Health and Personal Care

Herbs for Menopause Relief

2009-04-17T16:59:00.000-07:00

Today, the number of women turning to herbs for menopause relief is staggering. With great concern about hormone replacement therapy in recent years, we now see women interested in avoiding chemicals and toxins, preferring a natural path. Because there are so many women now seeking alternatives to traditional treatment for menopause, more investigation is being done to find new options in addition to those that have been used by naturalists for hundreds of years. If you are like so many women who want to find relief from night sweats, hot flashes, joint pain, insomnia, and depression the natural way, then we believe this article will expose you to some excellent options.

First, a great herb for menopause relief, especially when it comes to many of the annoying symptoms is called Dong Quai. In Chinese medicine, Dong Quai, the root of the angelica sinesis plant, helps with many menopausal symptoms. Interestingly, while many women will use this natural herb for menopause relief alone, in Chinese medicine, it is always used as a supportive herb. Regardless, many studies have been performed whereby women taking 1500 mgs of this herb three times a day had improvement in symptoms.

Another popular herb for menopause relief is red clover. Affordable and easy to find, this herb has been used in the United States for more than 100 years. Containing phytoestrogens, which are hormone-like substances, found in certain plants such as soy, red clover is wonderful for treatment of vaginal dryness and hot flashes. Typically, a woman would take between 40 and 60 mgs for about 12 weeks. The reason this is not a long-term treatment option is that red clover has been shown to stimulate cancer cells in the breast.

Next on the list of herbs for menopause relief is black cohosh. This herb is a member of the buttercup family and considered one of the most popular, natural treatment options for menopause. You can purchase black cohosh as a supplement from a health food store or in brand form such as Remifemin. When it comes to anxiety, depression, night sweats, and hot flashes, black cohosh works exceptionally well. Other herbs for menopause relief to consider include evening primrose oil, chaste tree berry, tribulus, St. John's Wort, soy, and ginseng, which seem to ease symptoms overall.

In addition to herbs for menopause relief, you have many other options such as vitamin E. In recent years, a number of studies have been performed showing that vitamin E brings relief for miserable hot flashes. Wild yam is also an option, which can be found in many types of progesterone creams. For this, women experience fewer and less intense hot flashes, the number one complaint among menopausal women. With so much negative attention on hormone replacement therapy, you might consider herbs for menopause relief. In many cases, the natural approach is more successful in treating the body during the change of life than traditional drugs.

Menopause and Weight Gain

2009-04-17T16:54:00.000-07:00

The truth on menopause and weight gain

One of the major causes of weight gain in women is the changes in their hormone levels and sedentarism. Studies show that about 90 percent of menopausal women experience weight gain between the ages 35 to 55. This is not surprising because weight gain comes with the territory of aging and menopausal.

Medical experts say that menopause occurs when a woman’s ovaries has stopped producing estrogen which is responsible for ovulation and menstruation. Today, more and more women who are experiencing menopause go through weight gain due to hormonal changes brought about by aging. Experts explain that with aging, the muscles in the body start to decrease in bulk along with the slowing of metabolism. This slowing down of metabolism along with decrease in bulk of the body’s muscles contributes to weight gain. Aside from weight gain, menopause also leads to loss of sexual appetite or loss of libido, vaginal atrophy, and growth or loss of hair in the head and face. With all these demoralizing truths, it is common that women who are experiencing menopause lose self-confidence and esteem. But, it shouldn’t stay that way. With the help of science and modern researches, weight gain during menopausal years can be solved.

THE WEIGHT GAIN
Weight gain during menopause is as common as aging. Usually, women sometimes gain about 10 to 15 pounds starting from their abdomen, to the hips, thighs, and rear. Studies show that weight gain on women usually starts during their pre-menopausal years and will continue to pile up as they grow older. For those who have experienced early menopausal due to major operation or surgery, they are expected to gain weight faster compared to those who haven’t.

Because of the changes in their weight or size, many women are starting to dread the thought of menopausal. It is recommended to exerciseregularly and eat to one's appetite. Experts say that women should be more aware when they are entering the stage of menopausal so they can prepare for it. Physicians say that women should expect that as they enter the early stages of menopause, they would have difficulty maintaining their weight because of the fluctuation in their hormones. Because of these natural hormonal changes—that include estrogen, testosterone, and androgen levels—a man’s or woman’s appetite, metabolism, and fat storage are greatly affected.

UNVEILING THE REASONS BEHIND WEIGHT GAIN DURING MENOPAUSE
Before sulking into a pit of depression, a woman must know the reasons behind it so she can make the necessary adjustments.

1. Hormone deficiency and lack of female hormones that slows down metabolism. Lack of estrogen leads to excessive weight gain because it alters certain functions of the body and greatly influences fat distribution in the body. You must understand estrogen and fat distribution very well.

2. Slow metabolism due to aging. As people grow older, their metabolism starts to slow down. One effective way of reducing energy intake, women who are experiencing menopause are recommended to have a balanced diet composed of whole grains, fruits and vegetables.

3. Lack of exercise or physical activity. As women enter their menopausal stage, they become more sedentary in almost everything that they do. This inactive lifestyle leads them to weight gain because they are not getting enough physical exercise they should get. If muscle pains are giving a woman a hard time to do such simple and regular exercises, she can try taking in vitamin and mineral supplement to boost her energy levels that contain calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, chromium and selenium.

4. The use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can also be a big factor in gaining weight. Although HRT is known to help give back lost female hormones, this treatment can also add up on the weight she already has because it works. HRT has also been subject to serious warnings in their use recently.

5. Weight gain can also be traced in increased food intake due to emotional problems like depression. Emotional eating or overeating due to frustration over weight gain is also a big factor that contributes to excessive weight gain. Talking to friends and satying active are powerful ways to fight back.

Nail Biting

2009-04-17T16:49:00.000-07:00

Hypnosis Cures For Nail Biting
One little-thought-of application for hypnosis is to help people stop their nail biting habit. While this may not be on par with splitting the atom, it is a serious problem for people who always seem to find themselves gnawing their nails.

The problem with nail biting, unlike some other compulsions solved by hypnosis, is that one needn't make any effort to have the tools at hand. Smokers need to pull out a cigarette. People who have trouble dieting need to actually go to the fridge to get food. If you will excuse the pun, fingernails are on hand all the time. One merely move their hand near their mouth and nail biting will almost instantly ensue.

People who bite their nails often try to quit. Unfortunately, it is not so much a question of will as it is a question of habit. The person bites their nails because they've always bitten their nails. So, when they are not thinking about the fact they are trying to quit their nail biting habit, they start right back into it. It becomes an unconscious activity. This is where hypnosis comes in. The purpose of hypnosis is to reprogram the unconscious -- or, more properly, subconscious -- mind.

Many hypnotists will provide help for your nail biting. Along with weight management and quitting smoking, nail biting is the most common reason for people to visit hypnotists. Ask at your local alternative health stores or book shops for their recommendations.

If you are nervous about seeing a hypnotist (I promise you they won't make you leave thinking you're a glass of orange juice), there are a few other options available. There are self-hypnosis books and subliminal tapes you can buy that will help you with your nail biting habit. These will probably not be quite as immediately effective as an actual, qualified hypnotist, but they will help nonetheless.

So for those of you out there who are tired of worn down nails and sore, bleeding fingertips, there is hope. Through hypnosis, you can finally quit that nail biting habit that you find so tiresome. No longer will you have to hear, "Oh gross," from some aspiring med student who is "only trying to help." No longer will you have to hear another speech about how much dirt and bacteria gets under your fingernails. No longer will you have to hear that speech from your mother, again, about how you should just quit doing that. Hypnosis can help you kick that nail biting habit that has plagued you for longer than you care to remember

Tanning Beds, Are they Safe?

2009-04-14T11:13:00.000-07:00

We all like to have that healthy glow that comes from being outdoors and getting some sun. However, we know that sun damage can be harmful to our skin. Many turn to tanning salons to maintain their glow, but is using a tanning bed safe?

The skin tans when exposed to ultraviolet light. To keep itself from burning, skin will manufacture extra coloring, called pigment. This pigment is what causes us to “tan”. However, when we get too much ultraviolet light and burn, serious problems can occur. We may suffer damage to our eyes, early wrinkling, blistering and rashes. At worst, we may develop certain types of skin cancer.

Exposing your skin to the ultraviolet light of a tanning booth is advertised as safe, though. It is now known that there are two types of ultraviolet rays, UVA and UVB. UVB rays are the shorter wavelengths that are most likely to cause burning. Longer wavelength UVA rays are less likely to cause a sunburn, but they have been shown to increase risk of melanoma.

