridge.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnbYdQ9ZKBw&pp=ygUWd2F5cyB0byBtYWtlIGJ1Y2t3aGVhdA

FAQ'S



Buckwheat Benefits For HealthIt supports steady blood sugar and digestion with high-quality carbs and protein. Plus, those antioxidants may boost your well-being in ways science is still discovering. In short - buckwheat is one mighty little seed!

Is It OK To Eat Buckwheat Everyday?Enjoying buckwheat on a regular basis can absolutely be part of a healthy diet. Buckwheat has been shown to help lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels over time.Does Buckwheat Heal the Gut?Whole buckwheat delivers some impressive features for a healthy gut. It has both insoluble fiber and resistant starch, which is important for fueling for microbiome development.Is Buckwheat Healthier Than Oats?
Buckwheat bests even oats in certain nutrients. Per serving it offers more fiber, potassium and vitamins while containing less saturated fat. No wonder it's considered a wholesome carb superstar.
https://nowhealth.online/buckwheat-benefits-for-health/