Wednesday, September 29, 2010

BACK 2 BRAGGIN'

I’m Back~ for today anyway…

Sorry for the unexplained absence; life has been CRAZY for us Driggers.
Thankfully, for the most part, my absence has been due to excess work and the craziness that comes with the start of a new school year, in addition to lots of little adventures along the way.

I’m still on my Bragg kick and loving it more than ever. I have many friends and coworkers that have been forever changed by the Bragg cocktails.

I am proud to say that I have had no issues maintaining my goal weight, and I am still more energetic & motivated than I have been in years.

My current/constant struggle is trying to give up cheese!
I’ve given up all meat (other than fish) and most dairy~ giving up cheese might be one of the top ten hardest things I’ve ever tried to do.

I will confess that when I feel like being really bad I do not hesitate to drive though the McD’s drive-thru and order a BIG MAC w/no patty or cheese…the special sauce rocks my world, the McD’s employees think I am nuts…maybe I am?

If you aren’t already drinking it- START TODAY and remember “If you screw with the earth, the earth will screw with you” believe it.

PEACE, LOVE, & GREEN

Monday, August 23, 2010

So it’s day 33…or somewhere around there...

So it’s day 33…or somewhere around there and I am 100% addicted to life and ACV!
I don’t remember when or how this all started, but little by little all these things in my life that used to be so chaotic are now, like dominos, becoming habits.

Maybe I’m getting old, but I LOVE the house being clean. I enjoy eating well & eating right. I am so into GOING GREEN. What’s good for the earth is good for the body.
I want to eat all natural raw NEW foods, and run, and pray, play, and jump, and read, and swim, and cook and clean.

WHO IS THIS PERSON THAT I AM BECOMING?

Yes, I still love a super long nap under 2 comforters with a heating pad while the AC is set to 68 and the fan is running on high. I still can’t break the habit of letting the HOT water continually flow into the bath tub while the drain is wide open. I have a long way to go, this is true, but I am growing and learning everyday.

Bradley and Jake think I am CRAZY, but I can tell that my new (eating & cleaning) habits have a tiny influence on them…
Jake has been putting his own clothes away each time after I do the laundry- I know this may not seen like a big deal to anyone but for Bradley Driggers son this is HUGE.

Bradley comes from a very long line of precious, submissive women with wonderful, loving servants hearts. I on the other hand come from a very, very long line of…LONG- Need I say more?
This has made it more than a little challenging for both of us at times, but I am trying very hard to keep everything in its place, while giving everyone their own space.

It’s kind of like a switch just got flipped, and now that I am cleaning and taking care of myself and my home, sometimes it feels like the boys should just up and do the same thing. The hardest thing for me to remember right now is the fact that I am the one who is changing my habits and our way of living and eating. The boys are simply adjusting, and doing so in their own way(s). I am being patient, but eager for them to jump on this wagon with me. I trust that the longer and harder I work, the more this will rub off on them and the easier life in general will become.

Enough writing for now; I’ve got stuff to do!!

More later- CD

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Day 29- I'm an ACV Drinkin' FLYbaby

OK- So I’ve told you all about the abundance of energy that I get from my amazing ACV Cocktails…so lately, when I get home from work in the evenings- I DON’T WANT TO SIT ON THE SOFA AND STUFF MY FACE! Crazy, I know- but it’s true.
I’ve been cleaning up and cleaning out; decluttering like a mad woman…or a FLYbaby, lol!

I might be just as addicted to Facebook as I am to ACV. Yesterday I am doing my daily FB stalking and I came across a conversation about FLYlady. Because I am super curious I had to check it out. Thank God for Google, right?
Anyway- It took me no time at all to find this site that apparently everyone is talking about, FLYlady.net.
I’m not sure why I didn’t know about this before, but I am in love with the FLYlady- so much that I joined the network and I am now a FLYbaby.

