8 Reasons You Should Stop Drinking Pepsi

Do you enjoy a can or two of Pepsi during the day? You are not alone. Dozens of people crave and can down several cans in no time. More recently, various campaigns subtlety started to encourage people to dramatically decrease consumption of Pepsi or even give it up altogether. Here are all nasty side effects of your favorite soft drink.

Pepsi helps to gain weight
Drinking regular Pepsi causes gaining weight. No shock there, but the areas of the fat build up should give you pause. Researchers found that people who drink diet Pepsi have a 75 percent increase in waist circumference over the ten years study, compared with those who do not drink any kind of Pepsi. Those who drink more than 2 diet ones per day see a 400 percent waist expansion. It is the aspartame that raises blood glucose levels and causes the weight gain. When the liver finds too much glucose, the extra one is converted to body fat.

Pepsi can cause cancer
That caramel coloring in Pepsi causes cancer in animals. In fact, it was asked to ban it because it contains 2 and 4- methylimidazoles. Main notes that just 15 micrograms per day can be a cancer threat. Yet most of the popular Pepsi have 199 micrograms per 20 ounces.

Pepsi fastens aging
One study on the phosphates in Pepsi suggests they may accelerate the aging process. The rats in the study died 5 weeks earlier than rats with normal phosphate levels. Phosphoric acid is the third listed ingredient in the can being drunk every second can potentially cause kidney and heart problems, muscle loss and eventually osteoporosis.

Pepsi impacts environment
The artificial sweeteners like saccharin do not break down when they go through your body. Evidently these then end up in water systems because treatment plants do not catch them either. This leads them to mess around with the natural feeding habits of the food chain. Now you are getting into the environmental impacts. It is time to feel guilty about the aluminum cans.

Pepsi contains banded substance
Parents should be familiar with bisphenol A. The chemical made headline news because companies used it to line plastic baby bottles even though it can leach into the liquid and cause long term effects. Those include hormone disbalance, infertility and obesity. While most baby bottles no longer contain it, the aluminum cans filled with the Pepsi of your choice sure do.


Pepsi contains GMO
The corn based ingredient such as high fructose corn syrup probably comes from genetically modified corn. No one has a real idea what GMOs do to a long-term health.


Pepsi destroys your teeth
In case your dentist have not told you, between the sugar and the acidity, Pepsi is terrible for your teeth.


Pepsi contains pesticides
Researchers have found high levels of toxic pesticides and insecticides, high enough to cause cancer, damage to the nervous and reproductive systems, birth defects and severe disruption of the immune system in Pepsi manufactured in India.

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10 Ridiculously Healthy Foods

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10 Foods That Will Kill You!

You’re probably aware of all the foods that are good for you, like fresh fruits and vegetables, but do you know about the foods that can kill you? These unhealthy foods can lead to some serious health problems, especially if you eat them regularly. Want to know what they are? Well, keep reading!

1. Low-Fat Foods

A lot of people think that they are being healthy by purchasing foods that are labeled as “low fat”. Unfortunately this is not the case, as most of these foods are packed with unhealthy chemicals to make up for the lack of fat. These chemicals are extremely bad for your body and can even damage your health over time.

2. Margarine

People choose margarine over butter because it doesn’t have cholesterol in it, but what you need to pay attention to is what IS in it! Margarine is extremely high in trans-fat, which can damage your blood vessels and even increase your cholesterol.

3. Fruit Juice

A lot of shoppers think they are healthy when they purchase fruit juice, but these are actually very bad for the body. Not only are most made with artificial flavors and not any real fruit, they are packed full of sugar and other chemicals that can cause obesity and other serious health problems. Even real fruit juice is packed full of sugar that provides you with no nutritional value. It’s best to eat a piece of fruit instead of drink it, unless you’re juicing your own fresh fruits and vegetables at home.

 4. Processed Meats

The chemicals that are inside of processed meats have been linked to colon cancer and many other health problems. They are also packed full of sugar, salt and fat that can lead to obesity and diabetes. You’re always better off cooking your own meat from lean cuts and avoiding the processed meats all together.

5. Energy Bars

Energy bars are marketed as healthy snacks for people who want to lose weight and get fit. Unfortunately a lot of people don’t read the nutritional information on these bars in the first place. Many of them are made with a lot of sugar and fat, even though they are high in protein. You’re better off staying away from these and reaching for a natural snack, like almonds and cheese, instead.