Older style tanning beds were developed using primarily UVB rays. These are the ones that you lay in and close on top of your body so that the light tans both sides at once. After publicity that the UVB rays used by these beds could be harmful, many salons switched to devices using UVA rays. They were thought to be safer, but current studies dispute this.

The shorter wavelength UVB rays will cause sunburn on the outermost layer of skin. The results of overexposure are almost immediate and very apparent. However, the UVA rays reach deeper into the tissues, so the layers of tissue beneath the surface can be damaged. Since the effects are harder to see, we don’t know how much damage we are doing until it’s too late. Both types of ultraviolet light are dangerous.
Continued exposure to these ultraviolet rays can make the skin thinner and limit its ability to heal itself. Not only does this increase premature aging and wrinkling, but it leaves the skin more susceptible to disease, including skin cancer.

Tanning in a tanning bed can also cause retinal damage. Many have experienced burned corneas from overuse of tanning beds, and in extreme cases, even cataracts can develop from overexposure. Even though customers are advised to wear eye goggles, many make do by closing their eyes or placing a cloth over their eyes during tanning, steps that don’t stop the UV damage to the eyes.

Are tanning beds safe? If you can limit the time that you use them, wear goggles and be diligent, maybe. However, the best protection is to skip the tanning bed and use a self tanner. Why take chances with the largest organ in your body, your skin? Be mindful of tanning, indoors or outdoors.

Use Mineral Makeup to Fight Acne

2009-04-14T11:10:00.000-07:00

The holiday season is fast approaching, and perhaps you've got a special someone who suffers from acne. The dilemma is how to present them with a gift this holiday season that helps them to fight acne without seeming overly rude or insulting in the process.

Believe me, some people do get offended at the idea of you trying to help them with "practical" gifts to help them with their condition. Even if it was kindly meant. Most people want some that is not only pleasing to the eye, but also has both use and meaning in their world.

For the acne sufferer, they may wish to buy a bottle of Proactiv for themselves, but receiveing it as a gift is another story altogher. Giving something that is astheitally pleasing and helps them to fight and prevent acne really can be a challenge.

There is an option however; mineral makeup is a solution that is not only pleasing to the eyes, but is also recommended by dermatologists the world over to help fight acne and soothe the skin. Because Mineral Makeup is oil free and ground into such a fine powder that it does not clog pores it is ideal for preventing further breakouts.

Mineral makeup is made of all natural minerals extracted from the earth and ground into a fine powder. Different combinations of the minerals produce different colors for a wide range of colors so there is no need for dies or chemicals.

Mineral makeup is not soluable in water and sheilds the skin from moisture getting into the pores when worn. If moisture to get into the pores the bacteria that feeds acne dies. The primary ingredients within mineral makeup are Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide. You may recognise these minerals from the ingredients list on the back of any sunscreen bottle. This is because these minerals are natural sunblocks. Zinc Oxide is also known for it's skin soothing properties.

Mineral makeup is very pleasing to the eye because the powders blend together onto the skin seamlessly and need such a small amount to cover the skin that they look very natural. Both Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide also reflact light and give the face a beautiful glow without looking shiny.

Be sure you check the labels, however for Bismouth Oxychloride, a mineral added to some top name brands to give the makeup a shiny look. Bismouth Oxychloride can irritate acne.

Giving the gift of all natural healthy beauty this season does not have to be impossible with mineral makeup

Mineral Makeup

2009-04-14T11:07:00.000-07:00

Mineral makeup is the latest thing and it's based on the oldest things. As an all-natural makeup, these mineral-containing makeups are being touted as something that can actually help your skin. There are many cosmetic companies marketing mineral makeups by different names, but all versions of mineral makeup have a common ingredient. They all contain "natural" minerals.

The idea behind "Mineral makeup" goes against the more modern use of artificially created compounds and takes its inspiration from minerals and inorganic pigments that exist in nature. Many people prefer the natural colors of the cosmetics and feel they are supporting better health by limiting their exposure to articifial chemicals which make up the ingredients of most cosmetics. These are generally compounds which the body is less likely to be allergic to and many natural minerals also behave as antioxidants. These minerals, such as mica, titanium dioxide, zinc and iron oxides, and ultramarine pigments and even calcium, can be can be combined to make every cosmetic from foundation to eyeshadow to shimmer powder for the body.

As with any type of makeup there are some mineral makeups that are expensive and there are some that are inexpensive. But there is no reason to feel you can't afford mineral makeups.

A leading cause of wrinkled skin is the heavy and constant application of makeup. After years of makeup use, your skin looses much of its natural elasticity. This is partially due to a lessening of the production of elastin but is also due to a build up of free-radical stress which is very similar to the rust build-up on a car. As human beings evolved, our cells learned to utilize many of these minerals as basic nutrients which support normal cellular function. As many things are absorbed through the skin, many people believe there is a nutritional advantage to using natural compounds as makeup as opposed to artificial chemicals which the cells do not have any use for. Already there are many creams and lotions which are fortified with vitamins and minerals for this exact reason. Instead of waiting for nutrients in our diets to travel through the bloodstream and benefit the cells of the skin, these nutrients are applied directly to the skin so the cells can use them directly.

Whether or not this is true, many feel there is certainly a benefit to not applying artificial chemicals to the skin as they will be absorbed and may enter the blood stream. This can lead to alergic effects and other forms of discomfort to the body.

If you use makeup, a good choice is mineral makeup.

The benefits of mineral makeup cosmetics are advertised to be:

1. Natural look and feel

2. Longer laster--stays on the entire day

3. Better for sensitive skin

4. Anti-inflammatory

5. No harmful ingredients

Mineral powders are inorganic and contain no moisture. This means that bacteria can not grow and no preservatives are needed. That means no preservatives against your skin, when you use mineral makeup. The minerals in the makeup are also natural sunscreens which protect you from the harsh effects of the sun. More and more people are switching to mineral makeup which is why many top cosmetic companies are developing entire lines of mineral makeup. They understand market demand and that means you!

Moisturize while you shave ...

2009-04-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

Razors encased by a moisturizing shaving bar offers you convenience by combining two steps into one. These dual purpose razors moisturize and lather while you shave and are formulated with vitamins, aloe and other soothing ingredients that can restore hydration to your skin. For areas especially prone to dryness, such as the legs, apply a moisturizing lotion after shaving.

More Shaving Tips

2009-04-14T11:01:00.000-07:00

Get the right directions for your shave ...
Body hair grows in every direction, and so your razor must follow in order to get a smooth result. Hairs on your legs grow down, so it's best to begin at your ankles and shave up. Shaving the hairs in the underarms takes more time and effort, since they grow in every direction. Using a clean sharp razor to maneuver carefully around curves, raised areas and crevices will avoid nicks and cuts, and minimize the chance of infection. With their unique design, built-in shave gel bars will help to restore moisture to your skin as you shave. The final step is to always moisturize just-shaved areas that are prone to dryness, such as the legs.

Stop ingrown hair ...

2009-04-14T10:57:00.000-07:00

For those of you who regularly shave or pluck unwanted hair, you may notice that shortly after the hair is removed, small bumps may appear. These bumps can become red, itchy and discolored. The resulting skin infection is called pseudofolliculitis barbae, but it is more commonly known as 'ingrown hairs' or 'razor bumps'. This problem can affect both men and women, and can occur on any area of the body where hair is removed. Anyone with coarse hair can develop this condition, however, it is more prevalent in people of African or Hispanic descent, whose curved hair follicle and curly hair are contributing factors. One simple treatment option is to adapt your shaving technique by using electrical clippers that cut the hair about 1mm above the skin's surface. Alternatively, if you prefer shaving with a blade razor, don't press too hard against your skin.

Shaving tips ...

2009-04-14T10:56:00.000-07:00

If possible, shave during a warm bath rather than a shower. Soak your legs and let the hairs soften. Sit in a comfortable position and make sure the leg that you are shaving is securely placed. Dispense an adequate amount of shaving gel and evenly spread over your entire leg. Soap tends to dry out the skin, so a shaving gel is recommended. Shave gels are specifically blended with beneficial natural ingredients such as vitamins and botanicals (even avocado) to quickly replenish moisture to just-shaved areas. Using only a razor with clean sharp blades, start at the base of your ankle and guide the razor up over your entire leg, but take care not to press too hard against your skin. Rinse the blade between strokes. Shave the entire leg until you've removed all of the shaving gel. Rinse, pat dry and moisturize.

AHA...

2009-04-14T10:52:00.000-07:00

What is AHA? ...
AHA's are carboxylic acids. Glycolic acid comes from sugar cane, lactic acid from sour milk and citric acid from citrus fruit. They have the ability to exfoliate and moisturize the skin. AHA's may also reduce pigment production in individuals who have melasma. It is speculated that they may thicken the skin by increasing what is called the ground substance (which gives support and elasticity to the skin) in the dermis.

