Recipe: Roasted Beet & Arugula Salad

If you don't like beets, no worries! It is just because you haven't had them like this! When I was interning at the Greenbrier, we had a salad similar for a week or so. I had to roast so many beets that it literally took me a good 2 hours of prepping them plus the hour long cooking time.... sometimes more! Luckily, you won't be spending a few hours on this yum salad.

Baby beets are grown year around. The vibrant colors and sweetness of the beets and blood oranges in this salad are accentuated by the creamy-white feta and crunchy nuts. Feel free to substitute baby mixed greens, mache, or frisee for the arugula. Fresh goat cheese works jsut s nicely as feta. In fact, the farmer's market usually has it, and you can taste the difference! No comparison! If you can't find baby beets, the larger ones will do fine. Just take a little longer to roast.

Roasted Beet & Arugula Salad- Serving: Yields 4 (as side salad)

Ingredients:
- 1 # Roasted Baby Beets at Room Temp.
- 1/3 c. Orange Walnut Vinaigrette or Walnut Balsamic Vinaigrette (see below)
- 6 c. Baby Arugula, carefully rinsed and dried
- 2 Blood Oranges or Naval Oranges, segmented
- 1/4 c. Crumbled Feta Cheese
- 1/2 c. Spiced Candied Walnuts or if it's fam dinner just toast the walnuts for a few minutes

Method Of Preparation:

1. Cut the beets in half or quarters so that they are bite size. Place beets in a small bowl, add 1 to 2 Tbsp. of the vinaigrette, and toss until the beets are coated. Can be done in advance if desired.

2. Jusst before serving, place arugula in a large salad bowl. Add about 3 Tbsp. of vinaigrette. Toss to lightly coat the arugula, then taste to see if it needs more.

3. Transfer the argula to individual plates/platter. Arrange the beets, orange segments, sprinkle feta on top and walnuts over them. Serve immediately.

This is a great salad to do a couple times that week. Roast beets ahead of time, and you have a great snack. Serve the salad twice to the family, and so it really was worth your while!

Orange Walnut Vinaigrette- Makes about 1 1/4 c.

Ingredients:
- 1/2 c. Good Quality Walnut Oil
- 1/4 c. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 Tbps. Fresh Orange Juice or Blood Orange Juice
- 1 Tsp. Finely Grated Orange Zest*
- 5 Tbsp. Sherry Vinegar
- 2 Tsp. Dijon Mustard
- 1 Tbsp. Finely Minced Shallots
- 1/4 Tsp. Salt
- 1/4 Tsp. Fresh Black Pepper

*Do a little extra zest and use it on some asian chicken... Try making your own marinade with garlic, orange zest, ginger, soy, and bourbon for later that week. Serve extra orange segments for before dinner or a snack for you!

Method of Preparation:
1. Place all ingredients in a glass jar and seal the lid tightly. Shake the jar vigorously to combine. I say this a great way for the kids to get involved. I typically like to do fresh dressing before I start on dinner itself, so that it has time to sit and let the flavors intermingle. Save left over dressing and store in the fridge for up to 1 month!

If you see things on the ingredients list that you know your family won't eat or get near. Or you thing that buying a couple ingredients will go bad in your house, e-mail me so we can figure out how you can personalize it to you! Happy cooking everyone!

Time Magazine: Inflammation Part 8 of 8

Asthma Without Allergies? 

One of the most intriguing questions in immunology today is why everyone doesn't suffer from asthma. After all, the air we breathe is full of germs, viruses and other irritants. Since half of the 17 million Americans with asthma are hypersensitive to common substances like cat dander or pollen, it stands to reason that their allergic reactions trigger the chronic inflammation in their bodies. Yet the people who develop asthma as adults — one of the most rapidly growing segments of the population — often don't have allergies. Doctors still don't know what's driving their disease, but the signs of inflammation are every bit as present in their lungs.

Many treatments for asthma are designed to control inflammation, although they still don't cure the disease. "It may mean that the inflammatory hypothesis is not entirely correct or the drugs that we use to treat inflammation aren't fully potent," says Dr. Stephen Wasserman, an allergist at the University of California at San Diego. "There are a lot of gaps to fill in."

Everywhere they turn, doctors are finding evidence that inflammation plays a larger role in chronic diseases than they thought. But that doesn't necessarily mean they know what to do about it. "We're in a quandary right now," says Dr. Gailen Marshall, an immunologist at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston. "We're advancing the idea to heighten awareness. But we really can't recommend specific treatments yet."

