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Tuesday, June 9, 2015

5 Reasons to Switch to Castile Soap

By , Contributing Writer on Tuesday, June 09, 2015



Castile soap utilizes natural ingredients like oils to cleanse without stripping. Learn more about these versatile cleansers here.

When it comes to hygiene and home care, the products you may think you need to get the job done can really add up. But what if you could replace many of those items with just one that also happens to be safe and natural? If you haven't tried castile soap before, we're here to introduce you to your new favorite personal and home care product.

We have five reasons you'll love it:

Reason No. 1: Natural Ingredients
Traditionally, castile soap was made with olive oil. While olive oil is still used, the list of vegetable oils used as a base for the soap has expanded to include coconut oil, palm oil,  jojoba oil and hemp oil. This oil is combined with lye (sodium hydroxide) to react and create soap. Lastly, essential oils from plants are added for their cleansing properties as well as scent. Essential oils kill bacteria and germs and, when used topically, can have a host of other benefits, which we'll explain in a bit. Whenever possible, organic ingredients are used, making this product sustainable, as well. 

Reason No. 2: Gentle and Safe
Because no harsh chemicals are added, castile soap isn't drying or stripping. That means it can be used on people, pets and the places they call home. This soap can be used for so many different things . . . which we'll get to now.

Reason No. 3: Versatility
The production and use of castile soap goes back centuries to a region of Spain known as castile. The soap's versatility is why so many generations have turned to this natural product. Castile soap can be used in several ways, including as a body wash, shampoo, laundry detergent, dish soap, vegetable wash and floor cleaner.

Reason No. 4: Economical
Made with simple yet versatile ingredients, castile soap can replace many of the items you already have in your home, saving you some major bucks down the line. Available in bar form as well as liquid, you can find the formulation that allows you to get the most uses out of it and gradually eliminate the other products from your home over time.

Reason No. 5: Nourishing
Vegetable oils and essential oils from herbs and other plants can have amazing effects on the hair and skin. Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory benefits for acne sufferers while peppermint oil can help calm an upset stomach when inhaled. Fatty oils like olive and coconut remove dirt while adding moisture for smoother, more hydrated skin and strong, shiny hair. Castile soap makes a great option for anyone who is working out and taking multiple showers a day. When it comes to your home surfaces, castile soap won't strip finishes or leave stains and residue behind.

If you don't have some castile soap in your house yet, be sure to shop our entire selection right here at eVitamins and save!
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4 Benefits of Chamomile

By , Contributing Writer on Monday, June 08, 2015

Chamomile has many other uses besides just in tea. Keep reading to find out more.

If you're a tea drinker, chances are you're familiar with chamomile tea. However, there are other forms of chamomile that you can utilize to provide benefits for your health. The German chamomile plant Matricaria recutita is the more popular form of this herb, and it can be used for some of the following purposes:
1. Skin Soother
Chamomile tea can be applied to the skin to help soothe and relax irritations. By dabbing cool chamomile tea onto your skin, it may be able to help reduce under-eye puffiness, minor skin irritations and even rashes. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that chamomile may be able to help improve symptoms of eczema, according to a couple studies.
2. Anti-inflammatory Support
A study in the journal Life Science shows that chamomile may be able to help reduce inflammation in ways that are similar to how NSAID pain relievers work. Topical application of chamomile products may be able to promote anti-inflammatory effects on the skin, and the tea form of chamomile may be able to fight inflammation from the inside.
3. Digestive Aid
With its natural calming properties, chamomile may be able to support healthy digestion. German chamomile may be able to help reduce stomach cramps by calming muscle contractions and also possibly improve symptoms of indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome. However, more studies are needed to come to a definitive conclusion regarding its effectiveness.
4. Anxiety Reduction & Mood Booster
As tea is known to promote a natural sense of calmness, chamomile tea in particular may be able to provide benefits for enhancing your sense of overall wellbeing. One study in the journal Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine found that chamomile tea had a positive effect on improving symptoms of depression. Likewise, chamomile may also be able to reduce anxiety, according to similar studies. 
Keep your health in great shape by picking up some of our chamomile-related products at eVitamins.
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Friday, June 5, 2015

10 Ways to Use Bee Pollen

By , Managing Editor on Friday, June 05, 2015



Bee pollen is a fantastic natural energy booster, but you may not be sure how to use it. Keep reading to learn some new ways to add this unique supplement to your daily routine.