See Also Skin care Tips here

Special care for under your eyes

2009-04-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

There are multiple reasons for dark circles to form under your eyes. The skin under your eyes is thin, making the underlying tissues more visible. Also, with less fatty tissue and the constant motion of facial skin and muscles in this region, wrinkles are more likely to form. Genetics play a role by affecting skin tone and texture. The contrast between skin tone and the darker coloured skin under the eyes will likely be more apparent in those with fair skin.
Sun exposure can enhance the pigment under the eyes and darken the existing colour. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can cause dilation of blood vessels and bruising. Getting adequate sleep is essential to reducing puffiness and dark circles. If you're maintaining a healthy lifestyle and the dark circles are still a bother, use of concealers and foundations can even out your skin tone and provide a quick cosmetic solution. Just before bed, apply a moisturizer that's specifically formulated to sooth, protect and hydrate this especially delicate facial region. Use of an eye cream will provide a smoother texture to the area by filling in fine lines to improve the look of dark circles.

The wrinkle in age spots ...

2009-04-14T10:47:00.000-07:00

You can help to prevent age spots by using sunscreen before the age of 40, avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear protective clothing. Putting these recommendations into practice will also help to reduce your chances of developing skin cancer and wrinkles. Regular use of cosmetic preparations containing an exfoliating ingredient can lighten freckles and age spots. You may also want to look for a formulation that includes vitamin B3, which plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin. A convenient way to incorporate an exfoliant into your daily skin care routine is to find one that's included in a moisturizer.

Concerned about wrinkles?

2009-04-14T10:45:00.000-07:00

There are a number of options to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. First, protect yourself from further unnecessary or pro-longed sun exposure and apply sunscreen daily. Secondly, you can consider medical treatments such as creams containing retinoids, chemical peels or laser therapy. Thirdly, cosmeceuticals may also help if they contain vitamin or botanical antioxidants, or substances that can influence cell regulation such as growth factors and peptides.

Change your skin care regimen as you age.

2009-04-14T10:42:00.000-07:00

Aging skin tends to get drier and be less elastic, so changing your skin care products to accommodate your evolving appearance just makes sense. You will very likely find that your favorite skin care line has alternatives to suit mature skin. Ingredients such as antioxidants, exfoliants and peptides can often be found in specialized formulations that can specifically address the needs of aging skin.

Menopause and skin care ...

2009-04-14T10:39:00.000-07:00

As you go through menopause, it's very common to find that the skincare products you once relied on are no longer as effective. As you age, the hormonal changes associated with menopause often leave skin feeling drier than before. Try a richer moisturizer (oil or cream base) to see if it makes a difference. The multiple signs of aging skin require advanced formulations that can reduce the appearance of fine lines, provide adequate hydration, balance tones by minimizing age spots, and contain gentle exfoliants to improve texture. Furthermore, these products often contain a complement of vitamins, antioxidants and botanicals, as well as include intense moisturizing ingredients to improve the skin barrier function that becomes impaired through the natural aging process.

Tea Tree Oil

2009-04-14T10:36:00.000-07:00

What is Tea Tree Oil? ...
Tea tree oil is extracted from the leaves of a tree called Melaleuca alternifolia that is indigenous to Australia.
Aborigines chewed the leaves of the tea tree to alleviate symptoms associated with infections, colds and general ailments. Today, the oil is considered to be a potent antiseptic that also has antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Tea tree oil can also be used for treating acne, bug bites, boils and minor wounds. Because of tea tree oil's varied benefits, it's a popular ingredient in cosmetic formulations and can be found in shampoos, soaps, creams and skin cleansers. Keep in mind that many of these skin care products contain such low concentrations that their intended antibacterial effect is either diminished or non-existent.

Beauty Tips

Wu-long Tea

2009-04-11T11:56:00.000-07:00

Does Wu-long Tea Work For Weight Loss?
A lot of people are talking about wu-long tea lately. There are fantastic claims about wu-long tea’s slimming properties, as well as its ability to reverse aging, clear skin problems, and protect against heart disease. Several websites proclaim that they have the only “real” brand of wu-long tea that works. So, lets explore the truth about wu-long tea.

What is wu-long tea? It is nothing new. It’s been around for centuries and here in America for many years. It is usually know as oolong tea, one of the most popular teas found in Chinese restaurants. The spelling of wu long is just a different phonetic way of writing the Chinese name for oolong tea in English.

Oolong (wu-long) tea comes from the same tea plant that green and black tea comes from. The differences between the tea types is the amount of fermentation the plant goes through after harvest. Green teas are not fermented, while black teas are fermented. Oolong (wu-long) teas are slightly fermented, then the fermentation process is stopped, giving a result that is something between a green and a black tea.

Does wu-long (or oolong) tea really work for dieting and weight loss? A Japanese study by the University of Tokushima School of Medicine compared Japanese women who consumed either water, green matcha tea, or oolong tea after a meal. The results found that oolong tea appeared to increase energy expenditure by 10%, green tea by 4%, and water not at all. So, according to this study, wu-long (or oolong) tea burns more fat than green tea, and more fat is burned when drinking wu-long or green tea after a meal.

The study also found that wu-long (or oolong) tea has half the caffeine of green tea and half the levels of EGCG, green tea's cancer killing compound, so if you want the cancer fighting benefits of tea, you get more from green tea. If you want the weight loss benefits you get more from drinking wu-long (or oolong) tea.

There is also some evidence that wu-long (or oolong) tea provides other health benefits such as increased calorie burning, reduced carbohydrate intake and healthier teeth and skin, although more research needs to be done on the subject.

So, is drinking wu-long (or oolong) tea going to help you lose weight? I don’t know. Everyone is different, but it seems to have helped many people (including Oprah) lose weight. Wu-long (or oolong) tea is lower in caffein than many other beverages and it’s high in antioxidants, which help reduce your risks of cancer and other diseases, so drinking a pure natural tea can’t hurt much to try. Add a little stevia if you want a natural sweetener in your tea.

So, do you need to buy an expensive brand of wu-long (or oolong) tea to get the fat loss benefits? Please don’t waste your money on prepackaged name brand type wu-long tea. Any good brand of oolong tea you can buy in a tea store will work. There are different varieties of oolong teas, but often they are just a matter of taste preference, so experiment and try to find the varieties you like the best and will drink the most, for the best benefits.

Weight Loss Tips

2009-04-11T11:53:00.000-07:00

10 Weight Loss Tips for Permanent Weight Loss
1. Eat only when you are hungry.

This means stop eating the minute you are full. This means if you go out to dinner and eat all the bread in the breadbasket you don't eat your dinner. This means if it is lunch break at work and you aren't hungry don't eat. This means if you are in the middle of a sandwich and you are no longer hungry, you stop eating.

2. When you aren't hungry and eating for joy only, make sure you are eating something fantastic and tasting every bite.
There will be times when you want to eat just for the joy of it. I say if you only do this 10% of the time you can still lose weight. But the trick is to make sure you enjoy each bite, taste it fully and stop as soon as the joy of eating it fades. If you pay attention, you will be surprised how soon this might be.

3. Be curious about yourself-not judgmental.

When you do something that you think is "off" you plan of what you would like to be doing, be curious and try to find out why you do what you do. Explore the thoughts that lead to the action. Be kind and understanding with yourself. Give yourself the benefit of the doubt.

4. Believe it is possible to be thin without being mean to yourself.

You do not have to beat yourself into submission for thinness. In fact, I have found the opposite is true. Loving yourself and being kind to yourself is a much better path to permanent weight loss.

5. Feel your feelings.

Be anxious. (Don't eat.) Be sad. (Don't eat.) Be afraid. (Don't eat.) Be angry. (Don't eat.) If you use eating as an alternative to feeling you are most likely going to be overweight. The sooner you feel your feelings the sooner they will subside.

6. Stop expecting things "out there" to change so you can feel better.

Don't wait for a better job, a thinner body, a nicer husband or a better tasting diet in order to be happy. You can be the source of your own joy by finding out what you love to do and who you love to be. By living your own truth, you can be happy no matter what is going on "out there."

7. Even when you think you have "blown it" write down every piece of food that goes into your mouth and then read that list with fascination.

It may feel better to write in the food journal when you are eating fuel most of the time, but that is not when it is the most important. When you are fog eating and storm eating and binging and going crazy with food, you have the best opportunity to learn about yourself and why you do what you do. No matter how much you have eaten and no matter how big the binge was, write down every single thing that went into your mouth and look at it with kind curiosity.

