Healthy and Make Beauty Easy

Teenage Skin Care - Make a Clean Start

2009-07-21T16:56:00.000-07:00

Some teenagers are so active, they don't have the time to even consider their skin. Factor in hormonal changes, and you have a breeding ground for a variety of different skin problems. The good news? With a proper and simple routine, a couple of changes (avoiding bad habits), teenagers can achieve clear and radiant skin.

Firstly, let's consider some quick and dirty tricks teens can incorporate into their daily lives. Some of the most simple changes can make all the difference.

Always wash your hands before cleaning (or touching) your face. Our hands come into contact with an awful lot during the day. The dirt that builds up on our hands can lead to clogged pores, and as a result cause breakouts. Washing your face with dirty hands can be absolutely counterproductive.

Check the cleanliness of everything that touches your face. Peaked caps and mobile phones are regular culprits. Be particularly cautious with any areas of the face where breakouts are common. Could you be touching those areas with grubby objects throughout the day? Take care to check that your skincare lotions or makeup don't contain ingredients that are known to restrict pores. Ingredients to avoid include:- lanolin, mineral oil, SD alcohol, fragrances and colour.

And eat healthily. Many experts think there is a correlation between your diet and skin. When we eat unhealthy foods, our skin tends to show it in the region between our foreheads, as well as on the chin. Wearing a quality SPF15 every day can really help. Of course, this is good advice for all ages, but teens should especially wear a moisturiser that has a full-spectrum sunscreen. The suns rays break down our collagen and elastin, which can lead to sun spots. These results don't tend to surface until years later, so an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

The most beneficial way to optimise your skin health in the future is to start protecting it during the younger years. For instance, remove makeup every night. Most young women are guilty of not doing this in their teenage years, but sleeping in makeup is just not good. Especially, if you put up with an oily complexion. Congestion can build up in your pores and cause breakouts.

Using too many drying products is also likely to cause disappointing results. When the skin is oily, most teenagers tend to buy face wash, moisturisers and spot treatments that promise to remove oiliness. At first, you may see some results, but in the long run, the oil glands will begin to over accommodate for the lack of oil by producing even more oil than in the first place! Everything starts with good intentions, initially teenagers say they love drying skincare regimens. But after a while, they suddenly cease to be effective. Any creams with SD Alcohol are unquestionably part of the 'drying out' category.

Avoiding no, no's, such as using plain soap on the face. It is alkaline, and our skin is acidic. Meaning that it can make skin feel tight, dry and itchy. Taking hot showers is another tactic to be avoided. Whilst tempting, the heat can actually draw moisture out of the skin. This can cause your skin to either produce surplus oil (or look dry and flaky). We're sure that everyone can recollect being told not to pick spots, but picking really isn't a good idea. Infected and angered spots spread infection to other areas of the face when picked. Instead, try applying products containing Sulfur or Salicylic Acid to problem areas, just as you feel them starting. So, how do you develop a good skincare regimen in your teens? The answer is keep it simple but effective.

Choose a high quality cleanser. Dermalogica Clean Start is recommended, as it includes all of the ingredients necessary for a total regimen. For instance, a foaming wash containing salicylic acid, which reaches deep into pores to help exhaustively clean the skin.

For active teenagers, ensure any routine includes the body. Don't over exfoliate, usually 3 times a week is good enough. Excess scrubbing can lead to any infection spreading across the surface of the skin. You may consider using a leave-on exfoliant, containing salicylic acid. This can clean up the pores and cut through oil. When the pores are clear, breakouts are much less likely to occur. Treat breakouts as and when they take place.

Choose a spot treatment that is well regarded and has proven results. Some use sulfur to dry out infected areas, and some contain Benzoyl Peroxide to get rid of bacteria. You should apply as soon as you suspect a breakout forming. One common myth is that moisturising restricts pores. There are moisturisers available that will hold oil on the surface of the skin at bay and looking matte. The same applies with SPF protectors and sunblocks.

With the best will in the world any campaign to keep skin healthy can be met with the odd congestion or breakout. Utilising quality products and staying up to date with professional advice will go a long way to saving your skin in optimum health.

How to Increase Your Metabolism

2009-07-21T16:50:00.000-07:00

Metabolism refers to the rate and method in which your body processes the food that you eat. A person with fast metabolism tends to be slimmer because processed food does not remain inside the body. Instead of forming into fat cells, they are utilized and burned by the body accordingly.

A person with slower metabolic rate has the bigger problem. When his metabolism is slow, high are the chances that he’ll find it hard to lose weight. The only way to successfully cut inches around your belly and the rest of your body is to increase your metabolic rate.

Here are the suggested effective ways on how you can increase metabolism and facilitate weight loss:

1. Determine the problems that causes slow metabolism.

The most common reasons why a person suffers from slower metabolic rate are age, sex, heredity, and physical disorders. While you can’t do so much about the other factors, you can certainly do something about your disease. Make sure that you get the proper medications for it. As for the others, it is best that you consider your options very carefully when attempting to increase your body’s metabolic rate. Consult with a certified health expert to guide you through it.

2. Create a functional diet plan.

To increase your metabolism, it is necessary to eat decreased quantities of food several times throughout the day. Make sure that you take in 5 to 6 small meals daily. This way, you are forcing your body to process food during your waking hours. Over time, your body would get used to this process and keep on burning fats around the clock.

3. Drink water frequently.

Water can keep you filled. Besides, water forces your body to burn fats. On the other hand, if your body is deprived of water, it would save instead of burning calories. A person’s metabolic rate is greatly affected by the body’s water content. So be sure to drink more than enough water on a daily basis.

4. Do aerobic exercises.

When doing exercises, be sure to include aerobic workouts in your routine as well. This type of exercise increases heart rate. You are going to need the full functions of your heart to increase metabolism. Your heart will be able to efficiently pump blood throughout the body, decreasing instances of fat cells forming. Aerobic exercises are known to temporarily increase a person’s metabolic rate.

5. Weight training.

For a more long-term effect on speeding up your metabolism, try to do some weight training exercises. Improving your muscle tone would decrease your body’s calorie count. The more lean muscles built, the better your metabolic rate will be. This is when you can virtually say that you are burning fats even as you sleep.

Increase your metabolism by following these five easy steps. With regular practice, you’ll notice that your body is slowly getting back in shape and getting the form that you desire. Lose weight fast and easy. Make your body’s increased metabolic rate do wonders for you.

The Fastest Way to Lose Weight

2009-07-12T12:43:00.000-07:00

Do you struggle to lose stomach fat? Have you asked yourself, "What's the fastest way to lose weight?" Am I correct in thinking you've tried every trick and technique you can think of to lose your gut, to no avail? I imagine you've seen hundreds of commercials and infomercials claiming you can lose pounds of stomach fat by simply taking some sort of dietary supplement or miraculous fat burning compound. How about all of the bogus infomercial gadgets out there claiming you can reduce your stomach fat in a matter of days just by strapping some worthless "ab-belt" around your waist, or sizzle away the stomach fat by using their patented "ab-roller-rocker" do-hicky.

Come on now! I hope you've been able to see through all these scams and gimmicks and realize that stomach fat reduction is not an overnight endeavour.

Since the scams and gimmicks don't work, let's discuss some concrete strategies and techniques to determine how to take your stomach fat off, and keep it off for life! These strategies, when combined, comprise the fastest way to lose weight.

The first important principle we'll discuss is how you structure your workouts. In order to stimulate fat loss from your stomach, you need to stop wasting so much of your time doing all kinds of abdominal exercises and hundreds of reps of crunches, leg lifts, and torso twists in the hopes of "spot-reducing" your stomach and love handles.

I'm sure you know by now if you've read any reputable fitness publications over the last decade that spot-reduction does not occur. It's a myth that just won't seem to go away. Targeting the abdominal area with specific exercises will not result in the loss of stomach fat. Most people spend too much of their time attempting to target the abs with tons of exercise.

This isn't meant to imply that all ab exercises are a waste of time. A certain amount of ab exercises are great and help to strengthen your core and maintain a healthy back. But the fact is that direct abs exercises should only be a small portion of your workout routines. The majority of your time should be spent focusing on multi-joint exercises that work the largest muscle groups of the body like the legs, chest, and back.

Focusing on big multi-joint exercises for the largest portions of your body greatly increases your metabolic rate both during the workout, and for 24-48 hours after the workout. It is one of the real secrets for ridding yourself of that sloppy stomach fat for good. In addition, this also stimulates an increase in fat-burning hormones within your body. You simply don't get this type of metabolic and hormonal response by wasting most of your time with "abs-pumping" exercises.

Want to lose stomach fat? Do some deadlifts, squats, lunges, and work on your chest and back. It doesn't matter if you work with barbells, dumbbells, or even bodyweight exercises. The focus needs to be on big multi-joint exercises at a high intensity. That means no 5-minute rest periods between sets!

The second important principle to rid yourself of that flabby stomach revolves around your nutrition. It's important to realize that "diets" are a short-term solution to weight loss, and are actually counterproductive in your efforts to keep weight off permanently. You see, if you follow any of these fad diets like low-carb, or low-fat, or the grapefruit diet, the soup diet, or anything else that restricts 1 or more of the macro-nutrients (protein, carbs, and fat), most of the time you will actually lose lean muscle and lower your metabolic rate. This only makes you fatter in the long run, when you start to eat normal again!

It's important to stop falling for the fad diet gimmicks, and understand that we are meant to eat a balanced diet full of a diverse array of foods from healthy natural sources of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Only through a well-balanced diet will your body obtain all of the vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, and antioxidants it requires to remain healthy and burn fat.

I could go on and on with dozens more strategies for losing your belly fat fast, the natural way, but this article can only be so long, so see below to download a free report detailing some of my best fat-loss strategies for helping you to flatten that belly and uncover those hidden abdominals of yours.

Tips On How To Prevent Catching Swine Flu

2009-06-25T22:03:00.000-07:00

With many deaths recorded in Mexico, a new strain of swine flu virus is sweeping the globe. Several nations have suspect cases reported, from as far away as Hong Kong, Canada, Israel France and New Zealand.

Here are a few simple precautions you need to take to provide effective self-protection against the threat of a global pandemic:

•Make sure you cover your nose and mouth if you sneeze or cough. Ensure you get rid of the tissue in the rubbish can after you use it. Keep a mask handy in case anyone sneezes or coughs around you.

