November 2014

Move over coconut oil . . . ‘tis the season to embrace the power of pumpkin seed oil.  Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of monounsaturated fat, protein, magnesium, iron, calcium, zinc and a wide array of vitamins.  Medical research suggests that the vitamins and minerals in the pumpkin seed are important for immunity, cell growth and division, sleep, mood, bone health, your senses of taste and smell and even eye and skin health.  In postmenopausal women pumpkin seed oil may lead to a significant increase in good “HDL” cholesterol and a decrease in hot flashes.  Pumpkin seed oil is also a great source of plant-based omega-3s.  Unfortunately the nutritional value of pumpkin seed oil is lost when heated so the best way to consume this dark and nutty-flavored oil is mixed with lemon juice or a good apple cider vinegar for salad dressing, drizzled over cooked vegetables or added to smoothies.   And make sure to share your pumpkin seed oil with the man in your life to promote good prostate health.

Ebola scare stories are all over the news but as an American it is somewhat unlikely that you will be exposed to the Ebola virus. On the other hand, your chances of getting the flu is somewhere between 5% and 20%.  If you get the flu you can count on it lasting from 3 to 7 days with a lingering, persistent cough and fatigue.  Every year I encourage you to get a flu shot but I know most of you don’t.  Maybe you don’t think you need it but, if you spend time with an older adult or someone with a weak immune system you really should get a flu shot.  And if you are over the age of 65 you are far more likely to die of complications from the flu than from Ebola. Consider cleaning these 6 things more often to stay healthy and to avoid spreading nasty germs -- shared computers, the refrigerator door, inside of your car, the remote control, your purse and your cell phone.

Make the time to be good to you and try a homemade pumpkin mask:

Combine 2 teaspoons pureed canned pumpkin,  ½ teaspoon raw honey, 
¼ teaspoon milk or heavy whipping cream,  ½ teaspoon brown sugar for dry skin
 or ¼ teaspoon apple cider for oily skin. Mix until smooth and well blended.  Apply to the face using your fingertips, making sure to avoid the eyes.  Leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water and pat dry.

Happy Thanksgiving & Good Health!

Terry

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life." ~Melody Beattie