8. Realize that eating when you aren't hungry is not satisfying hunger or comforting you-it's just making you heavy.

Notice the terminology you use when discussing food. " I had my chocolate fix." " I needed comfort food." "I wanted to give myself a treat." Food is not a good source of emotional comfort and it cannot fix you.

9. Remember the past does not equal the future

We have all been on many many diets. Many of us have been heavy a long time. This does not mean that you can't lose weight. You have been doing the best you can. And when you know better- you do better- and you look better….

10. Never give up!

Weight Loss Cardio Workout

2009-04-11T11:48:00.000-07:00

3 Awesome Tips to Lose More Weight with Cardio
Have you ever been able to successful use a weight loss cardio workout to successfully lose body fat?
If you are like most people the answer is yes and no ' and usually in the order!

This article is going to go over a few reasons why the average weight loss cardio workout might actually be preventing you from losing weight. Please pay special attention to this article because it can save you lots of time, help you enjoy exercise more, and give you a new outlook on losing with with cardio.

By using "cardio", I am talking about using cardiovascular exercise on a basic cardio machine such as treadmills, rowing machines, upright or recumbent bikes, ellipticals, or any other common cardio machine you see at the gym or at a department store. This also refers to things such as walking outside or going for a bike ride.

It is very common see someone try to lose weight in the gym by getting on a cardio machine and trying to go for 30-60 minutes at a slow pace. They may try to do this 3, 4, or 5 days per week!

In the beginning 2-3 weeks, you see some results pretty quickly. The weight on the scale goes down and you are feeling great. Soon after however, the weight loss slows down and your progress comes to a crashing halt.

Let's go over 3 quick reasons why your hit a frustrating plateau with the normal cardio workout, and more importantly, how to avoid it completely.

It Is Boring!
Unless you are training for a triathlon or are a distance runner, you would more than likely have more engaging things to do with your time then being on a cardio machine for 30-60 minutes. A 60 minute cardio workout 3-5 days a week is a sure way to lose all enthusiasm for exercise and be really bored throughout the whole process.

Lots of people do whatever they can to distract themselves during their cardio workouts. The cover the timer with a towel, watch television, read books, or just about anything else to try and distract themselves.

You Burn Fewer Calories Each Time You Workout
Your body will adapt very quickly to doing a very slow and long weight loss cardio workout. Think about it like this. If you went outside and ran a mile right now it would feel pretty difficult if you were not already a conditioned runner.

But what if you ran the same mile 5 days per week for the next two months? It would get easier. Your body would adapt to it because that is what it does best.

The same goes for the average weight loss cardio workout that lasts for 30, 45, or even 60 minutes. At first you might burn a lot of calories, but after doing the same type of cardio workout for too long, the body will become more efficient and will adapt.

This means that the workout that burned 300 calories in January might only be burning 150 calories in March! The only thing you can do it so longer or work harder. Neither one sounds like a very appealing option.

The Average Weight Loss Cardio Workout Does Not Stimulate Your Metabolism
Instead of focusing on the number of calories you burned during a single workout, I want you to instead focus on burning calories during the workout and for hours afterwards!

Research has shown that slow same speed cardio does next to nothing to stimulate your resting metabolism. This means that you workout for 45 minutes, burn 300 calories, and then negate the whole workout with a Gatorade afterwards.

How to Fix This Problem
Did you know that you can use a different type of cardio called interval training that can burn a lot of calories during the actual cardio workout and for hours afterwards as well?

When performed correctly, interval training is faster, more fun, and most importantly, has been shown in research to have a dramatic effect on your resting metabolism. This means that you might burn 300 calories during the actual workout, then another 300 the throughout the rest of the day!

Interval training is an excellent weight loss cardio workout option for this very reason. Interval training simply consists of using both high and low speeds and intensities at set points in your workout. It can be done on any cardio machine and can even be done walking outside!

If you are truly serious about achieving weight loss with a cardio workout, then learning more about interval training is an absolute must. Your will feel like you got twice the workout in half the time and have a lot more results to show for it!

Protein and Weight Loss

2009-04-11T11:45:00.000-07:00

Now it has become a trend that we all are trying to switch on to low carb diet. It occurs mainly due to the fact that high protein diet actually enhances weight loss. A recent British study confirmed that there is a strong correlation between diet high in protein and weight loss. The study also said that the diet high in protein triggers in releasing hormone that influences weight loss.

Protein consumption in diet ensures the release of PYY hormone that reduces the hunger. Researchers argued that high protein foods start out PYY secretion better than other foods. Scientific studies also suggest that PYY should be an integral part of weight reduction plan. Theoretically, as because a proportionate relation exists between protein and weight loss, therefore an obese individual must eat more calories to trigger PYY compared to a normal weight individual.

Typically, we avoid high calorie food to maintain healthy balance in life. But the truth is if we do not get enough protein in our diet, we may suffer from varieties of health complications. Lack of protein in our regular diet may cause harm to all the organs - from the heart to kidney. It also causes weaker immune system; hence our health may be affected by a variety of diseases.

The amount of protein in the diet depends essentially on three factors - sex, age and weight. However, for normal adult man and normal adult woman the daily protein intake would be 56 grams per day and 46 grams per day respectively.

About Weight Loss
In recent years, there are few high-protein diet programs available in the market claiming for weight loss. However, supports received from the diet gurus and health practitioners are generally inclined with the low calorie diet rather the high-protein ones.

However, the relation between protein and weigh loss is not appreciated by each and every research fellow. It is said that low carb diets are mainly linked up with reduced calorie intake and increased diet timing but not with decreased carbohydrate content.

The essential feature of low-carb high-protein diet is rapid weight loss. But it is viewed from a different perspective by the skeptics. They rejected the theory about the relation between the diet high in protein and weight loss and argued that it occurs mainly due to the fact of excessive urination. When the body makes up inadequate supply of dietary carbohydrates, it uses body's own carbohydrates stored in the liver and kidney. During this process, the water is mobilized. The mobilized water is then discharged from the body in the form of urine. Hence the rapid weight loss occurs at the initial stages high-protein diet.

Substituting few dietary carbohydrates with high-protein diet may lead to significant short term weight loss benefits.

But the condition says that the diet must be low-fat one as well. Protein and weight loss may become a trendy topic in these days because of its known results contributing to rapid weight loss. But some scientific researches have shown some long term disadvantages as well. Therefore, a slow but certain weight loss can be ensured with a healthy high fiber, moderate protein and low fat plan. This is not a short term plan but a way of healthy living that we can maintain throughout of our lives.

Disadvantages of too much protein
Although, the relation between diet rich in protein and weight loss has become a up-to-the-minute topic in today's health discussion, but we should remember that high protein may imply high fat as well. So there is always a high risk for increasing LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol levels with high protein intake. Hence, there is high possibility for cardiac problems. High protein may imply low fiber as well. Low fiber diet is not at all healthy. If we use it on a regular basis, there is an increased possibility of getting constipated, increased risk of cancer, obesity, cardiac problem and type-2 diabetes.

Why Weight Loss Pills Are Ineffective For You

2009-04-11T11:42:00.000-07:00

You just bought a nighttime and daytime formula of weight loss pills. You have been taking them for … months. Lets face it, this weight is not falling off your body and you got to wonder why this is taking so long. It’s obvious there is some kind of problem here with your weight loss program. Maybe pills aren’t the answer?

Dr. Berneathy has some rather unexpected statistics on the subject of weight gain. He mentions in his talks that the body will be almost immune to weight loss pills because of one simple reason. The body has to detoxify. Your body has to get rid of all of the junk and garbage that you put into it through eating fast foods, non-foods, and harmful substances that clog up your system.

What Is Detoxification?
Being overweight and suffering from obesity are becoming all too common these days. This carries a huge load of negatives such as health risks and illness. It is for this reason you must detoxify your body.

That means getting rid of anything that’s man made. I would scrap any product that had artificial sweetners, additives, artificial coloring and preservatives in it.

I would get my hands on a green drink too ASAP. I found some liquid chlorophyll in my health food store a few months back and I liked it. I made a drink out of that with some purified water. I found this naturally uplifting and it put my body in check. My pH level increased to a deep rich green color, (yes I use the testing strips) in a matter of a few days.

You will notice some differences when you start to clean your body out. My sweat didn’t stink anymore and I had no foul odors. This sanitized my body from the inside out. I started to notice real change too in how I approached food once I was cleaned out. I didn’t have cravings for things that I thought I would miss. In fact, I had gotten so wound up in my work that I would forget to eat breakfast AND lunch. I am not suggesting that you do this but my energy level soared through the roof.

