Sip Smart: A Guide to Specialty Coffees and Teas

These days there are so many different choices when it comes to coffee and tea. What flavor is the best, should you get organic, fair trade, herbal?? Here to clear the air is Vitacost.com to the rescue with a guest post from Rebecca Chopin. Thank you again for a wonderful and informative post!!

Guest blog post: coffee/tea, Rebecca Chopin
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Buying coffee used to be simple. You’d pick regular or decaf, with your biggest worry being which big-name brand—Folgers, Maxwell House, or Hills Brothers—tasted best. Tea was even easier. Lipton for hot; Nestea for iced.

Now, you’re lucky if you exit the coffee-tea aisle without a headache bigger than the one you’d get if you skipped the hot, caffeinated beverage altogether. Beans, grounds, freeze-dried crystals, pods, K-cups, loose leaves, bags, powders—these are merely delivery methods for coffee and tea today. What kind to sip is a whole ‘nother struggle.

Specialty coffees and teas have soared in popularity over the past few years, with the “gourmet,” exquisitely flavored varieties that once dominated the category now representing just a part of it. To keep up with trendy coffee house menus, and to satisfy the ever-more-selective palates of home brewers, manufacturers continue to roll out new specialty coffee and tea products.

Here’s a guide to some you’ll find on grocery store shelves:

Organic Coffee
Unless you’re a coffee fanatic, you probably don’t give much thought to the origins of the beans used to brew your morning cup. And as you sip that rich, black liquid, chances are slim you’ll consider it came from a plant. But coffee beans, which are technically seeds, are extracted from the berries of a small, perennial bush that grows in tropical and subtropical regions around the world.

In the lush, hot climate where coffee plants thrive, insects abound, making it necessary for farmers to use pesticides or other means of control. Although coffee is the third most chemically treated crop in the world (after cotton and tobacco), an increasing number of growers are moving toward organic agriculture.

Organic coffee beans are grown without the use of chemical-based pesticides or fertilizers, a practice that’s not only safer for the environment but produces a cleaner, healthier beverage for you. Look for the USDA Organic Certified logo on labels, and be prepared to pay a little extra, as organic coffee is more expensive to produce.

Fair Trade Coffee
Growing and harvesting coffee beans is hard work, especially on small, organic farms where plants require vigilant care. When you buy fair trade coffee, you help to support the people who dedicate their lives to bringing better beans to your grinder.

Put simply, fair trade certification is a guarantee that coffee farmers receive fair prices for their beans—allowing them to better support their employees and their own families. Fair trade revenues may also be used to support community projects, such as building schools.

Shade Grown Coffee 

Until about 35 years ago, “in the shade” was the only way coffee was grown. But hybrid plants that flourished in full sun—and yielded more coffee beans—were developed in the 1970s, resulting in farmers clearing away patches of rainforest to make way for these new-and-improved crops.

Besides negatively affecting the environment, tearing down trees interferes with the natural habitat of wildlife living in the forests. When you see “shade grown” on a coffee label today, it means the coffee plants were raised under a natural canopy of native trees—keeping birds where they belong, and preserving the biodiversity of the area. Shade-grown coffee is said to have a smoother, richer taste than full-sun varieties.

Estate Teas
Ready to take tea drinking beyond ordinary herbal blends? Single estate teas are considered the “champagne” of teas—respected in a way similar to fine, estate wines. As the name suggests, “single estate” means this type of tea comes from a single tea plantation. Common teas, like those found in supermarkets, often contain a blend of tea leaves from many different gardens (and even countries).

Single estate teas are known for their distinct “personalities,” with flavors reflecting the unique properties of the regions and individual plantations where the teas are grown. Their taste may vary from season to season, batch to batch, depending on factors such as weather and soil conditions. But this is what makes them special, and ups their cost significantly over other types of teas.

Medicinal Teas
Since the earliest of times, tea has been used to support health and longevity. Today it’s still a go-to natural solution for everything from a tickle in the throat to an upset stomach.

Next to boxes of “regular” herbal teas, you may see blends specifically designated for energy, relaxation, weight loss, digestive comfort and more. These teas are typically made from single or carefully blended herbs that have been used traditionally to support health. While they may offer some relief, medicinal teas aren’t intended to treat serious health issues. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific concerns.