That may soon change. Researchers are looking beyond aspirin and other multipurpose medications to experimental drugs that block inflammation more precisely. Any day now, Genentech is expecting a decision from the FDA on its colon-cancer drug, Avastin, which targets one of the growth factors released by the body as inflammation gives way to healing. Millennium Pharmaceuticals is testing a different kind of drug, called Velcade, which has already been approved for treating multiple myeloma, against lung cancer and other malignancies. But there is a sense that much more basic research into the nature of inflammation needs to be done before scientists understand how best to limit the damage in chronic diseases.

In the meantime, there are things we all can do to dampen our inflammatory fires. Some of the advice may sound terribly familiar, but we have fresh reasons to follow through. Losing weight induces those fat cells — remember them? — to produce fewer cytokines. So does regular exercise, 30 minutes a day most days of the week. Flossing your teeth combats gum disease, another source of chronic inflammation. Fruits, vegetables and fish are full of substances that disable free radicals.

Apply What We Learned:

So, how do we avoid all the inflammation that we have learned about that causes such long-term damage to our bodies... capitalize on the natural things we can do everyday to maximize our health and increase the quality of our years here on Earth! What helps us do that? Look for items in the grocery store that advertise ' RICH IN ANT-OXIDANTS'! From there, flip over the package, If the ingredients do not read that the top 3 ingredients is where the anti-oxidants come from, it is not worth the buy. If you already experiencing some of the disease and inflammation already, take advantage of Sonoran Bloom Nopalea! This is going to flush the toxins from the body naturally and quickly! I challenge you to try it! If you see no results or are not 100% impressed then get your money back! Give yourself the chance to feel better and be better!

Love Me Some EVOO!

    Hey my friends! It's been too long! I wanted to share what is on my mind this Friday which is a few recipes that Extra Virgin Olive Oil takes all the credit for making so perfecto! So, you probably here about olive oil and its benefits on the food network or other cooking shows. Truth is olive oil is so great for you! In fact, I rarely ever buy butter anymore unless I am baking. I have come to substitute olive oil for everything, and I want to share a few recipes with you on how I do that!

Cooking With EVOO

It's not very helpful to us if we are using EVOO in cooking, but not using it properly to receive all the nutrients! To make sure we are getting all those great polyphenols everyone speaks of we must heat it to only about 400 degrees that is a pretty low smoke point for sauteing... Once we go over our smoke point, we no longer have all the benefits of EVOO in our food!  So, keep the sauteing and cooking on medium.

Too Much Of Anything Isn't Good For You

Just like drinking red wine, there is a limit. Olive oil is a really healthy fat that helps with your skin, heart, and just easy on the gi tract; however, a little goes along way. If you typically have a hard time with portion control, note this: Fat should consist of 30% of your daily intake. Also, if you tend to pour oil heavy in the pan then try a aerosol can especially designed for oils to be spritzed on your food! I know Harris Teeter and most specialty grocery stores carry them for about $20. Great kitchen investment!

~Recipes Using EVOO~

Herb Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil

This is a great way to get creative for those especially weary of trying the greenish yellow liquid that is not butter. So, if you swear up and down you don't like EVOO, I promise you, you just haven't found how you like it! This is a great way to bring extra to flavor to traditional EVOO.

Basic Vinaigrette

This takes 10 minutes! I absolutely rather eat a bare salad then put some of the junk that people call salad dressing! There is sooo many calories and chemicals in salad dressings, even the ones that have less this and more good stuff. Nothing beats a homemade vinaigrette! So, once you get this basic vin down, you will be adding shallots and red wine vin or lemon juice and poppyseeds.... make it your own! There are so many wonderful combos for a great homemade salad dressing!

Garlic-Herb Marinated Olives

This a quick recipe that will have your party guests thinking you are so sophisticated... well, you may be but this recipe is so simple! Add some pita chips and its an appetizer! Or what I love to do is hit up the Harris Teeter Olive Bar if you have no time and add some fresh mozzarella with it and its a great snack!!

I hope you enjoyed these tip and recipes on what to do with your bottle of olive oil! If create some yum vinaigrette we can feature it on the blog!

Smoothies With A Twist!