It was after I had experienced this body cleansing that I decided to do something with my exercise program and the foods I ate. I wanted to reach higher levels of this type of living. I learned one thing that Spring and that was detoxification is the key to a better life.

Getting back to the Weight Loss pills for a moment. The marketing pitch for a lot of these products claim that you can eat whatever you want and still lose the weight. The foods they show in their ads include pizza, chocolate, cake and pies. Good rief.

If you are going to detoxify yourself then make sure the foods you eat are good foods and not junk foods. There is no point in going back to a “fried chicken diet” or a “chocoholic overload diet”. If you are going to start taking care of your body and are willing to go all the way we got some good news for you.

The weight will start to come off of you after you detoxify.

Lets Get Back To Basics
So does that mean you can do all of this with diet pills? Perhaps but if you do not have the right fundamentals of weight loss and how your body reacts to certain foods you could be on the never ending rollercoaster. It is no wonder why so many diets fail when they hit the market. You need to know what combinations of food are good for you and which ones aren’t.

Diet Pill

2009-04-11T11:38:00.000-07:00

The "Diet Pill" has an obvious appeal to anyone who wants to lose weight fast, and with very little effort. How marvelous life would be if we could just pop a pill and body fat just melted away. Everyone knows, or should know at least, that if something sounds too easy or just too good to be true, that's because it is.

Every scientist, doctor, dietician and fitness trainer will tell you that taking diet pills is downright dangerous, but is it? And if it is, then how dangerous is it?

Well, according to scientists, some diet pills can cause panic attacks, strokes and even fatal heart attacks. Some of these "drugs", better known as phentermine are closely related to mphetamines, so they work as an appetite suppressant, stimulating the release of brain chemicals, which in turn reduces the sensations of hunger.

An overdose can lead to hallucinations, seizures, severe headaches, blurred vision and vomiting. Is all this information a little unnerving? It should be. And there's more. Here are some other so-called miracle slimming cures, which come in the form of a convenient pill.

The Diet Pill

Amfepramone. This drug is known as "diethylpropion" in the UK, and was a prescription appetite suppressant branded as Apisate or Tenuate banned by the European Medicine Approval Agency in 1999 because of safety concerns. It works by
mimicking the effects of noradrenaline in the nervous system to suppress hunger.

Phenylpropanolamine (PPA). PPA is a vasoconstrictor used in nasal congestants and cough medicines, it is not approved in the UK for the treatment of obesity. Still used to control urinary incontinence in dogs.

Ritalin (Methylphenidate). Ritalin is approved for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and not for weight loss. Side-effects are increased heart rate and raised blood pressure, which can greatly stress the cardio-vascular system. A schedule 2 controlled drug, classed alongside amphetamines.

Clenbuterol. Clenbuterol was originally developed as an asthma treatment, but also seems to increase metabolic rate and causes people to lose fat and gain muscle. It is banned by the International Olympic Committee because of its abuse by athletes and body builders. Clenbuterol is also used in a veterinary product to treat treathing problems in horses.
After poisoning episodes linked to the consumption of meat containing Clenbuterol residues, its use is strictly controlled.

What's very alarming about all these drugs is that they can be easily purchased over the Internet from unscrupulous dealers based outside of the European Union.

Pills that can be legitimately purchased in the UK include the popular "Slim Bomb" Weight Loss Pills. The manufacturers claim that many years of extensive research have gone into this little blue pill and that the formula has undergone many rigorous changes to produce the latest and very effective offering.

These pills are manufactured from a combination of herbal extracts and other natural substances that are thought to cause a thermogenesis reaction in the body. This reaction is supposed to stimulate and accelerate the metabolic rate, which in turn reduces hunger cravings and produce the kind of calorie burning effects more associated with body activity, such as exercise. Although all the ingredients appear to be organic in origin, no clinical evidence exists to confirm its effectiveness as a weight loss aid.

So, what can we deduce from this information about slimming pills? It would seem at worse they are dangerous to your health and at best they simply don't work. Dieters should avoid buying any pills available only online, as their pedigree is dubious at best, and may not comply with EU regulations.

Quick Weight Loss Tips

2009-04-11T11:33:00.000-07:00

That Help To Lose Your Extra Pounds Quickly And Easily
It is time to get ready for the spring, people are getting rid of the old to make room to bring in the new. What better time than now, "spring cleaning" to get started on that New Year's resolution of losing weight. You are tossing out those clothes that you no longer want or need, but what happens when you come across that favorite dress or jeans from back in the day. You start to think, what quick weight loss tips can I use to get back into these?

Once the decision has been made to loss those extra pounds a priority, there are several tips for losing weight that one can use to make it happen. Here are just a few of the tips to begin your weight loss journey:

Exercise, you have heard that old quote "no pain, no gain". Well it isn't exactly pain that we are after with exercising. What we want is dedication, you will need to make a commitment to doing some of aerobic exercise if you want to lose weight.

The good thing is that is only takes 20 minutes a day to be effective and there are several exercises that one can do in order to meet this requirement.

Let's start with walking, very easy to get you started, and what better way to enjoy the weather than taking a nice brisk walk outside. Think about it, you walk from your car to entrance of your favorite mall, store, or supermarket. Why not try and add an additional 2000 steps to something that you are already doing on a daily basis.

Next what about chores that you do around the house, ladies if you like to dance, how about dancing as you are cleaning? You can add a little jig as you are vacuuming around the house, or even add a one two step as you are sweeping. By adding these little things you are burning off more calories.

Additional quick weight loss tips cover eating a healthy diet. The number one thing that a person can do to lose weight quickly is drink plenty of water. Water is needed for the regulation of the body, it helps to get rid of toxins and helps with the metabolism, and it acts like an internal flushing system allowing the fat to be metabolized at a faster rate.

Regain control of your diet, stop settling for prepackaged foods or fast foods. Begin by introducing fresh fruits, vegetables, organic and lean meats into your diet. This way you are reducing calories and eliminating foods that are high in fat and high in sodium. Make sure you apply this weight loss diet tips for the sake of your healthy and slim body.

Stop with the sweets, instead of having a cookie or that slice of cake for a mid afternoon snack, opt for fruits, yogurt, vegetables or nuts.

Quick weight loss tips are all about the way that you eat and getting enough exercise. These are essential if you want to get rid of the junk in the trunk in a short period of time. By following these healthy weight loss tips, you can have a body that is new and defined, just in time for the turn of the summer.

Healthy and Natural Weight Loss

2009-04-11T11:25:00.000-07:00

It has been found that people with more body weight and fat tend to die earlier that those who are slim and healthy.
Most obese people live a mediocre life. They cannot remain active throughout the day, develop fatness related diseases, become burdens to themselves as well as others, and are less successful in life. The social lives of the obese are also
inconsequential. All this makes it imperative that we remain slim and retain our health in order to life our lives to its fullness.
But how can we keep body weight and fat levels down? Our present lifestyles and social systems do not provide us with the necessary time and inclination to work towards a healthy body. Visiting a gym regularly is out of question for most of our busy executives. Cutting down on fat-inducing foods is also difficult because most of our fast foods (which are easy to procure and eat) are high on fat content. Meat and fish products we consume regularly are also culprits here.
The only viable answer to our obesity problems is to take such foods that retard fat formation and accumulation. Many of us are compulsive eaters. Appetite reducing pills can help such people.

However, unnatural medicines and techniques for fat reduction can give more harm that gain. The pills used for appetite suppression and braking down fats should be totally natural, otherwise long term health problems can crop up. The emphasis should be permanent weight loss and not a short term result. Many of us regain the lost fat once the weight loss regimen ends. This should not happen. It would be better if weight reducing foods are taken regularly as supplements in order to be healthy throughout life.

Many fat reducing and appetite controlling foods occur naturally around the globe. One such food is white kidney beans.

We all know that carbohydrates and fats are the biggest culprits in weight and fat accumulation. White kidney beans resist carbohydrates from breaking down into sugars. This would help in keeping blood sugar at acceptable levels too. So you get a two-fold gain here. The first, keeping fat levels down and secondly, retarding accumulation of blood sugar.

While kidney beans thus ranks as the foremost natural carbohydrate blocker known to man.

Chitosan, the extract taken from crustacean shells, is also a good quality fat loss agent. The natural product is most suited for heavy and compulsive eaters. Regular intake of chitosan pills help shed excess fat through stool, thereby keeping the body slim and trim. However, take care that you take nutrient rich food along with it in order to make sure that the body is not depleted of useful minerals and vitamins. It is rich in soluble fiber too.

Hoodia gordonii, a bitter plant found in the arid plains of southern Africa, is also high in anti-fattening properties.

It is a natural appetite fighter, but gives out enough energy for limited periods. Pills made from the plant extract can fight compulsive eating, cravings and unreasonable appetites in a natural way. It contains no stimulants and is free
from side effects too.