One sneeze alone projects 100,000 droplets into the air at a speed of approximately 90 mph, settling on ATM and computer keypads, elevator buttons, door knobs, escalator railings and grocery trolley handles.

British researchers report that in a subway rail-station at rush hour, as high as 10 percent of all travellers can come in contact with the spray and residue from just one sneeze. That means as many as 150 commuters can be infected by one uncovered cough, or sneeze. The stream of air hurtling from a cough, moves at speeds that are close to 600 mph.

•Always wash your hands frequently, for up to 20 seconds, with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Always wash your hands thoroughly prior to eating and whenever possible do not eat with your hands.

It is estimated that around 80 percent of all infections are passed on by hands. If you aren't able to wash your hands, use hand-sanitizers which have 60% alcohol content. These are readily available in handy pocket size containers.

•Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth and definitely avoid kissing on the cheeks.

Germs are spread more quickly through that method of transmission.

•Try to stay away from sick people. Isolation and keeping your distance are your most efficient protective measures.

•Stay home from work or school if you get sick and keep your contact with others limited, so as to not infect anyone else.

•Keep aware and recognize any abnormal symptoms. If you are in doubt, go and seek professional advice.

•Ensure you eat well, closely monitor your sleep habits and make sure you exercise regularly. Upgrade your vitamin C intake and ensure you practice good hygiene.

Swine flu can be treated. Though it is unaffected by two of the four drugs approved for treating flu, two new arrivals, Tamiflu and Relenza have proven to be successful.

MSCunila: Indonesia Potensial Jadi Pemasok Material Nano

2009-06-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

MSCunila: Indonesia Potensial Jadi Pemasok Material Nano

Avoid Virus H1N1

2009-06-19T09:55:00.000-07:00

alpha H1N1 influenza (swine flu) is a type A swine influenza virus of swine respiratory disease caused by the virus in an outbreak of swine influenza caused. Is usually very few cases of human influenza virus infection in pigs. In recent years, the United States also exceptional cases of swine flu infection, most patients with sick pigs have had direct contact person. May be through contact with infected pigs or pig influenza viruses contact with infected environment, or with swine influenza virus infections occurred in contact with people. Of human infection with swine flu after the flu symptoms and is similar to ordinary people, including fever, cough, sore throat, body pain, headache, chills and fatigue, and some also suffered from diarrhea and vomiting, weight would be secondary to pneumonia and respiratory failure, or even death.
I. Type A H1N1 influenza and its deadly dangers of:
Of human infection with swine flu after the flu symptoms and is similar to ordinary people, including fever, cough, sore throat, body pain, headache, chills and fatigue, and some also suffered from diarrhea and vomiting, weight would be secondary to pneumonia and respiratory failure, or even death.
Second, prevention and treatment of
Alpha treatment of H1N1 influenza vaccines have not yet emerged. There is no evidence that the spread of swine flu through food. Therefore, the consumption of properly cooked pork and pork products are safe. The internal temperature of cooked pork 71 ℃, can kill bacteria and viruses.
The correct approach is to develop good personal hygiene, washing hands frequently, especially after contact with public goods and then wash their hands before touching their eyes, nose and mouth; when sneezing and coughing should cover your mouth and nose with tissue paper; room maintained ventilation.
Third, a return to strengthen the disease prevention
At present, the epidemic of human infection with swine influenza known to have occurred in California (California), Texas (Texas) and Kansas (Kansas) 3 states, as well as the capital of Mexico City, Mexico (Federal District, Mexico City), south-east of Oaxaca (Oaxaca), in central St. Louis potosi Bolivia (San Luis Potosi) and the north of Mexicali (Mexicali) and Baja California (Baja California) and other five cities. Suggested that the Chinese citizens to travel to these areas of business and travel, should be aware of the progress of the local epidemic, good personal protection. Travel agencies in the delegation to travel to these areas, it is obliged to inform the members of the epidemic situation, to remind members to do a good job of personal protective. The main personal protective measures are:
1, to avoid contact with influenza-like symptoms (fever, cough, runny nose, etc.) or pneumonia and other respiratory tract of patients.
2, to observe good personal hygiene, frequent hand-washing with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing.
3, to avoid contact with pigs or pig to have a place.
4, to avoid going to crowded places.
5, when coughing or sneezing, cover mouth and nose with tissue paper, tissue paper and then thrown into the trash.
6, such as outside the influenza-like symptoms (fever, cough, runny nose, etc.), should immediately seek medical treatment (medical treatment should be wearing masks), to the local public health agencies and description of inspection and quarantine departments.
Entry returned from the region, such as influenza-like symptoms (fever, cough, runny nose, etc.), should take the initiative to the entry-exit inspection and quarantine agencies. Swine influenza virus is expected to be more widely disseminated, "cases in the different communities, we believe that it is difficult to control. The new virus appears to be easily spread between humans, but cases in many places, patients do not know each other, indicating the virus from hidden ways to quietly spread. as a result of respiratory diseases are too common, doctors rarely test patients, and some swine flu may never know their own patients infected with swine flu. to the United States as an example of the cases, the patient's condition is not serious, this more difficult to trace the spread of the virus.
H1N1 virus emerged in Mexico worrying, because "every time the virus variants, it would mean that the resistance of human influenza may be less than the regulation of the immune system to resist the new viruses." Ren most worrying is that the multi-hit Mexico is young and healthy. Although the H5N1 bird flu virus in Asia over the past few years the spread, but never developed like Mexico, like the outbreak of swine flu can be spread easily in the human genes.
Roche's Tamiflu, pharmaceutical, GlaxoSmithKline flu-ching music (Relenza) are the anti-influenza drugs, the test showed that administration to swine influenza virus. Two pharmaceutical companies said yesterday is closely monitoring the swine flu epidemic that can supply millions of drugs and prepared to study new vaccines. Once turned into a swine flu epidemic, as a result of oral Tamiflu is, I believe the demand will increase significantly. Roche said Tamiflu has 3,000,000 stock, half in the United States, the other half kept in Switzerland.

I. Type A H1N1 influenza and its deadly dangers of:
Of human infection with swine flu after the flu symptoms and is similar to ordinary people, including fever, cough, sore throat, body pain, headache, chills and fatigue, and some also suffered from diarrhea and vomiting, weight would be secondary to pneumonia and respiratory failure, or even death.
Second, prevention and treatment of
Alpha treatment of H1N1 influenza vaccines have not yet emerged. There is no evidence that the spread of swine flu through food. Therefore, the consumption of properly cooked pork and pork products are safe. The internal temperature of cooked pork 71 ℃, can kill bacteria and viruses.
The correct approach is to develop good personal hygiene, washing hands frequently, especially after contact with public goods and then wash their hands before touching their eyes, nose and mouth; when sneezing and coughing should cover your mouth and nose with tissue paper; room maintained ventilation.
Third, a return to strengthen the disease prevention
At present, the epidemic of human infection with swine influenza known to have occurred in California (California), Texas (Texas) and Kansas (Kansas) 3 states, as well as the capital of Mexico City, Mexico (Federal District, Mexico City), south-east of Oaxaca (Oaxaca), in central St. Louis potosi Bolivia (San Luis Potosi) and the north of Mexicali (Mexicali) and Baja California (Baja California) and other five cities. Suggested that the Chinese citizens to travel to these areas of business and travel, should be aware of the progress of the local epidemic, good personal protection. Travel agencies in the delegation to travel to these areas, it is obliged to inform the members of the epidemic situation, to remind members to do a good job of personal protective. The main personal protective measures are:
1, to avoid contact with influenza-like symptoms (fever, cough, runny nose, etc.) or pneumonia and other respiratory tract of patients.
2, to observe good personal hygiene, frequent hand-washing with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing.
3, to avoid contact with pigs or pig to have a place.
4, to avoid going to crowded places.
5, when coughing or sneezing, cover mouth and nose with tissue paper, tissue paper and then thrown into the trash.
6, such as outside the influenza-like symptoms (fever, cough, runny nose, etc.), should immediately seek medical treatment (medical treatment should be wearing masks), to the local public health agencies and description of inspection and quarantine departments.
Entry returned from the region, such as influenza-like symptoms (fever, cough, runny nose, etc.), should take the initiative to the entry-exit inspection and quarantine agencies. Swine influenza virus is expected to be more widely disseminated, "cases in the different communities, we believe that it is difficult to control. The new virus appears to be easily spread between humans, but cases in many places, patients do not know each other, indicating the virus from hidden ways to quietly spread. as a result of respiratory diseases are too common, doctors rarely test patients, and some swine flu may never know their own patients infected with swine flu. to the United States as an example of the cases, the patient's condition is not serious, this more difficult to trace the spread of the virus.
H1N1 virus emerged in Mexico worrying, because "every time the virus variants, it would mean that the resistance of human influenza may be less than the regulation of the immune system to resist the new viruses." Ren most worrying is that the multi-hit Mexico is young and healthy. Although the H5N1 bird flu virus in Asia over the past few years the spread, but never developed like Mexico, like the outbreak of swine flu can be spread easily in the human genes.
Roche's Tamiflu, pharmaceutical, GlaxoSmithKline flu-ching music (Relenza) are the anti-influenza drugs, the test showed that administration to swine influenza virus. Two pharmaceutical companies said yesterday is closely monitoring the swine flu epidemic that can supply millions of drugs and prepared to study new vaccines. Once turned into a swine flu epidemic, as a result of oral Tamiflu is, I believe the demand will increase significantly. Roche said Tamiflu has 3,000,000 stock, half in the United States, the other half kept in Switzerland.

The Miracle of Green Tea

2009-06-08T19:38:00.000-07:00

Is any other food or drink reported to have as many health benefits as green tea? The Chinese have known about the medicinal benefits of green tea since ancient times, using it to treat everything from headaches to depression. In her book Green Tea: The Natural Secret for a Healthier Life, Nadine Taylor states that green tea has been used as a medicine in China for at least 4,000 years.

