Green tea has numerous health benefits and I often suggest people add it into their daily routine. When people are hesitant, they often complain that it's too bitter or tastes unpleasant. If this is you, read on!  A simple explanation for these complaints is that all too often green tea is brewed incorrectly. Green tea is made from the same leaves that make black tea, but are processed differently. Green tea leaves are simply steamed or pan-dried, holding their delicate flavour. When we use water that is too hot, or steep for too long, we essentially scorch the tender leaves and cause them to become bitter. To prevent bitter green tea, bring water close to a boil, but not a full rolling boil. If you have a thermometer, the water should be about 82oC (degrees Celsius) . Pour the water in the cup with your tea bag, and set a timer for 2-3 minutes. You do not need to steep it any longer than that. If the water did come to a rolling boil, turn the kettle off and let it sit for 5 minutes to cool down, or put a little cold water in the cup before adding the hot water. Green tea leaves can be used again to make a second cup of tea, there should still be plenty of taste, and this will actually liberate more of the active constituents. If you steep it again, continue to use the proper temperature water and only steep 2-3 minutes. The more times you steep the tea, the less caffeine left in the leaves.  

Green tea has many health properties. It contains polyphenols, flavonoids, and catechins that have liver cleansing, liver healing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activities. Recent research has also shown that it may also help to regulate blood sugar and reduce cholesterol. It really is a wonderful (and tasty if prepared right!) addition to a healthy lifestyle. 

New Year, New You!

The new year is upon us and if you made any resolutions to lose weight, I have just the program for you. I am offering a 12 week Naturopathic weight loss challenge!

I want to empower you with the knowledge of how to lose weight naturally and permanently and to educate you about all factors that impact obtaining a healthy weight. This challenge isn't a crash diet but rather a challenge to change your lifestyle- however small or large, to live the healthiest life possible.  

The challenge consists of:

• Three one-on-one consultations

• A two week guided 'kick-start cleanse'

• Five one-hour group seminars covering topics such as

        -Recognizing proteins, fats & carbs - optimizing the basics

        -Understanding the importance of cleansing/detox and liver health

        -Using supplements to improve your metabolism

        -Addressing issues such as blood sugar regulation, poor sleep, hormones, and inflammation for long term success

 Please feel free to contact me for more details or to enroll!

Happy New Year!