6. Frozen Dinners and Lunches

Sure those frozen meals are convenient, but what price do you pay for that convenience? These frozen dinners, even those that are low in calories, are really high in sodium. They are also extremely processed, which means they really put your body through a lot of work in order to digest through your body.

7. Breakfast Cereals

There are really only a few breakfast cereals on store shelves today that are actually good for you. Even those that are labeled “healthy” generally turn out to be packed full of sugar and fat. You might be surprised to find that most of the cereals you love have more sugar than your dessert does! On top of all of that, cereals are normally processed quite a bit and made with chemicals to make them seem “healthier” to the consumer.

8. Doughnuts

Speaking of breakfast foods, who doesn’t love a sugary doughnut when they are running late to start the day? Although they may taste good, these are a huge source of sugar, fat, trans fat and carbohydrates. In fact, just one of these fried treats is generally well over 300 calories. Since most people tend to eat more than one, this can lead to quick weight gain without even realizing it.

9. Soda

Regular soda is a huge source of sugar and a variety of other chemicals that have been linked to several different types of cancer. These provide absolutely no nutritional value to you and can lead to diabetes as well. Even diet soda carries risks, as it’s made with a lot of chemicals to make up for the lack of sugar, and these have been linked to diseases and cancers.

10. Potato Chips

Before you reach for that bag of potato chips; think again! These are filled with a lot of fat and calories, but did you know they are also loaded with dangerous chemicals? Most chips are made with acrylamide, which is created when foods are fried at extremely high temperatures. This chemical is linked to cancer, which can result in death.

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7 Bad Foods That Are Not Bad After All

Did you stop eating a certain food because someone has told you that it was bad for you? Some products get bad reputations which they do not really deserve because of incorrect information. The truth is, quite a few of the foods you may think are bad may actually be beneficial for you. Find out more about not so bad foods.

White rice

Japan is one of the healthiest nations enjoying white rice at most meals. Plus, studies have found that those who eat rice are also less likely to be overweight. White rice has more essential nutrients than brown one due to fortification. It may surprise you to hear that the brown rice’s bran layer contains phytic acid, an anti nutrient that makes minerals such as iron and zinc hard to absorb. In addition, brown rice contains higher levels of arsenic than white one.

Coffee

In addition to containing caffeine that helps you get alert, coffee is one of the main sources of flavonoids. They are known to protect cells from the natural negative effects associated with aging and help improve heart health. Coffee helps reduce the risk for diabetes, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. What is more, studies have found that athletic performance benefits can be seen with moderate amounts of caffeine. Experts seem to agree that moderate amounts of coffee that is about three cups per day, can have modest health benefits without evidence of health risk. Try to choose organic coffee, whenever it is possible.

Pasta

If you quit up white pasta because of a high glycemic index, think again. Pasta made from white durum wheat, has a glycemic index of 50- considered to be low. It means eating pasta won’t cause a quick spike of blood sugar and will keep you feeling fuller for a long time. The secret is to keep portions to no more than a cup cooked. Believe it or not, this is a recommended serving size of pasta. For a more filling and balanced meal, prepare pasta with seafood, vegetables or lean protein like chicken and top it with a tomato based sauce rather than a cream based one.

Canadian bacon

Regular bacon is packed with sodium saturated fat, but Canadian bacon is lower in both calories, fat but still high in protein. Besides sodium there is a lot to love about it. One oz serving of Canadian bacon has about 49 calories and 1.5 g of fat, in comparison to regular bacon with 160 calories and 15g of fat per ounce. Canadian bacon provides zinc, iron and B vitamins, along with the friendly monounsaturated fats. When choosing this bacon, look for the natural uncured variety, as they do not contain nitrates.

Beef

If you are one of those meat lovers who decided to give up the red one in order to lose weight or to make the diet healthier, you may be happy to hear that eating moderate amounts of lean beef can actually help you lose weight and improve your overall health. Many choices of beef sold at stores are classified as lean, meaning the cuts provide up to ten grams of total fat and no more than five grams of saturated fat in a three oz serving. You also can find now beef containing neither hormones nor antibiotics as well as both grass feed and organic options. Beef provides several essential minerals and vitamins including protein, B-vitamins, zinc and iron.

