My name is Kate, and I am a 20 year old girl who wants to get her ass back in shape. I have made this blog to help me reach my goals for my 2012 New Years Resolution. I will be posting pictures of great recipes that are healthy and also helps one loose weight. This will not only help me but hopefully will help other people to get inspired to get fit. I do not want to be skinny but instead healthy and fit.
He can do it, you can do it!
Breakfast
1. Granola bars
$0.48 each for homemade | $0.69 each for Kashi brand
Who doesn’t love a crunchy, chewy grab-and-go snack? But there’s no need to shell out big bucks or entrust our health to unpronounceable ingredients. Oats, nuts, berries, and honey star in this recipe and significantly cut back on costs.
2. Granola/Breakfast cereal
$0.37 per ½ cup homemade| $0.41 for Arrowhead Mills brand
Skip the boxed stuff and DIY it for a personalized cereal. These homemade bran flakes rival the store-bought stuff in nutrition and flavor. Add a small handful of dried fruit and roasted nuts for some extra crunch and flavor.
3. Oatmeal
$0.25 for homemade | $0.28 per packet Quaker Oats brand
Swap that paper package of instant oats for classic whole rolled oats. Whip up a big batch at the beginning of the week and then soup up each serving with add-ins like fruit and spices.
4. Pancakes
$0.13 per pancake homemade | $0.29 per pancake Eggo brand
Put down that Bisquick. Whipping up pancakes at home is an opportunity to add in whole wheat flour and raisins for fiber and a little sweetness without sugar overload. Plus, the added fiber helps us feel full and improve digestion.
5. Waffles
$0.85 per homemade Belgian-style | $1.31 for two Kashi brand frozen
Leggo my Eggo! Skip the refined grains of classic toaster waffles and the exorbitant price of the healthier versions. Instead, try some hand-crafted whole-grain waffles. Extra points for using fresh-cut fruit instead of corn-syrup heavy Aunt Jemima’s.
Snacks
6. Salsa
$3.40 per 16 oz. homemade| $3.75 per 16 oz. jar Green Mountain Gringo brand
Take a page out of Slim Shady’s book and serve up some salsa. Boiling and blending creates a restaurant-quality dip that’s way better than the jarred stuff.
7. Guacamole
$0.75 per ¼ cup homemade | $0.87 for ¼ cup Santa Barbara brand
Guacamole’s an easy and stove-free snack to whip up on a warm, summer afternoon. Making it at home not only ups the freshness (and flavor), but also makes it easier to control saltiness and the heat. Pair with homemade tortilla chips for even more healthy points. Ole!
8. Hummus
$0.21 per 2 tablespoon serving homemade | $0.43 for 2 tablespoons Sabra brand
Dangerfood or not, this dip is delicious. And when restraining ourselves to a two-tablespoon serving, it costs less than a quarter. Plus, the directions are simple — just blend! No more $6 hummus tubs needed.
9. Soft Cheeses
$0.63 per ¼ cup homemade (paneer or ricotta) | $0.67 for ¼ cup fresh specialty brand
No need to be a professional chef to make cheese. Paneer and ricotta are ridiculously easy to make at home, and they’ll always be fresher than what can be bought at the store.
10. Yogurt
$0.43 per 8 oz. homemade | $1.07 per 8 oz. Stonyfield Farm brand
It’s like a miracle! It’s possible to turn ½ cup of yogurt into 2 quarts just by adding milk. Okay, so there’s a little more to the process than just stirring them together, but DIY yogurt saves a pretty penny and yields a fresher final product that’s easy to feel good about!
11. Fruit snacks
$0.63 per roll homemade| $0.72 for Fruitabu brand
Homemade fruit snacks or “fruit leather” is a steal even when buying the fruit from the grocery store. But if it’s mid-summer and that fruit tree just keeps producing more, fruit leather’s an awesome and practically free way to preserve it. Just add lemon, sugar, and spices (which are actually optional!).
12. Tortilla chips
$0.31 per 12 chips homemade| $0.53 for 12 chips Tostitos brand
Don’t buy the family-sized bag! Repurpose old tortillas as chips by lightly spraying with oil and baking. While any tortillas will do, we recommend the homemade ones below.
13. Tortillas
$0.13 per tortilla homemade| $0.27 per tortilla for Mission brand
These Tex-Mex staples are actually a piece of cake to make. Simply combine flour, baking powder, oil, salt, and milk — no intimidating yeast! Swap in whole-wheat flour for added fiber and a richer texture. Gone gluten-free? These can also be made with corn flour.
14. Pita chips
$0.41 per 2 oz. serving homemade | $0.77 for 2 oz. Stacy’s brand
The recipe for pita chips isn’t all too different from tortilla chips. Simply coat with oil and seasonings and bake. No more wasted pitas, no more wasted cash on the packaged stuff!
Lunch
15. Jam and jelly
$3.04 per 8 oz. jar homemade | $3.77 per 8 oz. Sarabeth’s brand
Yes, it’s possible to make jam and jelly in the microwave. Seriously. All it takes is some frozen fruit, lemon, pectin, and sugar. Just remember, this doesn’t preserve the jam the way true canning does, so it has to be gobbled up within a few weeks.
16. Bread
$0.40 for 2 slices homemade | $0.52 for 2 slices Arnold brand
It’s not always easy to discern which breads are masquerading as health foods and which are actually good for you. But making bread at home helps clear things up real quick, since it’s easy to control exactly what ingredients go in the bowl. Since fresh baked varieties don’t contain preservatives, remember to eat within a week, or freeze for longer safe keeping.
17. Nut butters
$0.29 per 2 tablespoons homemade| $0.29 for Smuckers Natural brand
It’s peanut butter-jelly time! Homemade nut butters eliminate the need for crazy preservatives and over-the-top fat and salt content. Just grind those nuts up for any variety of nut butter imaginable!
18. Salad dressing
$0.52 per 2 tablespoons homemade | $0.64 per 2 tablespoons Maple Grove Farms brand
This one’s a Greatist favorite: toss some olive oil and balsamic vinegar into a nearly empty mustard jar and shake. It’ll get out those last drops of flavor from the mustard and serve as a simple storage container for the dressing. Not to mention it’s C-H-E-A-P. Or try one of these easy recipes for some variety.