I can't begin to tell you how many inquiries I get a week asking how to get more creative with healthy food! I absolutely love, love helping find healthy and natural solutions to others issues with food or even exercising. One issue I have had to overcome is getting enough calories in a day! First, I am busy, so as most can relate, it is very difficult to take a break when you are go-go-go! Second, I just don't flat enough. So, fellow co-worker suggested I try smoothies- adjustable calorie snacks/meals that can increase calories if needed. So, here is a handful of recipes that kicks the rut and offers a spin on typical fruit smoothies!

Breakfast Banana Shake

• 1 cup of ice

• 1/2 cup of nonfat low-fat almond milk*

• 1 banana, peeled and sliced

• 1 medjool date, pitted and chopped

• 1 tbsp. of almond butter

* If you just use almond milk for this, that works. It won't spoil quickly.

Nutrition: 307 calories, 11g fat, 5g fiber

Refresher Island Mango Chiller

• 1 cup of ice

• 3/4 cup of chopped mango

• 1/2 cup canned pineapple chunks

• 2 tbsp. pineapple can juice

• 1/2 tsp. lime zest

• dash of cayenne pepper

Nutrition: 155 calories, less than 1 g fat, 4g fiber

Green Tea Melon Cooler

• 1 cup of ice

• 1 cup cubed honeydew*

• 1 kiwi, peeled and chopped

• 2 tsp. agave nectar/honey

• 2 tsp. fresh mint, chopped

• 1/2 tsp. matcha (no more or you will bounce off the walls)

* Check the grocery stores in the deli for fresh cut fruit, usually discounted cut fruit there.

Nutrition: 150 calories, less than 1g fat, 4g fiber

Tangy Cherry Berry Sipper

•1 cup of ice

• 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced

• 1/2 cup cherries, pitted and halved

• 1/2 cup low-far greek yogurt

• 2 tsp. ground flaxseed

• 3/4 tsp. vanilla extract

Nutrition: 165 calories, 4g fat, 5g fiber

Triple-Berry Antioxidant Punch

• 1 cup of ice

• 1/2 cup blueberries

• 1/2 cup blackberries

• 1/4 cup drained silken tofu (trust me... what i steer you wrong?)

• 2 tbsp. acai juice

• 2 tsp. agave nectar/honey

• 1/8 tsp cardamon, ground

Nutrition: 149 calories, 2g fat, 6g fiber

If your thoughts are, oh, sounds great, but its just me eating these so the fruit would go bad... Problem solved! Try frozen fruit! I hope you venture out and try these smoothies with a twist! I personally don't crave a big breakfast, but smoothies are an awesome way for me to get my day kicked off right and getting the correct amount of calories for me!

Gardening: My New Hobby!

     I am all about some fresh off the vine tomatoes and fresh produce, but I have decided to tackle my fears of gardening and try this out! I paid a visit to one of my favorite local stores, The Bradford Farm store in Davidson! I love that homey place! I was provided with the information I need to get started and supplies to keep my produce organically grown!

So, I purchased...

• 1 Head of Red Sails

• 6 Hot House Cucumber Plants

• 3 Better Boy Tomato Plants

• 2 Bags of Organically Raised Mushroom Compost

• 2 Bags of Organically Raised Cow Poo (ha)

• 2 Bags of Organic Potting Soil

• 1 Bag of Organic Tomato Fertilizer

• 1 Bottle of Seaweed and Fish Puree (smells like caviar)

Total: $53.70

What I hope to gain from this experience is to learn to garden successfully and be able to grow the garden larger hopefully in the fall!

Red Sails

Ok, I bought this to practice for the fallLettuce in general is a great way to get nutrients! According to the American Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society, foods rich in vitamin A and C (antioxidants) offer protection against some forms of cancer. Along with other phytochemical, antioxidants reduce the risk of cancer of the respiratory system and intestinal tract. Lettuce, except iceberg, is also a moderately good source of vitamin C, calcium, iron and copper. The spine and ribs provide dietary fiber, while vitamins and minerals are concentrated in the delicate leaf portion.

Better Boy Tomatoes

Tomatoes are amazing! Very low in calories and fats; but rich source of dietary fiber, minerals,

vitamins; recommended in cholesterol controlling and weight reduction programs. The antioxidants present in tomatoes are found to be protective against many cancers including colon, prostate, breast, endometrial, lung, and pancreatic cancers! Phytochemicals present in tomatoes like Lycopene and carotenoids have the ability to help protect cells and other structures in the body from oxygen free radicals. Red varieties of tomatoes are especially rich in the most powerful flavonoid antioxidant lycopene. Studies have shown that lycopene protects skin damage from UV rays and from prostate cancer.

