TEN AMAZING BENEFITS OF MATCHA GREEN TEA

Here we give you ten great reasons to enjoy a cup of Matcha Green Tea as part of your daily routine.

1. High in Antioxidants

We’ve all read this word before. Antioxidants are the magical nutrients and enzymes responsible for fighting against the negative effects of UV radiation, giving us younger-looking skin, and preventing a number of life-threatening maladies. Antioxidants are something that all health-conscious individuals seek from such foods as raw fruits, green veggies, and (let’s not forget) dark chocolate. The first amazing benefit of Matcha Green Tea is that just one bowl provides over 5 times as many antioxidants as any other food – the highest rated by the ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) met.

2. Loaded with Catechin, EGCg

You may have already heard that not all antioxidants are created equal. Green tea contains a specific set of organic compounds known as catechins. Among antioxidants, catechins are the most potent and beneficial. One specific catechin called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg) makes up 60% of the catechins in Matcha Green Tea. Out of all the antioxidants, EGCg is the most widely recognized for its cancer fighting properties. Scientists have found that Matcha Green Tea contains over 100 times more EGCg than any other tea on the market.

3. Enhances Calm

For over a millennium, Matcha Green Tea has been used by Chinese Daoists and Japanese Zen Buddhist monks as a means to relax and meditate while remaining alert. Now we know that this higher state of consciousness is due to the amino acid L-Theanine contained in the leaves used to make Matcha. L-Theanine promotes the production of alpha waves in the brain which induces relaxation without the inherent drowsiness caused by other “downers.”

4. Boosts Memory and Concentration

Another side-effect of L-Theanine is the production of dopamine and serotonin. These two chemicals serve to enhance mood, improve memory, and promote better concentration – something that can benefit everyone!


5. Increases Energy Levels and Endurance

Samurai, the noble warriors of medieval and early-modern Japan, drank Matcha Green Tea before going into battle due to the tea’s energizing properties. While all green tea naturally contains caffeine, the energy boost received from Matcha is largely due to its unique combination of other nutrients. The increased endurance from a bowl of Matcha Green Tea can last up to 6 hours and because of the effects of L-Theanine, Matcha drinkers experience none of the usual side-effects of stimulants such as nervousness and hypertension. It’s good, clean energy.

6. Burns Calories

Drinking Matcha Green Tea has also been shown to increase metabolism and help the body burn fat about four times faster than average. Again, unlike many diet aides currently on the market, Matcha causes no negative side-effects such as increased heart rate and high blood pressure.
7. Detoxifies the Body
During the last three weeks before tea leaves are harvested to be made into Matcha, Camellia sinensis are covered to deprive them of sunlight. This causes a tremendous increase in chlorophyll production in the new growth of these plants. The resulting high levels of chlorophyll in Matcha Green Tea not only give this tea its beautiful vibrant green color. Matcha is also a powerful detoxifier capable of naturally removing heavy metals and chemical toxins from the body.
8. Fortifies the Immune System
The catechins in Matcha Green Tea have been shown to have antibiotic properties which promote overall health. Additionally, just one bowl of Matcha Green Tea provides substantial quantities of Potassium, Vitamins A & C, Iron, Protein, and Calcium. Further studies have even suggested that the nutrients in Matcha may have the ability to inhibit the attacks of HIV on human T-cells.
9. Improves Cholesterol
Researchers aren’t entirely certain how Matcha Green Tea has such a positive effect on cholesterol, however studies of different populations have show that people who drink Match Green Tea on a regular basis have lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol while at the same time displaying higher levels of HDL (good) cholesterol. Men who drink Matcha Green Tea are about 11% less likely to develop heart disease than those who don’t drink Matcha.
Finally, the tenth and final benefit of drinking Matcha Green Tea…
10. Amazing Flavor
Drinking something just because it’s healthy can be a lot like swallowing medicine. It’s unpleasant and you dread it, but you feel obligated to do it. After all, it’s good for you… right? Sure, but wouldn’t you rather look forward to improving your overall well-being? Of course you would!
Fortunately, unlike a lot of other teas which require sugar, milk, or lemon to make them palatable to the average consumer, Matcha is absolutely wonderful all by itself. It’s crisp vegetative notes are complimented by the savory taste of the L-Theanine amino acid making Matcha a tea that is truly unique in every way. So sit back, relax, and enjoy a delicious bowl of hot Matcha.

