Archive for January 28th, 2012



Flu vaccines are being offered everywhere from clinics to pharmacies to supermarkets. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the only side effects of the flu vaccine are redness, soreness and swelling at the shot site, low-grade fever and aches, others believe that the vaccines contain mercury and other problematic constituents and are more deadly than the flu itself.

Moreover there are literally thousands of strains of the flu virus but the vaccines marketed each year select and target only a few, which health officials guesstimate will be the most prevalent that flu season. Their guess is often not right.

But long before there were targeted vaccines there were flu fighting mushrooms. The Chinese have used mushrooms as medicine for thousands of years and recent scientific studies have confirmed the effectiveness of mushrooms in boosting the immune system. And a strong immune system right now is your best defense against the flu.

The most common cultivated edible mushroom in the world is the button mushroom which was for many years believed to have no nutritional or medicinal value. Recent studies, however, have established that the lowly button, as well as crimini and portobello, contain as much antioxidant power as their Asian counterparts that have been prized for centuries for their disease prevention and healing properties. In particular, buttons contain polysaccharides and ergothioneine among other compounds that activate the immune system and act as free radical scavengers.

In Asian medicine, shiitake and maitake mushrooms, now widely available in U.S. markets, have proven so successful in boosting the immune system and fighting cancer, that they are now being tested against HIV. Enoki mushrooms also have proven immune system benefits.

Reishi mushrooms are also a staple of Chinese medicine. Although they are not edible, they are available in teas, extract and capsules and are used to improve immunity and reduce inflammation.

Mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins including niacin, which forms enzymes needed to convert sugars into energy, and riboflavin, which converts other nutrients like vitamin B6 and folate into usable forms.

Mushrooms are fat-free, high in fiber and protein, and a good source of potassium. Most importantly, they are versatile and easy to incorporate into your daily diet. All it takes is a one-half cup serving to start to get the benefits. Add them to soups, stews, grains and greens or toss them into your salad.

Add a variety of mushrooms to your meals today and every day to battle the flu or any other pandemic that comes your way.

Article by Half Price Tour Tickets

Miami’s big Cuban community adds to its charisma in the sticky zone of Little Havana. Modernizers hang out in the Coconut Grove, a stylish and spectacular domain of the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, whereas sun seekers cover the miles of white sandy beaches. Of course with so many visitors daily we have to put this at the top of the list. You cannot go wrong visiting and it is fun for everyone. Visit the wonderful world of Disney!

Discover the magic at Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Disney-MGM Studios, and Magic Kingdom. Attraction In Miami, Tours Of Miami and Miami Attractions and Cruises and Vacations. Miami boat charters uses yachts and boats designed for maximum luxury and comfort for the guests to fully enjoy the coast in style. The guests get to enjoy activities such as day sunning on board a Miami yacht charter and swimming on the ocean. For the adventurous, yacht rental Miami provide Personal Water Crafts or Sea Doo to be taken out for rides on ocean where also, the deep sea diving enthusiasts can go snorkeling.

This American spot has a lot of things to offer, at a very economical rate. The demand of cheap flights to Miami is tremendously increasing, and because of which these are heavily booked each year. So discounted air fares to Miami are ample no doubt, but require a little effort in searching for and getting one. Beach volleyball and water sports like Para sailing engage the tourists in fun activities during the holiday. The Miami destination guide also glorifies the Miami’s beaches with the names of the many beach side clubs where the young folks dance to the hip hop music played by the Latino musicians and DJs. The tan one gets here lasts for many months and looks great on Caucasians making them desirable. Trips Miami, Tours Of Miami and Miami Attractions and Finding The Right One For You. Also just remember when selecting hostels in Miami, you do not want to remain anywhere where you could be at risk.

There are some examples of these areas in Miami, and they need to be evaded. Dealing with all the facets of your wedding is the job of Miami wedding planner. As per your demand The theme, the music, the invitations and gifts, should be set. You want your wedding to be unique and not being seen by your guests before. The overall theme and style and the level of customization are the aspects that make a wedding unique. Due to its extravagant and luxurious look, limo is being given lot of importance. The refuge is a major winter home not only for legions of migrating birds, but native sandpipers, ibises, and wood storks. Green turtles, whales, alligators and diamondback rattlesnakes (FYI, avoid these) may be seen from area beaches while hiking or paddling canoe trails, or on the refuge’s scenic.