Blog Feed: The Healthy Haven

— By Assia Mortensen We all deal with stress, whether it’s a traffic jam, screaming children or a hectic schedule without much breathing space. However, it becomes crystal clear how well one copes when serious life stressors come into play. … Continue reading → > read more

Keep Cool with Healthy Smoothies (includes Recipes)

Published on 2012-05-04 10:58:26

— By Assia Mortensen Smoothies became prevalent in the US in the late 1960s, when ice cream vendors and health food stores began selling them to health-conscious consumers. By the 1990s, smoothies were so well liked that many cafes and … Continue reading → > read more

Vegetarian Eggplant Meatballs

Published on 2012-04-24 13:43:51

Photo Credit to Melissa of Dash of East Blog Finding meatless version of meat recipes can sometimes be a challenge. Thankfully, with a plethora of vegetarian and vegan food bloggers out there, finding those recipes have become much easier. Such … Continue reading → > read more

The Delicious (and Surprisingly Calming) Properties of The Versatile Vanilla Bean

Published on 2012-04-18 17:19:55

— By Assia Mortensen Known as a synonym for “plain,” the roots of vanilla are far from ordinary. Derived from the pods of a hermaphroditic orchid producing long, sinuous pods, vanilla is carefully extracted in a complex process of harvesting, … Continue reading → > read more

Heart Healthy Physical Activity

Published on 2012-04-06 11:36:13

When it comes to your heart, it plays an important part towards your health and overall well-being. It’s the heart’s job to push blood and oxygen to every cell in your body, giving you fuel as well as carrying waste … Continue reading → > read more

iHerb’s Smoothie Operators (Customer-Submitted Smoothie Recipes)

Published on 2012-03-14 10:59:00

Recently, we ran a contest on the iHerb Facebook Page where customers submitted a smoothie recipe using an item that could be purchased at iHerb. If their smoothie was selected, not only would they win $25 off their next order, … Continue reading → > read more

Suggested Uses for Palmarosa Essential Oil

Published on 2012-03-02 15:55:22

Native to India, palmarosa oil has a rose-like scent, which makes it a popular ingredient in soaps, perfumes, and cosmetics. Palmarosa oil also has a variety of therapeutic uses, and is especially beneficial in skin care because of its moisturizing … Continue reading → > read more

Are Starch Blockers From White Kidney Beans a Viable Weight-loss Aid?

Published on 2012-02-14 14:12:31

In the past, white kidney bean supplements have been widely promoted as a type of “starch blocker”, a weight loss aid said to work by interfering with the digestion of starch. There’s a substance in white kidney beans that inhibits … Continue reading → > read more

12 Coconut Oil Tips (as submitted by iHerb customers)

Published on 2012-02-06 13:48:21

Coconut oil is definitely something that has many uses, both edible and non-edible. So when we asked iHerb customers on our Facebook page for quick and easy tips on how they use coconut oil, we were amazed by some of … Continue reading → > read more

Green Grape Smoothie

Published on 2012-01-24 15:19:22

Photo Credit to Jackie of Vegan Yack Attack Blog The great thing about smoothies is that they are so easy to make. As long as you have quality ingredients and a great blender, the possibilities are endless. There are certain … Continue reading → > read more

Exercise for Chronic Disease Relief

Published on 2012-01-18 13:57:01

Suffering that comes from chronic disease can sometimes be eased simply by exercising. While being physically active in general can certainly do good, there are actually types of exercises that can be beneficial to those with specific chronic diseases. Currently, … Continue reading → > read more

Pyruvate for Possible Weight Loss

Published on 2012-01-11 17:30:52

Looking for a supplement that may help with weight loss that you can take in conjunction with eating right and exercising? Preliminary studies have shown that Pyruvate may be something to look into. Pyruvate supplies the body with pyruvic acid, … Continue reading → > read more

Treatments for High Blood Pressure: More Than Just Taking a Pill

Published on 2011-12-29 11:54:25

For some people, hypertension (high blood pressure) can be curable as long as a they are willing to commit to a substantial lifestyle change, which could include the following. Achieving and Maintaining a Healthy Weight Limiting Salt Intake Eating Plenty … Continue reading → > read more

Suggested Uses for Oregano Essential Oil

Published on 2011-12-15 16:56:09

Probably best known as a workaholic in the kitchen, oregano also has many valuable therapeutic uses. In fact, it may well have first been used for its curative properties before its seasoning properties were discovered. Ancient Egyptians prized oregano for … Continue reading → > read more

