Natural Health Ezine » Weight Loss

Exercise To Lose Weight

NHE — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 09:59:19 +0000

What comes to mind when you hear the word “exercise”? Do you think of big equipment like treadmills, ellipticals, or heavy weight machines at a gym? Most people think that in order to lose weight, they have to join a gym. After all, that’s where all the necessary equipment is, right? On the contrary, you have everything you need to get a great workout right there at home, or in your neighborhood. Everyone needs to get some sort of exercise in order to lose weight. It is possible to lose weight by just changing your diet, but exercise is a major key in burning off excess fat.

Cardiovascular exercise is one major way to burn off fat. You should always start out slow, and work your way up over time. This goes for any type of exercise, cardiovascular or strength training. For a cardiovascular routine, you want to get your heart rate up for at least 20 minutes a session. If you’re a beginner, raise your heart rate by 55% to 65% over your resting heart rate. If you’ve been exercising for a while, raise it by 60% to 80%. Calculate your resting heart rate by counting your pulse for one full minute.

You Don’t Need A Gym

There are many ways to get a cardiovascular workout without the need of heavy equipment. All you need is yourself. Walking and running both provide excellent exercise. One of the great things about walking and running is that you can do it anywhere. You don’t need any special equipment. Walk or run around your neighborhood. Bring your dog along with you. Dogs make excellent walking and running companions. If it’s a rainy day, find an indoor running track and keep moving.

Another great way to get cardiovascular exercise is by taking the stairs instead of the elevator. If you work in a high office building, park at ground level and walk your way up. If you’re at the very top, then park halfway up, and go on from there. During your lunch break, do a quick flight or two. If you’ve got stairs at home, that’s a plus. Make a point of going up and down the stairs once every hour. You could “forget” something upstairs and have to go get it.

Swimming is great exercise for anyone that has physical limitations. People who suffer from physical disabilities that affect balance, or those that suffer from joint pain can get a good cardiovascular workout by swimming. Either by swimming regular laps, or taking part in an aquarobics routine, the pool is a great workout spot. Swimming is much easier on your joints than land based workouts, as it provides less impact on your joints.

If you have children, play with them. Kids expend a lot of energy just by playing. Have you ever watched a child play? They run, jump, chase one another, and contort their bodies every which way. All this movement burns calories and provides great natural exercise. Join in the fun with them. Play a game of tag in the back yard, or a game of Frisbee. Take them to the park and have fun moving around with them.

Not all exercise is cardiovascular. Strength training is also very important to lose weight. Strength training raises your metabolism, just like cardiovascular exercise, and allows your body to burn fat more easily. And just like cardiovascular workouts, there’s no need to join a gym or buy expensive equipment.

Household items can double as exercise equipment. Dumbbells and hand weights can be replaced by cans of food or milk jugs. An easy way to incorporate strength training is to tell yourself every time you open the refrigerator, you’ll do 10 reps of an arm exercise. They can be arm curls, front raises, or triceps extensions. Any type of arm exercise can be done with a couple a food cans or a full milk jug.

Body weight exercises, such as push ups, crunches, or sit ups, can be done easily at any time. It doesn’t take many crunches to build up strong abdominal muscles. A lot of people think that you need to do 100 crunches every day to get a flat stomach. But just 10 to 20 reps is all you need to tone those muscles. As long as you feel those muscles working and getting tired, they’ll get stronger.

The combination of cardiovascular exercise and strength training is important. Strength training helps to strengthen and tone muscles, and cardiovascular workouts burn the fat to show off those strong muscles. You don’t need fancy and expensive equipment in order to exercise to lose weight. You’ve got all you need right where you are. A little creativity may be needed, but that’s part of the fun. And yes, exercise can be fun. It’s all in how you go about doing it.

What do you do to exercise at home?