Check it out- FLYlady.net is a FREE online guide to help you establish a routine to keep your home decluttered & clean by taking baby steps- the website has all kinds of super cool tools to help you get your work done. I love it.

Between my ACV and my FLYlady resources, my house is on its way to spotless. I’m super excited.

More Later- CD


GOOD LUCK REB!

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Day 22

Yes, it’s true- I might be too close to becoming addicted to natural remedies, and preventative health and wellness but is that a bad thing? I think this is something I could do all day, everyday. I realize that I’ve become a little obsessed but I don’t think it’s an issue?!
While on my ACV kick I’ve heard a lot of suggestions, and success stories from a lot of different people. One of the most common cure-all remedies that I’ve heard about is Coconut Oil.
I decided to do some research of my own by going to earthclinic.com and below is some information that I found.
All highlighted information below was taken from earthclinic.com:

You can take coconut oil both internally and externally. Those who are proponents of this cure do both. The typical amount to take internally per day is 3 TBSP. It is recommended that you take 1 TBSP with every meal. Coconut Oil apparently gives an instantaneous energy lift and may help you give up caffeine! Many sports nutrition bars and drinks include coconut oil for its energizing properties.
Warning: Coconut Oil is contraindicated for those with hypertension / high blood pressure! But if you suffer from low blood pressure, this is a great remedy for you.
Lots of research has been done on the subject of Fatty Acids and Monogycerides (found in coconut oil). Some of the reported cures from research are:
WEIGHT LOSS:
Promotes loss of excess weight by increasing metabolic rate. Is utilized by the body to produce energy in preference to being stored as body fat like other dietary fats. Helps prevent obesity and overweight problems.
SKIN/HAIR/BEAUTY
Applied topically, helps to form a chemical barrier on the skin to ward off infection; Reduces symptoms associated with psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis; Supports the natural chemical balance of the skin; Softens skin and helps relieve dryness and flaking; Prevents wrinkles, sagging skin, and age spots; Promotes healthy looking hair and complexion; Provides protection from damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation form the sun.; Helps control dandruff.
VIRUSES/BACTERIAL INFECTIONS/FUNGUS/PARASITES
Studies have found that coconut oil can kill viruses that cause influenza, herpes, measles, hepatitis C, SARS, AIDS, and other illnesses. It also kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, gum disease and cavities, pneumonia, and gonorrhea, and other diseases; Kills fungi and yeasts that cause candidiasis, ringworm, athlete's foot, thrush, diaper rash, and other infections; Expels or kills tapeworms, lice, giardia, and other parasites;
Coconut oil may provide an effective defense against many parasites including giardia. Like bacteria and fungi, giardia can't stand up against MCFA found in coconut oil. Research has confirmed the effectiveness of MCFA in destroying giardia and possibly other protozoa. By using coconut oil every day, you may be able to destroy giardia. Another possible use for coconut is for the removal of intestinal worms. In India it has traditionally been used to get rid of tapeworms. In one study it was reported that treatment with dried coconut, followed by magnesium sulfate (a laxative), caused ninety percent parasite expulsion after twelve hours. In India coconut oil is also rubbed into the scalp as a treatment to remove head lice.
CHRONIC FATIGUE
By taking coconut oil daily, you may also be eliminating the possibility of developing food allergies, chronic fatigue, and other related symptoms. If you're currently troubled with these conditions, coconut oil used liberally with meals may provide a source of relief. Because MCFA are quickly absorbed by the tissues and converted into energy it seems logical that those suffering from chronic fatigue would gain a great deal of benefit.
DIGESTION:
Coconut Oil provides a nutritional source of quick energy; Boosts energy and endurance, enhancing physical and athletic performance; Improves digestion and absorption of other nutrients including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids; Improves insulin secretion and utilization of blood glucose; Relieves stress on pancreas and enzyme systems of the body; Reduces symptoms associated with pancreatitis; Helps relieve symptoms and reduce health risks associated with diabetes;
BODY/ORGANS
Coconut Oil reduces problems associated with malabsorption syndrome and cystic fibrosis; Improves calcium and magnesium absorption and supports the development of strong bones and teeth; Helps relieve symptoms associated with gallbladder disease; Relieves symptoms associated with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and stomach ulcers; Improves digestion and bowel function; Relieves pain and irritation caused by hemorrhoids; Reduces inflammation. Supports tissue healing and repair; Functions as a protective antioxidant; Helps to protect the body from harmful free radicals that promote premature aging and degenerative disease; Helps relieve symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome; Relieves symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement); Reduces epileptic seizures; Helps protect against kidney disease and bladder infections; Dissolves kidney stones; Helps prevent liver disease; Supports thyroid function;
CANCER:
Helps protect the body from breast, colon, and other cancers;
HEART:
Is heart healthy; improves cholesterol ratio reducing risk of heart disease; Protects arteries from injury that causes atherosclerosis and thus protects against heart disease;
TEETH:
Helps prevent periodontal disease and tooth decay.
COCONUT OIL FOR POOR CIRCULATION
Do you feel cold much of the time? You might try coconut oil, which is said to increase body temperature (and blood pressure). This is due to increased metabolic rate as medium-chain fatty acids of the coconut oil are burned.
CURE FOR ATHLETE'S FEET
The 8% caprylic acid in coconut oil is said to be effective against fungus, and on skin conditions like planter's warts and athlete's foot.
CURE FOR ROSACEA
Used externally and internally, we read one report on the internet of a 15-year bout of rosacea clearing up within 2 weeks with Coconut Oil!