Weight Loss with Facial Exercise

2009-04-11T11:16:00.000-07:00

You are loses a great deal of weight? probably thirty pounds? maybe more, and instead of the congratulating you, svelte body, what about your face, (saying that)you look older now than you did two years ago when she still wore a size twelve?

Losing weight means that your face will lose weight too. Volume as unwanted pounds is shed throughout the entire body when a person loses weight.
There is really no such thing as "spot" reducing as in 'I will only lose weight in my waist, tummy, hips and thighs,' so as you put away mounds of carrots, broccoli and organic lettuce leaves, just know that having a skinny body means you will have a skinny face.

If you experience weight loss in your thighs, you will also experience weight loss in your face. Loss of volume in the face is especially noticeable as previous atrophy like slightly sagging cheeks now are actual lines or grooves between your nose and your mouth. Jowls and pouches also seem to form almost overnight as the pounds melt away. You probably feel this is a very unfair scenario – losing weight to look better yet your face is losing the battle against aging.
There are hollows that can form along the sides of the cheeks when weight is lost quickly. Sometimes hollows are thought to only plague those over 65 but if your weight has taken a sudden plunge, you might find your skin acting in ways you have never seen. Fat surrounds our muscles and our internal organs as it weaves and marbles throughout our bodies. Fat nestles between our skin and body muscles. You may or may not know that it is very easy for our bodies to store fat; if we overeat and are under active, our bodies glom on to ingested calories. Most of us gals need only 1500-1800 calories per day to maintain our ideal weight; overeat and you outgrow your clothes as you become a candidate for obesity, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure issues and other health challenges. In addition to watching our caloric intake we certainly need to include some type of physical activity to energize our bodies and to put the roses back in our cheeks. When our faces show aging whether we have lost weight or not, there is sometimes great temptation to use extraneous methods to recapture our youthful appearance. Thinking that temporary injections that plump and paralyze will enhance your face may leave you feeling cold and offish. Injections cost a lot of money and carry a certain amount of risk. Oh sure, there will probably be redness or bruising at the injection site but if you choose to allow toxins and chemically altered cadaver material to be injected inside your body, you will first have to read and sign a very comprehensive disclosure that will absolutely let your practitioner off the hook if you have an adverse reaction.
Surgery is another avenue men and women consider when their face looks drawn and tired but if you stop and think about it carefully, cutting perfectly healthy muscle and skin, then draping it and suturing it into place may not be ideal either. In fact, some people may think it is a barbaric practice and not in line with healthy alternatives; after all, it is surgery and surgery always carries risk like infection, disappointment and even death. There are non-surgical alternatives and less invasive practices but not all of them produce the desired results of a younger looking face.

Facial exercise, not twists, puckers or contortions, is a safe and sane alternative for a healthier, younger looking face. The exercises are painless, there is no risk and you look like you did ten to fifteen years ago.

Facial exercise that uses resistance training is likened to weight training. When you train your body with weights, the muscles sculpt, tone, tighten and reposition.
Just as exercise works for the body, exercise will work for the face. Using white exercise gloves to hold and anchor tiny facial muscles, the facial exercises quickly work to enhance the face by engaging the muscles hidden under the skin. Most users see immediate results when using isometric facial exercise with resistance although in the beginning the results are not long lasting because the muscle needs sufficient strength training to hold the new look. After a few weeks of training, the face begins to lose the tired, drawn look as muscles and skin become revitalized with oxygenated blood.
Learning the techniques is easy, the steps are simple and the results are stunning.
Now you can keep your face looking toned, tightened and lifted when you are ready to shed a few pounds without worry that your face will look tired or old.

Acai Berry

2009-04-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

Acai Berry and Your Health
Many people are asking questions about the Acai Berry. Is it a super food? Does it work? What are some of the benefits to Acai Berry? Let's start by saying emphatically that Acai Berry does work! This fruit has been highly researched by cientific and medical personnel and the over all consensus is that yes Acai does improve your health system in many very beneficial ways. There is ba lot of hype over the benefits of Acai Berry. It has been fast paced and through all media sources. This makes many people wonder if it could possibly be as good as everyone says it is. In my research I have found it to be exceptionally beneficial for us and I highly recommend it.

Here is a list of just a few of the benefits:

Lowers your blood pressure, high levels of fiber, helps you sleep better and longer, boosts your energy levels, makes you feel revitalized, Cleanses and detoxifies your colon, improves digestive function, lowers cholesterol, minimizes inflammation, Fights cancer, heart disease and arthritis, encourages proper blood circulation, strengthens the immune system, Promotes healthier and younger-looking skin, enhances visual acuity, and promotes weight loss.

Weight Loss
The Acai Berry has been highly promoted as a natural nutritional supplement that promotes Weight Loss. really, Oprah is always trying to lose weight. I believe this is the primary reason for her interest in Acai Berry. Acai raises your bodies natural metabolism rate. This of course leads to naturally burn more calories which eventually means weight loss. Since the lost weight is from calorie burn and not simply water loss like some diet pills, the weight loss is much more lasting. Additionally,the Acai Berry eliminates toxins. This will cause a short term weight loss. Unless you change your current unhealthy eating habits or continually eat Acai Berries or take a Acai Berry nutritional supplement you will gain the weight back. Does Acai work for weight loss? Yes it does.

Immune System
Acai Berry strengthens the immune system. It detoxifies the body and flushes the toxins. As you eliminate the years of toxic waste in your body that is not easily eliminated because of our unhealthy diets we free up our natural resistance to disease and gives our bodies greater capacity to fight infections such as the common cold, flu and other illnesses. Since the Acai Berry fruit is extremely high in antioxidants, even higher than the blueberry and pomegranates, it helps in replenishing dead cells and helps with positive blood circulation. You will feel more energetic and will most likely sleep better throughout the night. All these qualities help our immune system as our bodies can more readily fight a disease.

Lower Cholesterol
Acai Berry also lowers your cholesterol level and glucose levels. This really is the crucial reason my wife have taken Acai Berry fruit for over six months now. Her cholesterol levels were high and she could not lower them by oatmeal alone. She needed to lower them. For high cholesterol leads to so many other medical problems. So we looked for natural help. With a healthy high fiber diet and both the Omega-3 fish oil and Acai Berry nutritional supplements she has lowered her cholesterol dramatically. Since Acai also helps with Weight Loss we are ahead of game. Acai Berry, does it work for lowering cholesterol? Yes it does.

Healthy Diet and lifestyle
Acai Berry has been called a super food. There are so many health benefits that it is a food or supplement that should be a regular part of your healthy diet. To truly receive the greatest benefits we need to change a few habits. First we need to eat a healthy diet that is high in fiber and low in fat. We can do this by eating a variety of fresh and organic fruit vegetables, whole grains, nuts and beans. We should limit meat, fish and poultry to 10% of our daily calories and drink plenty of water. When we eat healthy and exercise daily we be live a longer healthier lives. The Acai Berry fruit or nutritional supplement is a key component to your healthy diet and healthy lifestyle.

Weight Loss Diet

2009-04-11T10:42:00.000-07:00

Six Mistakes You Are Making on Your Weight Loss Diet

I know you are making these fat loss mistakes because I did too! Based on my experience from losing over 80 pounds and finally keeping it off, here are some tips for avoiding these common dieting mistakes.

YOU ARE TRYING TO DO TOO MUCH TOO SOON
Trying to go from Sedentary Slob to Super Dieter on a Monday morning? Not so smart. It is a great way to ensure you will be back to the couch by mid-day Wednesday. You can't expect to undo years worth of damage overnight.

If you typically eat three meals per day, start slowly by adding a snack - either before or after lunch, then ease your way to six smaller meals every 2-3 hours. This approach to fat loss is called kaizen, a Japanese philosophy that focuses on continuous improvement throughout all aspects of life. Making a small change once a day or once a week leads to a constant state of improvement.

YOU ARE LOOKING FOR THE QUICK FIX
I was convinced I had a Loch Ness Monster in my colon and that was making me fat! But the colon cleanser I purchased only left me with a very sore butt, some leafy-looking things in the toilet and not a single pound lost.

Now I was convinced that I needed a deluxe fat burner - one that would melt away the fat while I sat on my butt doing nothing!

After thousands of dollars and lots of false hope, I realized that the only way I was going to achieve the lean body that I desired was to come up with a solid nutrition and exercise plan, and to add supplements that were backed by solid science.

YOU ARE LETTING OTHERS KNOCK YOU OFF-TRACK
My family is full of enablers - they mean well, but they were not sensitive to the fact that I was trying to stay on track with my fat loss efforts. "C'mon a little bit won't hurt" or "you can diet tomorrow" was all it took to convince me to eat. Within 30 minutes I had eaten myself stupid and undone all of the positive progress that I had spent the past week achieving.