Photo by mikebaird

5 Ways Massage Therapy Promotes Weight Loss

Guest Author — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 10:11:44 +0000

The following article was written by Elise Degrass who writes about Massage Therapy for MassageTherapy.net

Massage therapy has been practiced for many years mainly for relaxation but the aspect of using it as a weight loss solution is slowly coming to the fore front. Weight loss massage may sound too good to be true but it is a reality many people are benefiting from. As a matter of fact, this therapy can be included into the clients’ daily routine in order to aid in weight loss. This is not only fashionable but a good alternative for those that are intent on loosing any excess weight.

1. Stress Busting

Massage is an excellent way to alleviate stress and achieve overall rest and relaxation for the body and soul. When it comes to weight loss, stress is a factor to consider because the when an individual is stressed, the body reacts. In most cases, once Cortisol is released into the system as a result of pressure, the intestines slow down in preparation for either flight or fight. If this happens over extended periods of time, the end result is weight gain due to a poorly functioning digestive system. Massage alleviates the strain giving the body time and space to digest the food accordingly.

2. Sports Massage

This may sound far fetched but for those interested in weight loss it is not. This type of kneading is good after a tiring session at the gym. The muscles are relaxed after vigorous exercise resulting in faster recovery. This in turn translates into more sessions at the gym and faster weight loss.

3. Lymphatic massage

This may not sound like much until your lymphatic system gets blocked and the waste is not eliminated accordingly. Once the blockage occurs, the body retains the waste which is transferred to the organs resulting in weight gain. Massage helps to drain the lymphatic system giving the body the capacity to purge itself of the harmful waste. Consequently, metabolism is increased resulting in weight loss.

4. Ayurveda Herbal Massage

With this manipulation of the body’s system, a special paste or powder is spread on the body by two therapists resulting in toxin elimination. The treatment ought to be done once a day for approximately 1 hour in order for it to be effective.

5. Cellulite Removal Massage

Cellulite is an accumulation of fat beneath the skin giving it that orange peel look. It is brought about by fat stored within the body which is in turn pushing against the connective tissues. Cellulite can be eliminated by using different massage techniques resulting in weight loss.

Massage can indeed be used for weight loss but it must be incorporated with the more traditional methods of weight loss. These include a good, healthy diet as well as regular exercise and water intake. Once all these procedures are put into place and topped up with massage then weight loss occurs. Massage therapy without a doubt promotes weight loss but as always it should be conducted by an experienced and licensed therapist especially with regards to the more complicated treatments.

Photo by FoundryParkInn

Health Benefits Of Running

NHE — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:19:37 +0000

One of the most effective ways to work out is to take up running. There is no exercise equipment needed other than a good pair of running shoes. This form of exercise does not require a specific time of day to be accomplished. It can be done whenever a person chooses to do it. The benefits of running are many, including benefits for both the body and for the mind.

Running to lose weight

Perhaps one of the best health benefits of running is it is an excellent way to lose weight. Running burns more calories than other forms of cardiovascular exercise. Cardiovascular exercise is the only way to burn off excess body fat. It has been proven that running can help slow down the aging process. In people who run regularly, there is less muscle and bone loss than in people who do not run. The human growth hormone that keeps people young is activated when a person starts to run.

It is recommended for people who suffer from osteoporosis, hypertension, and diabetes to run a few miles every day. This will help combat these diseases, as it releases endorphins that can help people relax. People who are at risk of heart attacks are advised to run, because it will strengthen the heart, lower the blood pressure, and it will maintain the elasticity of arteries. Running regularly also helps to raise good (HDL) cholesterol, promotes the use of 50% of the long capacity that normally goes unused, and also reduces the chance of blood clots from forming. Regularly taking part in running can have a positive impact on the immune system. It causes a higher count of lymphocytes in the blood.

Psychological Benefits of Running

Along with the many physical health benefits of running, there are also many positive psychological benefits. Through the act of running, it can relieve psychological stress that builds up on a person’s mind. Through the release of endorphins, a feeling of happiness and satisfaction is felt. There is a sense of accomplishment every time a running goal is met. For every mile achieved it can boost a person’s confidence. Seeing results such as weight loss through the act of running is also a confidence booster. A person can gain more and more confidence when they realize their efforts through running is having a positive impact in their physical appearance.

