50+Living of Western NC August 2022 by WNC Homes & Real Estate

50+Living of Western NC

SMILE!

HAPPY Looks Good On You 50pluslivingWNC.com

Local Music Makers Strawberry Summer Cashew Cheesecake

August 2022

CONTENTS

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Orange Wine? How To Restore A Healthy Connection To Food Strawberry Summer Cashew Cheesecake Smile! Happy Looks Good On You How To Deal With Toxic Productivity Should You Shave Your Head? Local Music Makers The Anti-Aging Power Of Coconut Oil How To Burn Belly Fat Five Foods To Eat For Better Health

50+ Living | August 2022

Sponsored by the Asheville Quilt Guild, Moda Fabrics and Explore Asheville/BCTDA

38th Annual

Asheville Quilt Show September 30 – October 2, 2022 9-5 Fri & Sat | 10-4:30 Sun

WNC Ag Center, Davis Event Center | 765 Boylston Hwy, Fletcher, NC 28732 Over 300 quilts from around the country, Over $10,000 in Prize Money, over 20 Vendors, Demonstrations, Gift Shop, Silent Auction, Special Exhibits, Kids Sewing Station, Quilts for Sale, Opportunity Quilt, Food on site Flutterby by Jen Kingwell

For more information: Deb Walker | quiltshowchairaqg@gmail.com | https://www.ashevillequiltguild.org/quilt-show-1/

Admission $ 10 Students (13-18) $5 Children 12 and under are free

Free Parking Handicap Accessible

Directions: from I-26, take exit 40/ Airport Rd, pass the airport on the right, go through the next stoplight, then enter the WNC Ag Center at Gate 5 on the left. Watch for Quilt Show signs. August 2022 | 50+ Living

50+Living of Western NC

PUBLISHER Tammy Sheppard tsheppard.avlmedia@gmail.com GRAPHIC ARTIST Joan Hutt WEB DESIGN Alphie Hyorth CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Peggy Ratusz Laurie Richardone Gina Trippi ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Mike Demos 828.273.0098 mikedemos@aol.com Bridget Hepler 828.551.9893 brisdon00@gmail.com

AVL Media Inc. P.O. Box 18416 | Asheville, NC 28814

828.230.7537

h All advertising published in 50+Living of Western NC is believed to be truthful and accurate. However AVL Media, Inc. assumes no responsibility and shall have no liability whatsoever for errors, including without limitation, typographical errors or omissions in 50+Living of Western NC. Any reference made to AVL Media, Inc. is not to be construed as making any representation, warranty or guarantee concerning the information on properties advertised in 50+Living of Western NC. The content of all ads contained herein are solely the responsibility of the advertiser. The opinions and statements contained in advertising or elsewhere in this publication are those of the authors of such opinions and are not necessarily those of AVL Media, Inc. AVL Media, Inc. reserves the right to edit or refuse any advertising submitted to this publication

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50+ Living | August 2022

Orange Wine?

irst, orange wine is not made from oranges! Orange wine is a “skin-contact” white wine. White wine grapes are fermented with the skins, which then creates its signature hue. To sum it up, Drew Summers of Advintage Distribution recently hosted the Asheville Wine Focus Group at Metro Wines saying: “Orange wine is to white grapes what rosé is to red grapes.”

Metro Wines offers nearly thirty orange wines representing different countries, styles and prices. Get started with a customer favorite. The Asheville Wine Focus Group favorable reviewed Bonny Doon “Le Cigar” Orange Wine. The group found the wine an easy entry into this style and would also appealing to most people.

By Gina Trippi

Bonny Doon, founded by Randall Grahm in 1983, was counterculture from the start, planting little known French grapes in California. But having made wine for decades, Grahm was initially a skeptical when it was suggested that he make an orange wine. He protested that orange wine would be “so àla mode!” Grahm speculated people were drinking orange wine to follow the trend. “Le Cigar” is a blend of mostly Grenache Gris & Grenache Blanc. The wine is dry with aromas of fresh apricot, citrus and bergamot and a bright, fresh palate with peach, apricot, citrus peel. The group thought this wine might be great with a falafel! Drew Summers said that the central coast of California, where the Bonny Doon vineyards sit, produces some of the best Grenache Blanc in the world, France included! But, while rosé presents the lighter side of red wine, orange wine showcases the bolder side of white wine. Orange wine is as varied as any other style of wine ranging from light and refreshing to robust with notes of nuts, citrus and tropical fruit. The deeper the color, the bolder the flavor. Think of orange wine as a dry white wine laced with the tannins you expect from red wines. If your menu calls for a more complex wine with tannins, consider a darker orange wine that has been aged for three months or longer. “It’s a great barbecue wine,” says Drew Summers. “It’s also a flexible partner to a charcuterie board or spicy Asian and Middle Eastern fare.” Hardly the latest fad, orange wines originated 8,000 years ago in the country of Georgia. In the beginning, orange wines were aged in clay vessels, or qvevri, buried underground until the grapes aged. While some winemakers today follow the ancient method, other winemakers age the grapes in stainless steel, oak or cement.

