Wellness Wednesday: Healthy Granola, the options are endless!

Wellness Wednesday: Apple Cider Vinegar detox drink, you will not believe the health benefits in the 4th ingredient!

I know that almost everyone has heard of Apple Cider Vinegar or know the acronym ACV. I also know that a lot of people have taken one whiff of ACV and been immediately turned off, however this ACV drink doesn't only contain amazing health benefits but also includes flavors that will keep you sipping on this drink all day long.

Morning person? Trying to cut down on the coffee? This drink is perfect for a morning boost.

This drink will aid in weight loss, detox the body, cleanse the liver, reduce inflammation and boost your immunity. Keep reading to see exactly what each ingredient does for your body.

Let's Get Started!

The best way to make, and store this drink is in a quart size mason jar. This will allow you to have two to three days worth of this amazing drink ready to go. 

Apple Cider Vinegar: According to Rachel Link, MS, RD, ACV regulated blood sugar, enhances weight loss, promotes heart health by keeping cholesterol low, increases skin health, lowers blood pressure and relieves symptoms of acid reflux. Two table spoons of ACV is all it takes to reek the health benefits. This recipe calls for about 6 tablespoons of ACV so it should make about two to  three servings. Remember ACV should always be diluted in water.

Molasses: Has the lowest sugar content of any cane product. It also is packed with vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium, and Vitamin B6. Honey: Is another way to sweeten up this drink. Honey is a great ingredient when sweetening up any dish. Not only is it delicious it also aids in weight loss, helps boost the immune system and gives you a energy boost, while being packed with antioxidants.  

Lemon: Lemon is also a fruit that packs a punch when it comes to flavor and health benefits. Lemons are full of vitamin C and also aids in weight loss, healthier skin, and can even reduce the risk of kidney stones. Lemons also is an aid in dental care by helping bad breath, and rubbing lemon juice on your gums can also reduce bleeding that can come from gum diseases.

Cinnamon: Cinnamon has been used medically around the world for years and it a powerful spice. According to Dr. Axe cinnamon is full of antioxidants which help stop free radical damage and even slow the aging process! It also protects heart health and reduces inflammation. Cinnamon has also been linked to defending cognitive decline and protects brain function.The antioxidant properties can help protect against neurological disorders such as Alzheimer and Parkinson Disease. 

Another cool thing about this unique spice is it has natural anti-fungal, anti-biotic, anti- viral, and anti- micobial which helps fight off infections and viruses. Sold yet? Just in case you need a few more things cinnamon helps skin health, aids as a natural breath freshener, and helps fight allergies.

Ginger: Ginger contains ginerol which has powerful medicinal properties. One thing you may have heard, is ginger helps with nausea and is used to aid morning sickness. Ginger may also reduce sore muscles. It can also help as a pain reliever and can be used for menstrual pain. Ginger can also help fight infections and lower cholesterol. 

Turmeric: Turmeric increases the antioxidant capacity in the body. It is also said, that turmeric may prevent or even treat cancer. Turmeric can improve liver function and help relieve pain. 

Cayenne Pepper: This powerful spice has some great health benefits, first it aids in congestion and helps break up mucus. It can also be used to prevent migraine headaches, useful for blood clots, helps joint pain, and has anti-bacterial properties.

Thinks that you will need:

• Tea kettle or electric tea kettle
• Lemon juicer
• Quart size mason jar
• Measuring spoons

Ingredients: 

• 6 tablespoons ACV
• 1 tablespoons molasses or honey
• Juice from 1 lemon
• 1/4 tsp cinamon
• 1/4 tsp ginger
• 1/4 tsp tumeric
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper 

Instructions:

• Heat water until boiled 
• Combine juice of one lemon, ACV, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and honey or molasses in mason jar. Add hot water to mixture and stir until everything is combined. 
• Ready to serve. Make sure to gently shake mixture before serving. 
• HINT: Serve over ice for a great flavor in the morning. This is a acquired taste, add some water if needed. 

Wellness Wednesday: Emergency Survival Kit

Disaster can strike without warning any for many different reasons. With the recent false alarm Ballistic Missile threat many people are realizing the importance of a emergency kit. In Hawaii we have tsunami warnings, hurricane warnings, heavy rain, and other environmental disasters.

There are several components when creating a disaster plan. First is to make a plan. Some questions to think about are:

1. Get your household on board and knowledgeable. 
2. Where will you meet? 
3. What is everyone responsibility?
4.  What will you do if you are out of the house?
5. Where is the closest evacuation area and route? 
6. Have a plan for your pets?
7. Where will the emergency kit be held? Make sure that it is in a dry cool place. 
8. Do you have enough food? 

Food options 

Peanut butter

Granola bars 

Energy bars

Dried fruit

Nuts

Soda crackers

Canned food

Canned meat

Canned fruit

Here are some other things to pack in your kit!

Being prepared and having a plan is always important. Make sure you do your research and find out works best for your household and family. 

Wellness Wednesday: 5 Easy Smoothie Ideas

Medical Monday: What to do When You Fall

If you have any questions please walk-in seven days a week or give us a call at (808) 735-0007.

Sincerely,

Docs at IUC