Dried fruit

Many dieters avoid dried fruit because it has more concentrated calories than fresh fruit. While this seems to be true, dried fruit can serve when fresh fruit is not available. Dried fruit can also be enjoyed as a replacement for desserts such as candy or baked goods. Dried fruits contain the same nutrients as their fresh counterparts. They are also antioxidant powerhouses. Look for options which have not added sugar. Try them on top of your oatmeal or mixed with nonfat plain yogurt.

Popcorn

If you eat popcorn only when you go to the movie, you are missing out one of the healthiest grains. Researchers reported that popcorn is packed with phytonutrients. The beneficial compounds are in the darker hulls of the kernel. Experts revealed that popcorn contains nearly twice as many polyphenols compared to a serving of fruit. What is more, popcorn is absolutely whole grain; unlike many other whole grain foods that are only partially made with whole ones. You can enjoy 3 cups of popcorn for just 99 calories and it has 4g of filling 

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10 Hauntingly Healthy Halloween Snacks

Pear Witch Project

This ghoulish girl is quite a sight, with her shocking orange hair. Her hat's a cone, her mouth an apple, her head is half a pear!

What you'll need

• Sharp knife
• Fresh green pear (makes 2 heads and noses)
• 2 raisins (eyes)
• 1 chocolate chip (wart)
• Red apple (mouth)
• Canned chocolate frosting
• Oreo ice-cream cone (hat)
• Large, soft chocolate cookie (hat); we used an Archway Dutch Cocoa Cookie
• Carrot (hair) and grater

How to make it

1. Cut the pear in half lengthwise and remove the core (a parent's job). Place one pear half on a plate as shown.
2. Slice a piece off the top of the pear, cutting away from the forehead at an angle. Shape that piece into a nose; carve a notch into the witch's face to hold it, and set it in place.
3. Attach the eyes and wart by carving small circles in the face to hold them.
4. Cut a grin from the red apple. Carve out an area on the face to hold the grin, and put it in place.
5. To make the hat, use frosting to glue the cone to the cookie. Let the frosting harden a bit, then place the hat on the head.
6. Grate lengths of carrot hair and tuck them underneath the hat. Tip: If your child is too young to handle a knife, cut the nose and mouth and have him assemble the face with frosting.

Carrot-Finger Food

Hungry goblins will love getting their hands on these crunchy carrot snacks.

What you'll need

• vegetable dip
• 4 long carrots
• 1 medium carrot
• softened cream cheese
• sliced-almond
• baby carrots

How to make it

1. To prepare them, just fill a serving bowl with your favorite vegetable dip. Wash and peel 4 long carrots for fingers and 1 medium carrot for a thumb.
2. With a paring knife (a parent's job), cut a flat, shallow notch in the tip of each carrot. Then use a dab of dip or softened cream cheese to glue a sliced-almond fingernail atop each notch.
3. Stick the fingers in the dip, as shown, and serve with plenty of peeled baby carrots for dipping.

4. Eerie Eyeballs

   

   These edible peepers may be a frightful sight, but here's the good news: made with three kinds of dried fruit, they're naturally sweet and nutritious.

   What you'll need

   • Apple rings (1 per eye)
   • Dried Apricots (1/2 per eye)
   • Raisins (1/2 per eye)

   How to make it

   1. For each pair of eyes, gently flatten two dried apple rings with the palm of your hand.
   2. Carefully slice a dried apricot through the middle so that you end up with two circular halves. Press a half, sticky side down, onto the center of an apple ring, covering the hole.
   3. For pupils, use kitchen scissors to cut a raisin in two, and press the halves, sticky side down, onto the apricots.

5. Ghost Toasts

   
   
   

   Looking for a treat that truly embodies the spirit of Halloween? Try serving some of these flavorful phantoms.

   What you'll need

   • White Bread (1 slice per ghost)
   • Whipped cream cheese
   • Currants

   How to make it

   1. For each, toast a slice of white bread and then cut a ghost shape from it. You can do this freehand using a knife, or you can use a gingerbread-girl cookie cutter.
   2. When the cutouts have cooled, spread on a generous coating of whipped cream cheese.
   3. Add currants for the eyes and mouths.