Today, scientific research in both Asia and the west is providing hard evidence for the health benefits long associated with drinking green tea. For example, in 1994 the Journal of the National Cancer Institute published the results of an epidemiological study indicating that drinking green tea reduced the risk of esophageal cancer in Chinese men and women by nearly sixty percent. University of Purdue researchers recently concluded that a compound in green tea inhibits the growth of cancer cells. There is also research indicating that drinking green tea lowers total cholesterol levels, as well as improving the ratio of good (HDL) cholesterol to bad (LDL) cholesterol.

To sum up, here are just a few medical conditions in which drinking green tea is reputed to be helpful:

* cancer
* rheumatoid arthritis
* high cholesterol levels
* cariovascular disease
* infection
*

impaired immune function

What makes green tea so special?

The secret of green tea lies in the fact it is rich in catechin polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG is a powerful anti-oxidant: besides inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, it kills cancer cells without harming healthy tissue. It has also been effective in lowering LDL cholesterol levels, and inhibiting the abnormal formation of blood clots. The latter takes on added importance when you consider that thrombosis (the formation of abnormal blood clots) is the leading cause of heart attacks and stroke.

Links are being made between the effects of drinking green tea and the "French Paradox." For years, researchers were puzzled by the fact that, despite consuming a diet rich in fat, the French have a lower incidence of heart disease than Americans. The answer was found to lie in red wine, which contains resveratrol, a polyphenol that limits the negative effects of smoking and a fatty diet. In a 1997 study, researchers from the University of Kansas determined that EGCG is twice as powerful as resveratrol, which may explain why the rate of heart disease among Japanese men is quite low, even though approximately seventy-five percent are smokers.

Why don't other Chinese teas have similar health-giving properties? Green, oolong, and black teas all come from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. What sets green tea apart is the way it is processed. Green tea leaves are steamed, which prevents the EGCG compound from being oxidized. By contrast, black and oolong tea leaves are made from fermented leaves, which results in the EGCG being converted into other compounds that are not nearly as effective in preventing and fighting various diseases.

Other Benefits

New evidence is emerging that green tea can even help dieters. In November, 1999, the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published the results of a study at the University of Geneva in Switzerland. Researchers found that men who were given a combination of caffeine and green tea extract burned more calories than those given only caffeine or a placebo.

Green tea can even help prevent tooth decay! Just as its bacteria-destroying abilities can help prevent food poisoning, it can also kill the bacteria that causes dental plaque. Meanwhile, skin preparations containing green tea - from deodorants to creams - are starting to appear on the market.

Harmful Effects?

To date, the only negative side effect reported from drinking green tea is insomnia due to the fact that it contains caffeine. However, green tea contains less caffeine than coffee: there are approximately thirty to sixty mg. of caffeine in six - eight ounces of tea, compared to over one-hundred mg. in eight ounces of coffee.

The Easiest Way To Stop Smoking Revealed

2009-05-23T21:32:00.000-07:00

Some people say there is no easy way to stop smoking. Yet people who have successfully quit will often tell you that it was easy, when they look back. Often, they tried many times before and failed - they went back to smoking after a few days, weeks, or months. But that one time, they stopped without much trouble, and never started again. So what made it easy that time?

Most smokers want to stop and if there was a magic method or supplement that worked for everybody, there would probably only be a couple of smokers left in the world. So it's pretty clear that whatever methods may be suggested, they do not work for all of the people who try them, every time.

Finding the easy way is often just a matter of doing it at the right time. This means that instead of deciding you will quit tomorrow, or next week, or on January 1st, you should act any time when you feel a strong desire to quit.

This moment may come when you are sick, when your kid says something to you that makes you feel ashamed, or just one day for no apparent reason. It might be right now. It will not just be a vague wish that you didn't smoke, but something stronger, a real emotional motive.

For most people that is what makes it easy one time when it never was before: they simply did it at the right moment. You have probably had these times in the past and ignored them. This time, do not push this moment away and try to forget it, but act on it. When it comes, stop right now.

Your motivation may still go up and down but you can be sure that you can make it through. You need to keep on thinking positively. Remind yourself how great it is to be a non-smoker. After a few days, you will find it is easier to sit through a long movie or plane journey without getting anxious and wishing for the end so that you could smoke. Be aware of how much more enjoyable your life is getting, and remind yourself of it often.

People who use aids like nicotine replacement, hypnosis, or any kind of therapy or support group usually do better than those who do not. It may be that their willingness to spend money on these things is a sign of higher commitment. These things can help you to keep your motivation high.

Most people have activities that remind them of smoking. Go ahead and avoid these activities for a couple of weeks if it helps. It is a good idea to give up alcohol temporarily, not only because you probably associate it with smoking, but because your motivation will be much lower when you have had a couple of drinks. You may also need to avoid certain places or even certain friends.

At the same time, you should not stay home alone with nothing to do. Quitting smoking can be a little like losing a friend: you will grieve, and you need to try to occupy your mind, your hands and your time. Take up a hobby that involves using your hands, such as woodworking or quilting, or make a list of things that need fixing around the house and do them one by one.

Drinking a small glass of water every time you have a craving is a great way to avoid overeating. Or simply notice how quickly a craving disappears. You may be surprised. Even if you do nothing to satisfy it, the strongest craving will vanish within 90 seconds. Sure it comes back, but 90 seconds is not long to hold out each time.

If you have a lot of anger coming out and you are taking it out on your friends and family, do not use that as an excuse to give up your resolve. Your irritability is only temporary. It may seem that your friends would be better off if you started smoking again, but that is not true. They are way better off without you blowing smoke into the air that they breathe.

In the end, the easy way to stop smoking is any way that works for you - when you do it at the right time.

For more free information on health, business and finance, visit http://ww.travelandjobsonline.com

Aromatherapy Recipes For Natural Acne Treatment

2009-05-23T02:09:00.000-07:00

Aromatherapy has its roots in the ancient practice of using natural plant essences in order to promote health and well being. As an alternative medicine, it is typically used to treat an array of different illnesses and health conditions. Acting on the central nervous system, it is used to relieve conditions such as depression, anxiety and stress. Aromatherapy recipes are some of the best therapies in natural acne treatment.

Through the blending of essentials oils and carriers such as jojoba oil, these recipes exhibit antibacterial and antiseptic properties that help control outbreaks and promote healing.

A few simple precautions need to be observed. Some of these recipes contain certain essential oils that should not be used during pregnancy, such as juniper tree oil and Lebanese cedar oil. Bergamot essential oil should be used only if you can avoid sunlight exposure for at least 12 hours. If you are being treated by a dermatologist, or have anything more than a minor skin condition, you should seek professional advice before using.

Not all essential oils are useful for acne treatment, so we will note a few that are effective.

Some of the recommended essential oils for acne control are Cedarwood, Jasmine, Lavender, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Geranium, Grapefruit, Juniper, Lebanese Cedar, Bergamot and Tea Tree.

Lavender essential oil and Tea Tree seemed to be well tolerated by most users and Tea Tree is one of the best and most popular for natural acne treatment.

Aromatherapy recipes consist of a mixture of two or more oils that work together to produce the desired results. Here are a few easy recipes that you can make at home.

Mix the following in a small bottle or container:

• 1oz. jojoba oil
• 10 drops of lavender oil
• 7 drops of tea tree oil
• 2 drops of bergamot oil
• 1 drop geranium oil

(To mix without the bergamot oil, simply use 12 drops of lavender oil).

Shake ingredients well and apply to your face, neck or back. Avoid your eyes, nose or the inside of your ears.

Another simple recipe is to mix (2) drops of juniper oil and Lebanese cedar oil in a small amount of water and apply every two hours. One more recipe is, (2) drops of juniper oil in (1) spoonful of jojoba oil, mix and apply to pimples.

For body acne, try adding a few drops these essential oils to a non-perfumed body lotion and apply at bedtime. A guide line for mixing essential oils with a carrier is approximately 2-3%.

As with any acne treatment, these too will take time to work. If you have a serious skin condition, please consult with a dermatologist. For allergy prone skin it may be wise to try applying the oils in a small area first.

The information provided here has hopefully opened one more avenue for you as you seek successful treatment. If you have no experience in mixing these oils, you will want to consult the professionals before you begin to make your own aromatherapy recipes. It is important to know how the oils act and will interact with each other.

Recipes or blends and the essential oils needed are easy to obtain, especially online. You will be provided with a list of ingredients that you will need and how to mix them correctly for the best results. This field is growing more and more popular as a viable alternative medicine in the treatment of many issues of the body and mind, especially stress which can also be a contributor to skin conditions.

Equipped with a few essential oils and the knowledge of how to use them could make a tremendous difference in your physical and mental well being. Imagine clearer skin, more confidence and peace of mind through natural acne treatment with aromatherapy recipes.

For more information concerning acne treatment and acne scars, medications, home remedies and natural cures, please visit: http://jersand-acnetreatment.com

Six स्मार्ट Steps To Surviving Stress

2009-05-22T10:27:00.000-07:00

Whether the economy goes up or down, it looks like stress is here to stay. In addition to putting a strain on your body, one of the many side effects of protracted stress can be diminished self-esteem. It may be subtle, but feeling overwhelmed by responsibility erodes our ability to love ourselves.

How does this happen? As we become more and more focused on what we're doing, we forget how to just 'be.' It's when we are "being" that we commune with our deepest sense of self and remember our best qualities.

Here's a checklist to see if your stress level is affecting your self-esteem:

* Do you end each day thinking about all the mistakes you made that day?
* Do you think negative thoughts about yourself?
* Are you finding it increasingly difficult to express yourself clearly?
* Do you feel that no matter how much you do, it's never quite enough?
* Do you feel guilty because you crave time for yourself and there are so many other things to do?
* Are financial worries making you question the value of everything you do?

Don't panic! Many people are feeling these same feelings, so you know you're not alone. But you can be more proactive with this simple six-step program. You may want to call it, "Recommitting to My Self-Esteem."

1. For at least 15 minutes every day, I will sit quietly in my favorite chair, the tub or Jacuzzi, under a tree, or anywhere I feel the most comfortable. I will alert family members not to disturb me because this is officially "my time." In this alone place I will think, write or meditate on my good qualities as well as areas that require some attention. I'll take the time to praise myself where I excel, and be patient with myself regarding weaker points. This will help me to get comfortable with taking care of myself.

2. Each morning I will focus on one of my good qualities and on one area of weakness. Then throughout the day I'll be aware of expressing the good quality and improving the weak one. This will help turn my focus inward instead of in a constant outward direction.