This veggie contains very good levels of vitamin A, and flavonoid anti-oxidants such as alpha and beta carotenes, xanthin and lutein. These compounds are known to have antioxidant properties and are essential for vision! Vitamin A is also required for maintaining healthy mucus membranes and skin. Consumption of natural vegetables and fruits rich in flavonoids helps to protect from lung and oral cavity cancers. They are good source of antioxidant vitamin-C; consumption of foods rich in vitamin C helps body develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful free radicals. Fresh tomato is very rich in potassium. Potassium in an important component of cell and body fluids, helps controlling heart rate and blood pressure. They are also good source of folate, iron, calcium, manganese and other minerals. In short, eat your veggies!

Hot House Cucumbers

Technically I think cukes are a fruit due to their seeds, but are typically paired with vegetables. Cucumbers have a cooling effect that can soothe and bring relief for itchy or puffy eyes! Cucumbers reduce inflammation! Also, cucumber juice can provide relief from heartburn, acid stomach, gastritis and even ulcer! Consuming cukes also aid in cases of eczema, arthritis, and gout. The combination of lettuce, spinach, and carrots with cucumbers can make your hair grow faster! For rheumatic conditions, the combo of carrot juice and cucumber juice can aid in better health! Being rich in minerals, cukes help with strengthening nails and prevent splitting. 

Happy Gardening My Friends! So far & so good! It is easier than you may think!

Recipe: Quick Veggie Pizza

     As a Private Chef, I am always modifying recipes. Its always a challenge, which I love. It is not as simple as adding fish for a superior fat-burner to add to one's diet. They may despise fish! One thing nobody ever turns down is pizza! So, here is a quick and easy recipe that won't add the carbs that usually one trip to dominos will add. This is very light and crispy for the thin-crust lovers!

Ingredients: Serves 2 or 4 (if using it as a snack)
• 1/2 cup of low-fat plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup of a/p flour
• 1/2 cup of wheat flour
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• 2 tbsp. low-fat/skim milk
• 2 1/2 tbsp. olive oil
• salt to taste
• 5 oz. can of tomato pieces, drained
• 3 oz. mushrooms
• 1 sm. bulb of fennel*
• 1 tsp. red pepper flakes
• 2 oz. Gouda cheese, grated
• 6 black olives, pitted
• 6-8 basil leaves

* If you aren't sure about the fennel, leave it off. If you think buying one will go to waste, chop the rest up and throw on salads.

Method of Preparation:

1. For the dough, knead together the yogurt, flour, baking powder, milk, 2 tbsp. oil, and 1/2 tsp. salt.

2. Preheat the oven to 400 and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

3. Wipe mushrooms with damp cloth, slice, and also slice fennel** very thin.

4. On a lightly floured work surface, rollout the dough to a thin rectangle and transfer it to the baking sheet.

5. Pierce with the fork several times.

6. Distribute the tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, sliced fennel, season, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes and cheese. Drizzle with the remaining 1/2 tbsp. oil over the top.

7. Bake for 25-30 minutes on the middle rack. Garnish with olives and basil.

** To properly cut fennel: Trim the fennel because you want just the bulb, Wash, Cut it into 4 quarters, and then into thin slices.

For Added Spice:
Add chiles! Eating spicy foods will flood your brain with endorphins, the messenger chemical that eases pain and lifts your spirit. A good mood translates into a more active and slender you! Spiciness also heats up fat cells, causing them to move.

     If you have some picky eaters then take away add what you like bell peppers, feta, kalamata olives. Get creative! Also, this is a great kid-friendly recipe to create family time around food.

Allergies: How To Fight Back

     Spring is my favorite season, and I want to make it more enjoyable for you by addressing allergies and remedies that do not include a doctor visit! 25% of the world suffers from allergies! 

     

     You may be tempted to take an over-the-counter antihistamine, decongestant or other drug to get rid of allergy symptoms, but there are other more healthy options that will address not only the symptoms but also the underlying cause.

Did you know?

Strengthening your immune system is the first step in fighting off allergens. So how do you build up your immune system? Reducing sugars and grains in your diet, important physical principles to strengthen your immune system. Additionally, you want to exercise regularly and get plenty of sleep.

Sonoran Bloom Nopalea

First, allergies irritate the sinuses... sinus symptoms are due to inflammation... inflammation can be addressed by drinking Sonoran Bloom Nopalea. For more information check out my post on it! Addressing the inflammation is going to fight the allergies at the source!