As with many orange wines, the origin has a history! Apparently, there were reports of spaceships up north in France where the vineyards sat .The authorities decided to put an end to this alien incursion. Accordingly, the village council of Châteauneuf-du-Pape issued a decree banning Le Cigare Volant (The Flying Cigar), named for the alleged alien Spacecraft. The original artwork on the label was created by Jules Verne! Have fun!

Metro Wines Asheville Charlotte Street! It’s the Next BIG Thing! “Big Shop Selection. Small Shop Service”

828-575-9525 | metrowinesasheville.com August 2022 | 50+ Living

How To Restore A Healthy Connection To Food

by Laurie Richardone

People love food almost as much as they love each other. In some cases more so… There are few things as pleasurable as a fantastic meal prepared with skill and love. So how do we rewire old habits and beliefs around one of the most enjoyable experiences we have ? A bit of inspiration. Food is what brings people together as a way to stay connected. I remember cooking with my grandmother when I was a young girl, where she shared the kitchen secrets that were passed on to her, along with stories about her childhood and culinary memories. It was an opportunity to learn about the ancestry, and food culture I grew up in. Cooking together connected us in a way like no other activity shared. It brought joy and appreciation into our kitchen and our Italian family. Any one who has cooked alongside a family member, or arrived home to some intoxicating smells seeping out of the kitchen knows what I mean.. It awakens all of our senses, and goes right to the heart of the matter. Inauspiciously, many of us have had and still have an unhealthy relationship to food. Personally, I can speak to this. After healing my own relationship with food, what I can now say is give yourself unconditional permission to eat. Keep the judgment for what you ate yesterday off in the distance. One sign of a healthy relationship with food is giving yourself the freedom to have what you desire, at least once in a while, with absolute pleasure … Some practices I have found helpful for a successful • Implement mindful eating. Eat when you’re hungry, and stop when you are full. 6

50+ Living | August 2022

• Allow yourself to enjoy a healthful treat. … Use sweeteners like pure maple syrup, or monk fruit. • Let go of the need for perfection. Our bodies carry us through this life, be kind to them. • Welcome all foods in your diet … The healthy ones. Think of a rainbow and eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. There are many many delicious foods to eat that support our wellbeing and bring in joy. This new found relationship to food can evoke a relaxed approach to eating, It also practices balance and flexibility in our life. These simple principles will allow you to feel more at peace with food : another benefit is cooking will become fun and freeing, especially when we are connected to the sheer enjoyment of cooking and eating. It is one of life’s delicious pleasures. To your Good Health If you are a curious cook or person, join me on my Podcast ~ A taste for All Seasons ~ Listen to the latest episode, and learn how to make a delectable healthful Strawberry Cashew Cheesecake. Get tips & Tricks in the kitchen. Summer Desserts on my website ~ https://www. laurierichardone.com/recipes/categories/desserts All shows on LaurieRichardone.com ~ or wherever you listen to your podcasts. We talk to farmers, wellness experts,and artisans where you can learn how to cook & live within the wisdom of the seasons. Laurie Richardone is a seasonal gluten free chef and certified health coach. To work with Laurie, visit LaurieRichardone.com

Strawberry Summer Cashew Cheesecake Filling 2.5 cups cashews 1/4 cup coconut oil 1/4 cup water, filtered 1/2 cup maple syrup 1/2 cup lemon juice 1 pt. fresh organic strawberries (frozen is ok) 1/8 tsp. sea salt 1 tbsp. vanilla paste, or extract Assembly - Place the crust ingredients in the lined pan and press down until even all around.

Crust 1 cup pitted dates medjool dates 2 cups raw almonds 1/16 sea salt 1/4 tsp. vanilla 1 tbsp. water

Pour in cashew mixture and smooth with a small rubber or offset spatula. Make sure the cake is even all around.

Line the bottom of a 6” spring pan with parchment (this will make a taller, more dramatic cake). Use a 9” spring pan for a more traditional cheesecake. For the filling - Soak raw cashews for 8 hours or overnight in filtered or spring water. Drain, and pat dry in a single layer. Combine all the ingredients in a good quality food processor and blend for 5-7 minutes (it takes that much time for a creamy texture). Do not rush this. If using a Vitamix it takes 2 minutes.