We bet you never knew you could eat bee pollen. If so, get ready to meet your new favorite energy booster!
Bee Pollen Basics
If you've been searching for a non-stimulant way to increase your energy, either for training, work or other tasks, bee pollen may be your answer. The energy-boosting effect of bee pollen comes from the fact it's a complete food -- that means bee pollen is almost half protein and also provides vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. The protein, carbohydrates and nutrients in bee pollen help the body naturally up its energy production, so you can feel more alert and with greater stamina without the side effects of a stimulant (racing heart, shakiness, etc.). But where does it come from?
Bee pollen is a fine powder found in flowers. Bees collect it because it sticks to their bodies. Bee pollen can be sold in capsule form, but the most popular way to try it is in the form of granules, which can be eaten on their own or added foods or beverages.
How to Enjoy Bee Pollen
Be pollen tastes slightly sweet and the granules can add a crunchy texture to foods if left whole. No worries though, you can also blend them up easily with other ingredients. So, what can you mix with it? If you're interested in adding bee pollen to your daily routine, here are 10 of our favorite ways to enjoy it:
1. Stir some bee pollen granules into your yogurt along with a bit of raw honey for additional antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
2. Blend bee pollen into a protein shake before your workout -- we like it with vanilla protein powder and a ripe banana.
3. Add bee pollen to hot or cold cereal along with fresh berries for vitamins and flax seeds for omega-3 essential fatty acids.
4. Make a smoothie with beets, apples, ginger, orange and bee pollen. This ruby drink can support joint health and reduce inflammation -- great for protecting the body if you train regularly.
5. Top a piece of whole grain or Ezekiel sprouted toast with almond butter and bee pollen as an energizing pre-workout snack that provides fiber, fat, protein and carbohydrates. A winning combo.
6. Add bee pollen as a crunchy topping to your acai bowl for breakfast. We like it with some slivered almonds and blueberries.
7. Combine sweet and savory by dipping apple slices in hummus and then topping with bee pollen granules. You'll be getting tons of protein and fiber in this simple snack.
8. Sprinkle bee pollen on top of a salad of baby spinach, walnuts and fresh pears. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oiland balsamic vinegar for a fast lunch full of vitamins.
9. Make your own granola bars with steel cut oats, nuts, dried fruit and bee pollen granules for a nutritious, portable snack.
10. Cut up chilled melon like honeydew and cantaloupe and dip in bee pollen. Melons are incredibly hydrating due to their high water content.
Allergy Info
Because of how it's harvested, bee pollen may contain bee saliva, which is why individuals with a bee allergy or pollen allergy should avoid it. There have been cases of bee pollen being used as a natural allergy remedy, meant to build up tolerance, but you shouldn't try it without the direction and supervision of your primary or naturopathic physician. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also avoid bee pollen, due to the possibility of allergies in their children.
Like all natural products, make sure to follow instructions and pay attention to how bee pollen affects you. If you notice adverse symptoms, you may be allergic and should consult your physician if you have a diagnosed medical condition.
Shop for bee pollen supplements and more at eVitamins for a healthy, energized life. Stay well!
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Thursday, June 4, 2015

Does An Athlete Need a Different Multivitamin?

By , Managing Editor on Thursday, June 04, 2015


When you are a serious athlete, your body has different needs. But does that mean you need more or less vitamins and minerals? Keep reading to learn more.