Local Honey

Also, incorporating local honey in your meals via coffee, sweet potatoes, cereal, oatmeal, smoothies, etc. will be beneficial. Local honey needs to be from your county! The local part is so important because the bees who make it are buzzing all in the very things that cause your inflammation. It works like a natural allergy shot.

Natural Anti-Histamine Foods

Anti-histamine foods are onions, garlic, and citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges. Something I like to do is carry around a lemon/lime cut in wedges in a ziploc bag, and squeeze a little in every time I feel up my water bottle. You can also do this with oranges! Get crazy add cucumbers and oranges. Makes for a refreshing water!

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

The essential fatty acids found in fish oil and cod liver oil can reduce both allergic and inflammatory

response. Cod liver oil may be particularly beneficial because it also contains vitamin A, which enhances the immune system and soothes irritated mucous membranes. Take note that it is important that you do not consume too much vitamin A. Call your physician to speak with his nurse about how much vitamin A they recommend for you! Also, if you choose cod liver oil, get your vitamin D levels tested; it is possible to over-dose on vitamin D. If you so choose to try this technique, it is crucial you choose a quality fish oil. I recommend checking out Carlson's Cod Liver Oil.

Spring Cleaning

It is important to keep the pollen count in your house low. Tips in doing this is using a hepa certified vaccum cleaner; this will eliminate the pollen being blown back into the air. Shower at night to avoid transferring pollen to your pillow and sheets. Leave shoes in the garage or by the door. Wash hands regularly. Try using an air purifier for a peaceful rest. Also, keep the pets bathed regularly and don't allow up on the sitting areas!

Hot Liquids

This is going to relieve congestion. Try green tea with a tablespoon of local honey! A great way to get antioxidants as well! Any hot tea is going to be very soothing.

Light Exercise

The last thing you want to do after going through a box of tissues in a day is exercising I am sure of it. However, it is important that you know light exercising can increase your respiratory system during this time of congestion and runny nose. Your immune system is weak, so do not over-work yourself. Try brisk walking in the morning while the grass is still covered in dew.

     Here are my suggestions in aiding those suffering from the spring allergens in the air! Happy Spring and let me know if you find more remedies in relieving your allergy symptoms!

Sources: Trivita, Dr. Mercola

Nopalea Challenge: Day 10

Hey, my family and friends! This superfruit has really made my life easier! Who all can stand life being a little easier? Man, it is SOOO exciting! So, this challenge lasted 10 days for me; it is up to you since you take 3-6 ounces a day. I took basically 3oz. for 10 days!

Sonoran Bloom Nopalea has made such a difference when I workout! My knees no longer hurt; I feel like I can go all day! It is soo refreshing to be able to run at the gym and not feel like I need to prop my knees up afterwards... finally, my mind won't beat up my body for not being able to keep up!

Also, Sonoran Bloom has improved my skin! I feel so great! Clear skin is always exciting! I used to get headaches on a weekly basis... after a month on Nopalea... no headaches for me! I will stay on Sonoran Bloom for life!

If you have any kind of inflammation in your body, Sonoran Bloom can really make a difference! If you are interested in experiencing wellness, you can visit www.sonoranbloom.com/13380527 or e-mail me @ kelkins@elkinsgroup.com! Look forward to hearing your success story!

Recipe: Tom Kha Gai (Coconut Chicken Soup)

You don't have to be able to pronounce this to make it! Actually, it is easier to make then pronounce! Ha! This is such a flavorful soup, and it is different! A great different! So, light some candles because this tastes so so exquisite!

Tom Kha Gai

Yields 10 Servings

Ingredients:

Amount	Ingredient description
2 tbsp	Lemon grass puree
3 each	Ginger root
2 quarts	White chicken stock
1 lb	Chicken breast
8 oz	Straw mushrooms
2 tsp	Salt
6 tbsp	Fresh lime juice
6 tbsp	Fish sauce
1 tbsp	Granulated sugar
6 cups	Fat-free Coconut milk
6 each	Red bird eye chilis

Methods Of Preparation:

• There are many ways you can steam chicken, but I do that first in in a large stock pot with strainer.

• While chicken is cooking, peel ginger, small dice chilis, quarter mushrooms, and measure out ingredients.

• Pull the chicken out and let cool on cutting board.

• In a large stock pot, add stock and simmer for 20 minutes.