Place cake in the freezer for at least 2-3 hours to set. Keep in the freezer for up to one month well wrapped. To serve, lay fresh flowers in whatever decoration pleases you. Or sprinkle with cacao nibs for extra crunch. Take the cake out of the freezer for 1 hour before serving or take it out of the freezer and place the cake in the refrigerator the day before serving.

Crust - Put all the ingredients, except water, in a food processor and pulse several times until well blended. Add 1 tbs. water and mix until combined. It can be slightly chunky.

Laurie Richardone is a seasonal gluten free chef and certified health coach. To work with Laurie, visit LaurieRichardone.com August 2022 | 50+ Living

50+ Living | August 2022

Arden 4 Long Shoals Rd. 828-333-4366 Woodfin 50 N. Merrimon Ave. 828-210-9544

Fletcher 3445 Hendersonville Rd. 828-376-3711 August 2022 | 50+ Living

Smile!

Happy Looks Good On You

miling more can positively impact your personal and professional life. Take a second to think back over your day today or yesterday. Did you smile at others throughout the day? Did others smile at you? If you smiled more and received smiles from others, it’s likely that those small interactions impacted your day in a positive way--even if you didn’t realize it. According to the website Science: How Stuff Works, “It takes approximately 43 muscles to frown and 17 muscles to smile.” The basic lesson from that is smiling is easier and frowning takes more work. So, why not smile more and help your body out? Consider the following ways that smiling more throughout the day can benefit your life in positive and productive ways. 10

50+ Living | August 2022

Increases Your Approachability Factor If you are truly honest with yourself, you’d likely admit that you’d rather interact with people who smile more than frown. During this honest assessment, you’ll probably recognize that you’ve had more positive interactions with people when you smiled more and had a good attitude. Smiling can increase your approachability factor. That’s a good thing for both your personal and professional life. When you smile at someone, they can immediately evaluate your facial expression and see that you are approaching them in a friendly manner. A genuine smile is a universal signal for someone who is approachable. Can Lighten Your Mood As mentioned previously, it takes more work for your

facial muscles to frown instead of smile. If you smile more, that can lighten your mood because you are subconsciously giving your body the message that you want to bring light and positivity into all your interactions. According to Ronald E. Riggio, Ph.D., in Psychology Today, “Each time you smile, you throw a little feel-good party in your brain. The act of smiling activates neural messaging that benefits your health and happiness.” Can Decrease Your Stress Levels If you want to decrease your stress levels, one thing you can do is to stop frowning so much and start smiling more. That sounds like a simple solution for lowering your stress levels. Dr. Riggio further explains that “Smiling activates the release of neuropeptides that work toward fighting off stress.” Those neuropeptides, or tiny molecules, enable neurons to communicate with each other. These molecules are an integral factor in communicating to your entire body how you feel-whether you are joyful, depressed, frustrated, or worried. The main takeaway here is that smiling more can become a powerful catalyst in lowering your stress levels. Cultivates Positivity by Smiling Have you ever been around a smiling, giggling baby or happy toddler? Think about a time when you had a bad day, and someone smiled at you. That simple act likely boosted your mood and helped you turn around a bad attitude. You can cultivate more positivity in your personal and professional life simply by smiling more. That simple act can become contagious to those around you and subconsciously encourage them to start smiling too. Reap the Benefits of Smiling More Daily Do you want to cultivate more positivity in your life and improve your productivity levels? Then try smiling more each day. When you smile, you can increase your approachability factor and break down walls as you interact with others daily in both your personal and professional life. Smiling more can lighten your mood and help you to continue to be more encouraging to others. Simply by smiling more, you can begin to decrease your stress levels. Nurture more positivity in your life by smiling more. SOURCE: science.howstuffworks.com/life/inside-the-mind/emotions/muscles-smile.htm psychologytoday.com/us/blog/cutting-edge-leadership/201206/there-s-magic-in-your-smile

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August 2022 | 50+ Living

How to Deal with

TOXIC PRODUCTIVIT Y

o you feel like you’re always running in a circle and still not getting where you want to be? Do you feel like the more you do, the less you accomplish? You might be falling victim to toxic productivity.

• Your self-worth is based on what you accomplish • You can’t be away from work for long without anxiety kicking in • Your diet is less than stellar

Toxic productivity is when you’re accomplishing less, even though you’re working more. It’s a false sense of accomplishment, often followed by a letdown. It’s the feeling that you must keep doing more and more to reach your goals. So, you fall into the trap of overworking and even jeopardizing your health. That’s not a healthy approach.

“Toxic productivity” is a real thing. Too much of it can cause health problems and affect your relationships with friends and family members. Let’s look at some ways to tame toxic productivity and regain control of your life.