Let those around you know how important it is for you to lose weight and what it means to both you, and them, if you do not achieve your goals.

YOU ARE NOT GETTING BACK "ON THE WAGON" IMMEDIATELY AFTER FALLING OFF
I would usually fall off my diet toward the end of any given week. It was at that point that I rationalized that, since I was "off the wagon" I would wait until Monday to get started again!

This probably won't come as a big shock, but science now has proven that weekends can wreak havoc on your waistline. That was the conclusion of Washington University researchers, who found that even people on strict diet and exercise programs lose weight more slowly than expected because they eat more on weekends.

The verdict: People do not need a holiday as an excuse to eat more; they tend to do it every weekend because human lifestyle patterns can be very different.

There were two key takeaways from this:

1. The best time to get back "on the wagon" was at your next meal - do not wait until you've done more damage.

2. Do not let the weekends be different than any other day - stick with your plan whether it is a Saturday or a Wednesday

YOU ARE TRYING TO BE PERFECT EVERY DAY
Life is not perfect - and your diet plan shouldn't be either. You can't expect yourself to follow your program to the letter every second of every day until you reach your goal. If you do, you will ultimately fail. That is why you need to apply the 90/10 rule to your nutrition and exercise.

The 90/10 rule is very simple - if you are on your program 90% of the time, then you will not be hurt by the 10% of the time you are not. Your weight loss diet should include a minimum of 5 meals per day, with 6 meals being ideal. Following the 90/10 rule with 6 meals a day (or 42 meals a week) means that you have 4 meals a week where you can go off your program without halting progress, as long as those meals are reasonable.

Same rules apply to exercise. Let's say your schedule permits you to work out 4 days per week. In a month, you would have 16 workouts - and following the 90/10 rule, you can miss 1 or 2 workouts without derailing yourself. However, you should save your "skips" for times when you really need to skip - like a poor night's sleep, illness, or hectic travel schedule.

YOU ARE NOT SETTING REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS
It took you your entire life to get to this point, and you expect to reverse all of the damage in 3 weeks? That is what a lot of diet products would like you to believe.

You absolutely MUST set goals, but they MUST be realistic. What is realistic? one to two pounds of fat per week is a reasonable goal. The more you have to lose, the higher you can set your weekly expectations. But if you are approaching double-digits with your expectations, you will ultimately fail.

How to Prevent Cellulite in 5 Easy Steps

2009-04-11T10:05:00.000-07:00

Cellulite is every woman's worst nightmare. We all remember our youthful years when our legs were tight and sexy, proudly exposed by the ever-so-short mini skirts of the time. For some of us these years seem an eternity away, as most of us are now too ashamed to wear anything above the knee.

Cellulite is actually far easier to remove than many of us believe. Therefore, I would love to share with you ladies 5 easy steps to follow that will effortlessly remove cellulite and keep it away for good!

Step #1 - Exercise

One of the simplest and most effective ways of loosing cellulite is to reduce body fat and increase your muscle mass.

Fortunately this can be easily achieved with a bit of exercise. So if this isn't currently integrated into your regular regime, start going for vigorous walks, get that old bike out of the garage, hit the pool, or join the local gym.

Step # 2 - Eat Healthy

Cellulites are fat cells connected under the tissue of your skin. Therefore you should limit the amount of fat in your diet by reducing the amount of processed foods you ingest while increasing the amount of natural food you consume such as fruits, vegetables, and grains.

Step #3 - Moisturize

Cellulite is not only the dimple you see, but the dry, damaged skin that surrounds it; this makes its appearance much more pronounced. With the daily application of a natural moisturizer such as a cellulite body cream , you can minimize this unwanted, accentuated appearance.

Step #4 - Drink Water

Cellulite is also known to be formed by a collation of toxins under the skin's surface. Keeping well hydrated is the best method of assisting your body flush out such toxins. As is commonly understood water is the healthiest and quickest method of hydration.

Step #5 - Massage

A great technique for shifting these unwanted fat cell deposits is massage. So pamper yourself and have your body regularly massaged, paying extra attention to the regions with the greatest cell deposits. And don't worry, this does not need to be an expensive or elaborate procedure, simply soak yourself in a relaxing bath and have your partner gently massage you with an effective anti cellulite cream.

Skin cancer risk factors ...

2009-04-09T11:56:00.000-07:00

You are at higher risk for developing skin cancer if you live in a sunny environment year-round, have experienced many bad sunburns, are fair-skinned, have an abundance of moles or freckles, or if you have a family history of skin cancer. If you fall into one of these categories, you should regularly monitor your skin for any changes. When you're doing a self-exam, look for the following: new growths or sores that won't heal; small lumps that are smooth, shiny and waxy, or red/reddish brown; and flat red spots that are rough or scaly. Any new growths or skin changes that are black or dark brown should be looked upon with suspicion. Cancerous skin lesions appear primarily on sun-exposed body parts, but they can develop on areas that are not normally subjected to sunlight. If you notice anything unusual, get checked by
your doctor. Incorporating daily sunscreen use and wearing protective clothing will decrease your risks, especially if you start practicing your sun smarts early. Look for sunscreens that contain aloe, vitamin E and/or green tea to help nourish the skin and replenish lost moisture from sun exposure.

Watch for warning signs of skin cancer ...

2009-04-09T11:53:00.000-07:00

When you're doing a self-exam for skin cancer, look for the following: new growths or sores that won't heal; small lumps that are smooth, shiny and waxy, or red/reddish brown; and flat red spots that are rough or scaly. Cancerous skin
lesions appear primarily on sun-exposed areas, but they can appear on areas that are not normally subjected to sunlight. Any new growths or skin changes that are black or dark brown should be looked upon with suspicion. If you notice anything unusual, get checked by your doctor.

Check your birthmarks regularly ...
A birthmark is a discolored patch or spot of skin that is present at birth, its color can vary from brown, black, bluish to blue-gray. Birthmarks include moles, cafe-au-lait spots and mongolian spots. Moles are extremely common and are visible as dense, small clusters of pigmented skin cells that usually appear after birth. Large moles that are present at birth (congenital nevi) have a higher chance of developing into skin cancer. Generally, risk corresponds to the size of the mole - the larger the area, the higher the risk. Regular self exams are encouraged and an annual assessment by a qualified physician is recommended to monitor any changes. Be aware of any differences in terms of size, color, bleeding or itching at the site of the birthmark. Cafe-au-lait spots are light tan in color, and are so termed because they resemble the shade once cream is mixed with coffee. These skin discolorations are considered to be normal, however, they can indicate an impairment in the cellular growth of nerve tissues. A mongolian spot looks like a bruise due to its bluish color - they are most commonly found over the lower back or buttocks. Mongolian spots do not evolve into cancer, but they are more frequently found on people with darker skin. If you're not certain, it's always best to seek medical advice. It is also important to note that daily sunscreen use can help to reduce the chances of developing skin cancer.

Dry and rough skin on your feet?

2009-04-09T11:07:00.000-07:00

The feet are often one of the most neglected parts of our bodies in terms of daily care. Especially during the summer, our feet get dry and rough and are more prone to cracking and peeling because we go barefoot or wear sandals or thongs.
Here's a suggestion for a twice-a-week regimen to restore the condition of your feet. With a back and forth motion, rub a pumice stone over the rough heals or balls of your feet to remove loose/dead skin, but take care not to rub too hard.
Soak your feet in warm water for a minimum of 5 minutes. While still wet, use the pumice stone to gently rub the same areas for removal of additional dry skin. Rinse and dry your feet. At bedtime, apply a moisturizing cream or petroleum jelly, and cover your feet with socks. In the morning, your feet will look and feel much softer. For the ultimate in foot care, there's a unique self-heating exfoliating product that will smooth and moisturize your well-deserving feet.

See Also Manicure Tips

The What & Why Of Antioxidants

2009-04-09T11:01:00.000-07:00

More than likely you have heard the term "antioxidant" by now. However, do you know what it is, why you need it or how you get it? Probably not. So, herein what you need to know about antioxidants will be explained.

The first thing that you need to know about in order to understand antioxidants is the process of oxidation. This is a fundamental and necessary biomechanical reaction. Not all forms of this process are helpful though. There are some that forms that happen at the wrong time and are thus disastrous to your health. However, antioxidants can be a big help in helping positive oxidation to occur so that you will have sustained, good health.