I am going to do more research on Coconut Oil, first to make sure that it’s ok to take with my 3x daily ACV cocktails, and second to see if there are any negative side effects that I should be aware of. I’ve heard from a friend, and have also read online that you can take Coconut Oil with peanut butter to make it taste better.
If my research proves that this Coconut Oil is another safe cure-all, then I would consider adding this to my diet around the first part of September.
Again, I am not dieting to lose weight because I have met my weight loss goal. I am simply trying to be as healthy as I can by exercising and eating right, and also by adding natural supplements to my daily routine.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on Coconut Oil. Let me know if you’ve tried it, and/or what you think about it- suggestions/stories/all opinions welcome, nice or not- I’m interested either way.

More later- CD

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

The Earache

So I mentioned in my most previous post that I had an earache last night.
Y’all know what I’m talking about when I say that the entire side of my head was in horrific pain when I laid on the (right) side of my (what I believe was) infected ear.

Jake was asleep and Bradley was so tired from playing in a golf tournament yesterday and then working in the yard all evening, I didn’t want to disturb either of them.
As I laid there IN PAIN, I remembered that once when I was little I got swimmers ear at the beach so my mom called the pharmacy to find out what to do. If I remember correctly, the Pharmacist told her to mix grain alcohol and vinegar, to put a few drops of that in my ear- hold it there for a min. or so and then drain.

Well, I didn’t have any grain alcohol in the house, but I did have a “empty” bottle of ACV that needed to be thrown out. I checked the bottle and there was at least 5 drops left- not enough for an ACV Cocktail, but plenty for my earache.

I got a medicine dropper that we still have from when Jake was younger. I then laid on my left side and dropped the ACV in my ear, I waited for about 3 mins and then turned to lay on my right side so to drain the ACV from the “infected” ear.
I ended up falling asleep while I was laying on my right side, and believe it or not…I woke up this morning without any pain in my ear at all- none. The pain is gone, completely!

I totally 100% believe that the ACV cured my earache.

Day 20 already??

What a huge difference the ACV makes…

So we drove down to Charleston on Friday afternoon, by the time we got on the road I had already finished my 3 ACV cocktails and I was feeling great!
I wasn’t starving Friday afternoon so I skipped lunch and just had a snack on the road. We at dinner late Friday evening and I was satisfied with what Fleet Landing calls a “small plate,” I didn’t even WANT the fried shrimp!