When you're a serious athlete, nutrition is a fundamental part of your training. You know without the proper nutrients, your body can't function at its optimal level. And that doesn't just mean what goes into your body before and after a training session. Multivitamins formulated for athletes are one such product developed to help athletes' bodies stay strong, reduce injury and support natural energy production so you can go the distance.
But do you need one?
The Physical Toll of Training
Strenuous training, whether it's weight lifting or running long distances drain the body's resources, so to speak. These activities call on the systems of the entire body to pitch in for top performance and the effects are widespread. While not all of these actions are bad (who could argue against No. 1?), but if the body isn't properly fueled, there can be negative side effects. Here are eight ways intense training effects your body:
  1. Speeds up the metabolism, causing the body to burn stored fat.
  2. The muscles can develop tiny tears as they're stretched and engaged.
  3. Oxygen is lost as lung capacity is tested and pushed to the limit.
  4. Wear and tear on the joints, which can lead to inflammation and arthritis later on.
  5. The heart rate is increased, which can be taxing over time.
  6. The body sweats to cool itself, releasing moisture which can lead to dehydration.
  7. Blood circulation increases.
  8. Your digestive system can be stressed.
The Most Important Nutrients for Athletes
So, how do you make sure the body is getting enough support to counteract these effects? These are the nutrients we recommend athletes get on a daily basis:
  1. Vitamins -- Vitamins A, C and D are important antioxidants that support tissue health to promote healing after injury and also keep the immune system strong, which can be weakened by stress. The other vitamins you should make sure to get enough of are B vitamins, which support natural energy production as well as cognitive health.
  2. Minerals -- Calcium and magnesium enable the muscles to contract and relax properly. They also keep the bones strong to reduce your risk for injury and calm the central nervous system. Iron is another mineral you need, which keeps oxygen-rich blood flowing to all your muscles and organs while you train. Lastly, zinc will also support the immune system and energy levels.
  3. Electrolytes -- Potassium helps the body regulate moisture, keeping you hydrated. When you sweat, you lose this electrolyte, so it's important to replenish it.
Do You Need a New Supplement?
When looking for a multivitamin, anyone at any fitness level should make sure all the basics are covered. Look at the vitamins and minerals to make sure you have as close as possible to the recommended daily amount, especially of the nutrients listed above. If you're eating a balanced diet, you won't need more than that. 
If you're an athlete, you can shop for a supplement that offers all these things plus some extras that help the body combat the physical stress of training. Here are a few we suggest:
  1. Probiotics for digestive and immune support.
  2. Adaptogenic herbs like holy basil, ginger and turmeric to combat inflammation and improve the body's stress response.
  3. BCAAs, or branched chain amino acids to help the body build strong, lean muscle.
  4. A natural energy booster like green tea, which also provides antioxidants.
Consult your physician about your training schedule and diet. They can determine through a physical examination if you need more or less of a particular vitamin or mineral to keep the body healthy enough to train.
Shop for all your sports nutrition needs at eVitamins and check back for the latest health information.
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What Is Vitamin B Complex and What Does It Do?

By , Staff Writer on Sunday, July 17, 2011



Are you overweight, fatigued or stressed out? Do you suffer migraines? You may be deficient in one of the essential B vitamins.

 
In short, vitamin B complex is a grouping of all B vitamins.  A more detailed answer is that vitamin B complex is actually a grouping of all water-soluble vitamins, with the exception of vitamin C.  Water-soluble vitamins are those that get dissolved in water instead of getting stored in fat.  You body naturally depletes itself of these vitamins faster than other nutrients because when you urinate or perspire you're also flushing them away[1].  Niacin, or vitamin B3, is actually well known for giving urine a bright yellow color because of this[1]. Fat-soluble vitamins, like vitamins A, D and E, can be stored in the body and released during a lapse, thus allowing for grace periods.  B complex vitamins get used up daily - and once you're out, you're out until you refill.

What does vitamin B complex do?

Benefit No. 1: Lose Weight
More than 50 percent of Americans want to lose weight, according to a 2006 Gallup poll[2]. If you’re one of these individuals, you may want to consider your vitamin B intake. Some dieters request vitamin B12 injections to boost energy and metabolism, which helps shed body fat. The vitamin B complex specifically helps with weight loss because it breaks down fats, proteins and carbohydrates by restoring a healthy digestion. A healthy digestion system rids your body of toxins that can slow down functions that could inhibit weight loss.

Benefit No. 2: Reduce Risk for Disease
Wondering about your future health? Protect yourself from diseases with vitamin B complex!
Benefit No. 3: Improve Memory
B vitamins can also significantly improve memory.
  • Bodies need choline for normal brain and memory function.
  • Cyanocobalamin (B12) can improve memory and reduce mental fogginess[5].
  • An Oxford University study found that B-Vitamins halved the rate of brain shrinkage in older people with memory problems[5].
Benefit No. 4: Reduce Migraine Headaches
If you're popping prescription pain killers to stop migraines, you may want to try popping some vitamin B complex instead.
  • Riboflavin (B2) helps reduce migraine headaches. 
  • Pyridoxine (B6) controls the production of the neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin and histamine. Histamine function can affect frequency and duration of migraines[6].
  • A study by Griffith University’s Griffith’s Genomics Research Centre (GRC) has shown that folate and vitamin B reduced the severity and frequency of headaches[6].
Benefit No. 5: Improve Skin, Hair and Nails
Ditch the masks and creams and grab some vitamin B for beautiful skin, hair and nails.  Taking a vitamin B complex supplement helps restore RNA, synthesize DNA and produce cells[1]. Vitamin B helps generate healthy looking skin, hair and nails, specifically vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B9, B12, biotin and choline[3].
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The Health Benefits of Chocolate

By , Staff Writer on Saturday, July 16, 2011
Chocolate doesn't have to be a guilty pleasure. Find out how certain types of chocolate can benefit your health.