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TOP 5 HEALTHY BREAKFASTS

1.  Porridge - This has often been the go to breakfast for athletes and quite rightly so. A large bowl of porridge made with semi-skimmed milk will give you just under 30g of carbohydrates.  Understandably plain porridge is not the tastiest but there is a whole host of ways to spice up your porridge in the morning. Try a combination of your favourite dried fruit and nuts, or a tablespoon of low fat yogurt to add some more flavour. Try to avoiding reaching for the golden syrup and opt for natural alternatives such as honey, if you want something slightly sweeter Agave Nectar is a great addition as it has a low glycaemic index too.


2.  Omelettes- This is the perfect breakfast for those wanting to use the much talked about ‘fasted training’ techniques but can’t bear the thought of leaving the house without eating some form of solid food. Fasted training is not necessarily aimed at training with no food at all, but instead aimed at training with low glycogen which we get from carbohydrates. A two egg omelette is all you need as it provides a fantastic source of protein but only contains traces of carbohydrates. Spice up your omelette by adding vegetables such as peppers, mushrooms, onions or tomato - whatever you fancy. Avoid adding large amounts of cheese as high fat foods will be slower to digest and will more likely sit in your stomach.

3.  Bagels - For those long or hard training days when you need to consume a high carbohydrate breakfast, bagels are a great option. One Bagel has around 40g of carbohydrate but less than 1.5g of fat. Scrambled eggs are great to have with your bagel, one egg would be enough but avoid using butter or cream when making it. Opt for a dash of olive oil and add chives for flavour. As an alternative how about a thin layer of low fat cream cheese and a couple of slices of smoked salmon.

4.  Smoothies - Not everyone is a morning person who likes to sit down and tuck into a hearty breakfast, similarly a lot of us who mix training and work simply don’t have the time to do so. Smoothies could be your saving grace as they are quick and easy to make and can also be made in advance. A personal favourite of OTE Sports Nutritionist Annie Simpson are whole grain smoothies which really pack an energy boost. Try blending 1 banana, 25g rolled oats, 120g low fat yogurt, 120g skimmed milk, 2 teaspoons of honey and an optional ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon for flavour. This will make one delicious portion of a high carbohydrate, high protein smoothie to kick start your day.

5.  Granola - This is often thought as the healthy option, however, many Granola mixes on our supermarket shelves are full of sugar, fat and unwanted calories. It’s actually really easy to whip up your own batch of tasty granola with the advantage of choosing ingredients that meet your own preferences. For example mix together 200g rolled oats, 75g of chopped nuts, 30g of seeds (something like pumpkin or sunflowers seeds), 80g of chopped dried fruits and a large pinch of salt. Combine this with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Spread thinly on a baking tray and bake for 10-15 minutes  at around 150⁰C (until lightly toasted). You can add vanilla/almond extract or coconut flakes for added flavour. Have a play around with different ingredients and make a granola that tickles your taste buds, you should be able to store it in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks and use as and when. Enjoy with either skimmed milk or low fat natural yogurt.

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Asparagus-Goat Cheese Soufflés

Puffy and warm, these asparagus-goat cheese soufflés are the essence of spring. Serve them alongside a big salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a light supper or a special brunch. Though these are wonderful either way, the addition of truffle oil is spectacular and decadent-tasting.

Yield: 6 servings 
Active Time: 30
Total Time: 50

Ingredients
1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound), trimmed
1 1/2 cups nonfat milk
2 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt, divided
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Pinch of ground nutmeg
4 large egg yolks, at room temperature (see Tips)
1 1/2 teaspoons truffle oil (optional; see Tips)
8 large egg whites, at room temperature
1 cup crumbled or diced aged goat cheese (see Note) or Manchego cheese