3. At least once a month, I will take a risk by doing something that feels difficult to do, such as asking for a raise, talking to my mother-in-law about her bossiness or confronting a friend who's disappointed me. This will remind me that I am not just a workhorse, but a person who can make positive, forward-moving changes in life, while getting daily tasks done.

4. I will require that the people in my life be accountable for their share of responsibilities. I will also say no to assuming more than I can truly handle. This will remind me of the importance of setting clear and healthy boundaries.

5. I will eat healthy foods, exercise at least several times per week and love my body, even with its imperfections. This will remind me that I am a spiritual being inhabiting a human body, and that material gains and losses mean nothing in the long run.

6. I will do what I feel passionate about, whether it's riding a motorcycle, painting pictures, walking in the woods, or whatever makes me feel alive. Woven into each day's activities will be a renewed awareness of those things that feed my soul, and I will pursue those interests for at least two hours every week. This will remind me that I deserve only the best life has to offer.

Even if stress is here to stay, it doesn't have to be the enemy. Remember, no matter what's happening to your bank account, you still deserve to feel good and enjoy life.

E Cigarette: A Healthy Way to smoke

2009-05-22T05:42:00.000-07:00

Clinical studies have clearly established the connection between smoking and several chronic medical conditions, which includes different forms of cancers, emphysema, and coronary diseases. Aside from the health hazards associated with smoking, there are also risks posed to other people through secondhand smoking. So, one of the challenges for health professionals and smokers alike is to find a solution to the health risks that smoking brings. Aside from "stop smoking" campaigns, perhaps a more realistic approach is to find smoking alternatives that present smokers the pleasure of smoking without the health problems associated with it. One of these alternatives is the e cigarettes or electronic cigarettes.

What is an e cigarette?

An e cigarette is an electronic device that’s being introduced as an alternative to traditional smoking. It does this by vaporizing a nicotine mixture or packet and that in turn is inhaled by the smoker. Electronic cigarettes generally contain a heating and mechanical mechanism, and a nicotine cartridge or container. The heating mechanism usually contains a sensor where it activates the heating or vaporizing process when inhalation or vacuum action is detected. This then turns the nicotine mixture into a vapor, ready for inhalation by the smoker.

E cigarettes are usually made to look and feel like traditional cigarettes, and they even have an LED that lights up when a smoker puffs on the cigarette. The device is usually powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which the smoker needs to recharge should the electronic cigarette run out of power.

How can the electronic cigarette be a healthy alternative to smoking?

According to studies, much of the carcinogens and toxins from tobacco smoking comes from the burning of tobacco leaves. There are 19 known carcinogens found when tobacco leaves burn. Aside from those, there are also lead and tar from cigarette smoking. And, one should not forget, the smoke also affects the surrounding people through secondhand smoke. Then there’s also the carbon monoxide emitted that affects the quality of the environment.

Despite these health hazards, smokers continue on with their habit. It is the stimulating but calming effects of nicotine that make people addicted to smoking. Additionally, nicotine constitutes a large part of the taste of tobacco.

If you consider these facts, you may be able to discern how electronic cigarettes can become a healthy alternative. Look at these points:

1. E cigarettes don’t burn tobacco leaves.
2. E cigarettes just provide the nicotine without the carcinogens and toxins.
3. E cigarettes don’t give out smoke.

If you combine those points, then you should form a picture in your mind of how electronic cigarettes are much better than conventional, unhealthy cigarettes. You know the saying "where there’s smoke, there’s fire"? Of course, the reverse is also true. If there’s no fire, there’s no smoke. In the case of tobacco smoking, combustion takes place. In electronic cigarettes, this process doesn't happen at all. So if there’s no combustion, you remove the conditions that results in the production or release of toxins, carcinogens, and carbon monoxide.

Another advantage that e cigarettes present is that they give out the same pleasure of traditional smoking as using e cigarettes simulates the inhalation of smoke. Also, these devices are made to look and feel like cigarettes, so smokers would have an easier time transitioning to them. As smoking is also a psychological habit, many smokers need to feel a stick between their fingers and lips. This is one thing that can’t be given by other smoking alternatives such as the nicotine gum and the nicotine patch.

Finally, an alternative!

Smoking does present several health hazards and risks, but through technology, even that can be circumvented. One innovative solution that uses technology to solve the health problems posed by cigarette smoking is the electronic cigarette.

What is the Best Facial Cleanser to Support Healthy Anti-Aging Skincare?

2009-04-25T07:10:00.000-07:00

Are you frustrated and confused with the complicated skin care regimens and products that are being promoted as the solution to your unwanted lines, wrinkles and age spots? What ever happened to the simple method of using the best facial cleanser to remove unwanted dirt, grime and makeup, and then following it up with a basic moisturizer?

Anti aging skin care is a very simple matter, if you know what's important and what isn't. Let me explain.

Healthy anti aging skincare is simply a matter of cleaning, hydrating and protecting your skin. It doesn't get any more complicated than that. That being said, however, you have to be careful when it comes to choosing products that are going to do these important skin care jobs.

A basic rule of thumb is to look for products that are made with high concentrations of natural, bio-active ingredients. If you have sensitive skin facial cleanser that has been developed to support healthy anti aging skin care is going to be better than harsh soaps and cleaners that strip the natural oils from your skin.

The key to healthy cleansing is to gently pull the grime from your face, while mildly drying and disinfecting your skin. Bio-active ingredients like Kaolin, (an extract from a special New Zealand clay) and bentone gel, have been clinically shown to accomplish this. These natural substances also heal blemishes and inflammation, and prevent new ones from forming.

Additionally, a sensitive skin facial cleanser will contain rich, soothing, natural moisturizers like macadamia nut oil and shea butter, combined active manuka honey, which stimulates your natural antioxidant activity, as well as, your immune system.

One crucial element in treating and healing the signs of aging is to stimulate your own, natural collagen production. Collagen plays a vital role in supporting the structure of your skin.

The best facial cleanser that I've come across contains a breakthrough ingredient called Cynergy TK, which has been specifically developed to stimulate increased levels of your own collagen production. So as your face is cleansed, the cellular structure beneath your skin is being strengthened and revitalized.

One important caution: if you do have sensitive skin facial cleanser made with synthetic chemicals should be avoided at all costs. Mineral oils, nitrosamines, dioxanes, alcohols and fragrances, to name a few, are not compatible with the natural molecular structure of your skin. Because your skin is not synthetic, these foreign substances are useless, or worse, harmful if you have sensitive skin. Reading the ingredients label before you buy is the best way to insure that you're getting the best facial cleanser and not a cosmetic jar of junk.

In conclusion, just remember that an educated consumer is a cosmetic company's worst nightmare. I've given you the basics, but you can get more details you need to know when it comes to finding the best facial cleaners, as well as, the best quality anti aging skin care products. Just drop by my web site.

About The Author
This article was written by dedicated skin care researcher, Therese Higgins, who says,"Knowledge is power. Learn how to identify the best facial cleanser by knowing which bio-active ingredients to look for. You will find them at http://www.absolutely-radiant.com.

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Tips for Cooking a Healthy Meal

2009-04-22T23:50:00.000-07:00

One of the best things you can do for your family is to cook healthy, nutritious and delicious meals. Science is proving what we have long suspected: the food you eat is largely responsible for how healthy you are. In addition, the eating habits you instill in your children are likely to be with them for the rest of their lives. Those are some very good reasons for serving your family the most nutritious meals that you can possible make. These tips will help you make sure that you are cooking and serving healthy meals to your family.

Serve whole grains like brown rice, bulgur wheat and kasha.

Rice is a staple in the diets of some of the healthiest populations in the world. Cooking rice can be tricky, but it’s surprisingly easy if you invest in a rice cooker which maintains the proper heat to cook rice without turning it into a gluey, sticky mess. Use a little olive oil to keep grains from sticking together and salt and season lightly. A rice cooker can also be used to cook other whole grains like bulgur wheat for tabouleh and kasha.

Include lots of fresh fruits and vegetables in your meals.

Fresh fruits and vegetables include fiber, vitamins and minerals that your body needs, along with extra water that helps you stay hydrated. Veggies and fruits are best served raw, but steaming and stewing are great ways to cook them as well, especially if you include the stewing juices as part of the meal. Keep produce fresh longer with Green Bags or Produce Keepers so that salads and fresh fruits are an appealing option for snacks.

Steam veggies and fish to preserve nutrients

Vegetables taste fresher and better when they are lightly steamed. You may even find that your children will eat up all their beans and peas without any butter or other heavy fats when they taste this good. Invest in a good set of steaming pans like a 4 piece Double Boiler and Steamer Pot or a 3 Tier steamer to cook meals all at once.

Add spices to your cooking arsenal.

Spices add more to your meals than flavor. Many spices contain important nutrients and trace minerals that are not found anywhere else. Chili and pepper, for instance, contain small amounts of capsaicin, an anti-inflammatory agent that promotes healthy digestion. Use fresh herbs if you can. It is surprisingly easy to grow them in your own kitchen when you’ve got a good set of herb pots, and invest in a good spice rack like one that can measure spices for recipes.

Send healthy lunches along to school and work.

Don’t let school lunches and take-out snacks sabotage your efforts at a healthy diet. Invest in a set of good portion control containers complete with ice packs so that you can send lunch along with them to school and work. You can even pack up fruit or veggie sticks with dip in containers designed to hold both and keep them separate until you’re ready to dip them yourself.

Grill meats instead of frying them in their own grease.

Enjoy the flavor of your meats without all the unhealthy fats. Grill them on a grilling rack instead of broiling or roasting in a pan that leaves roasts, ribs and burgers swimming in their own fat. There are many roasting pans with racks on the market. If you want something a little more compact, you can invest in a tabletop or counter top grill to cook your meats to perfection.

Serve fresh fruits for breakfast, desserts and snacks.

Melon and pineapple are great snack foods and make wonderful breakfasts and desserts. Take some of the tedium out of the peeling, slicing and wedging with a melon slicer that’s designed just like an apple corer, but a whole lot bigger. You can slice cantaloupes, honeydews, even watermelons, with one easy motion, making it a lot easier for you to serve healthy fruits to your family.

Control what goes into your family’s foods by making supermarket staples at home yourself.