6. Melon Brain

   
   
   

   Made from nothing more than a small, round seedless watermelon, this spooky cerebral creation is bound to turn heads.

   What you'll need

   • 1 small seedless watermelon

   How to make it

   1. Use a vegetable peeler to remove the entire green rind, exposing the inner white rind.
   2. Slice off the bottom of the melon to create a flat base that will keep it from rolling. With a toothpick, outline squiggly furrows that resemble the folded surface of a brain.
   3. Finally, carve narrow channels along the tracings with a sharp paring knife (a parent's job) to expose the pink fruit beneath the rind.

Salty Bones

It wouldn't be Halloween without a skeleton -- in this case, one that's been reassembled into a pile of tasty bones to pick.

What you'll need

• 1 tube of refrigerated breadstick dough (we used an 11-ounce tube to make 12 bones)
• Coarse salt

How to make it

1. 
   Unroll a tube of refrigerated breadstick dough and separate the rectangular pieces.
   
2. 
   Working with one piece at a time, stretch the dough to lengthen it a bit and then use kitchen scissors or a knife to cut a 11/2-inch slit in the center of each end.
   
3. 
   Roll or shape the resulting four flaps of dough into knobs that look like the ends of a bone.
   
4. Place the dough bones on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart, and sprinkle on a little coarse salt. Bake the bones until they are light golden brown, about 12 minutes.

Cheese-Finger Food

Partying in costume calls for easy-eating fare, and these cheesy monster digits fit the bill.

What you'll need

• Mozzarella string cheese
• Green bell pepper
• Cream cheese

How to make it

1. 
   Wearing plastic gloves or sandwich bags over your hands to keep the cheese as smudge-free as possible, use a paring knife (parents only) to cut each string in half and then carve a shallow area for a fingernail just below the rounded end of each half.
   
2. 
   Mark the joint right below the nail as well as the knuckle joint by carving out tiny horizontal wedges of cheese, as pictured.
   
3. 
   For the fingernails, slice a green bell pepper into 3/8-inch-wide strips. Set the strips skin side down on your work surface and trim the pulp so that it's about half as thick. Then cut the strips into ragged-topped nail shapes and stick them in place at the ends of the fingers with dabs of cream cheese.

Monster Mash

Set your Halloween table with this fun green dip and a spook-tacular party prop (such as the monster hand shown here; available at party stores), and kids will soon be "goblin" it up.

What you'll need

• 4 ripe avocados
• 1/4 cup light or fat-free sour cream
• 1/3 cup tomato salsa
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

How to make it

1. 
   Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits. Spoon the meat from the skins into a medium-size bowl, then mash it with a fork.
   
2. Add the sour cream, salsa, lemon juice, and salt. Stir well and serve immediately. Makes approximately 2 1/2 cups.

Snack-o'-Lantern

Our healthy lanterns sport their own spoon stems for scooping up the refreshing fruit salad filling.

What you'll need

• Navel orange
• Canned or fresh fruit salad

How to make it

1. 
   To make one lantern, use a small knife to slice the top off a navel orange and cut around its interior to hollow it out. Scoop out the orange segments, chop them, and mix them with canned or fresh fruit salad.
   
2. 
   Carve small facial features in one side of the orange, then cut a slit in the lid to accommodate the handle of a green plastic spoon. Fill the lantern with fruit salad. Insert the spoon and set the lid in place.

Pizza Mummies

Disguises aren't just for Halloween. Surprise your family with these dressed-up, spooky-looking snacks any time of year. Kids can help by spooning the pizza sauce on the English muffin and making the mummy face with the cheese and vegetables.

What you'll need

• English muffins
• Pizza sauce
• Black olives
• Scallions
• Red or green pepper
• Cheese sticks or slices

How to make it

1. 
   Heat the oven to 350º F. For each mummy, spread a tablespoon of pizza sauce onto half of an English muffin (toast it first, if you like).
   
2. 
   Set olive slices in place for eyes and add round slices of green onion or bits of red or green pepper for pupils.
   
3. 
   Lay strips of cheese (we used a pulled-apart cheese stick) across the muffin for the mummy's wrappings.
   
4. 
   Bake for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the muffin is toasty.

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