Preparation
Fill a large skillet with 1 inch of hot water and bring to a boil. Add asparagus. Partially cover and cook the asparagus until tender-crisp, about 3 minutes. Drain; refresh under cold water. Blot the asparagus dry with a clean kitchen towel, then cut into 1/2-inch slices.
Position rack on lowest level of oven; preheat to 375°F. Coat six 10-ounce ramekins with nonstick cooking spray. Place ramekins on a large rimmed baking sheet.
Heat milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until hot. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk in flour and cook, whisking often, for 2 minutes. Turn off heat and slowly whisk in hot milk. Return the heat to medium-low and continue whisking until the mixture is thickened, 3 to 4 minutes. Whisk in 1/4 teaspoon salt, pepper and nutmeg. Remove from the heat and whisk in 4 egg yolks, one at a time, and truffle oil, if using. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and stir in the asparagus and cheese.
Place 8 egg whites in a large bowl. Beat with an electric mixer, slowly increasing the speed, until they begin to foam. Add the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and continue to beat until the whites hold their shape; do not overbeat. (You’ll know they are ready when you lift the beaters out and the peak doesn’t flop over.)
Using a rubber spatula, gently stir one-third of the whites into the egg yolk mixture to lighten it. Gently fold in the remaining egg whites just until blended. Divide the soufflé mixture among the prepared ramekins, filling them almost to the top. (Discard any leftover mixture or prepare another ramekin for another soufflé.)
Bake the soufflés on the bottom rack until puffy and golden and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 145°F, 20 to 25 minutes. Do not overcook—the centers will look soft.

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Discover Proven Methods For Eliminating Even The Most Powerful Of Headaches

Everyone knows what a headache feels like, but not everyone enjoys the ease of relief available…

Your brain is packed full of nerve endings that if triggered in just the right way, they send out pain signals to your head, resulting in you guessed it… headaches!

BUT… nobody deserves to be in pain most of the time. Headaches are one of the most common problems people face in the modern world. In fact, migraines rank as the 19th most common cause for disability.

What can you do about it?

Having severe headaches interfere with your ability to work and play. It’s time you found relief from your headache. Even if you suffer from occasional headaches, it’s time you found out what the exact cause is so you can find the perfect treatment!

It’s time to kiss that headache goodbye, and good ridden. Now is the time for you to live your life to the fullest.

Since the chances are high that you are suffering from a headache right now, I’ll keep this short and sweet.

I’ve suffered from tension and cluster migraine headaches my whole life. I’ve tried every pill you can imagine. I’ve tried all the major preventatives, and have learned which ones work and which ones don’t.

It’s short, sweet and to the point so you won’t have to get a headache from reading it. Here you’ll find information you can take to your healthcare practitioner to stop the endless cycle of pain and misery.

Are you ready to take the next step?

You’ll find out what the best type of doctor is to treat your headache, and learn exactly what to say to make sure you receive the best possible care!

As if that weren’t enough, just so you know I am concerned about your health here and not a dollar,

You will be living a life that is virtually headache free!

90% of all headaches are caused by stress…

Don’t let stress get you down. Find out how you can find the relief you need, no matter how dire your situation is.

But hurry please, because people are banging down my door (ouch!) and I don’t want to have to jack up prices on you just because the demand for this guide is too high. 

click here : http://goo.gl/sXDSxm

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Eating Healthy On Vacation

It can be very tempting to abandon your good sense
of healthy eating on vacation.  Although you may
strive for healthy eating, it's easy to drift off
and grab an ice cream cone here and there.  There
are however, ways to watch what you eat on
vacation.

It's easier than ever these days to request a low
fat or vegetarian meal on airplane flights.  If
you choose to instead drive to your destination,
the quest to find healthy food can get a bit more
complicated.

Rather than simply relying on greasy foods for
nutrition, pack some nutritious foods in a cooler
full of ice packs.  Fruits and vegetables, crackers,
yogurt, and sandwiches are all great to have with
you on the road.

Once you arrive at your hotel, you should do
yourself a favor and turn the minibar key down - as
this helps to avoid the temptation.  If your hotel
offers a continental breakfast, stick to fruits,
cereals, and proteins.  If your hotel has a stove
or microwave, consider bringing your own healthy
food with you.

If you simply must eat out, do so only when you
are hungry.  Restaurants will usually serve large
portions, so be careful.  If you do go a bit over
on a meal, simply cut back on the next.

If you find it hard to fit in three square meals
a day, try to fit in six smaller meals or snacks,
as your body needs fuel every four hours or so.
When you eat out, avoid appetizers.  Whatever you
do, do not miss any meals.