19. Soup
$0.90 per 1 ½ cups homemade | $2.23 for 1 ½ cups Amy’s brand
Skip the potential threat of BPA in the canned stuff by whipping up a big pot of soup at home. Combine any veggies, broth (check out how to make it from scratch below), pasta, and any leftover meat on hand. Freeze in single-serve portions for easy defrosting!
20. Chili
$2.77 per 1 ½ cups homemade | $3.19 for 1 ½ cups Amy’sbrand
Canned chili can be seriously disappointing. Instead, control the spiciness, type of meat, and overall fat and sodium content but going homemade. Our buffalo turkey chili is surprisingly healthy and a fun twist on the traditional version. Go cheaper (and meat-free!) by using an assortment of beans instead of the turkey.
21. Baked beans
$0.31 for ⅓ cup homemade | $0.38 per ⅓ cup Bush’s Original brand
Baked beans are a heart- and tummy-warming recipe, that doesn’t need to be ultra-heavy or sugary. Stick with dry beans, molasses, and just a few herbs and spices to keep it cheap and healthy.
22. Croutons
$0.11 per serving homemade| $0.17 per serving for Olivia’s Croutons brand
These salad toppers are notoriously dangerous since they’re typically made with refined grains and lots of oil. Instead, DIY it for guilt-free added crunch.
23. Frozen burritos
$1.81 per burrito homemade| $2.99 per burrito for Amy’s brand
Believe it or not, it is possible to imitate the gooey goodness of a freezer burrito at home. Combine a homemade tortilla, cheese, roasted veggies, and leftover meats. Wrap in foil, freeze, and reheat! This is especially great for those with allergies or intolerances!
Dinner
24. Marinara sauce
$0.97 per ½ cup homemade|$1.22 per ½ cup Amy’s brand
Pasta sauce is the original sneaky way to add veggies to a meal, so why settle for the store-bought stuff? It takes just a few minutes of active prep to get the basic ingredients together, then just let it simmer.
25. Broth
$1.21 per quart homemade | $3.29 per quart College Inn brand
Stock and broth seem like one of those things only fancy-pants cooks make, but they’re actually super-easy and a great way to use up stuff that’s already on hand. The basic recipe is water, bones or carcass, vegetables, and seasonings. (The seasonings are actually optional. Technically, broth is seasoned while stock is just a blank slate.)
26. Pesto
$0.64 per 2 tablespoons homemade| $0.72 for Buitoni brand
The crisp, green taste of pesto is best when made with ultra-fresh basil. Store-bought brands tend to compensate with loads of oil and salt. When that basil plant’s growing as quick as a weed, grab a few handfuls and combine with a touch of olive oil, cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. If basil’s out of season, capitalize on in-season greens like kale or spinach. (Bonus points for superfood greens!)
27. Pasta
$0.34 per ¼ lb. serving homemade| $0.62 per ¼ lb. serving Bionaturae brand
It’s just eggs, flour, oil, and salt, and yet people tend to shy away from making their own pasta. Doing it at home makes it easy to control just how healthy and whole-wheat-filled the final product is.
28. Filled pasta
$0.50 per 1 cup serving homemade| $2.15 per 1 cup serving Buitoni brand
With that stockpile of freshly made pasta dough and ricotta in the fridge, it’s easy to throw together some homemade ravioli. Combine ricotta with sautéed spinach for quick and easy healthy dinner. Better still, filled pasta can be rolled by hand and is far easier to cut than that pesky, thin spaghetti.
29. Roasted chicken
$1.40 per ¼ chicken homemade| $1.75 per ¼ store-bought rotisserie chicken
Sure, it takes some time, but don’t be intimidated by the idea of roasting a whole bird. Making it at home eliminates all that broth-injected, unpronounceable-chemical-laced stuff that comes pre-cooked.
30. Mashed potatoes
$0.76 per ¾ cup serving homemade| $2.50 per ¾ cup store-prepared potatoes
Mash up some cauliflower rather than chowing down on boxed or prepared mashed potatoes. We swear it tastes the same! Can’t commit all the way to cauliflower? Go half cauliflower, half potatoes. And keep it light on the butter and milk!
31. Breadcrumbs
$0.11 per ¼ cup homemade| $0.16 per ¼ cup Progresso brand
Unseasoned bread crumbs are ultra-easy to make. Just grind up a few slices of bread and toast. For flavored crumbs, add in dried herbs. Use whole-wheat bread for added fiber and B vitamins.
32. Ketchup
$3.86 per 16 ounces homemade | $3.34 per 16 ounces Heinz brand
Some of us probably already have the necessary ingredients to make ketchup right in our spice cabinets, but are still turning to the high-fructose variety. This version is especially cheap if you have the spices on hand, and entirely worthwhile to avoid additives (and impress those dinner guests!).
33. Barbecue sauce
$0.09 per tablespoon homemade | $0.08 per tablespoon KC Masterpiece brand
Down-home comfort food is rarely healthy, but DIY barbecue sauce could be the answer for scrapping unnecessary sugar and salt. The magic ingredient? Coffee. We’d say $0.01 is worth knowing how to pronounce all the ingredients!
34. Pizza dough
$0.98 per 12″ pizza dough homemade| $0.98 for 12″ store-bought, fresh dough
It’s time to get Italian! The number one way to feel like a BAMF in the kitchen is to toss around pizza dough. Making it whole-wheat cuts back on the costs of the packaged stuff, and, say it with us, “gives us control of the ingredients.”
35. French fries
$0.72 per ½ cup serving homemade| $0.90 per ½ cup serving Alexia brand
Sweet potato fries are basically the new Micky D’s, and this is one trend we recommend everyone get in on. Just slice up some sweet potatoes and toss with oil, salt, and spices, and bake until crispy. There’s no frying involved and the potatoes are practically the only cost.
Dessert
36. Cookies
$0.32 per 2 cookies homemade | $0.35 per 3 mini Entenmann’s brand
We’d make homemade cookies just for the awesome smell, so getting to devour them is a pretty awesome bonus. Adding superfoods banana and oatmeal into the mix practically turns these cookies into a superfood themselves.