I didn’t pack my ACV (not smart) so I did slip up and allow myself a Bodacious Bagel for breakfast on Saturday, but as soon as we were finished eating I made Bradley drive to the Whole Foods so we could pick up a fresh bottle of Bragg so I could start my daily routine.
We spent the entire day on the beach, we played, Bradley surfed, and had a wonderful day- I felt (as usual) totally energized!
We ended up not eating lunch until 3 p.m., which was fine for me because I wasn’t starving at all- Bradley’s favorite place to eat in the Charleston area is The Kickin’ Chicken. I was a little stressed since I don’t eat meat anymore, especially chicken- YUCK- but because it’s his favorite we went. I was so surprised to find some super yummy options on the menu. I finally decided on the Grilled Veggie Wrap and water with lemon; can I just say AMAZING? It was soo good.

We went out with some friends on Saturday night and had too much fun! We started out at Wild Wings so naturally most everyone had wings, I ordered chips and dip to snack on, and because we had eaten such a late lunch the chips were perfectly filling, but even if I would have eaten a 4 pound burger I’m pretty sure I worked it all off dancing with Renee at the Market Street Saloon 

Of course I had to tell Renee all about the ACV!!! I fixed my cocktail first thing Sunday morning, but then left the rest of it with Renee so that she can jump on the ACV train with me.

We didn’t make it home until Sunday evening, and I still haven’t had a chance to make it to Bloom or Whole Foods to pick up another bottle of ACV for myself.

Yesterday morning was such a disaster- it was the first day (at work) in a while that I didn’t have any ACV- the difference was UNBELIEVABLE- I was so tired, my stomach hurt, I was hungry, and ill. I realize that some of that bad mood/feeling was because we had such an amazing weekend and I was coming back to face reality, but I honestly believe that the hunger and fatigue were due to the fact that I missed my ACV.
Finally around lunch time yesterday I stole a couple of teaspoons from a friend in the office because I felt like I was going through some sort of withdrawals…not good.
I felt very sluggish last night and on top of all that I had an earache.

***More about the Earache to follow***

Anyway- today has been the same as yesterday. I feel a little better than I did yesterday, but WOW I can really tell a difference when I’m not on my ACV.
The fatigue is ridiculous, and I find myself wanting snacks when I’m board.
Although it sucks, I’m kind-of glad that I could experience my day to day routine without my ACV, if nothing else just to prove to myself that it does make a HUGE/POSITIVE impact on my daily routine. Believe me…I will have my ACV tomorrow and everyday there after.

DRINK YOUR ACV! IT MAKES A DIFFERENCE.

Friday, August 6, 2010

Day 16

Woop, woop- It’s FRIDAY!!!

I am pumped about this weekend, but I know this weekend is going to be the hardest YET. I hope that I can stay strong and stick to my healthy eating & exercise routine
IN CHARLESTON!
Brad and I are heading down this afternoon to celebrate 8 years of LIFE together as a married couple.

Surely a bridge run will cancel out a four course meal at Magnolias, right?

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Day 14

So i am totally skipping Day 13, I know, but day 14 started out sooo mega-exciting that I can't even focus on Day 13 anymore.
Let me just say (BRAGGING, LOL) that I might have a magical fairy living in my scales, OR this new ACV/eating right/exercising kick I'm on might actually be working.

I woke up this morning to my same old regular routine; took a shower, brushed my teeth, woke Jake up, blah, blah, blah, and then I stepped on the scales and DO YOU KNOW WHAT??? The little needle that I curse so often was BELOW the 130 mark. Can you even believe it?? I couldn't, and still can't!
I felt so awesome that I pulled out one of my cutsie SIZE 6 skirts out of my closet and YEP, IT FIT!

I feel so good and sooo energetic! I wish I would have known about ACV forever ago.

