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Taste Test: Häagen-Dazs Tart Natural Frozen Yogurt

YumSugar — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 14:13:35 -0700

I'm one of the masses who's taken great advantage of the ballooning tart frozen yogurt trend. I make a pit stop at downstairs darling SoGreen at least once a week. But when Häagen-Dazs sent me its latest tart natural frozen yogurt flavor, I wanted to see if swapping it out for SoGreen was a possibility. Could it be the new replacement for my expensive frozen yogurt habit? The answer, after the jump.

Get in Gear: Eco-Friendly Mats

FitSugar — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 02:30:00 -0700

Who wants to do their Downward Facing Dog on PVC (polyvinyl chloride)? It's a toxic plastic that's used to make many sticky mats. According to Greenpeace, PVC products that are being disposed of within a few years of use, are causing serious waste problems since these and other plastics don't biodegrade quickly. In response to this growing PVC crisis, many manufacturers are beginning to make environmentally friendly mats using natural fibers like jute, cotton, and rubber.

Not only are these mats biodegradable, and free of hazardous chemicals, but their makers say they provide more traction. Other mats made of plastic take a few washings and hours of practice to get rid of the chemical sheen, not to mention the stinky smell.

Since practicing yoga and Pilates is doing good for you, why not use a mat that does good for the environment as well? By choosing environmentally friendly products, you are doing your part to support the movement toward a healthier, sustainable planet. Here are some of my favorites:

Saka Studio Eco Yoga Mat	Cotton Rug
The Original Eco Yoga Mat	Jute Yoga Mat
prAna E.C.O. Sticky Mat	Natural Jute and PER Yoga Mat

Definition: Natural

BellaSugar — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 14:00:30 -0700

I am sure you are well aware of what the word natural means, but in the beauty sense, it's actually more scientific than you would think.

For a product to be approved and labeled natural, its materials have to be 100% in their original state. This means their inherent chemical bonds must be intact.

In the cosmetics world, materials can be processed only enough so that the physical shape is formed (the shape of a lipstick, blush, etc..) by means of grinding, chopping or packing, but the chemical structure needs to remain unaltered.

Source

Crystal Deodorant: 100% Natural

FitSugar — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:45:00 -0700

Recently, I've received a few questions about natural deodorants, and here's one I can recommend - Crystal Deodorant. It has been around since 1984, and it's the all natural alternative to mainstream chemical-filled deodorants.

It's hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, non-sticky, non-staining, and it is made of 100% mineral salts. That's it - no artificial colors or ingredients. All you have to do is moisten the top with water, apply, and you're good to go.

How does it work? It is not the sweat that smells, it is the bacteria that collects in it that makes the actual body odor. Using Crystal deodorant creates a layer of of mineral salt on the skin, making an impossible environment for bacteria to thrive.

Other deodorants attempt to mask the smell with strong scented perfumes. Antiperspirants often contain alcohol which shrink your pores, or aluminum that clogs your pores to prevent sweating. They actually discourage your body's natural removal of toxins.

Crystal Deodorant is a healthier approach to dealing with your sweat, but it used to be a little annoying to use. Before it was just, well, a piece of clear rock. Now it's in a handy stick applicator, so it's much easier to apply and pack on trips. Another great thing? It can last up to 1 year.

Fit's Tips: Have I piqued your curiosity? You can pick one up at your local health food store or buy it directly from Crystal Body Deodorant for only $5.99. If you don't love the stick, you can also get the liquid version in a roll-on.

Green Toe Shoes: A Brilliant Idea From Simple

FitSugar — Mon, 19 Mar 2007 03:15:00 -0700

Green Toe shoes are the newest line made by Simple. I was happy to hear that they are made from all-natural, sustainable materials such as jute, cork, crepe (a natural rubber), cotton, recycled car tires, wool, bamboo, and recycled plastic bottles.

I like buying products that are beneficial to me, but I also like choosing ones that are good for the Earth. These shoes are made with natural and recycled materials, making them biodegradable. I feel good supporting Simple and their Green Toe shoes, knowing that by choosing these kinds of products, I'm having a positive impact on Mother Earth. You know...like I am walking lightly on the Earth and only leaving footprints.

There are a number of different styles ranging from flip-flops (called Toe Foo - isn't that funny?), Mary Janes, clogs, loafers, and shoes with laces. They range in price from $60 - $90, and also make mens and kids shoes too.

Want to see all the styles? Take a look and tell me what you think in the poll down below.

View 8 Photos ›

Bethenny Frankel: Natural Chef to the Stars

FitSugar — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 04:00:00 -0700

What do Paris Hilton, Alicia Silverstone and Mariska Hargitay (from TV's Law & Order) all have in common? The answer would be Bethenny Frankel a natural food chef of the stars.

Bethenny believes that a person's diet is like a "bank account." You want to eat a balanced diet, but you don't want to restrict yourself either. It's fine to try a bit of everything. It's when you eat all of everything that can get you into trouble. She healthily believes in moderation.

After watching this video clip, you will know that Bethenny is into healthy bodies and chocolate, but she doesn't have a great opinion of the ultra slim size zero body.

Celebrity Video, Bethenny Frankel Talks Lindsay And Nicole - Awesome video clips here

Want to know some healthy tips from celebs like Paris Hilton, Randy Jackson, and Alicia Silverstone? Then read more

Healthy Tip #1: Don't eat everything on your plate.

Paris and Nicky Hilton try to be as healthy as possible (Bethenny has known them since they were kids). What keeps them so slim is this little trick: they never finish all the food on their plate. Some would say this is wasteful, but overeating is a big problem with people. We often eat more food just because it's in front of us.

Healthy Tip #2: Load Up on Veggies.