37. Brownies
$0.35 per brownie homemade | $0.52 per brownie Entenmann’s brand
Yes, it is actually possible to make delicious brownies without any flour. The surprising stand in? Black beans, which add fiber and protein. This is an especially great for those with celiac disease, who might otherwise shell out major cash to get a flour-free recipe. (Even wheat-lovers will devour this recipe, we promise!).
38. Ice cream
$2.43 per pint homemade| $4.19 per pint Ben & Jerry’s brand
Who doesn’t love having a little ice cream on hand to dip into now and then? Whip up a big batch (no need for an ice cream maker) and personalize it with any flavors or add-ins desired. Of course, several of these frozen treats are fruit-based, which makes them an even healthier option in our book!
39. Ice cream sandwiches
$0.52 per sandwich homemade | $1.07 per sandwich Skinny Cow brand
Sandwich together two small, healthier homemade cookies (from above!) and a dollop of that homemade ice cream and freeze. There’s a single-serving indulgence without the temptation of bulldozing through the whole pint of ice cream. Plus, you’ll avoid the additives and artificial sweeteners found in low-fat, reduced-sugar brands.
40. Pudding
$1.22 per cup homemade| $0.97 per cup Kozy Shack brand
Buckle your seatbelts, kids! We’re making pudding with avocado. Just blend with milk and honey. It may not be cheaper than a puddin’ cup, but we’ll let it slide because, heck, it’s avocado!
Drinks
41. Smoothies
$1.14 per cup homemade| $1.37 per cup Naked brand
Skip the watery smoothie drinks that can be packed with sugar and miss out on a lot of the fruits’ benefits. Blend together spinach, yogurt, ice, orange, banana, strawberries, and just about any other fruit for a green smoothie without any added sugar. And compared to that $7 green smoothie at the juice bar, it’s actually a deal!
42. Sparkling water
$0.25 per liter for SodaStream| $0.99 per liter Poland Springs
Bottled water is an easy way to flush money down the drain while also wasting lots of plastic bottles. Instead, rig up a carbonation station to add bubbles to pure, delicious water — no additional sugar or sodium.
43. Flavored water
$0.37 per liter homemade| $0.99 per liter Poland Springs brand
To create flavor-infused water, simply put water in a pitcher and add slices of lemon, lime, orange, mint or other sliced fruits. Let it sit for an hour or as long as you’ve got, then strain off the fruit for a debris-free drink.
44. Drink mixers
$1.31 per cup homemade Sweet and Sour mix| $1.25 per cup Mr. & Mrs. T’s brand
Put down the margarita mix! But no need to go margarita-less. Just make less-sugary drink mixerswith fresh juices and honey-water instead of simple syrup or packaged mixes.
45. Lemonade
$0.58 per cup homemade | $0.67 per cup Santa Cruz brand
There’s nothing more refreshing than this summer classic, but it can often be packed with sugar. Nix powdered mixes or bottled beverages and stir together water, lemon juice, mint, and just a touch of honey.
Note: Per-serving prices for homemade versions were determined by adding the common price of the portion of each ingredient used in the recipe and dividing by the number of servings. Where the “homemade” link mentions multiple recipes, an average was used.
(Source: , via fitequestrian-deactivated201204)
Baked Oatmeal Squares: Breakfast On-the-Run
The following article was written by Jessy Easton.
No time to prepare breakfast? These healthy baked oatmeal squares from the vegetarian cookbookPeas and Thank You by Sarah Methany make a great on-the-run meal. They are simple to prepare and satisfying to eat, and do you want to know the best part? Each square totals less than 150 calories!
Just grab a square on your way out the door to work or the gym or when you’re off on a long day of errands.
Baked Oatmeal Squares
2 cups old-fashioned oats
1/4-1/2 cup organic brown sugar (depending on how sweet you like your oatmeal)
2 tsp. ground cinnamon
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1 cup nondairy milk
1/2 block silken tofu
1/2 cup applesauce
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Toppings: nondairy milk, sliced bananas, strawberries, peanut or almond butter
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF.
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, salt, and cranberries.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the nondairy milk, tofu, applesauce, and vanilla and process until smooth. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix well.
- Spread the mixture into an 8x8-inch pan that has been lightly coated with cooking spray and bake for approximately 40 minutes.
- Cut into squares and serve with desired toppings.
Makes 9 2x3-inch squares
By Olivia Coleman
Everyone has those days at school or work when your brain is moving just a little slower than usual. If you find yourself up against a lazy day, give one of these tricks a try to get your brain going. With suggestions on brain-boosting foods and drinks, games, trivia, exercise and fun strategies, you are sure to find a way to wake up your brain from the list below.
Brain-Boosting Drinks
Sometimes all your brain needs is a drink to get it going. The following drinks will all give your brain that extra boost it needs to start pumping.
- Chai. This tea infused with a variety of spices and blended with milk or a non-dairy milk substitute will awaken your senses and your brain.
- Kombucha. In addition to the multiple health benefits of this unusual drink, it is primarily a detoxifier for the body. It also gets your brain pumping pretty quickly.
- Water. Staying hydrated benefits your body and brain by keeping you detoxified and oxygenated, so drink plenty of water for a brain boost.
- Matcha. This stone-ground, powdered form of green tea is a super-concentrated version of the green tea that comes in tea bags and provides a super blast for your brain.
- Caffeine. As this study indicates, a little caffeine may be beneficial to your brain, so have that cup of coffee when you brain feels a little sluggish.
- Kava kava. Long used in the South Pacific, kava kava is reported to induce both brain stimulation and anxiety reduction.
- Smoothies. A simple brain-boosting smoothie with fresh fruits and yogurt or a bit of protein powder will have your brain working again in no time.
- Ginkgo biloba tea. Ginkgo biloba tea helps promote blood flow, memory, and mental alertness.
- Ginseng tea. Tea made from the ginseng root provides better mental acuity as well as boosts blood circulation, reduces fatigue, and a host of other benefits.
Brain-Boosting Foods
From the instant benefit of cinnamon and peppermint to the longer-lasting benefits of blueberries, these foods are great ways to get the blood flowing in your brain on a lazy day.
