National Cholesterol Education Month

The month of September we take a chance to spread awareness and educate about the risks of high Cholesterol. Even though there are many dangers associated with high cholesterol many people may not fully understand the link between high cholesterol and heart disease.

As you may know, there are good cholesterol's and bad ones. The bad ones are associated with a higher risk of heart attack and stroke. World wide there is an estimated 17.3 million deaths each year from heart disease and LDL, the bad cholesterol is the leading risk factor for heart disease and is the leading cause of death. In America alone more than 71 million adults have high LDL, putting them at risk of heart disease, the number one cause of death across the globe. There are a number of factors can cause high LDL, including the genetics. However, many of those with the genetic predisposition have no idea they are at risk. In fact, less than one percent of people with a genetic predisposition are diagnosed. Knowing your family history and early screening are essential to help lower your risk for heart disease.

There’s many actions we can take to help, even if you are genetically predisposition. Adopting a healthy lifestyle of exercise, whole foods, mindfulness and healthy habits are a tremendous step in the correct direction. Developing a healthy tea habit could be beneficial as well as both green and black tea can help lower cholesterol levels. Research shows that catechins, a type of antioxidant found in tea, is responsible for its cholesterol-lowering effect. Herbal teas, specifically rooibos, has also been shown to help improve your lipid profile, or levels of LDL.

Recommended Teas:

• Renovation Tea: Cholesterol Tea — Our Cholesterol Tea is specifically formulated help balance lipid profile and help lower LDL or "bad cholesterol".
  • Organic Free Trade Ingredients:  Basil, Psyllium and Alfalfa.

• Renovation Tea: Blood Pressure Tea — Our Blood Pressure tea will help promote heart health and assist in the treatment of hypertension by naturally lowering blood pressure.
  • Organic Free Trade Ingredients:  Hawthorn Berries, Parsley, Coriander, Flax Seeds and Basil

• Renovation Tea: Heart Healthy Tea — Our Heart Healthy Tea will help promote a healthy cardiovascular system and help fight the symptoms of heart disease including lowering LDL levels and fight free radicals.
  • Organic Free Trade Ingredients:  Hawthorn Leaf & Flowers, Willow Bark, Alfalfa, Yarrow Leaf & Flowers and Ground Flax Seeds.

Healthy Eats:  Chicken Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons Renovation Tea: Korean 7 Spice Blend
• 1 3 inch piece of ginger, peeled and sliced into ¼ in coins
• 10 cloves of garlic, peeled
• 4 whole scallions, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon red-pepper flakes (to taste)
• 2 pounds chicken breast
• 1 tablespoon unrefined or light brown sugar (to taste)
• ½ cup rice wine
• ¼ cup light soy sauce
• 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves or regular basil leaves

Instructions:

1. Add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil to a hot wok.
2. When the oil is hot but not smoking add garlic, ginger, scallions, peppers. Cook until fragrant.
3. Push the contents to the sides of the wok and add the rest of the sesame oil.
4. Add chicken, Renovation Tea: Korean 7 Spice Blend, and stir occasionally.
5. Cook thoroughly and until crispy around the edges.
6. Add sugar to taste and stir to combine
7. Add the rice wine and soy sauce, and bring to a low boil.
8. Lower the heat, and simmer until the sauce has reduced and has started to thicken.
9. Turn off the heat, add the basil and stir to combine.
10. Enjoy!

**Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Renovation Tea does not dispense medical advice, prescribe, or diagnose illness. The views and nutritional advice expressed by Renovation Tea are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.