Running helps depression

People who suffer from depression are often urged to take up running, as this has been proven to be a successful form of treatment. Running has also been used as a treatment for helping people who have addictions of any type. The feeling a person experiences after a run is described as an intense exhilaration, and can often replace a person’s addiction to a substance. This type of euphoria is the cause of the release of beta endorphin hormones.

People who are diagnosed with depression (natural cures for depression) often feel less fatigued, less depressed, and less tense after they have gone for a run. It is also been said that running can promote concentration, and leave people feeling more focused. People who run often feel more determined and have a better chance of finishing what they start.

The health benefits of running are many, and can be of help to just about anyone. This is a great form of exercise due to the fact that it can help both the body and mind.

Photo by ex_magician

Health Benefits Of Flaxseed Oil

NHE — Wed, 12 May 2010 12:58:34 +0000

Why take flaxseed oil?

No matter how healthy a person’s diet might be, there may still be a lack of certain nutrients. A good way to get these nutrients is to take a supplement. Flaxseed oil provides nutrients such as vitamin E and vitamin D, minerals that include iron, potassium, and calcium. It is also a great source of fiber. Flaxseed oil contains good fats like Omega three fatty acids, which are essential to the body. It is possible to get “good fat” from foods such as nuts or fish, however these foods are high in calories. It’s also inconvenient to cook fish every day, therefore its might be easier for people to take a flaxseed oil supplement. There are several wonderful health benefits of flaxseed oil.

What is flaxseed oil good for?

There has been research done that indicates people who get high amounts of lignan in their diet have a low incidence of colon cancer and breast cancer. Flaxseed oil contains a high amount of lignan, more than you would get in most whole grain products. It is said that lignans have the ability to stop the growth rate and spreading of tumor cells. Flaxseed oil may also help to prevent type two diabetes, again due to the lignans.

Studies have shown that healthy fats, like Omega 3 fatty acids, help to prevent clots in arteries, as well as lowering cholesterol and blood triglycerides. Getting a low amount of healthy fats may result in strokes, thrombosis, and heart attacks. Lignans found in flaxseed oil have been known to reduce atherosclerotic plaque buildup as much as 75%. Flaxseed oil can play a big role in regulating a natural heart rhythm, and can be used in treating an irregular heartbeat, as well as heart failure.

Among the many health benefits of flaxseed oil, is the fact it can help with the healing of bruises and sprains. It can also increase the body’s metabolism, making it easier to burn fat and to lose weight. Flaxseed oil helps with the absorption of calcium, and is great for strengthening toenails and fingernails. It can also be a treatment for dandruff, psoriasis, and eczema. There is a high content of phytochemicals in flaxseed oil which include several antioxidants. Therefore taking flaxseed oil can possibly help slow down the aging process, as well as make your skin look and feel younger.

Flaxseed oil has the potential to improve mental function in elderly people. It has been scientifically proven to help people who have depression. The behavior of schizophrenics has been proven to improve when taking flaxseed oil. Symptoms of premenstrual syndrome can be relieved by taking flaxseed oil. Women who are going through menopause can take flaxseed oil to help with the effects of hot flashes. There have been studies that show that the intensity of a hot flash was cut by 57% when flaxseed oil was taken regularly.

Other health benefits of flaxseed oil include helping with the treatment of multiple sclerosis, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes mellitus. Flaxseed oil has been known to improve the perception of colors and eyesight in general. It can relieve side effects from many forms of cancer, and even stop the development of this disease. Taking flaxseed oil can lower high blood pressure in people who suffer from hypertension.

There are many health benefits of flaxseed oil, and the results can be seen both on the inside and the outside of the body. Adding flaxseed oil to your diet will improve many aspects of your health.