Mariska Hargitay loves Mediterranean foods with lots of flavor. Vegetables offer a variety of different tastes and textures, and can be easily flavored with fresh herbs and spices. Veggies are just so healthy for you, you really can't go wrong with them.

Healthy Tip #3: Use Fresh Ingredients for Flavor.

Randy Jackson went through gastric bypass surgery in 2003. He dropped over 100 pounds, and had to change his eating habits to keep up with his new body. He's a huge fan of southern foods, so he uses fresh spices and ingredients to give those foods the flavor he craves.

Healthy Tip #4: Simply Substitute.

The Hogans are an all-American family, loving the types of food you get at fast food joints. In order to eat the high-fat foods they loved, Bethenny would just substitute healthier ingredients. She'd use olive oil instead of butter, and low-sugar maple syrup in place of real sugar. Your taste buds won't notice the difference much, but your body will.

Healthy Tip #5: Don't Be Afraid to Experiment.

Alicia Silverstone is a committed vegan, believing whole-heartedly in not consuming any animal products. When you don't eat meat, dairy products, or eggs, you've got to get a little creative in your meal-making. Alicia wasn't afraid to experiment with new ingredients like tofu, tempeh, and seitan to make mock-foods such as veggie "chicken" burgers.

Annatto: It's in My Food, But What is it?

FitSugar — Tue, 27 Feb 2007 15:13:00 -0800

Since I am a major health nut, I always read labels before I buy food. I often see the ingredient Annatto listed on packages, so what is it?

It's a natural food coloring made from the ground up seed pods of - surprise, surprise - the annatto tree, which grows in Central and South America. It is also called the Achiote tree. After this tree flowers, it produces hairy pods that turn blackish-brown when ripe.

Annatto adds color to cheese, butter, margarine, rice, smoked fish, and microwave popcorn. It is often used as a substitute for the expensive herb saffron.

It also has antioxidants. I guess that doesn't really matter since you only ingest a small amount, but hey, it's better than nothing.

Well now I feel much better knowing Annatto really is an all natural food coloring. Much better than Red 40.

Vitamins: Natural vs. Synthetic

FitSugar — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 14:10:17 -0800

Many of today's vitamin and mineral supplements are made synthetically through chemical processes, rather than derived directly from plants or other foods. Some manufacturers do make supplements directly from natural sources, and claim that these vitamins are superior in quality to their synthetic cousins.

So which ones are better for you?

Basically, it comes down to science. If the molecular structure of a synthetic vitamin and one made from natural foods are the same, then there is no real difference between their effects on the body.

Most synthetically made vitamins are identical to the natural ones. If one says, "better quality," don't rely on that unless their claim is backed up with scientific evidence or reasoning.

The list of ingredients and their amounts are the most important aspects to look at when comparing the two. If the lists are the same, then go for the cheaper one. Some synthetic vitamins contain artificial chemical colors, or are made with products that some people are allergic to. If this is the case, you may want to choose the food based, natural vitamins.

Fit's Tips: Just so you know, most synthetic vitamins and nutrients are both cheaper and purer.

Healing With Homeopathy

FitSugar — Wed, 07 Feb 2007 11:12:48 -0800

Do you know what Cindy Crawford, Cher, Tina Turner, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Prince Charles, all have in common? They all use homeopathic remedies.

Homeopathy is an alternative medicine that concentrates on caring for the whole person with methods that are specific, gentle, and sympathetic to the body's needs. The word "homeopathy" is derived from 2 Greek words: homoios (like) and pathos (suffering).

Homeopathy's basic principal is that "like cures like." Meaning that what ever substance is causing the problematic symptoms can be taken in minute doses to cure the problem. Since the substances used in homeopathy are extremely small, there are no side effects, adverse reactions, or contraindications. You usually place tiny pills under the tongue, six times a day. Remedies to treat the external symptoms are treated in ointment form.

If you think of homeopathy like you do immunizations it is easier to understand. When you were a kid, you probably got a shot for measles - you were actually given a live, weakened strain of the measles virus. Your body learns to fight it off so if the virus ever shows up again, you'll be immune to it.

Want to hear about the 3 levels of Homeopathic Therapy? Then read more

First Aid: used to treat immediate and common household problems like cuts, bruises, rashes, or bee stings.

Acute Homeopathy: used to treat health problems where the symptoms will eventually go away, like a cold, cough, or sports injury.

Constitutional Homeopathy: used to treat long-term health problems such as recurrent ear or sinus infections, or back pain.

The philosophy of homeopathy holds that the mind, body, and emotions are not separate. Homeopaths treat the patient as a whole person, rather than a body part on an assembly line. It can be life-changing for people who haven't had any luck with traditional western medicine.

Although, some would say people are wasting their money. Skeptic James Randi is so convinced that homeopathy is a form of quackery, that he has offered $1 million to anyone who can provide convincing evidence of its effects.

You'll have to decide for yourself. Look for a Homeopath near you to get more information.

Source

Acacia: Supports the Happy Healthy You

FitSugar — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 15:15:00 -0800

While searching for fitness DVDs online, I found Acacia - it's a wonderful source for beautiful and natural products that relax and rejuvenate.

They have distinctive creations for the body, spirit, and home - for inspiration, well-being, and for a more healthy and balanced life.

You can find unique clothing, footwear, beauty supplies, jewelry, and books. But really - they have an exceptional DVD collection that's pretty reasonably priced.

I found some great videos on Pilates, Yoga, Dance, and Prenatal fitness. Each video is around $20, which seems fairly reasonable, considering I usually see them for a lot more.

Fit's Tips: Want to give the gift of health and wellness? You can buy Acacia gift certificates online, so your friend can choose from a whole array of spiritual items that support a healthy and peaceful lifestyle. This might even make great Valentine's Day gift for your loved ones.