There is NO reason or excuse not to drink your ACV cocktails.
IT'S WORKING :)

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Day 12


I <3 the ACV- and I think I’ve figured it out…the ACV alone doesn’t make you lose weight, but it does give you more energy and helps your body break all the yucky stuff down which is a huge boost when you’re exercising and trying to lose those extra pounds.

I was so extremely happy last night when I stepped on the scale and saw that I was down to 135 :) it’s only 3 pounds, but that means I only have 7 more to lose.

*I’m getting there!!!

Monday, August 2, 2010

Day 9, 10, and 11- Catching up from the weekend!!

I don’t even know where to start… I know that three days isn’t a very long time, but it seems like forever in blog time.
Friday was good despite Jake’s 3 hour dentist appointment- We had to be at the dentist office by 7:30 a.m. so I skipped out on my morning Yoga. Friday afternoon/evening was good though. I started working on the house and decided that it’s finally time to clean up and clean out! To feel better about ME, I have to take better care of me (and the fam) all around, and my boys would agree that it’s way past time to take care of some details in and around our home, so... I straightened on Friday night, I also took two hours of me time and went to Hobby Lobby and to Target, it was AMAZING. Just me and my buggy :)
I did have to stick to my strict budget, but I was able to find a few things to help spruce up the house. I got new curtains for the window over the kitchen sink, and also a beautiful candle holder that I put on the wall behind my bed- it gives the room a new romantic feel- quite appropriate for our 8 year anniversary coming up on Aug. 4th!

On Saturday I woke up earlier than normal- Brad was already at work and I was (surprisingly) eager to get started on the house work that I had started the night before.
I woke Jake up around 7:30 and he was in a happy/sleepy mood- but ready for day. We were at the grocery store before 8 a.m. which was so refreshing, I didn’t feel rushed or like I was in the way at all- we took our time and read labels and bought healthy yet tasty food.
In the past we would have got up around 9:30 or so, drove down the street to the BK for two orders of French toast sticks and then returned home to a leisurely morning of cartoons and lounging- NOT ANYMORE! I ate my Kashi cereal and then I was in high gear to complete the cleaning up/cleaning out plan that I created for myself on Friday.
If you know me at all, then you know that I LOVE to rearrange furniture; I’m not sure why, but I think that it makes me feel like I’ve got something new and/or exciting when really I’ve only switched some furniture around. Mid-day I started switching the furniture from our master suite to the guest room (and guest room to master)
Anyway- it works, yes, it prolongs my cleaning schedule but I’m usually super satisfied when all is done. I was hoping to get a lot more accomplished on Saturday then what I did, but I’m doing it “right” instead of throwing everything in the closet and under the beds. I have a long way to go, but hopefully by the end of this week, the house will be clean and I’ll be 5 lbs. lighter than 138.
*Sorry, I don’t know why or how I got off writing about cleaning house, but there it is…

OK- So off of cleaning, and onto Bragging…
I’m super excited because Tona (a friend at work) has decided to join me in drinking the ACV cocktails! It’s always helpful when you’ve got someone else working with you, someone to compare results/success with.
I’m a little discouraged because as of Friday, I was still at 138. I didn’t weigh myself this weekend, and I honestly forgot about it this morning, but I’m crossing my fingers in hopes that I’m down at least a pound or so…you’ll find out tomorrow.

Sunday I took the day off- Jake and I went back to First Pres. on Sunday morning and really enjoyed the message. It was really hard going to church without Bradley, but again…I’m trying to work in every area in my life to better me and my boys, and I know that we NEED to be in church so I just did it. Jake and I got up, got ready, and went; to my surprise it wasn’t bad at all, it was actually pretty wonderful!
Last night we all went to mom and dads for pizza and homemade peach ice cream :) probably not the best foods for my diet, but it was yummy! Overall it was great weekend!

Thanks for the support!