Some signs that you may be a victim of toxic productivity include: • You’re always in a rush • You’re always connected to your work • You miss out on quality time with friends and family • You get stressed about missing deadlines • You feel guilty about taking time for yourself. 12

50+ Living | August 2022

Identify Toxic Positivity Habits Just as there’s a difference between healthy versus unhealthy dieting, there’s also a difference between productive versus toxic productivity. Some habits that fall into the latter category are: • Comparing yourself to others and wishing you could achieve what they do. • Working at an unsustainable pace and feeling like you can’t stop because if you do, your work won’t get done.

what other people’s definition of success is. If you’re particularly achievement-oriented or like to get things done (whether or not you’re also a perfectionist), it’s easy to get caught up in the constant pursuit of success and productivity. It can lead to burnout, that feeling that if you just check one more thing off your to-do list, you can finally stop working. But even when you manage to check everything off that list, there’s always more to do. Make sure you’ve defined what success means to you and that your definition is balanced. If you define success as spending more time with your family or working on personal projects that bring you joy, then those things become your goals. You can then make decisions based on whether they are moving you toward the life you want. Do some soul-searching and write down what would make you feel fulfilled at work and in your personal life. Once you know exactly what it is that will make you happy, it’s easier to make meaningful changes in your life. Just be sure your goals are balanced. Take a Break Too much work and no play is bad for your health. Make a list of fun things you want to do that don’t require distracting screens. These might include exercising, reading, journaling, playing a game, or listening to music. Then find ways to fit them into your day. • Trying to be an expert at everything in all areas of life. Doing this will soon leave you stressed and burnt out. The temptation to try to be good at everything is ubiquitous, but it is not worth it by any means. • Feeling guilty when doing something fun or relaxing because it doesn’t involve working towards a goal or accomplishing something productive. Until you identify that you have a problem with toxic productivity, you can’t take action. Define What Success Means to You The way you measure productivity and success can be different from how another person does, and it’s important to understand what success feels like for you. When you don’t define your values and goals, you’re more likely to take cues from others about what you should do and how well you should be doing it. This can lead you to feel inadequate if your version of success doesn’t match

Next time you feel your mind straining, pause, and give yourself permission to do something else. Ideally, a day or two away from your project would be nice--if that’s not possible, at least set aside an hour. All your work will still be there when you get back, and you’ll be in a better frame of mind to deal with it. Taking breaks might seem like you’re procrastinating, but in fact you’re doing yourself a favor. If a break brings you back feeling more motivated to tackle the task at hand, then it was worth it. If nothing else, taking the time away could keep you from burning out and give you clarity about how to proceed with your project. The Bottom Line If you struggle to complete tasks within your workday, it might be time to reevaluate your habits and discover what’s distracting you. If there’s too much on your plate, it may be time to set some boundaries and learn how to say no (or at least “not right now”). August 2022 | 50+ Living

Should You

SHAVE Your Head? But Do Not Despair Alas, there is another way. One can see the light in the form of shaving the rest of your hair off before it can betray you. You can take control of your hair loss and end the torment. Are you experiencing hair loss and wondering if you should shave your head? Here are 4.5 steps to do it!

man equates his hair with attractiveness, success, and youth. Losing one’s hair is a total nightmare and can happen to any man at any age.

Why must people age? Would anyone find a balding man attractive? Can a man put the brakes on the slide to the follicular wasteland? Men search for all sorts of treatments to delay the inevitable. One’s quest to save hair can lead to all sorts of possible solutions: cover-ups, experiments, Rogaine foams, Propecia, hair fibers, creative styling, Argan oil, lavender oil, scalp massage, eating Brazil nuts, praying to the saints (is there a patron saint of men going through hair loss?), and the list goes on and on. Follicular-challenged men cycle through these treatments and have to curate, select, and set a hairstyle. But the thinning hair has no mercy and is unforgiving to any hairstyle. The powerful elements of wind and water become your enemy. A light breeze can shift your carefully maintained hairstyle which some men achieve by using a two-step combo of hair fibers and hairspray that cements the whole charade in place. Men can go to extreme lengths to maintain the illusion of a full head of hair. But in time, the traitor follicles continue their retreat, and even an elaborate scheme to hide the thinning becomes too draining, too time-consuming, and even more embarrassing, too obvious. One may even consider the ultimate sign of defeat: the dreaded combover. 14