• Add other ingredients except chilies and coconut milk and simmer for 10 minutes.

• Small dice the cooled chicken breasts and add to the soup.

• Add chilies and coconut milk and serve.

Hint: When buying stock, refer to the post, All You Need To Know About Stock!

Hint: Steam chicken about 3/4 of the way. You want to finish it in the soup simmering process.

Hint; Red bird eye chilis are a little hard to find. Just use a really hot pepper. It brings a kick not fire. I promise! The coconut milk really tones it down.

Hint: You can use button mushrooms for a cheaper mushroom option.

Hint: A great garnish for the soup is cilantro.

Nopalea Challenge: Day 5

Never in 5 days have I ever wanted to make a commitment to something or even someone! Good things are suppose to take time?... Or so I thought!

I have come to find that Nopalea can be extremely, tremendously helpful to women who suffer from the severest of menstrual symptoms! The discomfort that comes with nature's gift can sometime be enabling. Never would I have thought it would be helpful for this, but it addresses the inflammation in our body! I never put menstrual cycles in the category of inflammation, but it is!

There is a normal inflammatory response during the cycle: estrogen and progesterone build up during the cycle, arachidonic acid. This is stored with the uterine muscles. This acid is a precursor to a lot of inflammation. So an inflammatory diet including red meats, chicken, egg yolks, and some oils can increase the cramping! Our recommended daily intake of carbohydrates should account for 60% of our daily intake. Limiting the amount of these proteins could help!

And all the women screamed Hallelujah! Nopalea just made our lives easier and allowing us to be productive all the days of the month not just 28 or 29!

Nopalea Challenge: Day 3

I have been calculating my feelings/symptoms while taking the Nopalea Challenge! 

I have really been working out much harder than usual lately, taking it more serious perhaps. An obstacle that was slowing me down was how long my knees would need to recover after a moderate workout. Now, I do work to build my muscles around the knee cap due to a lack of cartilage. This is something that always been an issue for years! After 3 days on the Nopalea, I am able to kick my workout regime a notch! No soreness at all in my knees! They bring me absolutely no discomfort! It is so amazing!

I am even able to run outside on the pavement! This is something in the past would literally make me cringe at the thought of running outside! Just because, the pain is really intensified rather than running on a tread mill.

So far, I am loving the effects Nopalea is having in my life!

Nopalea Challenge: Day 1

So, if the title is a little confusing, start by reading the post titled, Nopalea: World's Only Inflammation Supplement! Now, I have decided to take the Nopalea Challenge, and update my followers with my own personal testimonial on how it effects me. There is 4 steps that is required in this challenge.

• Step 1- Complete the "Loading Dose"- The loading dose consists of taking 3-6oz. of the chilled Nopalea each day until the bottle is finished.

• Step 2- Fill the Nopalea Challenge Form- This form has a few health questions concerning the feelings/symptoms you have prior to and after taking Nopalea.

• Step 3- Read The Secret Killer Report- This is an informational brochure that explains how and why chronic inflammation is an underlying cause of all kinds of diseases and infections that can come upon us even if we are eating better and exercising often. It gives you answers and let's you know what you can do to fight the fact that, we live in a toxic world.

• Step 4- Share your story! TriVita is confident that this will aid in the recovery from so many illnesses that America fights everyday that you won't be able to hold in your excitement with natural healing you receive from this amazing liquid. Tell TriVita about your results, and receive a $25 gift card for sharing! Also, you can get a $25 gift card for every person that you recommend it to! It's so rewarding!

I will complete this challenge, and I will document every step of the way! Stay tuned for my amazing results with the Nopalea Challenge! If you would like to join me or find out more you can by visiting SonoranBloom.com/13380527.

My feelings/symptoms before consuming this supplement liquid is sore knees from anything more than walking. This has gone on for roughly five years due to lack of cartlidge in my knee caps; relief from the this pain would definitely be a God sent! Also, I have sort of weak wrists. I developed arthritis sacs in my wrists a few years when I began volunteering at a therapeutic horse ranch. These symptoms are feelings I have become accustomed too, so I will keep you updated on my relief of the pain.

Nopalea: World's Only Inflammatory Supplement

To My Readers,

I am all about bringing you the best knowledge I can find that I see can benefit you or has personally helped me be healthier and stronger! I just have one question for YOU! If  there was a cure for every illness or sickness that is caused by inflammation, would you want it? Without further ado, I bring you the world's only inflammatory supplement!