- Cinnamon and peppermint. Research shows that cinnamon and peppermint stimulates the brain. Have some gum or tea and give it a shot.
- Fish oil. This nutrient, either obtained through eating fish or taking a good-quality supplement, not only increases overall physical health, it also helps boost your brain power.
- Apples. Long associated with healthy nutrition, an apple a day can provide brain health benefits.
- Salmon. Salmon is good for your body and your brain. This super food is high in omega-3 EFAs and protein, low in cholesterol and contains quite a few B vitamins, calcium, zinc, iron and magnesium.
- Avocado. Avocados have monosaturated fat (the good fat), which increases blood flow, which gives your brain a boost.
- Curry. Curry, and especially the turmeric in curry dishes, have been shown to boost cognition. The tantalizing taste will also help wake up your brain.
- Antioxidants. Eating foods that are antioxidants can help improve focus, problem-solving, and memory.
- Fruits and veggies. Fresh fruits and vegetables are a great brain booster. Learn about the benefits of fresh fruit and vegetables to your brain.
- Whole grains. Two and a half servings of whole grains a day can significantly reduce your chance for a stroke and keeps your brain in top shape.
- Olive oil. This healthy oil has been shown to break up clots in capillaries and generally help with blood flow.
- Blueberries. These little berries really pack a punch when it comes to brain health. Pop a few when your blood sugar and brain function feel low.
- Cocoa. Foods containing cocoa, like chocolate, may provide benefits for memory and learning, and the endorphins raised by eating chocolate will also provide a more immediate boost for your brain.
Simple Tricks
If your brain is stuck in a rut, try any of these fun and simple tricks to get it going again.
- Doodle. NPR reports how doodling can kickstart your brain when it is bored.
- Journal. Write down your thoughts, create a poem, or find some other way to express yourself in a personal journal.
- Music. Listening to music, whether it’s a small chamber music ensemble or a full-out rock show, will stimulate your brain.
- Listen to Mozart. Learn about “The Mozart Effect” and how it can help your brain get going and work better.
- Study a foreign language. Listen to a bit of a foreign language tape or go online to study a bit to get your brain in gear.
- Switch hands. Try using your less dominant hand for simple tasks like eating or writing to stimulate your brain.
- Think positively. A simple change of perspective can perk your brain and make you feel empowered as well.
- Smile. Smile and laugh often. A silly joke or sharing a smile with a co-worker or friend is a fun way to get your brain going again.
- Aromatherapy. Aromatherapy offers a boost to your brain through various scents which work to stimulate, calm, energize, and more.
- Use your brain. Doing tasks such as avoiding the calculator for simple arithmetic or thinking through perplexing problems is sure to get your mind working.
- Write down dreams. Do this as soon as you wake up in the morning. This is especially effective if you are trying to come up with creative ideas or solutions.
- Send a note to a friend. Whether you send a quick text message or hand-write a note, the social connection and shift of focus will help kickstart your brain.
- Use chopsticks. The mental challenge of using chopsticks with a snack or lunch will give your brain a boost and teach you a new skill.
Video Games
Video games can get your brain working–research shows some games can even help fight Alzheimer’s. Check out these games for a fun way to start your brain.
- MUO Games. MakeUseOf offers four games to help your brain start working.
- Truantduck.com Chinese Checkers. Play this classic game against the droid and practice your strategy skills.
- Simon Says. Practice your memory skills by playing Simon Says online. It’s amazingly similar to the real thing.
- Legends of Elveron. Try this fantasy game that is all about strategy to get your brain working.
- Diner Dash. Serve diners with this popular online game where you make sure everyone gets seated, orders, and gets their food without getting angry.
- Super Money Ball. Try one of these mini games from Sega to improve your eye-hand coordination and really get your brain working.
- Escapa. Click and hold the red square and avoid getting hit by the blue squares or hitting a wall with this challenging game.
- Oregon Trail. Get on the Oregon Trail and download this old favorite.
- Hit the Dot. This game challenges you to click on each of the dots as they appear to see how many you can get in 30 seconds.
- The Blue Button Game. Click on the fast-moving blue button to keep playing, but if you click on a red or orange one, the game ends.
- Game Gecko Racing Games. Play several racing games online at this site.
- Dogfight 2. Using your arrow and space bar keys, participate in airplane dogfights with this flying game.
- Tetris. This classic game will sharpen both eye-hand coordination and quick, logical thinking.
- Breakout. This game requires you to keep the ball in play until it breaks all the blocks at the top.
Brain Games
The following games are all especially for you brain and will help you get your brain moving on a lazy day and strengthen it, too.
- BrainCurls. Exercise your brain with the games at this site that include jigsaws, memory games, and games that sharpen your observation skills.
- Games for the Brain. With popular brain games like Mastermind, chess, and Sudoku, you will find plenty of games for your brain.
- Brain Bashers. With 5 new games added each week, you can always find lots of video game fun for your brain here.
- Puzzability Sampler. The puzzles here include both interactive and non-interactive versions of word games like Hangman, Acrostic, and Slider.
- Thinks.com Jigsaw Puzzles. Work these jigsaw puzzles for a great online workout for your mind.
- BrainTraining 101. These brain games include many different logic, puzzle, memory, classic, and action games.
- Braingle. Brain teasers, riddles, trivia, and brain exercises are some of the fun activities on this website.
- Fit Brains. Play the free brain games here that are developed by scientists with the goal of providing the best fitness for your brain.
- Sharp Brains Brain Teasers and Games. These 50 games are especially meant to help exercise and sharpen your mind.
- Freedom Years Games. These brain games include jigsaw puzzles, memory game, Sudoku, and more.
- HAPPYneuron. Brain fitness becomes a science with the fun games and activities here.
- Brain Age. Available on Nintendo DS, this game is excellent for sharpening the brain, according to a study done by a competing software company, and keeping it going.
Other Games
From classics like Scrabble and checkers to word puzzles to knowledge quizzes that benefit those less fortunate, the following games will get your brain working.
- Word puzzles. Solve brainteasers such as anagrams, logic problems, rebuses any time you have a few extra minutes to get your brain going.