Six Natural Weight Loss Tips

NHE — Fri, 07 May 2010 10:39:04 +0000

This is a guest post by Chris. Chris maintains a weight loss tips blog. In his blog you can find many ways to help you lose weight using natural methods.

Many people try to turn to modern chemistry to accomplish their weight loss goals. Diet pills are big business all over the world. However, many of these pills are little more than a small boost of energy. You may be able to save your money and lose more weight by avoiding these pills altogether. There are plenty of natural ways to lose weight with enough hard work and determination. Follow these simple weight loss tips to help you lose that weight you have tried for so many years to lose.

1. Eat Several Small Meals

Calories can be a tricky thing when it comes to weight loss. For the most part, many people take in way too many calories than their body can use. Calories which are not used by the body are stored for later use as fat. For this reason, it is wise to only take in the calories which your body can burn. In addition, one of the best ways to achieve optimal caloric intake is by eating several very small meals throughout the day. Trying to skip meals and starve yourself usually ends up backfiring by leaving you feeling lethargic and hungry.

2.Drink Water

Many people do not drink enough water throughout the day. When exercising, water is essential to give you energy and keep your metabolism high. Drinking enough water will also trick your body into feeling full so that you will not eat unnecessarily.

3. Plan Meals

Another great way to lose weight naturally is to plan your meals in advance. Many people wait until the last second to make something for dinner and will use whatever is easiest. This often leads to unwise choices. By planning your meals in advance you can get the optimal amount of calories necessary for your body in the exact proportions you need.

4. Daily Walks

Exercise does not have to be tedious in order to reach weight loss goals. By simply setting aside a half-hour a day for a brisk walk, you can greatly increase your chances of losing weight. Not only will this help in your weight loss, it will also make you healthier overall.

5. Eat Protein

Many people do not get enough protein in their diet when they are trying to lose weight. This can be a grave mistake since it can leave you feeling hungry and unsatisfied. By introducing a small amount of protein, your body will feel fuller and not require as many calories from other foods.

6. Eat a rich breakfast and a light dinner

Another tip that can produce great results has to do with breakfast and dinner. It is proven that people who eat a good breakfast in the morning have less chances of becoming overweight because breakfast keeps them full until lunch and thus they save many calories from snacking. Dinner on the other hand should be the last meal of the day and should be light. It is important that you take your meal at least 3 hours before bed time because your body needs to have enough time to digest the food so that it will not turn into fat. The best example of a light meal is a green salad with brown bread and a low fat yogurt.

Photo by Pink Sherbet Photography

Health Benefits of Drinking Black Tea

NHE — Tue, 04 May 2010 09:49:21 +0000

There’s nothing like a hot cup of tea to get your day off on the right foot. There’s literally thousands of types of teas you can choose from. Herbal teas, weight loss teas, green teas, white teas, black teas, caffeinated teas, non caffeinated teas. The list goes on and on. Each tea has different health benefits. Black tea, for instance, has many health benefits. The term “black tea” is commonly used to describe a cup of tea that has no milk added to it. However, black tea is an actual type of tea. Black tea is made from Camellia sinensis leaves, as is green, white, and oolong tea. Black tea is more oxidized than the other teas, therefore it contains more caffeine. People tend to think caffeinated drinks are “bad” for you. It is true that drinking large amounts of caffeine can have negative side effects. But as long as it’s consumed in moderation, caffeine is perfectly fine to drink. What are the benefits of drinking black tea?