The Mediterranean Diet and Good Health

Published on 2011-12-07 18:18:18

1950’s researchers discovered that people living in the Mediterranean regions which included Crete, Southern Italy and other countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea had an adult life expectancy that was among the highest in the world. It was also found out … Continue reading → > read more

Grilled Eggplant, Halloumi and Pesto Burgers

Published on 2011-11-17 12:52:50

Photo Credit to Sala of Veggie Belly Blog I just realized that this is this is the second eggplant recipe I posted in a row with the most recent one being the Garam Masala Eggplant Chips with Cilantro Mint Raita … Continue reading → > read more

What’s the Best Time to Exercise?

Published on 2011-11-09 16:16:32

Exercise physiologists have found some differences between athletic performance in the morning and later in the day. Many of these differences are attributed to the body’s circadian rhythms—24-hour cycles that control physical and behavioral factors such as sleep, mood, metabolism, … Continue reading → > read more

Creatine: Helpful for Sports Performance Enhancement

Published on 2011-07-01 17:48:48

Creatine is a naturally occurring substance that plays an important role in the production of energy in the body. The body converts it to phosphocreatine, a form of stored energy used by muscles. Although the evidence for creatine is not … Cont > read more

What to do about Job-Related Weight Gain

Published on 2011-07-01 15:10:51

It is a mantra you could repeat in your sleep: eat less, make healthier choices, and get more exercise. But let’s face it—you are busy, and even though you have sworn a thousand times that you will lose the ten … Continue reading → > read more

Featured iHerb Customer: Eugene K.

Published on 2011-07-01 11:50:32

We think our iHerb customers are awesome and we truly appreciate their support and their patronage, but we also know that they are all real people who are doing their best to live a life of health and wellness. That’s … Continue reading > read more

Raw Chocolate Almond Butter

Published on 2011-06-29 17:19:24

Photo Credit to Ricki Heller of Diet, Desserts and Dogs Blog When I saw a recipe for Raw Chocolate Almond Butter from Ricki, the creator of the Diet, Desserts and Dogs Blog, I knew I had to share it with … Continue reading → > read more

Caring for a Newborn: When to Call a Doctor

Published on 2011-06-28 10:26:44

If you’re a new mom or dad, you probably have only one main concern—the health of your newborn. It’s only natural to worry. But, one way you can decrease any worries is to arm yourself with information. Learn what symptoms … Continue read > read more

Is it Heartburn or a Heart Attack?

Published on 2011-06-24 13:03:25

The pain experienced during a heart attack and during a severe heartburn episode can be difficult to distinguish. It is not unusual for people to mistake symptoms of heart disease (such as angina and even a heart attack) for heartburn. … Contin > read more

Achieving and Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Published on 2011-06-23 11:56:38

You may have heard that losing weight is as easy as eating less and exercising more. Well it is true—taking in fewer calories than you use each day is the simplest way to lose weight. Never mind the fad diets, … Continue reading → > read more

Can Diet Shakes and Meal Replacements Really Help You Lose Weight?

Published on 2011-06-21 10:33:16

Diet shakes are called meal replacements by nutritionists and weight-loss experts because, in theory, drinking one shake is intended to replace one whole meal. Other types of meal replacements are nutritional bars and pre-packaged entrees. But do mea > read more

Featured iHerb Customer: Andrea V.

Published on 2011-06-20 15:19:50

Gardening for Your Health

Published on 2011-06-20 13:31:36

Aside from giving you fresh produce, gardening is an excellent way to stay physically fit. An hour of gardening can burn as many calories as a brisk walk. Moreover, gardening requires strength, flexibility, and agility. But if you do not … Cont > read more

Topical Comfrey for Sports Injuries and Back Pain Support (But Use with Caution)

Published on 2011-06-16 12:45:56

Comfrey is a high-yielding leafy green plant that has been used for centuries as a feed crop for animals and a medicine for humans. However, in 2001, it was removed as an oral dietary supplement from the U.S. market, and, … Continue reading > read more

Dark Chocolate for Hypertension Support and Possible Cholesterol Improvement

Published on 2011-06-15 12:10:10

Made from the beans of the cocoa tree, chocolate was first developed as a food in South America, where it was primarily consumed as a bitter beverage. Cocoa was not combined with sugar until the Spaniards brought chocolate back to … Continue re > read more