- Scrabble. Connect with others for an online Scrabble game to get your brain pumping.
- Chess. Learn how to play chess, or play online, so you can take advantage of the well-known brain benefits of this game.
- Do a jigsaw puzzle. Working jigsaw puzzles exercises spatial recognition, analytical processes, eye-hand coordination and will wake up a sleepy brain.
- Crosswords. The benefits of working crossword puzzles are many and even help keep dementia at bay as you age. Work one online or in the morning paper to jumpstart your brain any time.
- Logic Puzzles. Solve these free logic puzzles that provide an easy-to-use solving grid.
- Mahjong. Play free Mahjong games here with a variety for the casual player to the master.
- Checkers. Try to beat the computer in this checkers game or challenge a friend in person.
- Bridge. While you may not have time for a full-blown game in the middle of the day, play online or watch others for a bit to help get your brain moving.
- Backgammon. Nabisco brings backgammon to you for free with this online version you can play to give your brain a boost.
- FreeRice. Test yourself in several categories including English, Chemistry, Geography, Art, Math, and foreign languages to get your brain buzzing and help feed the hungry at no cost to you.
Trivia
Learning a bit of trivia not only gets your brain working when it’s going slowly, but it also helps strengthen it. Give these fun trivia resources a try.
- 100 Fascinating Facts You Never Knew about the Human Brain. Learn some facts about the human brain to get yours working on a lazy day.
- Kickstart Your Brain With 21 TRUE Trivia Tidbits. Read these factoids for an easy brain spark.
- Fun Trivia Quizzes. Choose from several different trivia categories and take the quizzes to test your trivia knowledge and give your brain a boost.
- Trivial Trivia Collection. Get celebrity trivia, unusual trivia, or select from specific trivia categories to learn plenty here.
- Useful Trivia. Choose from Bible, history, holiday, TV trivia, and plenty of other categories.
- Trivia Cafe. Trivia Cafe provides daily and weekly questions, contests, and more to get your brain in gear.
- Triviaplaza. Find fun facts about music, movies, geography, science, literature, and more at this site.
- Random facts. Browse through this listing of random facts in order to add to your trivia knowledge.
- Fun Funny Facts. With information ranging from cockroaches to the memory of goldfish, you are sure to find fun facts to stimulate your brain when it’s moving slowly.
Exercises
Physical activity stimulates blood flow, which can help perk up your brain. Do these exercises to help get your brain going when it falls into a slump.
- Take a walk. When your brain begins to flag, stand up and take a walk to get the blood flowing and your brain working again.
- Tai Chi. This ancient form of exercise uses a graceful form of stretching to keep your brain physically fit.
- Sex. Enjoy sex with your partner. Not only will it stimulate your senses, it has also been shown to sharpen your mind through its cardiovascular benefits.
- Take the stairs. Skip the elevator and use the stairs to get your blood flowing and your brain pumping.
- Yoga. Not only is yoga an excellent low-impact form of exercise, its benefits also extend to mental well-being. Use simple yoga stretches any time of the day for an instant brain boost.
- Yard work. Mowing the lawn, raking leaves, or just picking up the twigs that have fallen on the yard are all great ways to get moving and wake up your mind.
- Walk the dog. Getting Fido and yourself outside for a walk to perk up your brain.
- Swim. Jump in the lake or take a swim at your neighborhood pool for a great way to wake your brain.
- Bike. A leisurely bike ride through a park or down a dedicated bike trail is not only a good way to stimulate your brain, but you will enjoy the scenery and physical exercise too.
- Dance. Stand up and dance to put your body in motion and wake your brain. Dancing also offers anti-aging benefits.
- Golf. Enjoy a round of golf or hitting at the range during lunch for exercise as well as a brain stimulant.
- Hike. Put on some sturdy shoes and head out. Hiking can be as easy as exploring a city park during lunch.
- Tennis. The mental and physical stimulation of this popular game will have your brain buzzing in no time.
Quiet Activities
You might think that quiet activities wouldn’t help get your brain going when it’s dragging, but give these a shot to find out how much they can help.
- Read. Whether you are keeping up the news online, sitting down with a good book, or checking out the latest gossip magazine, do some reading each day.
- Hobbies. Work on a hobby to get your creative juices flowing and keep your brain working.
- Knitting. Putting your hands to work and letting your mind wander a bit will get your brain back on track in no time. If you don’t know how to knit, learn here.
- Breathing. The deep, relaxing form of breathing used during yoga practice oxygenates the body, which stimulates the brain.
- Relaxation exercises. Try some of these relaxation exercises and you will teach your body how to feel more calm and your brain more focused.
- Meditation. For improving focus and stress relief, mediation can’t be beat.
- Surf the Internet. Not only does surfing the Internet provide plenty of new information to stimulate your brain, the combined requirements of decision-making and specific strategies necessary when surfing also provide benefits for the brain.
With healthcare a pressing issue, prices going up, and cures in short supply, more and more people are turning away from their medicine cabinets and to their pantries and gardens for remedies. And they are experiencing a certain amount of success.
Whether looking to help a stuffy nose or something more serious, the answer can be as close as an arm’s reach away with a look at these 100 healthy remedies that are right in your home.
Common Healthy Remedies That Are Right In Your Home
The below are commonly found in the average home and can help in many ways.
1. Water
- : Because dehydration can cause a range of symptoms from fatigue to headache, a simple glass of water can sometimes work wonders. Other problems that can arise from lack of water include increased heart rate, dark urine, muscle cramps, and nausea. To avoid these, make sure you get your eight to ten glasses a day.
2. Club Soda : Not only useful for getting out stains, it can also help with an upset stomach or dehydration. Because it is free of the sugar and additives of regular sodas, you can get the benefits without the negatives.
3. Chocolate Milk : Often thought of as more of an indulgence than healthy remedy, there are actually benefits to your childhood favorite. When drank after a rough workout, chocolate milk can actually be very useful as a recovery drink. Check out thisvideo from The Doctors to learn more.
4. Honey : From healing wounds to fighting infections, honey is said to be one of the most ancient and turned to remedies across the world. It is even used to combat diarrhea, indigestion, stomach ulcers and gastroenteritis. Visit here to get more information.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar : From Hippocrates to modern day doctors, apple cider vinegar has been used to treat many ailments. They include aches, pains, lack of energy, warts, and are even used on animals.