• Antioxidant Betalains

What they are 

Betalains are the pigments that give the Nopal cactus fruit its vibrant pink color. But that’s just the beginning. They’re also natural antioxidants—and they’re only found in a few of the world’s plants.

The Nopal fruit isn’t just included in this small group of special plants, it actually leads the group by containing one of the highest amounts of betalains in all of nature.

How they heal 

When you drink Nopalea, you take these betalains into your system, where they begin to restore your vitality on a cellular level. By helping the body reduce the toxins surrounding your cells and enabling essential nutrients to reach each cell, the betalains in Nopalea can reduce the inflammation in your body that leads to disease.

Scientific research shows that betalains help to:

• Reduces the risk of blood clots—betalains protect the thin lining of your blood vessels; this helps reduce the inflammation that makes your blood sticky and leads to clots.¹
• Reduces bad cholesterol—betalains strongly reduce oxidized LDL cholesterol.²
• Protects cells from toxins—betalains protect many types of cells, especially brain cells, from toxins known to trigger tumors.³
• Protects your liver—betalains provide significant protection from toxins that directly affect your liver.⁴

• Health Benefits

The power of betalains 

Harnessing the power of betalains, a rare and potent class of antioxidants that flourish in the Nopal cactus, Nopalea delivers scientifically proven health benefits.

Detoxify your body 

Every day, we’re exposed to toxins in our air, water and food—and even toxins created by our own bodies. Nopalea combines its betalains with other anti-toxic ingredients to combat these poisons where they strike us first: right inside the trillions of cells in our bodies.

By increasing the activity of CYP-2E1, a special enzyme that neutralizes daily toxins, Nopalea protects your cells and vital organs—especially your liver—against the carcinogens, hormone disruptors, respiratory toxins, developmental toxins and neurotoxins that are responsible for one-quarter of all the world’s diseases.

Reduce inflammation 

When toxins assault your system—or when injury or infection strikes—your body responds with a complex biological process commonly referred to as inflammation. If this inflammation goes unchecked, it can lead to a wide variety of disorders, from stroke to arthritis to heart disease.

Nopalea specifically targets signs of inflammation in your body and reduces them quickly.¹ Its betalains and other anti-inflammatory ingredients work directly on the fluid surrounding your cells. There, they draw off the toxins and excess water to reduce inflammation and rebalance the cellular environment.

Protect against premature aging 

Your skin is a miraculous covering that protects you from harm. Pollution, toxins, radiation and other potentially damaging influences are kept out of your body by your skin; vital organs are protected inside. One of the first signs of aging is thin, sagging, withered skin that is easily damaged.

Nopalea rushes to these damaged areas to shore up your protective layer. The betalains in Nopalea fill in the gaps of your cells (including the cells in your skin) and return them to the firm, robust nature of young cells — at any age. By providing a healthy environment for the cell, betalains keep it from withering.

More health benefits 

Want even more reasons to drink Nopalea? Scientific research shows that Nopalea also helps the body to:

• Increase energy
• Boost the immune system
• Protect against fluid retention
• Neutralize free radicals

Drink it and thrive.

• Sonoran Harvested

Low-impact harvesting 

Using sustainable wildcrafting techniques learned from native Sonoran ancestors, Nopalea takes only what’s needed from the extraordinary Nopal cactus. We leave most of the fruit on the plant to nourish the desert animals and ensure an abundant crop for future harvests. It’s our way of giving back, respecting the cycle of life and celebrating the harvest season.

High-impact wellness 

Immediately after harvesting, we transport the Nopal fruits to our state-of-the-art processing plant, where they’re juiced to a puree and blended with other all-natural ingredients to create a deliciously unique concentrated wellness drink. Using aseptic, sterile bottling techniques, we preserve the fruits’ purity and freshness—and we ensure the potency of its powerful antioxidant betalains.

• Research & Science

The Nopal cactus has been called a superfruit. That’s because its powerfulantioxidant betalains have been known to boost the health and well-being of all who drink in its powers.

But don’t just take our word for it. See what the scientific research community has to say.

Anti-Toxin activity

• “Cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) protects against oxidative damage induced by the mycotoxin zearalenone in Balb/C mice.” (Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 May;46(5):1817-24.)
• “Opuntia ficus indica extract protects against chlorpyrifos-induced damage on mice liver.” (Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 Feb;46(2):797-802.)
• “Opuntia ficus indica (L.) Mill. fruit juice protects liver from carbon tetrachloride-induced injury.” (Phytother Res. 2005 Sep;19(9):796-800.)