Avocado Walnut Bread

Published on 2011-06-08 15:28:39

Photo Credit to Maria of Scandi Foodie Blog When it comes to avocados, I’m always looking for new recipes to check out and when I saw this Avocado Walnut Bread by Maria of the Scandie Foodie Blog, I knew I … Continue reading → > read more

Cat’s Claw for Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis Support

Published on 2011-06-08 11:28:55

Cat’s claw is an herb popular among the indigenous people of Peru, where it is used to treat cancer, diabetes, ulcers, arthritis, and infections, as well as to assist in recovery from childbirth. It is also used as a contraceptive. … Cont > read more

American Heart Association Guidelines for Children’s Heart Health

Published on 2011-06-01 15:28:38

In 2002, the American Heart Association (AHA) published an updated version of its “Guide to Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease”. It presented recommendations for the reduction of cardiovascular risk factors in adults. Since then, resear > read more

Suggested Uses for Myrrh Essential Oil

Published on 2011-06-01 13:09:51

Best known for its presentation as a gift to the baby Jesus, myrrh appeared several more times in the Holy Bible. Myrrh has been in use for its therapeutic value for over 3,000 years, and continues to be a powerhouse … Continue reading → > read more

Exercise and Asthma: Is Exercise Jeopardizing Your Health?

Published on 2011-05-26 11:07:14

You have just finished a great workout when you start coughing. You have a hard time breathing, and your chest feels tight. Did you push yourself too hard? Maybe. But you are not out of shape. At least, you did … Continue reading → > read more

Featured iHerb Customer: Steve D.

Published on 2011-05-20 11:35:08

Smooth(ie) Operator: Colleen H. and her Minty Apple Green Smoothie

Published on 2011-05-18 18:17:36

When I asked our iHerb Facebook Page Fans about some of their favorite smoothie recipes, I got a plethora of tasty concoctions, which I’d love to share with you. Presenting an iHerb Smoothie Operator, Colleen Hager and her recipe for … Co > read more

Women and Fitness Performance

Published on 2011-05-16 16:14:05

The past 30 years have seen an increase in the number of women participating in sports. Are there special considerations for the female athlete? Hormones It is no secret that a woman’s hormones play a huge role in how she … Continue readi > read more

Featured iHerb Customer: Lanie H.

Published on 2011-05-13 11:41:09

Nutrition and Menopause

Published on 2011-05-10 18:25:29

The aging process is associated with many changes in hormonal and physiological function, some of which are gender-related. In women, one of the most dramatic hormonal changes is the striking reduction in estrogen production that accompanies menopaus > read more

Carnitine for Heart Health, Diabetic Neuropathy, COPD, Hyperthyroidism and Mild Depression Support

Published on 2011-05-09 13:50:42

Carnitine is a substance used by the body uses to turn fat into energy. It is not normally considered an essential nutrient because the body can manufacture all it needs. However, supplemental carnitine could in theory improve the ability of … > read more

Smooth(ie) Operator: Stina F and her Banana Nut Butter Smoothie

Published on 2011-05-06 13:43:11

When I asked our iHerb Facebook Page Fans about some of their favorite smoothie recipes, I got a plethora of tasty concoctions, which I’d love to share with you. Let’s start with iHerb’s first Smoothie Operator, Stina F and her R > read more

Featured iHerb Customer: Sheila V.

Published on 2011-05-06 11:18:46

Berry Lemonade Green Smoothie

Published on 2011-05-02 16:44:06

Photo Credit to Amy of Simply Sugar and Gluten Free Blog There are times when I want a smoothie that has a little more tartness to it, so when I came upon this Berry Lemonade Green Smoothie from Amy, the … Continue reading → > read more

Featured iHerb Customer: Kati K.