6. Lemon Water : That yellow wedge on the end of your glass can be so much more than a garnish. Combining lemon with water helps alkalize both your blood and body, keeping it from becoming too acidic.
7. Cinnamon : Studies have shown that a half of a teaspoon of cinnamon per day can lower LDL cholesterol. Cinnamon can also help with diabetes, arthritis, and even leukemia.
8. Ginger : Used as a healthy remedy for centuries, the ginger in your home can actually help with many modern ailments. They include ovarian cancer, motion sickness, heartburn, and more.
9. Garlic : This clove has been used on everything from preventing the flu to the Bubonic plague. Raw garlic has also been used on a range of ailments including both acne treatment and managing cholesterol.
10. Hydrogen Peroxide : The subject of much controversy, this substance can help with everything from allergies to gingivitis. Check out this article by a doctor for more information.
Healthy Remedies To Help You Lose Weight
Avoid the dangers of supplemental weight loss pills by giving the below homemade remedies a try.
11. Milk
- : Studies showed that those who drank a glass of fat free milk before lunch experienced decreased appetite and calorie intake compared to those who drank fruit juice. Visit
- to learn more.
12. Almonds : One of the healthiest of all the nuts, research has been found that people with a diet rich in almonds lost more pounds than those without. They also helped with blood pressure. Visit WebMD for the entire article.
13. Vinegar : Some studies suggest that vinegar can increase metabolism. This in turn helps the body process food and burn more calories.
14. Jalapenos : Similar to the above, the spice found here can also increase metabolism. In fact, many naturally spicy foods tout similar properties.
15. Evening Primrose Oil : The oil is extracted from a plant of the same name and contains an essential fatty acid that can help with metabolism. Other benefits include combating cholesterol, fatigue, improper hormone levels, and more.
16. Make It Raw : Because cooking food can remove nutrients while leaving fat, some people choose a raw diet. This site is maintained by raw food chef and published author and contains more information.
17. Coconut : The oil found in coconuts is said to have weight losing properties. Try taking a tablespoon or two before meals to see if it works for you.
18. Pine Nuts : Use these nuts as a garnish to many dishes to help naturally decrease your appetite. The pinolenic acid found in them is what makes it work.
19. Flaxseeds : Similar to the above, they also help suppress appetite. The seeds also contain omega-3 fats and fiber as well.
20. Other Herbal Remedies : Thinking about taking an herbal remedy such as Ephedra or St. John’s Wort? Then visit here to get an expert medical opinion on many weight loss herbs.
Healthy Remedies For Beauty
Look good on the outside as well with these homemade remedies for beauty.
21. Aloe
- : Most commonly used for sunburn, it can also be used to treat wounds and other types of skin inflammation. There are even studies suggesting that aloe can help with constipation.
22. Cocoa Butter : Extracted from cocoa beans, the white, waxy material can be applied to dry skin for a natural remedy. It can also be purchased at a store in stick or cream form.
23. Avocado : Often used as a main ingredient in face masks, the oils in avocados contain high levels of Vitamin E that are essential for healthy skin. Simply grab one, puree it, spread on your face, and leave for 20 to 30 minutes.
24. Toothpaste : Not just for a healthy smile, it can also be used as a spot treatment for acne. As soon as you feel a growth coming, apply toothpaste to the effected spot. If you feel it tingling, that means its working. Do not use as an overnight treatment.
25. Eggs : The protein found in eggs can be used to restore the strength of your hair. Simply mix one egg and one or two oils rich in moisturizing fats like coconut or sesame, apply to the hair, and wrap.
26. Ashes : Got a wart? Then grab some cool ashes from the fireplace to treat it naturally.
27. Banana Peel : Wrap one of these around a wart to help dissolve it. However, the time it takes to work – weeks to months – can have even the reasonably patient driving to the pharmacy.
28. Castor Oil : Use this on both your skin and hair for optimal results. The oil can also help with constipation, menstrual disorders, and more.
29. Mayonnaise : Coating your hair in this spread once a week can help restore its shine and manageability. Be sure to use the real kind, made of egg and oil.
30. Oatmeal : Not just a healthy breakfast, the beta glucan in real oatmeal can help your skin. Use a washcloth wrapped with oatmeal and rung into a sink to splash on your face for amazing results.
Healthy Fruit Remedies That Are Right In Your Home
That wicker basket in your home can contain a healthy remedy, along with a tasty snack.
31. Pomegranate
- : This super fruit can help with everything from anti-aging to fighting cancer. Simply choose a product that has pomegranate as one of the top three ingredients. This
- from WebMD has more.
32. Acai Berry : Long before Oprah was touting its benefits, Acai berries were well known for their antioxidant content. These can help with free radicals, disease, and are often found in juice or granola.
33. Watermelon : Containing high levels of glutathione, the pulp in water melon is another powerful antioxidant. Because it is made up of so much water, it can also help with dehydration.
34. Grapefruit : The amount of Vitamin C alone found in this fruit is reason to eat it. However, it also contains flavonoids and other nutrients. But this fruit can also be bad for you if drenched in sweeteners.
35. Cherries : If you have arthritis or any kind of joint problem, cherries are sweeter than you think. The Arthritis Foundation recommends drinking tart cherry juice mixed with water three times a day for its anti-inflammatory properties.
36. Orange : Not just a high boaster of Vitamin C, oranges also have other uses. In fact, the peel of an orange can be rubbed against rough or dead skin as a healthy remedy.
37. Apples : It’s true that this fruit actually does keep the doctor away. Conditions it can help include prevention of cancer and Alzheimer’s, along with diabetes and cholesterol management.
38. Berries : Both raspberries and blueberries contain high levels of antioxidants and other nutrients that can help a number of conditions. Those with allergies should definitely give a daily dose of this fruit a try.
39. Tangerines : If you want to slow the growth of cancer cells, take a look at this home healthy remedy. Like many other brightly colored fruits, they contain the cancer fighting substance flavonoids.