Drinking black tea can reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks. It helps to open up the arteries, making it easier for the blood to flow through them. Black tea consumption can help prevent blockages from forming in the arteries.
There are certain properties in black tea that have been shown to help fight certain types of cancer. These properties can slow the growth of cancer cells, and prevent the cancer from spreading.
Black tea is loaded with anti-oxidants, which help to slow down the process of aging. Certain properties in black tea can help fight the damage done by free radicals. Damage from free radicals can lead to a number of diseases and health issues.
Weight loss can be achieved by drinking black tea. It helps to burn fat, and it speeds up the metabolism. Many people who are looking to lose weight and stay in shape, drink black tea regularly. People trying to lose weight, or those who have reached their desired weight, know that it is a bad thing to “drink your calories”. Black tea contains no calories, and can be counted toward the recommended 64 ounces of water a day.
Cholesterol can be lowered by drinking black tea. It helps to lower the bad cholesterol (LDL), while still managing to raise the good cholesterol (HDL).
Drinking black tea can help strengthen the enamel of teeth. Black tea contains fluoride, the main element that prevents tooth decay.
Black tea can help people who have diabetes. It helps to lower the body’s glucose level. By lowering the glucose level, there is a decreased chance of the person developing cataracts, one of the problems brought on by diabetes.
While black tea contains more caffeine that green, white, and oolong tea, it still contains less caffeine than a cup of coffee. By consuming less caffeine, there’s a decreased chance that you’ll have sleep problems, such as insomnia.
Drinking black tea can help relieve the pain of arthritis. Black tea can help with joint inflammation associated with arthritis.

In most cases of tea drinking, adding milk to black tea will reduce these health benefits. The same will happen by adding sugar. It’s best to drink black tea with nothing added to it. If the black tea tastes too strong at first, try steeping it for a short period, and slowly increase that time little by little. You’ll develop a taste for plain black tea in no time. The health benefits of drinking black tea are many, and can be a help with many diseases. Your skin will look young and healthy, and you’ll have more energy to get you through the day.

Photo by (matt)

The Bountiful Health Benefits of Cherries

NHE — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 09:23:26 +0000

A cherry enriched diet will provide many important health benefits. Recent studies have found that a daily intake of cherries contain vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, iron, fiber, folate, and beta carotene. Studies show that tart cherries contain the highest level of disease fighting antioxidants compared to most other fruits. Cherries also contain melatonin which is an aid in promoting good sleep patterns, preventing aging and memory loss.

The American Heart Association claims that weight that is carried most particularly around the middle area is a sign of heart disease. Studies show that consumption of cherries will lower weight and overall body fat, along with lowering cholesterol levels. Other evidence links cherries to reducing risk of diabetes and cancer. Cherry consumption has been known to ease gout and pain that comes from arthritis. Cherries have ten times more the affect than one aspirin. The role that cherries play are an important factor in disease management and prevention.

Athletes such as runners and body builders that have experienced sore muscles or aching joints should incorporate cherries into their diet in some form or another to relieve the stress and soreness. It has been recommended that consumption of cherries will prevent gout, which is an inflammation of the joints. Gout is caused from urate crystals combining with the joint fluid. Although all cherries are a great health benefit tart cherries surpass the sweet cherries in benefits as they contain sources of anthocyanins and flavonoids. The deeper the red pigment the more plentiful the flavonoid . Generally speaking the darker the skin of the cherry the higher the anthocyanin content as well. Most of the health benefits of the cherry are in the skin which is why research often refers to the colouring of the cherry skin. The list of benefits continues to grow:

Reduce pain due to muscle damage
Lowers cholesterol
Lowers blood sugar
Preventative to colon cancer
Significant weight loss
Reduce risk factors for heart disease
Regulates sleep patterns
High in fiber

The health benefits of cherries along with many other fruits cover most of the systems of the human body. The function of the cardiovascular system, digestive system, the immune system are all are all linked together to having a healthier functioning body. Although cherries are one of the first fruits to ripen and have the shortest season you can purchase cherries year round as a fresh fruit, dried fruit, cherry juice or frozen cherries.

The studies concerning cherries are still in early stages and are still undergoing additional research, the health benefits of eating cherries, both sweet and tart, and drinking cherry juice concentrate are numerous. By adding adequate amounts of tart cherries to your diet is an additional role you can take to help prevent disease and aid the body in prevention of disease and other ailments.