Published on 2011-04-29 16:44:51

The Benefits of a Fitness Partner

Published on 2011-04-26 11:50:24

If you have a hard time getting motivated to exercise, enlisting a fitness partner may help. A fitness partner can encourage, challenge, pace you, and can make working out more fun. When you are trying to find the right person, … Continue readi > read more

Suggested Uses for Marjoram Essential Oil

Published on 2011-04-20 17:28:19

Its fresh, warm, and slightly woody aroma reflects the meaning of marjoram’s botanical name: joy of the mountain. This popular herb has been used therapeutically for centuries. Ancient Greeks used it to calm muscle spasms, relieve excess fluid > read more

Avoiding Foods That Cause Heartburn

Published on 2011-04-20 15:34:36

Foods usually do not cause heartburn, but they can aggravate your condition and cause symptoms. Certain foods can cause symptoms by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, which allows digestive juices to splash up into the esophagus, thus irritatin > read more

Coenzyme Q10 for Heart, Hypertension and Diabetes Support

Published on 2011-04-15 13:45:05

Coenzyme Q 10 (CoQ 10), also known as ubiquinone, is a major part of the body’s mechanism for producing energy. The name of this supplement comes from the word ubiquitous, which means “found everywhere.” Indeed, CoQ 10 is found in & > read more

When a Loved One Has Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or Fibromyalgia

Published on 2011-04-12 12:08:19

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia (FMS) are debilitating chronic illnesses that can strike people of both sexes and all age groups. Partners, friends, and relatives of people with CFS or FMS may feel confused and helpless, not knowing w > read more

Tips for Keeping Your Children’s Teeth Healthy

Published on 2011-04-06 17:16:08

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), it is never too early to establish good oral hygiene habits. This will ensure healthy teeth and gums for your child. Here are some tips for parents from the ADA. Clean Gums for … Continue read > read more

Bromelain for Sinusitis Support and Possible Treatment for Injuries and Surgeries

Published on 2011-03-29 18:13:01

Bromelain is not actually a single substance, but rather a collection of protein-digesting enzymes (also called proteolytic enzymes) found in pineapple juice and in the stem of pineapple plants. It is primarily produced in Japan, Hawaii, and Taiwan, > read more

Wholegrain Animal Crackers

Published on 2011-03-29 12:20:22

Photo Credit to Amanda of The Cilantropist Blog These days, junk food abounds and when you have children, it can be a battle to make sure they eat right. So when I came upon this Whole Grain Animal Crackers recipe … Continue reading → > read more

Suggested Uses for Lime Essential Oil

Published on 2011-03-23 12:54:33

Fruity and refreshing, limes have been a kitchen staple for centuries. It is believed that limes were first introduced to the Americas by 16th century Portuguese navigators. The lime soon became a favorite fruit, both for its therapeutic value and &# > read more

The Role of Depression in Heart Disease

Published on 2011-03-17 11:32:23

“Everybody obviously has a mood dip after a heart attack,” says Laura Kubzansky, PhD, MPH, an assistant professor of society, human development, and health at Harvard University. But in studies, she says, heart attack victims diagnosed with medic > read more

Preparing for an Emergency: A Disaster Supply Kit

Published on 2011-03-15 11:55:04

What would you do if a disaster struck close to your home, and you were instructed to evacuate or “shelter in place” (remain in your home until further notice)? Are you prepared to meet your family’s needs until help arrives? … Continue r > read more

Boswellia for Possible Asthma, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis and IBS Support

Published on 2011-03-11 16:13:17

The gummy resin of the boswellia tree has a long history of use in Indian herbal medicine as a treatment for arthritis, bursitis, respiratory diseases, and diarrhea. What Is Boswellia Used for Today? Growing evidence suggests that boswellia has anti- > read more

True or False? Never Wake a Sleepwalker

Published on 2011-03-08 12:11:04

If you’ve ever woken up in the middle of the night to find someone sleepwalking around the house, you know that it’s an unnerving experience. But should you wake the person up? Some people argue that waking sleepwalkers will confuse … Conti > read more

15 Minute Creamy Avocado Pasta

Published on 2011-03-07 16:24:38

Photo Credit to Angela of Oh She Glows Blog Avocado is one of my favorite fruits. In fact, I love it so much that I can easily cut one in half and eat from both halves with a spoon. No … Continue reading → > read more

True or False? More Weight Is Lost By Running or Exercising on an Empty Stomach

Published on 2011-03-04 16:23:52

You know that exercise is important, but there is a lot of conflicting advice out there concerning the “right” way to work out. One question that often arises is, “Will I lose more weight if I go running on an … Continue reading → > read more

Beta Glucan for High Cholesterol and Diabetes Support

Published on 2011-02-24 12:49:07

The term “beta-glucan” refers to a class of soluble fibers found in many plant sources. The best documented use of beta-glucan involves improving heart health; the evidence for benefit is strong enough that the FDA has allowed a “heart healthy > read more