40. Papaya : This fruit’s high levels of Vitamin C, E, and others help it combat a number of ailments. Anyone looking to combat a cold or cancer should reach for this.
Healthy Remedies For Your Immune System
With cold and flu season in full swing, these items found in your home can help boost your immune system.
41. Elderberry
- : Used to treat a Panamanian flu epidemic in 1995, its antioxidants are a powerful force. Available as a juice or supplement, it can also help with cholesterol, vision, and heart health.
42. Mushrooms : Not necessarily the ones in the backyard, but the right mushrooms contain both antioxidants and selenium to boost your immune system. The best kind are button.
43. Cabbage : Containing both antioxidants and glutathione, both help the immune system function. Don’t know which to get? Traditional, white, red, and even Chinese are all good sources of the preceding.
44. Wheat Germ : It contains both zinc and antioxidants to help fight infection, in addition to Vitamin B. Hate the taste? Then switch out part of the flour in a recipe to sneak in a little wheat germ.
45. Yogurt : The cultures found in it can both fight disease and keep them from happening. The best kind to get are those with no added sugar, low fat, and loaded with Vitamin D.
46. Spinach : Good for more than sailing cartoon characters, the folate in spinach helps cell production. It also contains fiber and Vitamin C for extra help.
47. Broccoli : Much like the above, even if you don’t like the taste of this vegetable, you’ll enjoy it more than having a compromised immune system. Full of Vitamins A, C, and D, it can help with a variety of ailments, including infection.
48. Sweet Potato : Switch out your baked or mashed potatoes for one of these to take advantage of the immune helping beta-carotene. They are also lower in carbs and contain high levels of Vitamin A for eye health.
49. Salt Water : Got a stuffy nose? Then help your immune system out by flushing your nose with salt water and removing virus particles. WebMD recommends mixing one quarter teaspoon salt, one quarter teaspoon baking soda, and eight ounces of warm water. Simply flush a few times with a bulb syringe to get results.
50. Eucalyptus : Often found in products like Vaporub, this plant can help clear congested sinuses and relieve pain. You can also use menthol or camphor as a substitute.
Healthy Remedies That Are Right In Your Spice Rack
These spices help make your food tasty, along with your body healthier.
51. Epsom Salt
- : Have you ever seen those foot detoxifier ads on television? Then save your money and instead soak your feet in warm water and Epsom salt to get the same effect. It can also help in a full bath and is even useful for treating sciatica.
52. Tumeric : Part of the ginger family, it can be used for a variety of home remedies. Ailments treated include allergies, obesity, Alzheimer’s, in certain cancers, and more.
53. Sea Salt : Have trouble falling asleep? Pour a little of this into a glass of drinking water and it just may help you fall asleep and stay that way.
54. Horseradish : Anyone with a case of congestion knows that a dose of horseradish can instantly help. However, you can also apply it to acne and melasma for a natural remedy.
55. Pepper : Not only does black pepper help your food taste better, it also has other benefits. The stimulation of hydrochloric acid it stimulates can help improve digestion and reduce gas.
56. Oregano : Did you know that one teaspoon of this spice has as much antioxidants as three cups of broccoli? Simply add a little to pizza, pastas, sandwiches, and more to experience its benefits.
57. Dried Red Peppers : These can include cayenne, paprika, and others. The spices help stimulate digestion and burn fat.
58. Rosemary : This small green spice has been shown to help in heart health. It also helps reduce inflammation that can trigger many diseases.
59. Thyme : Similar to oregano, this spice is also high in antioxidants. Studies are also looking into its benefits against respiratory functions.
60. Curry : Have heart problems? Then you might have the remedy in your home’s spice rack. Made from turmeric, it contains many of the same benefits, along with help against heart disease.
Healthy Cancer Remedies That Are Right In Your Home
Although there is no cure for cancer, use the below to both fight and prevent it without ever leaving your home.
61. Legumes
- : Use this hearty vegetable as a meat substance to get the protein benefits without the price. You can also use beans, lentils, and the like as well.
62. Soy : This substitute also has the same benefits as the above. Varieties such as tofu and miso also contain cancer combating nutrients called phytochemicals.
63. Tomatoes : Because they contain high levels of lycopene, they can reduce risk of cancer. Try a tomato paste or sauce to get the most amounts.
64. Fish : Healthy varieties such as wild salmon, tuna, and halibut contain many cancer fighting substances such as oil. They also contain cancer fighting selenium that can be dangerous as a supplement but useful in fish.
65. Orange Juice : Containing high levels of folate and Vitamin C, it can help combat cancer. Be sure and get a healthy variety that isn’t overloaded with sugar.
66. Curcumin : This spice is also part of the turmeric family. Sprinkle a little into your next dish to enjoy it’s cancer fighting and anti inflammatory aspects.
67. Walnuts : The antioxidants and oils in these nuts can help prevent or stave off cancer. You can also substitute pistachio, pecan, and other nuts for similar benefits.
68. Cauliflower : Along with broccoli, this vegetable helps create sulforaphane in the body to protect healthy cells from cancerous ones. It is also recommended to grow it in your own home.
69. Sunshine : Get your dose of Vitamin D right from your home with this simple remedy. Simply expose at least 40% of your body to ten minutes of natural sunlight to get it.
70. Tea : Containing nutrients called kaempferol, a cup or four of tea a day can help combat cancer. To find out which kind are the best, see the below.
Healthy Tea Remedies That Are Right In Your Home
Switch out your coffee for one or all of the below to instantly get a healthy remedy.
71. Green Tea
- : For its high content of both antioxidants and polyphenols, green tea gets the top spot. It can help fight cancer, stimulate metabolism, boost your immune system, and much more.
72. Tea Bags : You don’t just have to drink it to enjoy the benefits. Putting warm tea bags over your eyes can help reduce and alleviate pink eye.
73. White Tea : A cousin of green tea, it helps fight viruses and bacteria. Read thisarticle for more information on a study done at Touro College.
74. Black Tea : If looking to combat heart disease and stroke, check your home for black tea. It even contains fluoride to aid in dental health.
75. Oolong : Burn calories, increase blood flow, and build stronger bones with the help of this tea. It can also help with an upset stomach.