This article has been provided by the folks at Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com has been selling discount vitamins since 1994. Since then it’s grown into one of the biggest online marketplaces for healthy living essentials-with vitamins and supplements such as green coffee bean extract . Get the best price on vitamins, nutritional supplements, whole foods and healthy diet products. Vitacost.com’s customers mean the world to them, and it’s their goal to provide you with the best nutritional supplements, natural foods and sports nutrition to help with your health and wellness. Vitacost.com is not affiliated with this blog, and isn’t responsible for content outside of this article.

By: +Rebecca Chopin writer for Vitacost.com

Pick Your Protein

Another great guest post from Vitacost.com! Guidelines on how to choose protein – veggies have protein too, not just meat!! Thank you as always for the great information Vitacost Smile!

The great debate rages on. Is plant-derived protein better for you than a slab of steak? There is still no final verdict, but research continues to prove the benefits of both – or either. Meat lovers will defend their diet provides high-quality, or complete, protein; while veggie lovers will proclaim whole-food, plant-based eating is “cleaner” for the body. Luckily, there’s one thing everyone can agree on: protein is essential and should not be excluded from any diet.

Protein is (literally) an essential nutrient, made up of amino acids – the building blocks of our cells. Of the 20 amino acids, nine of them cannot be produced by the body. These are called essential amino acids, and they must be obtained through diet. By consuming protein from complete or incomplete protein sources, the body can adequately make up for what it’s lacking. It’s important to know a complete protein source – such as those from animal products – provides all essential amino acids. Incomplete protein sources provide less than the nine essentials, but consuming multiple incomplete protein sources can together deliver everything you need.

To help you choose which protein source(s) are best for your body, glance at the cheat sheet below. These are some of the best plant and animal sources, with average protein potency shown in grams:

PLANT PROTEIN

Dark green vegetables

Spinach (1 cup, cooked) = 5 grams

Broccoli (1 cup, cooked) = 4 grams

Asparagus (1 cup, raw) = 3 grams

Grains

Quinoa (1 cup, cooked) = 9 grams

Brown Rice (1 cup, cooked) = 5 grams

Whole wheat bread (1 slice) = 3 grams

Legumes

Lentils (1 cup, cooked) = 18 grams

Black beans (1 cup, cooked) = 15 grams

Soy beans (1 cup, cooked) = 29 grams

Nuts

Almonds (1/4 cup, raw) = 8 grams

Cashews (1/4 cup, raw) = 5 grams

Peanut butter (2 tbsp) = 8 grams

Seeds

Sunflower seeds (1/4 cup) = 6 grams

Hemp seeds (3 Tbsp) = 11 grams

ANIMAL PROTEIN

Beef

Ground (3 oz, 75% lean) = 22 grams

Filet Mignon (3 oz) = 24 grams

Poultry

Chicken (3.5 oz, skinless breast) = 31 grams

Turkey (3.5 oz, skinless) = 30 grams

Seafood

Salmon (3 oz, boneless fillet) = 21 grams

Tilapia (3 oz) = 24 grams

Tuna (3-ounce steak) = 25 grams

Dairy

Yogurt (8 oz, fat-free) = 13 grams

Cheese (1 oz, whole milk mozzarella) = 5 grams

Milk (8 oz, 1% milk fat) = 8 grams

Keep in mind the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.36 grams per pound of body weight. For a 160-pound adult, that’s about 58 grams per day. Depending on your daily caloric needs and health status, your protein consumption may be 15 to 25 percent of your total calories. Whether your dietary choices include vegan, gluten-free, low-carb or other, strive to reach these standards and enjoy whatever protein you put on your plate.

This article has been provided by the folks at Vitacost.com. Offering more than just vitamins and supplements, Vitacost.com has a wide selection of over 35,000 organic, natural products for your healthy lifestyle. From health foods and natural hair care items to sports nutrition favorites and pet essentials, Vitacost.com has your needs covered – for less! Take your shopping list to Vitacost.com and take the cost out of healthy living. Vitacost.com is not affiliated with this blog and isn’t responsible for content outside of this article.

By: +Elizabeth Lotts writer for Vitacost.com

Nut-Free Living in a Nutshell

If you have a child with a nut allergy, or you have one yourself, you worry about everything from school lunches to family gatherings—“nut” anymore! While nut allergies can be dangerous, they’re also common, affecting an estimated 3 million people, including more than 400,000 school-aged children, in the U.S. Today, there is greater awareness and recognition of nut allergies—along with more resources and solutions for those suffering from the condition.