The peanut paste scare drove home what a lot of us have know for a long time, you can’t control what goes into everything your family eats, especially if you are serving store-bought foods. Pick up a few specialty appliances to make homemade foods that your family loves, some options are a peanut butter maker, a yogurt maker or a food dehydrator to make your own fruit leather, yogurt and peanut butter.

The most important things to keep in mind when trying to make your family’s diet healthier are these:

- Whole foods are generally better. Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grain breads and nuts will go a long way toward improving your diet.

- The more refined something is, the less healthy it is likely to be. Skip white breads and white rice and avoid snacks made with white sugar.

- You can almost always make it healthier if you make it yourself.

Health Benefit of Green Tea: Cancer Prevention

2008-11-18T21:37:00.000-08:00

There have already been numerous studies that prove that green tea helps protect drinkers against cancer. Statistics show that cancer rates are lower in countries where people regularly drink green tea. Research has shown that polyphenols are one source of the health benefit of green tea. Researchers believe that these substances found in green tea are influential in preventing the development of cancer.

Studies involving animal tests have shown that green tea reduces the formation of tumors for cancers of the skin, esophagus, bladder, pancreas, ovary cancer and prostate. The antioxidant activity in green tea has been reported to produce such results. Researchers are also of the belief that polyphenols are essential in destroying cancerous cells and stopping their progression.

Skin Cancer

Scientific research suggests that the main polyphenol in green tea, which is called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and other green tea polyphenols possess anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. One study has been done on the health benefit of green tea on the skin. The study showed that drinking tea helps prevent the onset and growth of skin tumors.

Esophageal Cancer

Animal studies have also been conducted and they showed that green tea polyphenols help stop the growth of esophageal cancer cells. However, studies done on people have various results regarding the health benefit of green tea. One study showed that green tea consumption is an effective way to be protected from esophageal cancer, specifically among women. But another study showed that drinking green tea increased the risk of developing esophageal cancer. This shows that before green tea can be recommended for esophageal cancer prevention, more research has to be done.

Bladder Cancer

A few studies have been conducted on the health benefit of green tea on the human bladder. Research has been done to determine if there’s a connection between bladder cancer and consumption of green tea. One study revealed that women who drank green tea reduced their probability of developing bladder cancer. The study was followed with another one revealing that patients with bladder cancer, specifically men, who consumed green tea had a significantly improved chance of surviving compared to those who did not drink tea.

Pancreatic Cancer

Research has also been done on the health benefit of green tea on the pancreas. A study found that men and women who drank green tea had lesser chances of developing cancer in the pancreas. However, the study didn’t particularly point out that green tea was exclusively responsible for reducing the risk of pancreatic cancer. Researchers still need further studies before they can start recommending green tea for pancreatic cancer prevention.

Ovarian Cancer

In China, a study was conducted on patients with ovarian cancer. It was observed that women who drank a cup of green tea a day were able to survive longer and lived the longest compared to women who did not drink tea at all.

Prostate Cancer

Green tea extracts have been shown in laboratory studies to prevent the development of prostate cancer cells in test tubes. A large study showed that people who drank green tea with increasing frequency, quantity and duration reduced their risk of developing prostate cancer.

7 Tips For Organizing Pet Supplies

2008-11-04T21:20:00.000-08:00

• Keep all pet supplies handy. In a basket keep all supplies together, brushes, combs, flea collars or powders, soap, leashes, or extra toys. You may find it more handy to keep a brush near where you actually brush your pet, or keep soap under the sink where you bathe your pet. I have used several different brushes and my all time favorite is a rubber brush. They are made for cats and dogs. They last 'forever' and really do the job on getting off the cat or dog hair. And it is gentle so they enjoy being brushed.

• Keep the phone number of your veterinarian with your other emergency numbers. If the vet has an after hours number have it as well, rather than waiting for the answering machine to give it to you when your pet is in crisis.

• Keep a can opener near where you open the cans of food; many cans now come with a pop top which is very handy. I think the few cents more per can is worth the time it takes to open a can with a can opener. Use a table knife to scoop out the food. It can simply be scraped off the side of the dish which is nicer than getting your finger dirty in the salmon and bits dinner off the spoon. Or it comes off easily from the knife and the little remaining can be scraped back into the can.

• Keep dry food in a covered container. This keeps the food fresh longer. Or roll the bag down as it is used and secure with a heavy duty clip.

• Keep your pet's food and water dishes clean. Depending on the size of pet and the type of food served, clean bowls daily or every few days. Be sure to rinse them well so no cleaning residue is left in the bowls.

• Wide self-adhesive packing tape does a great job of removing cat and dog hairs from clothing and furniture. Lint brushes also work well if there is not a lot of long hair you are trying to remove.

• Make a 72 hour kit for your pet. Using a backpack is great as it is easily transported and handy to grab in an emergency.

• Food--both canned and dry if that is what your pet normally eats, include a can opener if one will be needed.

• Water, a gallon is recommended for pets.

• Medicines or a note pinned on the back pack to remind you to take the medicine from the fridge or cupboard.

• A blanket, toy, treat, collapsible food and water dish.

• Keep the carrier in a place you can get to it quickly.

• Vaccination record from your veterinary office. You may need this if you go to a shelter or hotel.

• A list of hotels who will take pets.

• Rotate the food and water to keep it fresh.

• Rope and sanitation bags

2008-11-04T21:10:00.001-08:00

Every thought and emotion affects your health. A holistic health approach encompasses treating the whole person: the body, mind, emotions and spirit. Traditional cultures have known for thousands of years that these aspects are intimately connected. Every food we eat, every thought we entertain, every emotion we feel and every interaction we experience impacts overall health.

Many blame their health problems on genetics, a virus, toxins in the air, and stress. While these factors can contribute to illness, very often problems result from a lack of fundamental health-enhancing qualities such as responsibility, a strong will, family support, passion, a balanced lifestyle and a knowledge of good health. Without these, whatever modality is chosen becomes just another pill to be taken and discarded when symptoms disappear.

When disease is artificially removed without changing the underlying cause, long-term health will NOT be achieved. The quick fix approach brings little or no permanent success. I am not suggesting that we abandon medical treatment. I am recommending that we look for the deeper causes of the problem from a physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and lifestyle perspective. We need to take the holistic health perspective. Lasting solutions can be found to multiple illnesses of society by getting at the root of the problem holistically.

I have observed patterns among those who have successfully reversed health problems. These traits are not rigid models. We all have them to some degree. They are holistic health approaches that each of us can maximize in our own unique way to return to our natural state of health.

Here are some very important steps you must take to achieve optimal holistic health. I can assure you that by putting these into practice, your overall health will be much improved! Sometimes you have to reevaluate what it is that you are doing with your life. By doing this, you will start to see the big picture.

Lets start with the first step, RESPONSIBILITY. This means not blindly accepting the opinion of some outside authority as the only way. Take a look at your previous choices for they may have led you to the problem. Then recognize that you can make new choices to remedy the situation.

I am not telling you to stop seeing your health practitioner. I am suggesting that you gather as much information as possible and make your own decisions. Taking responsibility is meant to empower us to make new choices for a healthier result.

Next is AWARENESS, which simply is deeply knowing yourself by observing your thoughts and beliefs, your choices and outcomes, and your response to the world around you. As you observe, ask questions. Do you believe you can recover your health? What does the illness have to teach you? Why do you make the choices you make? What do you need to know? Through questioning you will discover the things that seemed unchangeable are actually flexible and can be manipulated.

PROPER NUTRITION is the cornerstone of good health. Health and longevity depend on our daily nourishment. In 1988, the Surgeon General stated that two-thirds of the deaths in this country are related to diet. Our eating habits play a major role in many common diseases and emotional disorders.

Most Americans have a limited awareness of the power of food in maintaining health and reversing disease. The most effective diet includes whole grains, vegetables, low fat, no cholesterol, proteins and fruits.

LETTING GO OF THE PAST. Resolving conflicts and discovering their positive impact in our lives is paramount in healing. Resentment, anger, guilt and all negative emotional states are self-poisoning. They weaken cells and immunity and can be the reason for illness. Let it go and move on.

FAITH and the developing of sound judgments are important qualities in healing. Faith is knowing there is an order and unity to life, a sense of wholeness and connectedness with something larger than oneself. With faith, unlimited opportunities unfold, and we gain a sense of confidence in our choices.

FINDING YOUR PURPOSE IN LIFE is prevalent among those who are healthy. Everyone has talents and skills through which they express themselves, and so do you! If you do not find your unique creative expression, you will be restless and frustrated, regardless of the success in the conventional world.

Purpose stimulates a deep sense of fulfillment and joy. With purpose, your life will take on much more meaning. I did not have a purpose for many years. The second I knew where I was going my life took a turn for the best. If you do not have purpose yet, do not worry! Focus on what makes you the happiest and visualize where and what you want to be. By working toward a goal and a purpose, you will feel alive and ready for anything.

Each of the above factors has a profoundly positive influence on your health and are more effective when bring them together. When utilized, you can go beyond sickness to health and happiness. Start with small steps and build upon them for a holistic approach to your health. Action is the only thing preventing you from achieving optimal health.

Holistic Health

2008-11-04T21:10:00.000-08:00

Top Ten Tips To Prevent Hair Loss

2008-10-24T19:18:00.000-07:00

Though people with an overdose of philosophy say it not what is outside, but inside the skull that counts, people suffering from hair loss wish it is the other way round. People of 'almost' all cultures are obsessed with thickly growing hair.

Ayurveda has identified this obsession a few centuries ago and has given the directions to minimize hair loss and better hair growth in its scheme of beauty care, which is commonly called lavanya sutra or the sutra for lavanyam or beauty.

Though lavanyam is referred to feminine beauty, hair loss tips are beneficial for the tougher sex too.

Here are top ten tips to prevent hair loss and ensure healthy hair growth.

1. Gently massage your scalpel with fingertips after applying a hair oil like coconut oil or sesame oil.

2. Eat Indian gooseberry in any form early in the day. Don't take gooseberry based products later in the night as it can affect your beautiful dental line.

3. Boil fresh or dried and powdered Indian gooseberry (also called amla) in coconut oil. Apply this for nourishing hair growth.