76. Chai Tea : This tea also contains antioxidants and can help in digestion. It can even be found at your local Starbucks as a hot or cold beverage.
77. Vanilla Tea : This tea is an excellent choice for diabetics. Not only will it satisfy your sweet tooth, but it can help control blood sugar levels.
78. Red Tea : Most popular in Africa, this tea contains flavonoids that are useful against many ailments. It also helps with the nervous system, kidney stones, and can even be used as a sedative.
79. Chamomile : If you suffer from nervous disorders such as insomnia, panic attacks, and twitches, give this tea a try. It also helps with menstrual cramps and ulcers.
80. Tibicos : Think you can’t get tea from a mushroom? Then try this ancient and little known tea to cure endless ailments and has been used by the likes of Mother Theresa.
Healthy Remedies For Unusual Problems
Right in your home may be the answer to that embarrassing or unusual health problem.
81. Bananas
- : Got a hangover? Grab a banana. Better than a cup of black coffee, bananas contain potassium, which was depleted during that long night of drinking. They can also help with upset stomach and nausea.
82. Peanut Butter : Try eating some of this before drinking to stave off the hangover. This practice is most commonly found in Africa.
83. Tomato Juice : The last of the hangover remedies, there’s a reason why the Bloody Mary is the hair-of-the-dog drink of choice. The tomato juice contained in it actually helps your body speed up the process of alcohol. And, of course, it works best when there is no vodka in it.
84. Lemon Juice : If you have diarrhea and can’t leave the house to purchase an over the counter remedy, try reaching for those lemons. The juice in them can kill of the pathogens that cause it. Drinking the juice of one lemon three to five times a day should do it.
85. Powdered Milk : This substance carries the antibodies of the E. coli bacteria that can cause diarrhea and a host of other health problems. Some health food stores carry special kinds just for this kind of problem.
86. Gingkgo Biloba : Used as an herbal remedy for cardiac patients, it can also help with erectile dysfunction. The herb can improve blood flow to the arteries in the effected area.
87. Ginseng : This Asian herb is also used to treat the above. Be sure not to mix the two.
88. Licorice : Because women have embarrassing problems too, use the above to help treat yeast infections. Pouring teaspoon of licorice powder into a pint of boiling water can make a homemade douche.
89. Cranberry Juice : Also used to treat the above, the juice can even help with urinary tract infections. Be sure to get an unsweetened, 100% juice kind.
90. 24 More : For more on this health problem, click here to get a list of ways to treat and prevent if from How Stuff Works.
Lesser Known Healthy Remedies That Are Right In Your Home
When you think of the below, home healthy remedy doesn’t come to mind but should.
91. Bacteria
- : You read that correctly. Friendly bacteria in your intestines can actually help keep the more dangerous variety out. A variety of probiotics purchased over the counter can help. Check out
- from a licensed nutritionist for more.
92. Oysters : Because raw oysters are often seen to cause more problems than they solve, the benefits usually go unnoticed. However, the zinc found in oysters can help stave of the flu, heal wounds, and yes, increase male fertility.
93. Wine : The polyphenols found in wine actually can act as an antibacterial agent. They can help with everything from flu to diarrhea. Drinking more than one glass of red or white wine, however, can do more harm than good.
94. Ice : If you have a black eye, putting a steak on it can actually make it worse. The raw meat can contain high levels of bacteria and cause an infection. A plain old ice pack will have to do.
95. Black Strap Molasses : This lesser known healthy remedy contains tons of nutrients including iron, calcium, and copper. It is said to help with everything from arthritis to going prematurely gray.
96. Beer : Another correct read, studies have shown that one to two glasses of beer a day can reduce the risk of stroke and other heart disease. The type and brand you drink doesn’t matter, and you can visit AskMen for more.
97. Tequila : Can a shot of tequila be good for you? According to Associated Contentit can. A moderate amount can help with cholesterol, metabolism, and even stress. As with all alcohol, addiction can also develop.
98. Cayenne Pepper : You don’t have to be from Cajun country to enjoy the healthy remedy of cayenne pepper. Simply mix with water and drink to cure a sore throat. Repeat as necessary.
99. Vodka : Vodka can make a very healthy remedy straight from your home without ever having to drink it. Use it topically to cure toothaches, neutralize jellyfish stings, and even combat swimmer’s ear. Visit here to learn more.
100. Tobacco : Use this for more than a nicotine fix the next time you have a bee sting. Simply pinch off the end of a cigarette, wet, and place it on the sting to relieve it.
These 100 healthy remedies that are right in your home should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about remedies or health conditions.
Ready to tie up your runners and hit the pavement? Become a bona fide runner in four months with this ultimate beginner’s running program
By Celia Milne
This tried and tested four-monthrunning schedule was developed by Jeremy Deere, past Canadian champion in the 5,000 metres and 10K distances, and owner of Strides Running Store in Calgary. It will help a non-runner gradually work up to running for 30 minutes straight. Plan to walk/run three times a week for up
to 45 minutes, with days off in between.
What pace is good for you? To burn fat and reap heart benefits, the American College of Sports Medicine recommends that you run at 60 to 80 percent of your maximum heart rate.
Running plan: Month 1
• Week 1: Run one minute; walk two minutes. Repeat 10 times. Gradually increase the time of your runs by one minute.
• By week 4: Run three minutes; walk one minute. Repeat 10 times.
Running plan: Month 2
• Week 5: Run three minutes; walk one minute. Repeat 10 times. Again, gradually increase running times.
• By week 8: Run seven minutes; walk one minute. Repeat four times.
Running plan: Month 3
• Week 9: Run seven minutes; walk one minute. Repeat four times. Gradually increase running times.
• By week 12: Run 11 minutes; walk one minute. Repeat three times.
Running plan: Month 4
• Week 13: Run 11 minutes; walk one minute. Repeat three times.
• By week 16: Run 20 minutes; walk two minutes. Repeat twice.
Congratulations! You are now ready to run for half an hour without stopping!
This article was originally titled “A Beginner’s Guide to Running,” in the Summer 2010 issue of Best Health. Subscribe today to get the full Best Health experience—and never miss an issue!—and make sure to check out what’s new in the latest issue of Best Health.