Whether you’re allergic, sensitive to or just don’t like nuts, they can be avoided with these basic strategies:

1. Scrutinize labels: Review ingredient lists with an eagle eye. Look for any variety of nuts and/or nut oils, as well as warnings that food products were manufactured in a facility that processes nuts. If your child has a nut allergy, teach him or her how to read labels carefully. Also be aware that manufacturers can change ingredients or production processes at any time. Even if you have used a product for years, scan packaging for information.

2. Wipe it Clean: For those with severe nut allergies, a reaction can occur simply coming into contact with items or surfaces that have been contaminated by nuts. When caring for a child with a nut allergy, be vigilant when he or she plays with other children, ensuring that dishes and utensils aren’t shared. Wipe down toys and tools, and be sure your child washes his or her hands frequently, especially before eating.

3. Fake it: You can still enjoy the flavor and texture of nuts, without actually eating them! The key is to creatively mimic their taste and consistency. For example, old-fashioned oats can make a mock pecan pie seem like the real deal. For a nutty flavor, toast chickpeas and sprinkle with sea salt. For similar nutritional benefits, snack on seeds, or use them in baked goods and other recipes.

4. Bring your own: Headed to the spa? Many massage oils and beauty products contain nut oil. To stay safe and still enjoy a little pampering, bring your own oils, or call ahead to let the spa know you have a nut allergy. While equipment is generally sterilized and should be free from oil residue, mention your allergy to the staff beforehand, so you can truly sit back and relax.

5. Fly without fear: Before you board a plane, let the airline know you have a nut allergy. They will remove all nuts from the aircraft and make an announcement before take-off, so that any nuts carried on by passengers will be removed as well.

Whether it’s a plane ride or birthday party, always give a timely heads-up so the host can prepare accordingly – and don’t forget to show your gratitude. Nut-free living in a nutshell: Be gracious, be mindful and be prepared.

This article has been provided by the folks at Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com has been selling discount vitamins since 1994. Since then it’s grown into one of the biggest online marketplaces for healthy living essentials-with vitamins and supplements being just one of their many helpful categories! You can find out about Gluten Free Diet or get information about the Green Coffee Bean Extract. You will get the best price on vitamins, nutritional supplements, whole foods and diet. It’s Vitacosts.com goal to provide you with the best nutritional supplements, health foods and sports nutrition to help with your health and wellness. Vitacost.com is not affiliated with this blog, and isn’t responsible for content outside of this article.

By: +Elizabeth Lotts writer for Vitacost.com

Whole Foods at a Fraction of the Price

I am a huge fan of Vitacost.com and I also love whole foods. Read on for more information on what whole foods you can get from Vitacost with just a few key strokes.

Unless you’re talking price, a fraction of something usually isn’t ideal. What is ideal is paying just a fraction of the price for something complete, fulfilling and wholesome. And what could be more wholesome than whole foods?

Whole foods, a term heard frequently these days, are foods that haven’t been processed and contain no added ingredients—colors, flavors, fillers or preservatives. While certainly better for your health, whole foods can strain your budget, especially when they’re organic.

To better satisfy your body—and your bank account—shop at Vitacost.com for whole foods in nearly every grocery category. Though we don’t carry fresh fruits and vegetables, at Vitacost you’ll find a variety of certified organic, all-natural, preservative-free options.

And while you might normally have to run to one store for organic foods and another for your gluten-free items, at Vitacost, you’ll find it all. The best part of the whole shopping experience? You don’t have to leave home to get what you need. And you won’t be tempted by processed cheese balls—because we don’t carry ‘em.

Click your way to the checkout after browsing these go-to grocery sections:

Produce: Just as you would in the supermarket, head straight to the produce section and fill your cart with good-for-you fruits and veggies—the more colorful the better. Vitacost offers a variety of canned, dried and pureed organic fruits and vegetables. Many of our featured natural brands harvest fruits and vegetables at their prime ripeness, ensuring you get the freshest possible products. And choosing organic means your produce is grown without the use of pesticides or chemicals.

Dairy: In the Vitacost (non-) dairy aisle, you’ll find a variety of natural, plant-based milks, derived from nuts (almonds), rice and coconut. You’ll also find goat’s milk, which is naturally rich in vitamin D and easier for some to digest than cow’s milk.