50+ Living | August 2022

1. Just decide. You need to make the decision. You are in control of your life. You are your ultimate boss. If your thinning hair causes you distress, why not make a decision that will end your suffering? Seize your power and grab control. 2. Act: get a buzz cut This is where you begin. If you don’t already wear your hair short, go get a buzz cut now. Or perhaps you already have a buzzer? Good, then grab it and grab someone to do it for you. Or go to your barber. It doesn’t matter who does it; it only matters that you’ve taken the step. See how it feels to have a close-cropped head. Maybe it’ll look good at this stage, and if you’re satisfied, then stop here. If not, go to step 3. 3. Shave it off. If your close-cropped haircut isn’t working for you, but there’s no going back to your previous comb-over or ridiculous styling (see previous), then it’s time to shave it off. If your hair isn’t already buzzed to the scalp, make sure that you do that first. Purchase a specialized razor for this process. After a hot shower, apply shaving cream to your head. Shave with the grain and use firm but not too firm strokes. Towel dry and use a mattifying head lotion with SPF to lock in moisture, reduce shine, and protect your sensitive scalp from the sun’s rays. Depending on your look and how fast your hair grows, you’ll need to repeat this process every two to three days.

4. Enjoy your new freedom. You are now free from the tyranny of thinning hair. You’re free from spending time, energy, and money on a losing battle. Getting used to your new look will take a little time, too. People’s reactions will differ; some will love it and others might not. You shouldn’t care about their opinions because after all, you have decided, you have acted, and you have shaved it off. Exude confidence in your choice as that well-earned swagger is much more attractive than the uneasiness and awkwardness of hiding reality. Congratulations, you have owned your follicular destiny. The 0.5 Step: If you’ve shaved your head and notice that you can see the difference between areas of your scalp that have follicles and areas that do not, don’t fret. You can keep your look, and it’s more than fine. If the lack of coverage bothers you, you might consider getting a consultation for a micro-scalp tattoo procedure. By using specialized ink and a process designed for the scalp, a micro-scalp tattoo artist can recreate an age-appropriate hairline and give density to sparse areas of your scalp. This might help you rock your bald head even more and assist you in achieving that sense of confident attractiveness that many desire.

August 2022 | 50+ Living

Local Music Makers

Spotlight on singer-musician and songwriter

Reggie Headen

By Peggy Ratusz

photos by Cristy Streeter

verybody falls in love with Reggie Headen. With a magnetic, approachable personality this vocal virtuoso garners friends and fans wherever he goes. He’s a beacon, he’s a mentor, he’s a student, he’s an empath, he’s vulnerable, he’s loud, he’s soft-spoken, he’s emotional and he’s controlled. And you can get all this about and from him, practically from his first hello and certainly when you first witness him in performance.

band started to play a song that Reginald knew very well, “I am a Living Testimony.” Upon hearing it, he began to sing along with the principles. And he just kept singing louder and louder until those in the room could not ignore him. “I just overpowered and dominated from where I was sitting.” By Easter Sunday, the elders decided to have him “open” the program with two solo songs. At 10 years of age.

The simple fact that he is who he is, allows those who meet him, and those who are fortunate to be friends with him, to just be ourselves too. And it’s refreshing and it’s a relief! Where did he gain such charisma and learn such kindness? It’s in his DNA.

“I knew at ten years old that singing was my future because I could feel even then that the reason I wanted to sing was because I simply could not help myself.” And he repeats that statement to me, “I simply…..COULD NOT…… help myself.”

A native of North Carolina, Headen’s musical destiny started around ten years of age. His entire family at that time was involved in the church. While sitting and waiting through a rehearsal for the church’s Easter play that year (where his grandfather would play the role of Jesus), the

He was given a walkman CD player for Christmas and the first album he bought and played on it ad nauseam, was Toni Braxton’s first record. “No matter where I went, I took that walkman with me, played that CD and sang all the songs on it, at the top of my lungs.”

50+ Living | August 2022

As we delve into inspirations beyond Toni Braxton, Reggie tells me how influential Byron Katie was to his evolution. “Her teaching and writing brought me out of the religious sink hole I found myself in.” He tells me how in 2007 he’d come back to his home town of Asheboro, NC from New York where he’d spent the previous 2 years completing studies at The American Musical and Dramatic Academy of NYC. Being away instigated a transformation he couldn’t deny. photo by Neil Jacobs