Photo by bensonkua

How To Diet Effectively

NHE — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 11:04:38 +0000

Losing weight and dieting is one of the more challenging goals in the world, with millions buying into programs, books, and other things to learn how to achieve either of these. The truth is, even if the special regiment does work, it may only be for a short period, and then the subject is right back where they started. But just where did they go wrong? It certainly doesn’t help that healthy food is more expensive than junk food in many instances, and you can’t exactly go to a fast food restaurant and ask for a carrot stick. It can be hard, but it’s not impossible. Shown below are four ways to lose weight effectively.

Before jumping into anything, make sure to see your doctor first. Many people believe they are overweight when they are actually of a healthy and average size. You don’t want to put your body at risk for problems and complications, do you? Take this time to ask any questions you may have.
Make sure to exercise on a regular basis. This doesn’t have to mean running five miles every morning, or doing twelve sit-ups before lunch. You don’t have to do something every day, either, but it certainly doesn’t mean sitting on the couch. Find a schedule that works best for you and that you are most comfortable with. When it’s something you chose to do and aren’t being told to do it by a stranger, motivation is easier to come across. Ask friends and family to join you for extra support if desired.
Taking up a diet consisting of every food you hate isn’t exactly going to put you on the path of losing weight and dieting effectively. In fact, it just might throw you off before you can even start. Find certain flavors that you know you will like and look into appealing recipes. You can find them at bookstores, libraries, and online as well.
Be realistic. You aren’t going to lose twenty pounds in two days, nor should you expect to. Set goals you know you can do, and make sure you don’t forget them by placing notes around the home. Keep track of your accomplishments in a book and keep it in a place where it can’t be lost; not intentionally, anyway. If you aren’t sure about where to start, talk to your doctor or somebody close. They will know you almost as well as you do, if not better.

Remember that no matter what meals you eat or routines you pick up, none of that will matter if your heart is not in it. You are the true master of your life, and nobody else. Tell yourself that you can do it, and success will definitely be just around the corner.

The Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

NHE — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 10:02:30 +0000

Think back to the last time you were in the grocery store. Do you remember walking down the aisle with all of those nutritional supplements? Those brightly colored bottles advertising weight loss, better skin, shinier hair, or the prevention of a number of diseases- all wanting you to pick them up and place them in your cart. But instead of trying something that comes out of a plastic container, what if you could try a more natural way to obtain all of those advantages? Well the good news is you can! Coconut oil, natural oil extracted from the fully developed coconut, can provide a number of health benefits. Here are four health benefits of coconut oil and some reasons you should start using this all natural oil.

Promotes Weight Loss
Coconut oil contains something called medium chain fatty acids (MCFA’s). MCFA’s, unlike many other fatty acids, are easier for the body to digest because they’re metabolized differently. Instead of being stored, MCFA’s are converted into a source of energy, giving the body a boost that cannot be provided by any other source of fat. However, the presence of MCFA’s is not the only weight loss benefit that coconut oil provides. Coconut oil has also been shown to reduce cravings. Because it’s a source of healthy fats, it can help you to feel fuller for a longer period of time, thus decreasing your need to snack in between meals, and help you to eat less throughout the day.
Supports Bone Health
By putting coconut oil into your diet, you can help your bones absorb important nutrients like calcium. Coconut oil promotes the absorption of these minerals, which can help strengthen weakened joints and bones- especially in women who are suffering from osteoporosis, or fear that the strength of their bones is deteriorating.
Strengthens Hair
It isn’t a coincidence that coconut oil is used in a number of hair products. Coconut oil is one of the healthiest natural options for all around scalp and hair health. However, instead of ingesting it orally, coconut oil should be applied directly to the hair or scalp for best results. The regular application of coconut oil to the scalp can cure even the driest of hair. Massaging a tablespoons worth of coconut oil into the scalp and at the ends of your hair can help re-grow damaged areas and nourish hair to a healthier and shiner condition.
Nourishes Skin
Not only can coconut oil help your insides, but it can also give your dry skin a run for its money. Coconut oil is used in multiple beauty and anti-aging products because of the benefits it provides for the outer layering of the skin. Coconut oil has been shown to slow down the progression of wrinkles, and keep skin moisturized too. Not to mention it leaves behind a light, refreshing scent that is often used in stress relief candles.