4. Eat all types of vegetables and fruits. This will ensure supply of vitamins and minerals essential for the healthy growth of hair. Vitamins and minerals are good for your health too.

5. Also eat protein rich food items – tuna, lean meat, whole milk are beneficial.

6. While bathing, wash your head with cold water only. It is winter and water is ice-cold, you can make it luke-warm. It is ok to wash your body with cold water.

7. Apply brahmi oil on your scalpel before going to bed. Good for hair growth and brain.

8. Dandruff is a cause of hair loss. Squeeze half a lemon to half a liter of water and rinse your hair and scalpel with this water as a cure to dandruff. Do this no more than three times a week and for up to a month.

9. Rosemary oil is an aromatherapy oil, which can be applied to your hair once in a week to reduce hair fall.

10. Crush a few leaves and flowers of hibiscus (shoe flower) with two or three glasses of water. The water becomes thick with the juice and use this water to wash your hair. Thoroughly cleanses your hair and gives dark bright color to your hair.

Never apply soap or high power shampoo on your head, as it can affect healthy growth of hair.

Sports Nutrition for the Vegetarian Organic Athlete

2008-10-23T20:56:00.000-07:00

Sports nutrition can be defined as simply as the specific nutritional intake before during and after an athletic event or exercise session. My definition of an organic athlete is an athlete which seeks to achieve Xtreme Health™, maximum performance levels, and joyful living, by consuming primarily vegetarian, mostly raw, organic foods. A vegetarian can be a full vegan who consumes no meats, fish, poultry, or dairy products. Or you can be a semi-vegetarian and occasionally eat organic eggs, Wild fish, and or poultry, but not meat. What I would like to do in this article is share an enormous amount of knowledge for those who are seeking an organic lifestyle, in particular, a vegan lifestyle, while simultaneously competing in endurance events.

I have gone to many resources on the internet to find information for endurance athletes which are vegetarians. They are very few if any which not only focus on endurance athletes and vegetarians but also then take it to the next level and use Superfoods as the staple ingredient in the diet. Most of the resources talk about whole grains, fruits and vegetables, pasta, yogurt, peanut butter, oatmeal, toast, turkey, chicken, etc etc. I want to take you way beyond that. I not only want you competing at the highest level you ever have, but I want you to have the most awesome health ever. I want you to reverse or slow down your aging process; I want to clean out your body of all the bad stuff that goes in it on a daily basis from toxicity in our environments. I want you to feel happy and not depressed. And I want you to be competing in triathlons, adventure races, marathons, cross country bike events or whatever your endurance sport may be, until you are in the over 100 Age group category.

I know this seems like a tall order. In fact your friend or co-worker may have told you it's not possible or even worse your doctor. The truth is that I have discovered some amazing foods for athletes and I know that 90% of athletes do not consume these foods on a regular basis. And I say this because most people I meet have either never heard of them, do not know where to get them, or just are habitually eating whatever they could afford, is most convenient or is part of their family eating history.

Lets first list the energy sources of carbohydrates, proteins and fats which I consume that have taking my health to a whole new level and which I anticipate taking me even further. For instance, here are some of the benefits I have gained from eating primarily raw, organic, plant based foods and superfoods. I have lowered my cholesterol by 75 points. I have got rid of various stages of arthritis which annoyed me for 8 years. I have lost 40 lbs. I have lowered my resting heart rate from 59 to 39. I have lowered my blood pressure from 140/90 to 110/60. I have begun to start enjoying life again to its fullest by being able to compete for the first time in years. I have brought key test results into alignment such as thyroid, neurotransmitters, key minerals and nutrient levels. I have lowered heavy metal toxicity levels. I have stopped having to take antacids on a daily basis and I have stopped getting sinus infections and bronchitis after getting them every year for almost 20 years. I have experienced tremendous energy and in fact have not been sick for over a year besides the occasional onset of colds after multiple sessions of extreme exercise which quickly disappears as a result of my body's ability to recover quickly from the acidic and inflammatory state.

These are my top choices for nutrient rich, high carb energy sources (Grains/Breads/Syrups include:

Quinoa, Organic Pancakes, Organic Brown Rice Syrup, Wild Honey, Agave Nectar, Organic Sprouted Breads(flax, spelt, essene) with Organic Jellies, Organic Pasta (Quinoa, Spelt), Hammer Nutrition Organic Bars, and Organic Brown rice.

My top choices for Fruits and berry carbohydrates are:

(Fruits- Grapes with seeds, Apples, Pears, Pineapple, Bananas, Watermelon, Mangos, Oranges and Dates. "Vegetable" fruits including tomatoes, peppers and Cucumbers), (Berries - Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries, Blackberries, Incan Berries and Goji Berries)

My top choices for powders, shakes and gels are (Sport drink powders - Hammer Nutrition Heed and Sustained Energy and Carbo Pro, (Shakes - Isagenix Products (Isalean, IsaCrunch , IsaPro, Ionix Supreme, Sun is everything superfood and cacao powder ), (Gels - Hammer Gels and Organic Clif shots).

For Greens and Sprouts I recommend (Kale, Spinach, Broccoli, Mesclun Greens, Romaine lettuce, Celery, Pea Sprouts, Broccoli Sprouts, Sunflower Sprouts, Dulse and Kelp).

These are my choices for clean non animal protein energy sources (Hemp seeds and hemp protein, Whey Protein, Rice Protein, Vegetable Proteins (kale, Spinach, Broccoli, Sprouts), Wheat Grass, Spirulina, Chlorella, Blue Green Algae, Quinoa, Spelt, Millet, Bee pollen, Organic Eggs (for semi-vegetarians), Wild Caught (Not Farm Raised) Salmon, Cod, or Halibut or tilapia fish (for semi-vegetarians), Almonds, Pumpkin seeds, Uncooked Cashews, Organic beans and Goji Berries). Good choices for Fat Energy Sources include (Flax Seed. Olive oil, Flax Oil, Krill Oil, Hemp Seed Oil, Almond Oil, Avocado Oil, Avocados, Coconut Oil, Almonds, Organic Peanut Butter).

Now here are some of the other secret gems of health and nutrition which many high level nutritionist and wellness professionals have taught me about. A lot of these are not as well known simply because they are not in the mainstream media. You have to go out and seek out this kind of information about superfoods because it is not sold in most supermarkets therefore the average athlete is left out.

Other additions to your "Super" Athletic Diet (Some have been mentioned above and recategorized here) (Superfoods -Spirulina, Chlorella, Cacao Powder, Goji berries, Wheat Grass, Barley Grass, Coconut Oil, Bee Pollen, Maca Powder, and Hemp Seed) ,(Super Juices - Goji Juice, Acai juice, Mangosteen juice, Noni Juice, Aloe Vera Juice) , (SuperHerbs - Cats Claw, Reishi Mushroom, Garlic, Ginseng, Turmeric, Oregano, Parsley, Cayenne Pepper, Holy Basil (Tulsi), Cinnamon, Vanilla, Ginger),(Other Super Additions - Probiotics and Enzyme blends, Fiber such as Psyllium, Oats, Acacia gum, flax, hemp),(Omega 3's such as Flax Seed, Hemp seed oil, Avocados, Almonds) ,Green Tea, Echinacea Tea, Ginseng tea, Milk Thistle tea, Yerba Mate and Dandelion Root tea. Teas are for cleansing, immune system support, and antioxidant support. Supplement/Other Energy Sources which I have used are (Creatine - helps supply energy to muscles and nerve cells), (Glutamine - Recovery Aid, Muscle Promoter, Highly Absorbable Protein), (L-Carnitine - Helps metabolize fats into the mitochondria), (D-Ribose - Aids in the generation of positive ATP levels), and (CoQ10 - Primarily responsible for creating ATP (energy from our cells) in the Mitochondria).

There are many natural anti-nflammatories that athletes should use including (Quercitin, Vitamin D,Green Tea,Omega 3's,Organic Ginger (either raw or powdered),Organic MSM (About 5 grams),Enzymes (capsule form should include Bromelain and Papain),Omega 3's and 6's (1 ounce cold oil or ground flaxseed),Agave Nectar ,Organic garlic (1 clove or sprinkle from a jar),Vitamin C (Either 2 or 3 capsules ground in a blender from a whole food source or Potent C Guard) ,Willow Bark (similar to aspirin),Turmeric,Glucosamine,Resveratrol (Grapes) and Aloe Vera.

I have written other articles specifically about some of the herbs and superfoods listed above. It is difficult for most people to start to consume all of the above foods. What I did was first educate myself about them, then introduce them slowly to see which ones I liked and didn't like. Once you find the few superfoods that agree with you, I believe you certainly are headed in a new direction towards "Xtreme Health".

Once you have a list of "What" to eat you then have the questions of When and how much. Most endurance nutrition resources I have come across seem to equate body weight with how many grams of protein, carbs, and fats should be taken before during and after exercise. The amount of grams that your body requires is dependent on several factors:

1) The cycle of training you are in (Base Training, Build Training, Peak Training, Recovery Training or transition (end of season) training
2) The type of training you are doing
3) The intensity of the training you are doing
4) Your own metabolic make-up (Women, Man) (Good Digestive Health, Poor Digestive Health)(Resting Metabolic rates)
5) Weight loss goals of the individual

How Much to eat?

The factors included above determine your Daily energy expenditure. If you did not exercise at all and just lay in a bed breathing all day your body would burn a certain amount of calories. This is probably somewhere between 1500 and 2100 calories per day. There are 3500 calories in a pound.

Depending on your weight and the type and intensity of activity you are participating in you will burn anywhere from 5 to 30 calories a minute. For instance a 150 pound runner running at a 8.35 minute per mile pace will burn approximately 12.8 calories per minute.

By determining your Resting Metabolic Rate and factoring in the intensity and type of training you are doing you can then begin to formulate a Daily Caloric Expenditure to ensure you are taking in the optimum amount of calories. If the athlete desires to lose weight they should do so cautiously because you want to be able to restore liver and muscle glycogen levels as well as blood glucose levels for your next training session. However it can be done as long as it is done during the base, recovery and transition periods. What I have done with success is a 200 to 400 calorie deficit a day which will give you 1400 to 2800 calories burned per week. This is about 1.5 pounds every 2 weeks of weight loss.