Meat: While Vitacost doesn’t carry fresh meat, we have a great selection of natural, freshly harvested fish, including tuna, salmon, herring, sardines and anchovies—plus crab meat, oysters and clams. There’s also organic beef and chicken stock for soup and other recipes. You can also fulfill your protein needs with beans (we carry just about every kind, from aduki to soy) and lentils.

Breads, Pasta & Grains: Spaghetti night just got a lot more exciting. At Vitacost.com, you’ll find dozens of healthy pastas, from gluten-free and low-carb to whole wheat and brown rice, which can be enjoyed with homemade garlic bread, prepared from one our healthy bread mixes. Or, choose from whole loaves of bread, rolls, or even English muffins, many of which are gluten free. We also carry organic brown rice, wild rice, couscous and other favorite grains.

Baking: If you’re committed to making your own whole foods from scratch, you can choose from natural flours, plant-derived sweeteners and other baking essentials.

Find your inspiration for wholesome cooking by shopping for whole foods at Vitacost.com.

This article has been provided by the folks at Vitacost.com. Vitacost.com has been selling discount vitamins since 1994. Since then it’s grown into one of the biggest online marketplaces for healthy living essentials-with vitamins and supplements being just one of their many helpful categories! Vitacost.com’s goal is to provide you with the best nutritional supplements, natural foods, sports nutrition and products like green coffee bean extract to help with your health and wellness. Vitacost.com is not affiliated with this blog, and isn’t responsible for content outside of this article.

By: +Elizabeth Lotts writer for Vitacost.com

Pulling the Blinds on Sleepy Misperceptions

Think you can skimp on sleep during the week and make up for it later? The answer is, No, and my guest post courtesy of Vitacost.com explains why. Read on to learn more!

Sleep is an interesting paradox. Some people treasure their nightly eight hours, while others treat it like a guilty pleasure, enjoyed only in small “dozes.” As sleep deprivation becomes the norm, it’s rationalized by notions like, “I’ll sleep in tomorrow to catch up.” It’s time to quit dreaming and open your eyes to the importance of a good night’s sleep.

The Dream: “I’m out like a light.”

Reality: Ironically, the body is not completely inactive during sleep. It’s true that muscles in the limbs become temporarily paralyzed; but eyelids are jerking rapidly, heart rate increases and breathing becomes shallow. You may feel “dead to the world” or “out like a light,” but your brain technically is still turned on.

The Dream: “I can catch up on sleep this weekend.”

Reality: The body needs adequate, consistent rest in order to maintain a healthy immune system. Sleep is not like a savings account – you can’t add more when you have time. Sleeping until 2 p.m. on Sunday throws the balance of your circadian rhythm (internal clock), which throws off your mental and physical fitness. Stop running on the hamster wheel and start a routine of balanced sleep, healthy eating and regular exercise.

The Dream: “My body can adjust to sleeping during the day.”

Reality: A grave-shift worker may be able to coax his body to adjust, but his brain knows best. At night, the eyes send a signal to the brain that there is less light, and the internal clock will produce more melatonin to induce sleepiness. Sleeping after sunrise does not generate enough melatonin, making it difficult to fall asleep – and stay asleep.

The Dream: “I function better on less sleep.”

Reality: Sleep deprivation negatively affects the areas of the brain associated with motivation and desire. A sleep-deprived brain will seek food as a reward, because food is the most accessible treat, leading to weight gain. Lack of sleep has also been linked to depression, anxiety and other mood disorders.

The Dream: “I never dream.”

Reality: We sleep in stages: stages 1, 2, 3 and 4, and the fifth stage is rapid eye movement (REM). The brain cycles through these five stages over and over throughout the night, with REM being the deep sleep and dreams stage. Any time the brain reaches REM, you dream – if you don’t remember them, then that’s your own reality.

This article has been provided by the folks at Vitacost.com. Since 1994 Vitacost.com has been selling discount vitamins and supplements and has grown into one of the biggest online marketplaces for healthy living essentials-with many other helpful categories! Get the best price on vitamins, nutritional supplements, health foods and gluten free diet products.

Vitacost.com sells everything from Vitamin D to Raspberry Ketones. Vitacost.com offers nearly 2,000 of the top, most-trusted natural brands, diet foods and healthy living essentials-the very best nutritional supplements, whole foods and sports nutrition-at discount prices, up to 50% off.Vitacost.com is not affiliated with this blog, and isn’t responsible for content outside of this article.

By: +Elizabeth Lotts writer for Vitacost.com