Anti-Inflammatory

• “An anti-inflammatory principle from cactus.” (Fitoterapia. 2001 Mar;72(3):288-90)
• “Antioxidant betalains from cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) inhibit endothelial ICAM-1 expression.” (Gentile C, Tesoriere L, Allegra M, Livrea MA, D’Alessio P. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2004 Dec;1028:481-6.)
• “Effect of Opuntia ficus indica on symptoms of the alcohol hangover.” (Wiese J, McPherson S, Odden MC, Shlipak MG. Arch Intern Med. 2004 Jun 28;164(12):1334-40.)

Immune System Boost

• “Betalains a betacyanin pigment purified from fruits of Opuntia ficus-indica induces apoptosis in human chronic myeloid leukemia Cell line-K562.” (Phytomedicine. 2007 Nov;14(11):739-46.)
• “Antioxidant betalains from cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) inhibit endothelial ICAM-1 expression.” (Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2004 Dec;1028:481-6.)
• “Modulation of intracellular calcium concentrations and T cell activation by prickly pear polyphenols.” (Mol Cell Biochem. 2004 May;260(1-2):103-10.)

Brain Protection

• “Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase expression in activated microglia and peroxynitrite scavenging activity by Opuntia ficus indica var. saboten.” (Phytother Res. 2006 Sep;20(9):742-7.)
• “Interventions for protecting against or treating alcohol hangover: systematic review of randomised controlled trials.” BMJ. 2005 Dec 24;331(7531):1515-8.)
• “Opuntia ficus-indica attenuates neuronal injury in in-vitro and in vivo models of cerebral ischemia.” (J Ethnopharmacol. 2006 Mar 8;104(1-2):257-62.)
• “Effect of Opuntia ficus indica on symptoms of the alcohol hangover.” (Arch Intern Med. 2004 Jun 28;164(12):1334-40.)
• “Neuroprotective effects of antioxidative flavonoids, quercetin, (+)-dihydroquercetin and quercetin 3-methyl ether, isolated from Opuntia ficus-indica var. saboten.” (Brain Res. 2003 Mar 7;965(1-2):130-6.)

• Ingredients

SUPPLEMENTAL FACTS 

Serving Size 2 tbsp (1 fl oz) (30 mL) 
Servings per Container 32

Amount per Serving

%Daily Value*

Calories	11	0%
Calories from Fat	0	0%
Total Fat	<1>	0%
Cholesterol	0 g	0%
Sodium	.76 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	2.84 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	.32 g	0%
Sugars	2 g	0%
Protein	88 mg	0%
Vitamin C	2.5 mg	4%
Calcium	5.6 mg	0%
Iron	.1 mg	1%
Proprietary blend (Nopalea)	Total 907.15 g	†

Water (filtered), Opuntia concentrate (nopal concentrate), Agave Nectar, Grape Seed extract (vitis vinifera), Raspberry extract (rubus idaeus), Strawberry extract (fragaria chiloensis), Cranberry extract (vaccinium macrocarpon), Apple extract (malus omestica), Apricot extract (prunus armeniaca), Mango extract (mangifera indica) fruit, Orange concentrate (citrus aurantium) juice, Papaya concentrate (carica papaya fruit with papain), Tomato concentrate (lycopersicon esculentum) fruit, Kiwi concentrate (actinidia chinensis), Guava (psidium guajava powder), Lemon concentrate (citrus lionum juice), Opuntia concentrate (nopal concentrate) powder, Peach concentrate (prunus persica) juice, Pomegranate extract (punica granatum with ellagic acid and punocaligans), Green Tea extract (camellia sinensis), Beet (beta vulgaris) juice, Bilberry concentrate (vaccinium myrtillus), Acerola cherry extract (malphigia glabra), Amylase, Cellulase, Hemicellulase, Proteases [bromelain from pineapple (ananas comosus) and papain (carica papaya) from papaya, lipase, phytase], Stevia extract (stevia rebaudiana) leaf, Guar gum, Maltodextrin, Natural flavor, Cherry powder, Xanthum gum.

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. 

† Daily Value not establised.

• Secret Killer

To view this brochure on the reasons inflammation effects us all visit The Secret Killer.

If you would like to order Sonoran Bloom Nopalea or have further questions, you can do so by visiting SonoranBloom.com/13380527