There has been many myths about protein, carb and fat diets and the proportion of which you need to take for weight loss or for muscle growth. I find a 50 to 65% Carbohydrate, 20 to 30% protein and 15 to 20% fat intake to be optimal for endurance athletes. So depending on your calorie requirements for the day, the amount of grams you take in from each category go up and down proportionally. It is important to note that during the different phases of training you will be training in different aerobic zones. For instance during base training you should be training in Zone 1, which is between 60 and 75% of your maximum heart rate. What your body uses for fuel in Zone 1 vs. Zone 4 which is 90 to 95% of your maximum heart rate differs tremendously. The percentages of fat, carbohydrates and protein that your body will burn depends on the level of activity. At rest you will burn 58% carbohydrates, 30% fat and 3% protein. At a mild intensity you will burn 49% carbohydrates, 49% fat and 2% protein and at a high intensity you will burn 75% carbohydrates, 17% fat and 8% protein.

There are a few items are worth noting. One is that your body burns proteins all the time. It is for this reason that the lack of muscle building and strength training has the tendency to contribute to loss of muscle mass and therefore lowers the metabolism over time. Also, your body actually burns more fat during the base or mild intensity phase of your training. We can also see that carbohydrates are the main source of energy during high intensity workouts such as 5k races. In fact muscle glycogen depletion could happen as fast as 50 to 60 minutes instead of the common rule of thumb of 90 minutes during Zone 3 to Zone 4 type of training and exercise.

The amount of grams of each macronutrient (protein, fat, carbohydrate) you need to take in during a particular day depends on whether you have 1 or 2 workouts in a day and you have to take into consideration pre-excerise race meals, during exercise refueling, and post exercise/race recovery as well as the calories you may consume for dinner (night before races), lunches, snacks etc. For instance for 3 to 4 hours of high intensity training you will need about 4.5 to 5.5 grams of carbs for each pound of body weight for that day. For heavy training you need approximately .50 to .75 grams of protein per pound of body weight and about .50 to .55 grams of fat per pound of body weight.

Besides taken into consideration how much you are burning during your workouts perhaps more important is how much you could absorb. A simple sugar carbohydrate with a 6 to 8% solution mix isnot going to provide enough calories per hour. If you increase the solution density you have to drink more water in order to help the digestion process and this may lead to over hydration, cramping, and bloating.

Complex carbohydrate solutions are a little better because the 16 to 18% density of the solution matches the osmolality of the water digestion. I have always been at odds with all the solutions out there but have come to use more of the complex carbohydrate solutions and in fact make my own from coconut water, dates, and spirulina as much as possible because real food will ultimately be the greatest source of energy. It is extremely difficult for most athletes to mix there own home brewed sport drinks but if even one of your 28 oz bottles could be home brewed it could give you a huge edge in your fueling plan. Some companies such as hammer nutrition recommend about 240 to 280 calories per hour, 400 to 600 grams of sodium per hour and 16 to 28 oz of water per hour for a 165 lb athlete adjusted up or down slightly for weight differences.

When to Eat

Knowing when to eat can be tricky for most people because a lot depends on other things going on in your life. Most athletes including myself feel best before a long endurance workout eating 3 to 4 hours in advance. However this is not always possible. You should be eating about 300 grams of carbs the night befoe an event depending on weight. The morning of the event the closer you get to the start time you want to lower the fiber and protein and increase the carbohydrates and actually move towards liquid food as much as possible. It is suggested that the foods primarily in this article be the focus of your choices but occasionally when it is not feasible or affordable it is ok to use traditional sources of energy. However, just be aware that the organic and clean sources of energy will have the least amount of pollutants, pesticides, herbicides, foreign unrecognizable material from cooking, etc, for your body to have to use energy and figure out how to save you from death and store it in fat cells or move it as quickly as possible through the digestive and lymphatic system for removal from your body. You want your body to generate ATP not use fuel to get rid of toxins.

Fluid and electrolyte intake is extremely important if not the most important factor in refueling. Everyones body is different but your body needs to consume an amount equal to your sweat rate. This is different for everyone. However as a general rule you should drink approx half your weight in ounces per day on a normal low intensity day. During exercise between 16 and 28 ounces per hour is recommended. Be careful not to consume so much water that you have to eliminate water very often. If your body has too much water it will need to get rid of it and will take precious alkaline minerals with it. So moderate your water intake based on your daily activity and training sessions.

Electrolytes which are important are sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium and manganese. Most sport drinks contain only 2 or 3 of these electrolytes but an electrolyte replacement that you could control such as endurolytes by Hammer Nutrition will allow you to have them with you at all times and you can consume them as prescribed. There are also some natural electrolytes which I consume in my water bottles. Coconut water is the most natural form of electrolyte on the planet. It mimics the bloods proportions of electrolytes perfectly. Having at least 1 water bottle on rides with coconut water is a great idea.

I have given a lot of information to get you started on the road towards organic nutrition and sports nutrition. You will be miles ahead so to speak of every athlete by experimenting with the foods in this article and best of all you will achieve great health as a critical side benefit. Health and Fitness are two different things and when you combine the two you are well on your way to achieving Xtreme health™

Tips To Get Beautiful Nails - For A Beautiful You!

2008-10-19T07:09:00.000-07:00

Not just your face but even your hands say it loud when you need to get that perfect impression in a board meeting or on a special person. Your perfectly manicured nails look good and say it loud about how well you maintain yourself. However, nail care is essential for both men and women and few tips that will help you get that perfect nails sitting at home. So, say good bye to expensive salons and French manicurists.

If you devote a little care even once in 15 days your nail will look beautiful, giving you an edge over the others in today's world of competition.

1. Get a basic nail kit that has the necessary tools but is not prohibitively expensive as brand names do not mean great nails! Nail kits are available at every drug store so you can find one that suits you easily.

2. Wash your hands with a herbal based soap and lukewarm water and let it dry. When the nails are soft, they are easy to cut and file. However, be careful as improper filing can weaken the nails. Use a nail file and shape up your nails according to our desire with easy, gentle strokes. File from the side to the middle along the edge of the nail for the best results. Do not apply pressure on the top which will cause then to crack and break.

3. If you apply nail polish, do not put a thick coat and leave it. Beautiful, well manicured nails require 2 to3 coats of nail polish applications to give them that smooth, glossy finish.

4. As with hair and skin, nails also require attention. A well balanced diet and drinking plenty of water keeps the nails shiny and smooth while dehydrated nails look chipped and dry too.

5. Regular nail care is important and occasionally do apply cuticle oil to moisturize and soften your cuticles and nails. This will help the nails to look fresh and smooth, even without nail polish.

6. Never use alcohol based lotions or nail polish removers as they tend to weaken the nails and dehydrate them. The chances of fungi and other microbial infections increase when the nails are cracked and brittle. Always go in for natural, organic nail care products to safe guard tour skin and nails.

7. Unhealthy habits of biting nails also lead to unhygienic nails and spoil the look of the hands. So, if you are prone to it, give it up! If you follow these tips, you will have healthy, beautiful nails and hands in a short time span.

Natural Oils Is Best Skin Care Products

2008-10-13T06:59:00.000-07:00

Skin care is a priority with today's generation of people, especially the ones who are developing signs of aging. The increase of chemicals in our lives and the side effects of it have turned us towards a chemical free life with fresh fruits and vegetables. As our skin absorbs all the chemicals that are present in the skin care lotions and creams so we need to turn to organic skin care. Herbal skin care is manufactured of bio degradable, organic herbal elements.

Natural skin care products are healthy and rejuvenate the skin fast due to high presence of anti oxidants. Few anti aging skin acre products also have intensive organic products like almond which is a good source of ketones. It rebuilds collagen which is what provides the elasticity and suppleness in the skin. Usually herbal based skin care products have special nutrients and minerals that can only be found in sea weeds and many plants. Many exotic sea minerals and plant extracts are added to skin products to make your skin soft, smooth and young looking.

After the age of 30, skin starts to lose its elasticity and if you do not take proper care, signs of aging can be seen. Drinking a lot of water and eating nutritious meals will not only benefit your skin but control your weight also.

While the best organic skin products for your skin are those which do not have animal fat or have high levels of oils in their composition. People with sensitive skins should be even more careful about the ingredients that the cosmetics and skin care products contain to avoid having skin irritations, rashes and allergies. With a big demand for herbal skin care products, companies have products suiting every skin type so whether you have a dry skin or a normal one, there are many products to suit your need and the suitable products have just the right ingredients to make you look beautiful and young again. Apart from providing you moisturizing and softening your skin most of them protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun.

Sage, lemon, almond, chamomile, lavender are just a few of the herbs or plants which can do wonders to your skin. Using pure natural oils are effective moisturizers. Almond oil, olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil is known for therapeutic qualities especially if one is suffering fro skin rashes and allergies. As bases in cosmetics and skin care products, these make wonderful moisturizing products.

Forget Dry Skin and Have a Queen's Face

2008-10-13T06:38:00.000-07:00

Our skin is the biggest organ and the most delicate also. It requires constant moisturizing, hydration and pores kept free from blockages, for you to have a radiant complexion. When we sweat, the built in toxins are released through our skin pores, thus keeping our skin clean and healthy.

When you are young, the skin has inherent natural oils that it secretes to keep the skin healthy and supple. However, as we age, the skin gets drier and loses its ability to produce oils, so you need extra application of natural organic creams and lotions for intense moisturizing of the skin.

When the skin loses moisture, it becomes very dry and cracks appear or skin peels and becomes irritated. Usually, the fungi and microbial infections sets in damaged dry skin and later flares up. Dry skin not only does not look good but the accumulation of dead skin cells, need constant exfoliation. The best way to achieve normal, healthy skin is to have a regular skin care routine which will make you look attractive and have a flawless skin. As you age, the skin loses its moisture content very fast and signs o aging show up fast. It is beneficial to use good authentic organic skin care products, which will help you attain the proper PH balance in your skin.

Some home beauty tips are very effective when you have dry skin. Mash up a banana and add some honey and little milk to make a paste. You can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil like sandal, rose or lavender to get the perfect fragrance. Apply this rejuvenating face mask and leave it on for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Wash it off with warm water and apply pure almond oil or avocado oil as moisturizer. Repeat this process once a day for a fortnight and see the difference!