I’m still looking for suggestions on exercise, diet, and life- I’d love to know what works for you!

CD

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Day 8

Hey, Hey- it's my 8th Day :)

I'm still feeling great- I just finished my 3rd ACV cocktail and I might sneak in a 4th later this afternoon.

I wasn't starving this morning so I decided to skip breakfast- BAD IDEA! By 10 a.m. I was working on my 2nd glass of ACV, but I was I was so hungry!! Instead of snacking on junk as I normally would, I decided to have a bowl of cereal and call it brunch.
I'll have some fruit this afternoon and then eat a decent dinner tonight. GO ME!

As of this morning the stupid needle on my scale is still aiming at 138, but I did start a new yoga program this morning called "7 days of Yoga" there is a different routine for each day of the week. I'm going to try it for 7 days and see if it'll hold my interest. We'll see?!?

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Day 7

I am wishing that I wouldn't have committed to tracking my weight online, ugh- I felt really good about this yesterday, but now I'm freaking out a little bit- I guess what's done is done, and it's time to bite the bullet and just go for it...

****hmmm OR...I could lie and make it a lot more exciting for everyone... ***JUST KIDDING, but seriously- yuck, yuck,yuck- I don't want to submit this post.

Blugh---- OK so here is the HONEST TRUTH- I NEVER weigh myself- EVER, it's not something I like to do, even when I am on a diet or trying to exercise more, I have never believed that a number on a scale should make any difference as long as you are healthy and you feel good about yourself, HOWEVER- to get to my healthy place where I feel good about myself, and confident about the way I look then I will force myself (through blogging) to keep track of what number that needle points to :(

I stepped onto my cheap-o Walmart scales this morning and the needle got way too close to that 1-4-0 mark :(
My exact weight (according to my scales) was 138 this morning- there, I said it. I currently weigh one hundred and thirty-eight pounds.
I'm not going to cry and complain because there was a time when I weighed much more than this, but there was also a time *before Jake Driggers entered into this world* when I weighed much less~ anyway, as I said before I don't believe that the number on a scale defines anyone, this is simply the best way to track my success.

My ultimate goal is to lose 10 lbs. and to keep it off (that's the tricky, tricky, tricky, part~ keeping it off)

I'm not going to be in a big hurry to lose it because my personal history has proven that the faster it comes off, the faster it comes back.

I am also not going to starve myself. I like food- it's genetic; I love tasting different flavors, and exploring all kinds of food and I refuse to deny myself of that love...or onion rings :)
but I am going to try to be careful about portions and I will continue drinking my ACV at least 3x per day, in addition to exercise (which, by the way, I am still looking for a FUN way to workout- any/all suggestions are welcomed)

Believe it or not, I am a huge fan of a routine; if I can force myself to get out of bed in the a.m. and exercise each morning, this will keep my evenings free and clear, so... that's it.

Let me break it down for ya-

WEEK 1- For the past 7 days I have been drinking my ACV, I can tell a HUGE difference in my energy which (in addition to my blog) I am hoping will help me reach and maintain that goal of 128.
WEEK 2- Starting day one of week 2 (tomorrow morning) I will force myself to wake up early each day to get in some type of NEW/FUN exercise, I'll continue to drink my ACV cocktails and will make my best effort to blog at least once each week day (to keep me motivated, track my progress, and to force myself to be accountable)

Each week I'll add something new and try something different until I feel like I am the proud writer of my personal success story.

WISH ME LUCK and SEND COMMENTS- I need suggestions, and motivation from anyone that has anything to say!!