So the next time you’re in that supplement aisle, remember that you can try a more natural approach for better health- both inside and out!

Photo by bionicteaching

How To Make The Lemon Cayenne Pepper Detox Drink

NHE — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 11:34:34 +0000

Whether you’ve been eating healthy for years, or you’re just starting out, your body can accumulate toxins and other impurities. A build up of these materials can come from pesticides, foods that contain trans fats, exhaust fumes from cars, or certain chemicals in soda. A good way to combat this build up is to treat your body to a detoxification, or cleanse. There are many detoxifying drinks that you can make to cleanse your body of toxins and impurities. One of the more famous drinks is the lemon Cayenne Pepper detox drink.

When you take the leap to try this detox diet, you’ll be expected to drink anywhere from six to twelve glasses of the mixture every day, for a period of seven to ten days. To get the full benefits of this cleanse, it is recommended that no solid food be consumed, as solid food will hinder the results of the drink. It is OK, however, to consume herbal tea or salt water while on this detox diet.

It is very easy to make this detox drink at home. Here is a step by step guide on how to make the lemon Cayenne pepper detox drink. You’ll want to have the correct ingredients on hand to start out.

To make the lemon cayenne detox drink you’ll need…

Lemon juice
Cayenne pepper
Natural maple syrup
Filtered water
You’ll also need a cup or a mug that will hold 10 ounces of water.

Step 1:

Pour five ounces of filtered water into your cup. Use filtered water instead of water from the tap. There can be quite a few impurities in regular tap water. You can use bottled water as an alternative.

Step 2:

Put in two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice into the water. It is best to use the juice from freshly squeezed lemons. It is preferable to use organic lemons. Be sure that no pulp or seeds gets into the mixture. Two tablespoons is roughly equal to half a lemon. It is suggested to never use concentrated lemon juice. You won’t get the full benefits, as concentrated juice contains added sugar and preservatives.

Step 3:

Add in two tablespoons of natural maple syrup to the mixture. This should be organic grade B maple syrup. Make sure it’s genuine maple syrup, and not maple flavored syrup. The maple syrup helps to control hunger, and is a source of energy for the body.

Step 4:

Mix in 1/10 teaspoon of Cayenne pepper. The Cayenne pepper will help speed up your metabolism. Cayenne pepper also helps loosen up mucus, and is a good source of Vitamin B and Vitamin C.

Step 5:

Add in the remaining five ounces of filtered water. Be sure to mix thoroughly.

This recipe is for one serving of the detox drink. If you want to make more servings to have on hand throughout the day, just adjust the amounts of the ingredients accordingly. It is recommended to not store this detox drink for more than 24 hours. It is best to consume the drink when it’s first made to reap all of the benefits. It is OK to consume this drink hot or cold. It depends of which you prefer. You’ll get the same benefits either way.

Now that you know how to make the lemon Cayenne pepper detox drink, you can start cleansing your body of all the impurities and toxins. Along with the elimination of toxins, this detox drink can also cleanse the kidneys and digestive system. It can purify all of the cells and glands in the body. This detox drink can also help eliminate built up material and waste in the muscles and joints. It can relieve irritation and pressure in the arteries, blood vessels, and nerves. This cleansing drink can help with the anti-aging process as well as keep the blood stream of the body healthy.

While taking the lemon Cayenne pepper detox drink, there’s a good chance you will see some weight loss. Especially if you follow the entire detox plan. There’s also a good chance of some weight gain, once the allotted time for the detox is over. It is always best to talk with your doctor before starting any type of diet. When it comes to detox diets, it’s even more important.