Cinnamon

For me, the aroma of cinnamon evokes memories of apple pie, my mom’s homemade cinnamon rolls, and Christmas. But did you know there are some benefits of using cinnamon other than giving us that warm, fuzzy feeling? Here are a few to ponder:

  • Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory effects that may reduce the risk of heart disease.
  • Its antioxidants may reduce overall cholesterol by lowering LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, while preserving HDL (“good”) cholesterol.
  • Its natural, zingy sweetness may help reduce sugar intake, which helps with weight loss and getting rid of your middle.
  • On a similar note, cinnamon could increase insulin sensitivity, which reduces blood sugar levels, and that helps combat insulin resistance, which leads to Diabetes! Wow!

So how can you incorporate cinnamon into your diet to start getting those health benefits? Easily, actually. You could toss a piece of cinnamon stick into your morning pot of coffee or tea. You can also sprinkle it on your oatmeal or whole wheat toast. Or maybe throw a couple of dashes in your yogurt or smoothie. Use your imagination, ask your friends or family, and try your own combos!

⚠️ Keep in mind that a little goes a looooong way! As with anything, too much isn’t always a good thing. When possible, go for Ceylon cinnamon rather than Cassia. It has much lower levels of coumarin which could cause liver problems if taken in high doses. It’s a little harder to find, but worth the effort. (Check your local health food stores or online markets.) And always check with your doctor to make sure cinnamon won’t interact with any medications you may be taking!

Visit health.clevelandclinic.org/benefits-of-cinnamon health.com/nutrition/health-benefits-quitting-sugar and healthline.com/10-proven-benefits-of-cinnamon for more information.

The information provided on this website is intended for educational purposes only and is, in no way, a substitute for professional medical advice. ALWAYS talk with your doctor about conditions, medications, and concerns you have about your health and work together to determine the best course of action for you.

Down to Earth With Zac Efron

In honor of Earth Day (April 22) I watched an episode of “Down to Earth With Zac Efron”. In case you haven’t heard of it, it’s an amazing Netflix documentary starring Zac Efron and health guru Darin Olien. It’s an eight-part series in which Zac and Darin explore ways to improve our own health, as well as that of our planet, by traveling around the world in search of people who are making a difference.

Each episode focuses on a different part of the globe and topics that affect us all, or will at some point, and the phenomenal people who are working to find economical, ecological, humane, and sustainable solutions to preserve and protect our planet and ALL of its inhabitants. From the jungles of Peru and Costa Rica to the bustling cities of London, Lima, and Paris to the islands of Puerto Rico, Iceland, and Sardinia, Zac and Darin discover what people are doing to create clean energy, water, air, and food, live longer, healthier lives, save and protect Earth’s plants, animals, and resources, and – more importantly – help each other in times of crisis.

And we really need to take notice.

The problems are real. We can’t ignore them any longer. But we can work together to find solutions that benefit everyone. We can learn from our mistakes (if we choose to) and work toward a better, brighter future not only for ourselves but for generations to come. We truly are all connected, whether we want to believe it or not, and we can make a difference.

I’ve literally lost count of the number of times I’ve watched this entire series. I laugh and cry and wonder with each episode. It is my sincere hope that you watch this series and are moved to make changes of your own, no matter how small. I personally, have taken the lessons to heart and I’m trying to do what I can to make the world a better place for myself and my kids and live life to the fullest!

P.S. I’ve heard that Season 2 will be released sometime in 2022 – fingers crossed! Can’t wait!

Welcome!

Hello and welcome to Wholeness Health and You! My name is Amy and I’m so glad you stopped by!

Wholeness Health and You was created based on my own health journey and wanting to share what I’ve learned (so far!) with you in a simple, real, and honest way that empowers you to take an active role in your health.

The concept is simple. You are not broken, you are whole. You have what it takes to achieve optimal health, you just might need a little help discovering what that means for you. And on your journey you will come to realize what you are really capable of.

On a slightly deeper level, it all begins with WHY. Finding our true “why” is the basis for all that comes after. And yes, it actually does matter! It can be the ‘make it or break it’ of our success.

So join me for the ride! Read about the different aspects of health, plus all kinds of informational tidbits, recipes, and recommendations for books, podcasts, shows, activities, and whatever else I can think of! Explore the site and begin YOUR journey…

The information provided on this website is intended for educational purposes only and is, in no way, a substitute for professional medical advice. ALWAYS talk with your doctor about conditions, medications, and concerns you have about your health and work together to determine the best course of action for you.