Good to Know

All information below was found on homeremediesweb.com


What is Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is an effective natural bacteria-fighting agent that contains many vital minerals and trace elements such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, chlorine, sodium, sulfur, copper, iron, silicon and fluorine that are vital for a healthy body. Natural Apple Cider Vinegar is made by crushing fresh, organically grown apples and allowing them to mature in wooden barrels. This boosts the natural fermentation qualities of the crushed apples, which differs from the refined and distilled vinegars found in supermarkets. When the vinegar is mature, it contains a dark, cloudy, web-like bacterial foam called mother, which becomes visible when the rich brownish liquid is held to the light. The mother can be used to add to other vinegar to hasten maturity for making more Apple Cider Vinegar. Natural vinegars that contain the mother have enzymes and minerals that other vinegars in grocery stores may not have due to over-processing, over-heating, and filtration. For this reason, it is recommended that you purchase only Natural Apple Cider Vinegar, with an ideal acidity (pH) level of 5 to 7.
What are the Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar?
Natural Apple Cider Vinegar is a wonderful natural cure for a number of ailments which usually require antibiotics and other medications that have a number of side effects. In particular, Apple Cider Vinegar has been known to:
Reduce sinus infections and sore throats
Balance high cholesterol
Cure skin conditions such as acne
Protect against food poisoning
Fight allergies in both humans and animals
Prevent muscle fatigue after exercise
Strengthen the immune system
Increase stamina
Increase metabolism which promotes weight loss
Improve digestion and cure constipation
Alleviate symptoms of arthritis and gout
Prevents bladder stones and urinary tract infections
Uses of Apple Cider Vinegar
Weight LossWhile it is not known why, many people claim that Apple Cider Vinegar promotes weight loss. Some theories suggest that ACV helps to speed up the metabolism, while others suggest that it burns calories. A number of nutritionists also believe that combining Vitamin B6 and Lecithin with Apple Cider Vinegar is highly effective for weight loss. A suggested remedy is to mix 2 teaspoons of ACV mixed with a glass of water and drink this before every meal or sip it slowly throughout the day
Bad BreathDue to its acidic properties, Apple Cider Vinegar makes a wonderful remedy for bad breath or halitosis. Simply add 1/2 tablespoon of ACV into a cup of water and gargle the mixture in your mouth for 10 seconds at a time until the cup is empty.
Body OdorApple Cider Vinegar is an effective body odor remedy, since it can help adjust the skin's pH level which helps to eliminate odor-causing bacteria. For armpit odor, simply wipe them once each morning with undiluted apple cider vinegar (using a cotton ball). For foot odor, fill a pan with warm water and add 1/3 cup of ACV, then let your feet soak in this mixture for 15 minutes once per week.
Skin Problems and Infections
AcneApple Cider Vinegar is a natural cure for acne. Please refer to our Acne Home Remedy page for more information on how to treat acne with Apple Cider Vinegar.
Age SpotsApple Cider Vinegar contains sulfur that fights the effects of aging, which makes it suitable for treating age spots. Visit our Home Remedy for Age Spots page to learn about an effective Apple Cider Vinegar and onion juice treatment for this condition.
CelluliteMany women have found that Apple Cider Vinegar can help reduce the appearance of cellulite. Our Cellulite Home Remedies page contains details on how ACV can be used to treat this problem.
Stomach Problems
ConstipationApple Cider Vinegar is frequently used as a natural cure for constipation. Please visit our Constipation Home Remedy page for more information on how drinking Apple Cider Vinegar can help cure this common digestive problem.
DiarrheaThere are various causes for diarrhea, and although it should not be left untreated, it is often a natural way for the body to rid itself of harmful compounds and ingested materials. Apple Cider Vinegar is a fantastic natural remedy for diarrhea since the high pectin concentration acts as a protective coating which soothes the irritated lining of the colon. A suggestion is to add 2 tablespoons of Apple Cider Vinegar to a large glass of water, and drink this 3 times daily while the symptoms persist.
Major Illnesses
DiabetesApple Cider Vinegar may help to control high blood sugar levels, which is why it is often used as a natural treatment for Diabetes. Visit our Diabetes Remedies page to learn more about how ACV can be used to treat this condition.