True or False? Eating at Night Will Make You Gain Weight

Published on 2011-02-22 14:09:45

Eat late, gain weight? This myth has been around for years, and although some people could swear that their late-night eating habits do make them gain weight, recent research has shown that your body doesn’t process food differently at different &# > read more

Suggested Uses for Lemon Essential Oil

Published on 2011-02-21 11:08:25

Lemons have long been valued for more than lemonade. We know that ancient Egyptians prized this oil for its purported ability to act as an antidote to fish and meat poisoning. And, like lime, it was a staple on 17th … Continue reading → > read more

Pomegranate Granola

Published on 2011-02-18 12:41:39

Photo Credit to Sam of Today’s Nest Healthy food sometimes has the stigma of not tasting good, but how can you not look at the picture above of this delicious looking Pomegranate Granola from Sam of Today’s Nest and not … Continue > read more

Tips on Preventing and Easing the Aches and Pains of Traveling

Published on 2011-02-14 14:28:02

We have all heard of needing a vacation from a vacation, and the aches and pains encountered while traveling generally aren’t in the itinerary. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Even if getting to your vacation destination is … Continue r > read more

Pets and Your Kids’ Allergies

Published on 2011-02-10 11:56:08

Not too long ago, expectant parents were often advised to give away their family pets before a baby arrived, especially if there was a family history of allergies or asthma. The prevailing theory was that being around pets at a … Continue readi > read more

Arginine for Possible Heart, Artery and Cold Support

Published on 2011-02-03 17:25:17

Arginine is an amino acid found in many foods, including dairy products, meat, poultry, and fish. It plays a role in several important mechanisms in the body, including cell division, wound healing, removal of ammonia from the body, immunity to ̷ > read more

Autoimmune Disease and Women

Published on 2011-02-01 11:12:09

Ann, a lawyer in San Francisco, had been to see her doctor, but felt frustrated. When she described her symptoms—tired all the time, weight loss without trying, and just not feeling “healthy”—her doctor said she needed to relax more, > read more

Banana Avocado Smoothie

Published on 2011-01-24 17:44:57

Photo Credit to Winnie of Healthy Green Kitchen Blog Last year, I was able to share a tasty Raw Chocolate Banana Smoothie recipe from Winnie, who’s the blogger and creator of the Healthy Green Kitchen Blog. Well, this time around, … Con > read more

Suggested Uses for Lavender Oil

Published on 2011-01-17 17:22:10

Lavender is the most loved aromatic used in aromatherapy today. Besides being versatile, its lightly floral and soothing scent is one that most people find appealing. In therapeutic terms, lavender is the most useful oil, and one that every aromather > read more

Alternative Therapies: Hatha Yoga

Published on 2011-01-14 13:05:56

Overview Hatha yoga, or, as it is commonly called in the US, simply “yoga,” is an exercise system derived from ancient traditions in India. There are many schools or varieties of hatha yoga, but all of them involve “asanas,” or … Contin > read more

How to Choose a Therapist or Counselor

Published on 2011-01-13 11:02:43

Perhaps you have a chronic or difficult problem, or maybe you feel depressed or sad. Before you jump into therapy, there are important issues that you need to consider. For example, “How do I choose a therapist?” “How much will R > read more

The Importance of Stretching

Published on 2011-01-07 12:22:05

Stretching is an essential part of a complete exercise program. However, many people skip it, thinking they don’t have enough time or it’s not very important. Here’s Why It’s Important: Stretching offers many benefits, like im > read more

Kidney Bean Burger

Published on 2011-01-04 11:06:30

Photo Credit to Linda of Eating Well…Living Thin Blog When it comes to burgers, they don’t always have to be meat-based. In fact, there are quite a few meatless options out there like these recipes for Green Banana Burgers and … C > read more

Kids Get Headaches, Too

Published on 2010-12-29 17:23:12

Kids, not just adults, get headaches too. Luckily, very few headaches are caused by serious conditions, such as a tumor, infections, or a head injury. Regardless, common headaches can be very painful and distracting for children. Childhood Headache T > read more

Are You Suffering from Job Burnout?

Published on 2010-12-29 14:17:04

Kelly James thought she wanted to be a lawyer, but after four different law jobs in five years, hoping each position would lessen her unhappiness, she was at a breaking point. “I lived for Friday. I’d count the hours until … Continu > read more

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Blog Feed: The Healthy Haven

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