“I come from a family of preachers. And everyone told me that being a preacher was what I was supposed to do too. Instead I got a wild hair and decided to leave home to attend the conservancy in New York.” His family and church friends were perplexed as to why he’d choose to pursue musical theater over the ministry, when in reality he’d been interested in the stage since before high school. “I became a singing actor because I was insecure. The academy was like a boot camp teaching us the ins and outs of auditioning. We were expected to land auditions during the day and come to school in the evening to work out the kinks. And though it was an experience I wouldn’t trade, the dream crumbled. So while he was trying to dive into a career in the church for the sake of his family, at the same time he was struggling with his sexuality. “I was doing my best to pray the gay away. During that summer of 2008, I did everything quote unquote, right, but by the end of the summer I’d realized I can’t change who I am.” He goes on to describe how a distinctive thought came into his mind that wouldn’t stop: ‘don’t be afraid of what you’re thinking.’ The next day he saw an interview between Oprah Winfrey and Byron Katie that moved him to the core. He immediately went out and bought Bryon Katie’s book, Loving What Is. The book “changed my life” he says with steadfast resolve. The oldest of a slew of siblings, Reggie is blazing a trail for anyone coming up who is gay, young, black and

gifted. Since moving here in 2018, he’s hit the ground running with renewed vigor and a feeling of truly coming home; not only to the mountains, and to the welcoming community of musicians, but to Jazz music. New dreams are now being met, while he’s becoming a household name in our area. For the past year, he’s been in and out of the studio putting tracks down for a release of original material, some of the songs he’s been sitting on or working on for years. He’s fittingly calling the record “Blossomed.” With the encouragement of his friends and music partners, Jason DeCristofaro and Connor Law, the arrangements are sure to be spectacular. “I owe it all to the Jazz jams because sitting in or being featured has allowed me to fully become myself. I feel more myself and more embraced than I have during any other point in my life. And that feels right on time. Jazz music will continue to be at the forefront of my life because it connects me to ancestors; I feel like it’s ancestral. It can be a challenge trying to figure out what connects me to the past, like slavery and civil rights. It’s hard to find sometimes, the things that are outside of those things. They’ll always be part of my past. But in Jazz music I find the joy of being part of Black America in art form. Jazz always asks me, ‘who are you now?’ and I find freedom in that.” The vocal prowess, power and the raw emotion that comes from this diminutive human, is palpable. From tender nuanced notes to full growls, groans and moans, he commands our attention by the shear and unabashed righteousness of his delivery. His dedication to his dream now manifesting before our eyes and the discipline he initiates within himself, lights up his path and he’s taking it. He’s putting himself out there in order to make a difference in people’s lives and to keep blazing that trail for those coming up behind him. He’s a preacher, just like his family always wanted him to be. Preaching, singing-style, to the choir and the choir is us. It’s the sum total of why he wakes up grateful every morning. www.reverbnation.com/reggieheadenmusic

Peggy Ratusz is a vocal coach, song interpreter, and songwriter. For vocal coaching email her at peggymarie43@gmail.com August 2022 | 50+ Living

50+ Living | August 2022

The Anti-Aging Power of COCONUT

OIL

f you’re looking for a natural way to fight aging, look no further than coconut oil. Coconut oil has been shown to be not only effective but also affordable and easy to use. So, if you are ready to start looking younger, incorporate it into your daily skincare routine. Why does skin age? Intrinsic aging, also known as natural aging, takes place naturally over time, without any external effects. This is because a person’s skin produces less collagen as they get older. Collagen is a protein that helps give the skin its strength and elasticity, so when it diminishes, the skin becomes thin and more sensitive. Additionally, there is a decrease in the function of sweat and oil glands, as well as less elastin production. This can lead to wrinkles forming on the skin as we age. Intrinsic aging is unavoidable, but natural remedies like coconut oil can help. Extrinsic aging, also known as photoaging, is a type of skin aging that is caused by exposure to the sun and other environmental factors. This type of aging can show up in different ways, including thickening of the cornified layer, new freckles and dark spots, uneven skin tone, increased loss of collagen, deep wrinkles, and possibly skin cancer. Most environmental factors can’t be avoided, but coconut oil can potentially reduce the appearance of these signs of aging. How coconut oil fights aging Microscopic glands on the skin naturally produce a substance called sebum. This substance acts as a natural blocker against damaging free radicals and toxins. Coconut oil carries compounds called MCTs (mediumchain triglycerides) that can mimic sebum. Applying it during your skincare regimen will add an extra boost of defense. As our skin’s capacity to regenerate and produce collagen depletes with time, we may see wrinkles and other signs of aging. Massaging coconut oil into your skin has been shown to stimulate collagen production, which might help your skin repair itself and keep your skin looking younger. One of the most impressive benefits of coconut oil for the skin is its ability to promote cell regeneration. It helps improve cellular communication, which in turn