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Too close to the high side :(

I'm ok with these results but by no means am I jumping up and down. I am currently considered "healthy" but too close to the high end of the scale to feel comfortable.
I've got some work to do!


Your BMI is 23.7
18.5 - 24.9 Healthy Weight For Most Adults According to medical experts, your weight falls into the healthy range, it represents the lowest level of risk for heart disease, diabetes and hypertension. To further reduce your risk, focus on healthy eating with a menu that is low in saturated fat, and rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, as well as staying active for life.* Congratulations to you if you have recently reduced your weight to this level; staying committed to your healthy lifestyle will help you maintain both your weight and your well-being.*Obes Res. 1998; 6(suppl 2): 110S.

Day 6

I wanted to give my self a head start, and since it will be 1 week tomorrow from the 1st date I began my ACV regimenI will start tracking my weight loss on my blog TOMORROW- everyone will know how much I weigh, how much I lose; I'll keep track of my success through this blog :) I'm hoping that (even though maybe not even 1 person reads this blog) this will be my silent motivation to success.

Today I am going to research to find out exactly what my healthy weight should be for my age, height, etc...
I'm also researching new, FUN ways to exercise- I've been walking/jogging during the evenings, but it's not something that I enjoy.
I am hoping that there is something that I can do that I will enjoy- I've tried exercising through Wii Fit- it's fun but can get really boring really fast. I've also tried Zumba and I HATED it with a passion- I felt so out of place, I couldn't keep up and I felt like everyone else was right in step, it was not a good experience and I have no desire to do it again, ever.
I'm thinking of trying Yoga...I've heard about hot yoga too, and think that might be something that I'd like to try, however I am a full time employee, mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend, etc... with a pretty strict budget so I can't justify spending a lot of money on a gym or exercise program when there are so many things I could do for free.

Please comment if you have any suggestions, anything you have done that you enjoy, or even just something that you've heard of, or thought about that might make a fun workout.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Day 5

I just finished glass #3 and I'm feeling great!
I can really feel a new abundance of energy, I'm actually looking forward to my evening workout- I'm feeling really motivated :)

CHEERS!

If you haven't added ACV to your diet yet... WHY NOT?

OOPS (DAYS 3&4)

So before I commited to this, I didnt think about blogging on the weekends or on vacation, but it's not gonna happen.
Anyway- Just to re-cap though, this weekend was AMAZING!
We had the best time ever celelbrating my brothers 30th birthday at the lake :)
I feel WONDERFUL- I am absolutly hooked on Apple Cider Vinegar!
I forgot mine at home this weekend so I had to go to the local Bloom on Saturday morning to pick some up... I was lost without it.

I can most def. tell a difference in my energy levels and I just feel better all around.
I'm on my first cup this morning and again...looking forward to my next round of ACV.

More later :)

Friday, July 23, 2010

Day 2

So far I haven't recognized any changes, although I did finish three glasses of the "magic juice" yesterday and I secretly enjoyed my Apple Cider Vinegar Cocktails :)

I am finished with my first glass today and I am actually looking forward to my 2nd & 3rd- who woulda thunk it???

Sorry there aren't any dramatic details to fill you up with today...maybe after the weekend I'll be able to tell a difference.

*More later*

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Day 1

In an attempt to lose weight & get healthy I have taken a crazy suggestion from two of my wonderul cousins-In addition to my new 30 min. a day work out, I will be adding BRAGG- Organic, Raw~Unfiltered, Apple Cider Vinegar to my diet.

Each morning from now until... I will wake up and add two teaspoons of this "magic juice" to 8 ounces of water, I'll have another glass mid-morning, and yet another in the afternoon.

Apparently the stuff is going to change my life; I guess we'll see.


This mornning I got out my favorite Tervis Tumbler and, as instructed, I filled it half way with crushed ice and then added my vinegar and water. My first sip was pretty nasty, yet tolerable at the same time.


...I'm still waiting on the energy boost that I am suppost to be feeling right about now?