When it's possible, you should avoid eating large
meals at night.  When your body gets ready for
sleep and slows down, it also burns calories at a
much slower pace.  Never eat bread before bed, and
make sure to avoid the butter.  Choose fish or
poultry for your meal instead, and include
vegetables as a side dish.

Even though it may sound hard, eating healthy on
vacation isn't really that difficult.  All you have
to do is use a little will power, and pass up
foods that you know aren't good for you.  This
way, you'll enjoy healthy eating and a healthy
lifestyle wherever you go.

The next time you go on a vacation, always remember
that eating healthy is a way of life.  You can
afford to get something you crave, although you
shouldn't make a habit of it.  One ice cream
cone or a pizza isn't going to matter - as long as
you know when to stop.

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Eating Healthy On The Run

Whether your traveling on the go or around the
home, you don't need to give up healthy eating
simply because you are on the run.  The fact is,
healthy eating is even more important when your
trying to keep up with a busy schedule.

Having a good diet will help your body to handle
stress better.  As you hustle about, a healthy meal
is probably the last thing you think about.  The
following tips can help you eat when your on the go.

Restaurants
With tempting menus, large portions, and a festive
atmosphere, it's easy to skip healthy eating.  It's
okay to splurge every now and then, although you'll
pack on a lot of weight if you make it a habit.
When you eat out at restaurants, always be smart
about it.

Airports
An airport can be a very stressful place, although
you shouldn't scrap your diet because of it.  Eat
because you are hungry, not because of stress,
boredom, or to kill time.

In your car
Keep some healthy snacks in your car at all times,
so that when you get hungry - you have them.

At home
Evenings and mornings are busy times in most homes.
Making the time to eat can be hard, although you
shouldn't run out the door without eating breakfast
first.  Cereal with milk, a banana, muffin, or even
a bagel is a great way to start the day.

Anytime you are on the go, always make sure that you
make the right food decisions.  You can take healthy
food with you if you need to, so that you have it
when you need it.  Eating healthy on the go is easy
to do, once you know how.  Never sacrifice healthy
food for junk, as your body will regret it later.

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Eating Healthy On A Budget

If you have problems serving healthy foods because
of the prices, you'll find these tips to be just
what you need to eat healthy on a budget.

1.  Eliminate junk food
Doing your shopping on your own is the easiest way
to shop, as children and sometimes spouses are
usually the ones requesting junk food.  Shopping
alone will prevent this, and ensure that you only
buy the foods you need.

2.  Water or milk instead of soft drinks
You can still enjoy your favorite drinks at a
sporting event or night out, although you should
stick with the smallest size when shopping to save
money and calories.  Children and even adults need
milk or milk products on a daily basis.  Milk will
also help you get strong and provides calcium for
healthy bones and healthy teeth.

3.  Buy fruits in quantity
Whne they are in season, buy fruits in quantity
and freeze any extras.  You can buy several pounds
this way, and freeze extras to have them when the
fruit goes out of season.  Wash the fruit well,
remove any spoiled pieces, dry thoroughly, then
freeze in plastic zipper bags.

4.  Meats and beans
Meats and beans are the best sources for protein.
Lean meat is more expensive than meats with a lot
of fat.  Canned beans are a great deal as well,
as they give you protein at a great price.

5.  Beans as a substitute
You should use beans a substitute for meat on a
frequent occasion.  There are several varieties,
so you can prepare them in a crock pot, so when
you return home they are ready to consume.

The USDA recommends eating beans at least 4 times
per week.  If you experience gas after eating
beans you should try washing them, covering them
with water, bringing the water to a boil, then
draining it off and refilling the pot.

6.  If you live in a coastal area or an area
where fish are around, make that an integral
part of your diet.  You can catch them from the
lakes or rivers, saving money in the process.

7.  Peanut butter is great for those on a budget
as it's popular with almost everyone.  You can
use it for sandwiches instead of eating hot
dogs.  It does need to be refrigerated, although
bigger jars can last you for weeks.

8.  You should fill up with foods that have a high
content of water.  Watermelon, salads, and even
sugar free gelatin are all great examples.

Eating healthy is always something you can't go
wrong with.  You can eat healthy for just a few
bucks, which makes it perfect for those on a
budget. Now, you don't need a lot of money to have
the lifestyle and health you've always wanted.

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