The best way to clean your dry/damaged skin is to use a mild soap and use extra moisturizers like pure oils for maximum benefits. Avoid any alcohol based skin care product as it tends to dry out the skin. Alkaline soaps and skin care lotions should be used. Drinking plenty of water every day and eating a balanced diet certainly helps you have an acne free, well nourished beautiful skin. Protect your skin from the harsh rays of the sun and use a soft, gentle sunscreen lotion when ever you go out. Follow the tips and you will see your dull, luster less dry facial skin transform into a supple, soft and beautiful complexioned young face.

5 Fat Burning Nutritional Tips

2008-10-08T20:59:00.000-07:00

This article will give you 5 more tips to turn your body into a lean muscle-building, fat-burning machine. In case you didn't read the last 5 tips, the basic overview was to increase fiber intake, frequently drink water, eat a complex and healthy breakfast, increase calcium intake, and eat several small meals per day (as high as 8-10). Ready for more? Good! Keep reading...

This article will give you 5 more tips to turn your body into a lean muscle-building, fat-burning machine. In case you didn't read the last 5 tips, the basic overview was to increase fiber intake, frequently drink water, eat a complex and healthy breakfast, increase calcium intake, and eat several small meals per day (as high as 8-10). Ready for more? Good! Keep reading...

1: Eat carbs early in the day

Meals that contain larger amounts of carbohydrates should be eaten earlier in the day. This means that much of your whole grain and fruit consumption should occur before noon. The body's metabolism is highest earlier in the day, so this is a great time to be supplying your muscles with energy in the form of glycogen (carbohydrates), while also ensuring that many of the carbohydrates you consume will be burned for fuel, rather than deposited as fat stores. Many families tend to have the biggest meal of the day in the evening, ironically at the time when the body is least in need of energy and the metabolism is lowest. The practical application would be to make breakfast bigger and dinner smaller. So try it out - prioritize eating carbohydrates early in the day, and focus on decreasing carbohydrate portion size as afternoon and evening approaches.

2: Eat the right kind of carbs

While carbohydrates are important for providing energy and giving your body the ability to burn fat, you must choose the right carbs. Simple carbs like sugar and processed flour tend to be rapidly absorbed by the digestive system, which causes a release of the hormone that encourages fat deposit - insulin. Furthermore, the quick energy release that is followed by a rapid decrease in sugar levels will cause you to crave more food, which is why many people on a typical American diet are *always* hungry! So no matter what percentage of your diet is made up of carbohydrates, you must choose complex carbs that are slowly absorbed and digested, thus producing a long term source of energy that keeps you fuller for a longer period of time. Whole grain flours, vegetables, oats, and unprocessed grains, such as brown or wild rice are great choices, and also include many other compounds important in maintaining a high metabolism and proper digestive function.

3 Eat fat

For the past several decades, mainstream Americans have been shifting to low or no fat diets, with the general result being an *increase* in obesity and chronic disease, and a decrease in health and fitness. In the meantime, world populations such as Eskimos, that consume as much as 70% of their diet from fat calories in whale blubber and fish, have one of the lowest rates of heart disease in the world. While this may seem ironic, there are some very good reasons. Typically, to replace calories that are not provided by dietary fat, carbohydrate consumption increases. Increased carb consumption leads to a faster burning energy source, which tends to contribute to cycling blood sugar levels, use of muscle tissue as fuel, low energy, and decreased metabolism and hormone production. In addition, many Americans will replace saturated fat, such as butter, with a trans fat, such as margarine. Trans fats are *much* worse for the body than saturated fat. So it is important to choose the right kinds of fat. Most animal fats, and many vegetable oils, are high in cholesterol, which contributes to heart disease. However, mono-unsaturated fats, such as those found in olive oil, nuts, fish oil, and various seed oils, can help lower cholesterol, reduce risk of heart disease, and enhance your body's ability to burn fat as a fuel source. So try to eat fish several times a week (or supplement with fish oil), cook with olive oil, and try to eat at least a handful of a healthy nut (like almonds or walnuts) once per day.

4 Avoid sugar substitutes

Artifical sweeteners, such as Aspartame, still taste sweet (that's why they're sugar replacements!). When the taste receptors on your tongue taste this sweet substance, your digestive systems begins to produce compounds that prepare your body to use the "food" that your brain thinks you are consuming. The hormones produced in the digestive process are still present once this fake food enters your small intestine, but no actual energy release or satiety occurs, which leaves you with a gut full of digestive hormones that need food to break down and make the brain crave even more food, this time the real stuff. This is why studies have shown that consumption of diet soda products are associated with obesity! If you're really serious about burning fat, ditch any sugar substitute foods or diet drinks that you currently consume. I guarantee that once you overcome the initial addiction withdrawal, you'll feel a hundred times better.

5 Eat like a car

Your body runs on fuel. If you put too much fuel into the gas tank, an overflow occurs, and in the body's case, this means fat deposition. I realize that the idea of limiting calories is very simple, but sometimes the approach is wrong. Never give yourself a certain "number" of calories per day. You'd never take your car to the gas station and fill up if you didn't plan on driving it, and the same goes for your body. If you have a light day of activity ("low mileage") or a sedentary day (sitting in the garage), you should sometimes not even be consuming 50% of the calories you'd normally consume, because your body doesn't need them. For instance, on a typical day, I consume 5000-6000 calories (based on my metabolism and amount of activity), but on a weekend of travel, where I am either sitting in a car or airplane, I often consume as little as 1000 calories per day! If your body doesn't need the fuel, there's not a necessity to put it in your mouth. On the other hand, there will be some days where I consume up to 8000 calories, simply because that is how many I actually burn through with my activities! So if you're on a set diet of, say, 2000 calories per day, don't be afraid to vary as needed.

I'd like to finish by encouraging you to keep at it. Switching to a healthy diet can be unbearable at times, but the longer you stick with it, the easier it gets. It's just like exercise - you can bring yourself to a maintenance phase where moderate to high physical activity becomes easier, but the initial work is pretty difficult. If you'd like to more information about diet and nutrition, or exercise, you can e-mail me at elite@pacificfit.net to ask questions.

When you sign-up for personal training with Pacific Elite Fitness, you can receive a complete dietary analysis, complete with grocery list and food substitution suggestions, and monthly tools to track your progress, caloric intake, and macronutrient percentage. You have access to your own personal fitness coach to guide you through your workout routine, using the latest fitness research and breakthrough techniques. You are guaranteed to get fitter faster on a Pacific Elite Fitness program.

Until next time, train smart,

The Best Acne Herbal Treatments

2008-10-08T00:46:00.000-07:00

No matter your age, acne is a problem that no one wants. The misery of acne is mostly caused by our sebaceous glands producing too much sebum, also known as oil. Due to the over production of oil, the skin pores increase in blockage and bacterial areas. It is the bacteria and increased oil production that causes the acne to form. But natural acne herbal treatments are the first method to try.

Knowing how acne happens is one thing, but knowing exactly why is a difficult task at hand when there are several various reasons as to pin pointing each case's cause. Some links believed to be connections are hormonal imbalances, overall eating habits, vitamin deficiency and contentious high levels of stress. Healthy eating habits and lowering stress is the first natural step of acne herbal treatment.

There are proven statistics linking the higher level of vitamin A in a person's body shows to be able to lower acne breakouts. Vitamin A lowers the amount of sebum and keratin being produced. Zinc is also a very important vitamin, and for fighting acne, the Zinc is the backing force for the vitamin A to do its job. Natural acne treatments through diet of the most natural fruits and vegetables will help in your holistic being, not just acne.

Some other acne herbal treatments are effectively proven and 100% natural acne remedies. Aloe Vera is one of the most effective natural herbal acne herbal treatments today. The Aloe Vera plant contains astringent and anti-bacterial properties which are known to fight bacteria that cause acne. Aloe Vera also contains very important anti-inflammatory properties needed in reducing acne swelling.

Another very potent natural acne herbal treatment is Calendula. Although not as well known about, Calendula is a very effective acne treatment. Calendula is a skin tissue healer of potential damage from the acne. But Calendula is also a natural anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory completely natural product. Calendula comes in cream, or water base washing formula to cleanse the acne infected skin.

The Lavender herb will help reduce the inflammation due to the acne and Lavender also has antiseptic. The Lavender is mixed with a carrier fluid or water should be applied directly to the affected acne areas for exterminating bacteria. Just as the Lavender herb, the Tree Essential Oil must be with water or carrier fluid. Tree Essential Oil also has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and antiseptic properties for the top layer of skin with acne.

Colon Cancer Tests

2008-09-24T20:19:00.000-07:00

There are many different tests that doctors use when searching for colon cancer in their patients. The tests include; Colonoscopy, virtual colonoscopy, stool testing, barium enema, and sigmoidoscopy. Each of these tests are different and can help the patient in their own way. Your doctor will sit down with you and discuss each test and choose which one they feel is the right one to perform on you.

Sigmoidoscopy: This test is similar to the colonoscopy. The difference is that it lets the doctors check the lower part of the colon.

Colonoscopy: During a colonoscopy a doctor will insert a flexible tube known as a colonoscope up into your anus. A doctor watches the progress and movement of the colonoscope of the camera as it makes it way through the rectum and all the way to the end of the colon. You will be sedated during the entire procedure. The great thing about this test is that doctors have the ability to remove the pre-cancerous polyps growth.

Virtual Colonoscopy: This test allows doctors to look inside the colon and rectum without having to stick something inside of you. They use the virtual colonoscopy to look for cancer, polyps, and other abnormalities that could be hiding inside the colon and/or rectum. Doctors use a computer program to create a 3D picture of the large intestine through the use of x-ray images.

Barium Enema: For this test the doctor will fill your colon with barium sulfate. As you hold the liquid inside of you they will take x-rays as you move in different directions. This provides them with many x-rays with a two-dimensional view of your rectum and colon.

Stool Testing: There are two different types of stool tests. There is the stool DNA test and the occult blood test.

- Fecal occult blood tests search for hidden blood in your stool through the use of a chemical reaction. This test can also be performed in a doctorâ€™s office or at home. The most common fecal occult blood tests are EZ Detect and the Colon Health Check.

- Stool DNA testing is most recent method that can easily be performed at your office or at home. This tests will look for traces of DNA material that is discarded by colorectal tumors or polyps.