It's been said that chocolate has several positive effects on the human body. Not only does it make you feel better, due to the release of endorphins, but it also works to protect your overall health. Sounds great, right? Nevertheless, before you start stocking up with chocolate, it’s important you know that these health benefits are subject to the type and amount of chocolate you consume.  In a nutshell, the key is to eat/drink dark chocolate in small amounts, especially if health is your pretext for indulging in the decadent treat.
 “A dark chocolate a day keeps the doctor away,” says a popular adage[1]. In order to understand how the health benefits of chocolate work, we have to refer to its origins. Chocolate comes from a plant, the cocoa tree, and like many other plant-derived products, it contains a generous amount of an active compound called flavonoid.
Flavonoids have a powerful antioxidant effect. This means this substance helps your body get rid of free radicals, which are unwanted molecules that can speed up aging and certain diseases. Moreover, flavonoids keep cholesterol from gathering in the blood vessels, therefore reducing the risk of blood clots that may cause heart attacks, strokes and cardiovascular diseases. Green tea, red wine and blueberries, among other fruits, have the same effect; however, chocolate has been proven to be the most efficient edible ally when it comes to cleaning your body from free radicals.
As if this weren’t enough, multiple studies claim that antioxidant-rich diets may help prevent further health complications regarding high blood pressure, asthma, arthritis and even Alzheimer’s.
In fact, preliminary research at West Virginia Wheeling Jesuit University suggests that chocolate may contain valuable nutrients for our brains[2]. This hypothesis establishes that by increasing the blood flow to the brain, flavonoids in chocolate could boost problem-solving skills, attention span, reaction time and memory.
However, brain and heart are not the only organs that could benefit from chocolate’s action. It’s been said that, thanks to the increase of blood flow driven by flavonoids, added to their antioxidant properties and alleged capacity of absorbing UV light, they could improve the skin’s appearance.
What About Cholesterol?
In theory, the type of saturated fat found in chocolate -called stearic acid- doesn’t raise blood cholesterol. It's the extra ingredients (like sugar and artificial flavors) that change chocolate’s nutritional impact. This explains why medical studies agree that if consumed in moderate amounts, dark chocolate shouldn’t be a concern in terms of cholesterol.
What you should care about is your calorie intake. In average, a small piece of dark chocolate has only 50 calories, but most candy bars contain at least 200. That’s chocolate’s downside compared with fruits and vegetables.
For instance, a 100 gram serving of a Ghirardelli Midnight Reverie (about six squares) has about 415 calories[3]. Yet, the same portion of raw apple contains only 52 calories[4]. Both are rich in flavonoids; nonetheless, the first one has more calories and lacks the vitamins in the fruit; hence the importance of adopting a balanced diet and moderating your chocolate consumption.
Dark, Milk or White?
The chocolate we buy at the store is the result of a process in which the cocoa beans are roasted, winnowed and then grounded. The main derivative of this process is chocolate liquor, a substance that holds the cocoa beans’ essence and all of its natural properties (there is no alcohol in it). From this liquid, manufacturers extract cocoa powder and cocoa butter. In its purest state, chocolate liquor is quite bitter and not very creamy, that’s why chocolate makers reduce its percentage in order to add milk, sugar, vanilla and cocoa butter to sweeten it up and improve its texture.
The rule of thumb regarding the ratio of a chocolate’s recipe and the health benefits it may provide is really simple: the more cocoa in a chocolate product, the higher the antioxidant flavonoid content is, thus the better for your health. Dark chocolate - also known as bittersweet or semisweet - contains at least 35 percent chocolate liquor, plus cocoa butter and sugar in varying amounts. Milk chocolate usually contains ten percent chocolate liquor, at least 12 percent milk, plus cocoa butter and sugar. White chocolate doesn’t include any chocolate liquor.
Because dark chocolate has more cocoa content, it's higher in flavonoids than milk or white chocolate. This explains why, when it comes to chocolate and its health benefits, darker is better. And remember: you don’t need to feel guilty if you enjoy a piece of dark chocolate every once in a while. As long as you're reasonable and follow the recommendations - chocolate does the body good!
Sources
  1. [1] A Piece of Dark Chocolate A Day Keeps The Doctor Away, TheHeart
  2. [2] Professor Finds That Chocolate Consumption Enhances Cognitive Performance, West Virginia Wheeling Jesuit University
  3. [3]Ghirardelli Midnight Reverie (86%) nutrition facts, LiveStrong
  4. [4] Eat Healthy, LiveStrong
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