encourages the cells to regenerate at a faster rate. This can also help reduce the signs of aging. A natural moisturizer Applying some coconut oil to your skin will help keep it from drying out and looking older. It is mild enough to use on your face and body. You can also use it as a massage oil because of its smooth texture. The best time to apply coconut oil to your body is right after you get out of the shower or bath when your skin is still wet, so it will absorb better. Other coconut oil benefits for the skin Coconut oil is also known to be helpful in treating other skin conditions besides aging, such as psoriasis and eczema. The oil contains lauric acid that helps to reduce inflammation and redness. Coconut oil is also a good choice for after-sun treatment because it can help soothe the skin from sunburn as well as prevent peeling. It’s also an excellent makeup remover, lip balm, and body scrub product. Fortunately, coconut oil is inexpensive and easy-to-use compared to many anti-aging products. You’ll likely find a good quality coconut oil for under $20. And, since it is a natural product, there is less need to worry about any adverse effects. Coconut oil may be one of the best natural anti-aging solutions. Its many benefits are too good to pass up if you are looking to fight aging or improve your skincare regimen in other ways. August 2022 | 50+ Living

How To Burn

Belly Fat

nimals, including humans, store visceral fat in the abdominal area. Having an excessive amount of visceral fat is dangerous to your health because it can cause inflammation, which can damage your liver and arteries. It can also have a detrimental impact on how the body processes fats and sugars, leading to health conditions such as type 2 diabetes. Are you worried about carrying too much visceral fat? Here are some things you can do to reduce the amount of visceral fat you have in your abdominal area: 30 Minutes of Cardio The more cardiovascular exercise you do, the less visceral fat you will have. If you do enough cardiovascular exercise, you can lose visceral fat without changing your diet. If your objective is to lose visceral fat, aim to get at least 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise a day. Walking at a fast pace and swimming are effective forms of cardiovascular exercise that most people can manage. Follow a Healthy Diet If you want less belly fat, change what you eat. Stay away from junk food and processed goods. Instead, follow a whole food diet and cook your meals from scratch. A whole food diet comprises lean meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and grains.

50+ Living | August 2022

Reduce Your Sugar Intake

Fewer Trans Fats

Does your diet generally include several sugary beverages, cakes, candies, and cookies? Your liver will convert any excesses of sugar in your bloodstream to fats. If you habitually consume too much sugar, you are likely to have more visceral fat than is healthy for you. Thus, it is sensible to reduce the amount of sugar in your diet. Doing this will decrease the amount of fat you carry in and around your midsection.

Corporations add trans fats to processed foods such as potato chips to help keep them fresher for longer. However, trans fats are not beneficial to human health. Eating products that contain trans fats will cause you to accumulate more risky visceral fat. If you want less abdominal fat, keep away from potato chips, processed meat, cookies, creamers, cake frosting, and fried products such as chicken nuggets and onion rings.

Get Sufficient Sleep

Avoid Stress

If you do not get enough sleep, you will feel exhausted. When you are tired, you feel hungrier and eat more because you need extra energy. You will also have less energy for cardiovascular exercise. If you want to reduce the amount of visceral fat you are carrying, aim to get between six and eight hours of sleep per night.

If you are more stressed out than you should be, you will release a hormone called cortisol. When there is a lot of cortisol in your body, it can cause an increase in visceral fat. It is, therefore, vital to spend time relaxing and take measures to reduce your stress levels. Are you unsure where to start where relaxing is concerned? If so, try deep breathing exercises and meditation.

The Right Nutrients Making sure your body gets enough of the correct nutrients may help you reduce your visceral fat. For example, nutrients such as protein, calcium, and vitamin D can help you lose weight from your midriff. Thus, lowfat yogurt, fortified cereals, and skimmed milk can help you slim down and get healthier. Reduce Your Alcohol Intake If you want to lose visceral fat, you should avoid alcohol. Alcohol contains ingredients called congeners. Congeners are chemical substances. When alcohol is fermented, it creates congeners. Some types of alcohol contain more congeners than others. For instance, brandy and red wine contain more congeners than vodka and beer. More Fiber

Resistance Training The best exercise for burning belly fat is the cardiovascular variety. However, weight training does not just build muscle; it also helps to eliminate stubborn visceral fat. Ideally, you should do some weight training at least three times per week. For best results, train different body areas on set days of the week. For instance, you might build your legs on a Monday and your upper body on a Wednesday. Confident And Healthy By following the guidelines you have just read, you will decrease the visceral fat your body is carrying. Having less fat in your abdominal cavity will make you feel healthier. You will look a lot healthier, too. When you know you look good, it helps you feel relaxed, confident, and happy.

You might associate adequate fiber in the diet with having regular bowels. However, consuming sufficient fiber does not just reduce constipation. Soluble fiber also makes you feel full. The fuller you feel, the less food you will eat. The less you eat, the more visceral belly fat you will lose. August 2022 | 50+ Living

Five Foods to Eat For Better Health Eating high-quality food is an easy way to boost your well-being. Our energy, organ functions, and even emotions depend on our diet. Try these five foods to nourish your body and improve your overall health.