Antioxidants also play a key role in keeping the proteins in your cell membranes from being damaged. These proteins are large, complex and specialized molecules. They control the functions of important cell membranes, which are the basic defense system that lets nutrients in, sends waste products out and prevents entry of toxic and viral invaders. As such, they are actually responsible for immune responses. However, oxidation interferes with this process by splitting up the molecules and thus destroying it. Fatty acids can also be destroyed in this way.

It is important to understand that you can also come into contact with the oxidation process outside of your body. Sources for this include exposure to radiation, air pollution, synthetic hormones in food, pesticides, over-the-counter and prescription drugs and food additives. Of course, some of these things are things that you cannot easily avoid. This is why it is important to make sure that your body has plenty of antioxidants, which enable good oxidation to take place.

You can find antioxidants in really green, fast growing plants. This is because sunlight, which is a high-energy source, drives the photosynthesis process. In effect, photosynthesis is the opposite of oxidation. So, plants contain a large supply of antioxidants so that they can be protected from the dangers that sunlight can cause. It is these antioxidants that you will want to consume.

Some of the other great places wherein you can find antioxidants include immature barley and wheat grasses. Zinc also has a lot of antioxidant power, which is why it is used so much during the cold and flu season.

It is also a good idea to avoid partially hydrogenated foods whenever possible. This can be found in processed foods, air pollution and medications. A great way in which to counteract this is by drinking green tea, which has a lot of antioxidant power.

Furthermore, if all else fails, you can take specific vitamins so that you get more antioxidants. One of the best ones that I have found is Shaklee's Glucose Regulation Complex. This "food supplement," as Shaklee prefers to call their vitamins, contains both Zinc and antioxidants. As an added benefit, this is a good choice for diabetics who would like to get off of their glucose products. However, you should contact your doctor before starting it.

So, now that you understand just how important antioxidants are and where they can be found, you can start helping your body out by taking more of them. Here's to your good health!

See Also Anti Aging Tips

Antioxidants: Combating Aging and Disease

2009-04-09T10:16:00.000-07:00

Wouldn’t we all like to age gracefully (if at all for that matter!) and ward off the wrinkly signs and ill symptoms for as long as possible. Keys to longevity may be more accessible than we think, and it appears our diets play a critical role. Antioxidants are the knights in shining armor that subjugate the attack of free radicals in the body, the hazardous molecules that damage cells and procure aging and disease. Though antioxidants are produced naturally in the body, these decline with age, hence an increasing need to acquire them from the foods in our diet.

Before examining antioxidants more closely, it is important to take a look at the free radicals they serve to neutralize.

Free Radicals

Free radicals are created as by-products in our use of oxygen during metabolism such as the burning of food for energy. They are essentially oxidant molecules that are missing an electron and seek to restore themselves by targeting nearby cells in an attempt to recover this electron, potentially harming enzymes, DNA, proteins and cell membranes in the process. This damage can mutate cells and alter cell function, increasing the risk of numerous diseases and chronic conditions including arthritis, diabetes, cataracts, cancer, heart disease and stroke. Free radical damage is implicated in the onset of aging and its degenerative symptoms and diseases.

As well as generated within the body, free radicals come from environmental sources such as pollution, radiation, unhealthy foods, bacteria, viruses, cigarette smoke and UV light.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants serve to mitigate the harmful effect of free radicals by giving up an electron and stabilizing them in the process. Although we produce many of our own antioxidants within the body, food provides an essential source for these key players of our defense system. Vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients all have antioxidant properties. The most common examples include vitamins A, C and E, selenium and zinc, carotenoids, flavonoids, co-enzyme Q10, alpha-lipoic acid and glutathione.

As there are many different types of free radicals in the body a variety of antioxidants are required to protect against them. Antioxidants function best as a team, with each other and other nutrients and phytochemicals, which is why incorporating a wide range of plant foods into your diet is recommended. Phytochemical groups such as flavonoids and carotenoids correspond to the colour, taste and smell attributes of plants, hence eating a rainbow array of vegetables and fruits can offer a diverse selection of these potent antioxidants.

Antioxidant Rich Foods

Foods especially high in antioxidants include berries, plums, pomegranates, oranges, spinach, green tea, avocado, kale, broccoli, peas, onions, grapes and pure chocolate.

Scientists at the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) have developed a rating scale that measures the total antioxidant capacity of a given food. This is known as the ORAC score (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity).

Of 40 common fruits and vegetables measured by the USDA, top ranking scores were those of prunes(5770), raisins (2830), blueberries (2400 – highest of all fresh foods with other berries close behind), kale (1770), spinach (1260), Brussels sprouts (980), plums (949), alfalfa sprouts (930), broccoli florets (890), beetroots (840), oranges (750 ), red peppers (710 ) and red grapes (739).

Pure cocoa surpasses all these foods with a whopping score of 26,00 units, more than 10 times the prestigious blueberry (though one is likely to eat far less in quantity). The extraordinary goji berry from Tibet also has outstanding antioxidant capacity with a score of 18,500 units; hardly surprising as they contain 500 times more vitamin C than oranges and even more beta-carotene than carrots!

According to studies on animals and human blood at the Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts in Boston, high-ORAC foods may slow aging processes in the body and brain. Results found that high ORAC foods such as blueberries and spinach could increase the antioxidant power of human blood by 10-25%, prevent loss of long-term memory and learning ability in middle-aged rats, and protect rat blood vessels against oxygen damage.

Antioxidants and Aging

As we age, free radical levels rise and yet the body falls short in producing necessary amounts of antioxidants to meet this challenge. For example, cells generate more of the oxidants hydrogen peroxide and superoxide, yet levels of the necessary antioxidant glutathione required to neutralise these decline. The Free Radical Theory of Aging, first proposed by Harman in 1954, is supported by cross-species examination of animals with regard to life span, free radical damage and antioxidant defence. For example, the white-footed mouse lives about twice as long as the house mouse (8 versus 4 years), and is found to generate less oxidants and have higher levels of antioxidants. As Beckman and Ames write in The Free Radical Theory of Ageing Matures (1998), ‘Together, interspecies comparisons of oxidative damage, antioxidant defences, and oxidant generation provide some of the most compelling evidence that oxidants are one of the most significant determinants of life span.’

Very recent evidence comes from a study on dogs at the University of Toronto by Dr. Dwight Tapp and colleagues who found that ‘old dogs that were on an antioxidant diet performed better on a variety of cognitive tests than dogs that were not on the diet. In fact, the dogs eating antioxidant-fortified foods performed as well as young animals’.

Additional research by Dr. Rabinovitch and his team, studying aging at the University of Washington, Seattle, found that mice engineered to produce high levels of an antioxidant enzyme (catalase) lived 20 per cent longer and had less heart and other age-related diseases than controls.

In light of the role free radicals play in the onset of aging and disease, it is important to ensure our diets include a rich and diverse supply of antioxidants. These protective agents can be found abundantly in vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds and are particularly high in superfoods.

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Sunbeds are not a safer way to tan ...

2009-04-08T16:02:00.000-07:00

Contrary to popular belief, sunbeds are not a safer way to tan. Sunbeds emit UVA radiation, which causes tanning and aging of the skin. If you're using a sunbed, you're accelerating the aging process of your skin and increasing your risk of developing skin cancer. UVA radiation actually penetrates the top layer of the skin, but damage is sustained by the lower layer, which causes skin to age prematurely. Other side-effects of excessive exposure to UVA are blotchiness, wrinkling and loss of firmness, giving a looser appearance to the skin. High levels of UVA can also cause sunburn and accumulated exposure leads to an increased susceptibility to skin cancer. These reasons give great incentive to seek safer alternatives such as sunless tanners. The latest generation of self-tanning products offers variety,
convenience and even coverage.

Makeup does not protect you from the sun

2009-04-08T15:10:00.000-07:00

Makeup won't provide much protection from the sun. You may think that your cosmetics are effectively blocking the sun's rays, but they aren't. To stay safe, choose cosmetics that incorporate SPF - or apply a moisturizer containing SPF - before putting on your makeup.

iBeautyTips

Preventing age spots

2009-04-08T14:23:00.000-07:00

... Age spots are the result of accumulated sun exposure. The only way to prevent age spots is by practicing your sun smarts well before the age of 40 - the earlier the better. Make it part of your regular routine to use sunscreen daily, wear a hat and clothing to cover-up areas prone to high UV exposure and avoid spending extended or unnecessary time under the sun. These good habits will also help to reduce your chances of developing skin cancer and wrinkles. If applied regularly, moisturizing products that contain an exfoliating ingredient can lighten freckles and age spots. You may also want to look for a formulation that includes vitamin B3, which plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin. A convenient way to include an exfoliant or sunscreen in your skin care routine is to find one that's included in a daily moisturizer

See Also An Overview On Sunscreen