MANGOES Mangoes are more than sweet, succulent treats. For 5,000 years, inhabitants of India have considered them a sacred fruit. The flesh, skin, and even the pit offer benefits for your health. Each mango contains high levels of vitamins C, A, B5, E, and K. It’s a rich source of folate, which your body needs to maintain the strength and health of red blood cells. The combination of folate and vitamins E, B, and K boosts your immune system. The beta-carotene that gives mangoes their bright color also fights off cancer-causing free radicals. While mangoes are tasty on their own, adding them to a recipe can take them from humdrum to zesty perfection. They work well in salsa and guacamole. If you prefer a drinkable feast, mix mangoes into your smoothies, margaritas, or daiquiris. For a sweet snack, make mango ice cream. Simply chop the mango, freeze it, then put it into a blender with some greek yogurt and heavy cream. Blend it together. If you prefer a non-dairy version, add frozen banana and honey in place of the yogurt and cream.

JACKFRUIT Jackfruit grows on trees, mainly in India’s rain forests. Each fruit is huge -- some weigh more than 100 pounds -- with sweet pulp inside. Because of the fruit’s texture, many vegans and vegetarians use it to replace meat in recipes. Unlike other fruits, it has a high amount of protein per serving. It contains both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with vitamins A and C. In addition, each serving provides a decent amount of folate, niacin, riboflavin, calcium, magnesium, and more. It’s low on the glycemic index, which makes it a good choice for those who need help regulating their blood sugar. Jackfruit is a rich variety of antioxidants that reduce inflammation and protect against heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. You can eat jackfruit raw or cooked. When jackfruit is ripe, it works better for sweet dishes. Before it ripens, it works well for savory dishes like curries or barbecues. The seeds are also edible and contain more fiber.

CHIA SEEDS Chia seeds come from the Salvia hispanica plant, which flourishes in desert environments. They’re whole grain, gluten-free, and packed with antioxidants. They’re also 40% fiber, which aids digestion and creates a sense of fullness after you eat them. In addition to fiber, they’re an excellent source of protein. In fact, they contain isoleucine, lysine, histidine, leucine, phenylalanine, methionine, valine, tryptophan, and threonine. That’s all nine of the amino acids considered essential for our bodies to work properly. Since chia seeds are almost flavorless, you can eat them in a variety of ways. Soak them in water or milk, add flavoring like cinnamon or vanilla, and create chia pudding. Because they become gel-like in liquid, they’re perfect for making thick smoothies. You can sprinkle them on salads, stir-fries, and wraps. You can even add them to your favorite bread or cookie recipes. 22

50+ Living | August 2022

PICKLES

HEMP SEEDS

Pickles aren’t just for sandwiches. They’re also surprisingly good for you. The health benefits depend on which type of pickles you get. Fermented pickles have all the health benefits of cucumbers or whichever other vegetables they contain, plus they boost your gut health. When fermented naturally in salt, water, and spices, they contain probiotics. Beneficial bacteria keep the bad bacteria in your digestive system in check. They help your body digest food, break down medications, and protect the cells in your gut. Many of the pickles you find in grocery stores are fresh-packed in vinegar rather than fermented. These won’t help your gut as much, but they will benefit you in other ways. They contain antioxidants that fight free radicals. Their high levels of vitamins A, E, K, and C protect your immune system. The vinegar-based juice contains magnesium, potassium, and sodium, which can restore your balance of electrolytes and soothe muscle cramps.

People have used hemp seeds for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years. While they come from the cannabis plant, they contain no THC -- you won’t experience any psychotropic reactions from eating them. They are rich in essential fatty acids. More than a fourth of their calories per serving derive from protein. They’re also a good source of iron, zinc, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin E.

Eat pickles on their own, on sandwiches or burgers, or however else you like! If you don’t mind sour flavors, drinking the juice helps too. On the other hand, the high sodium content means a steady stream of pickles and pickle juice might not be the best choice. If you have blood pressure or heart issues, too many pickles might push you over your limit for salt.

Because hemp seeds contain arginine, they can lower blood pressure and improve circulation. Arginine becomes nitric oxide when digested. This relaxes blood vessels, causing them to dilate easier for improved blood flow. Hemp seeds contain an optimal balance of healthy fats, making them good for your skin. In oil form, they improve skin disorders like eczema. Women who suffer from PMS or menopause symptoms benefit from hemp seeds’ gamma-linolenic acid content, which helps regulate hormonal imbalances.

Chia seeds, mangoes, pickles, jackfruit, and hemp seeds are generally safe to add to your diet. However, you should speak to a licensed health professional if you have special dietary needs.

August 2022 | 50+ Living

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