Natural Health & Healing

Top 5 Fat Loss Tips

2008-08-06T15:13:00.000-04:00

By: Craig Ballantyne, CSCS, MS
www.TurbulenceTraining.com

Men's Fitness magazine recently asked me for 3 of my best fat loss tips. Since most times the magazines just don't have enough space to run my full tips, I thought I'd give you a more detailed explanation of my secrets here (plus a few extra bonus tips that I didn't send to the magazine).

Secret #1 - Focus on burning carbohydrate, not fat, during your
fat-loss workouts.

Sounds backwards, right? But not when you look at how I structure my workouts. Remember that Turbulence Training focuses on resistance training and interval training. Both of these use carbohydrate as the main source of energy. So it's obvious the workout is designed to burn carbohydrates during the training session.

I have no interest in you trying to train in your "target heart
rate zone" for fat burning (aka - the fat burning zone). The whole idea of a fat-burning zone is an over-simplified idea of how the body works during exercise.

Leave the inefficient fat burning zone to the mis-educated
trainers in the commercial gyms (that not surprisingly, also want to sell you a heart rate monitor so you can stay in your "fat
burning heart rate zone").

If you want to get the most results in the least amount of time,
focus on burning carbohydrates, not fat.

Why do my fat loss workouts focus on burning carbohydrate rather than fat? In order to burn more calories after the workout, that's why. When you exercise with intervals and heavy resistance training, your body uses more calories in the hours after exercise than it would if you did traditional cardio and lifted lighter weights.

Alwyn Cosgrove calls this 'afterburn', and I call it 'Turbulence'.
By any name it gives you the same results - maximum
improvements in your body composition (helping you lose fat while gaining muscle).

Secret #2 - Use a range of repetitions in your strength training
workouts.

In order to train more muscle fibers and burn more carbohydrates, I have clients use a range of repetitions within the same workout. My workouts now use 6, 8, and 12 reps per set in order to work the muscle the most effectively.

This will burn more carbohydrates and promote as much muscle growth as possible when you are keeping the calories low.

Secret #3 - Use the stationary cycle for interval training.

I choose the stationary bike for intervals whenever possible
because cycling against a resistance can help maintain muscle mass.

Cycling against a resistance also allows you to perform a large
amount of mechanical work, and that is a key determinant of the Turbulence in my training.

But please note: I don't use low-intensity, fast pedaling
'spinning' intervals as I'm convinced that the hard, resistance
based intervals are more effective for fat loss. My clients only
cycle against a strong resistance in their intervals.

I really like the bike, but there are many other ways to do
intervals. Use what works for you, but if you are at a plateau, try the bike.

Secret #4 - Increase meal frequency

Okay, so this isn't really a secret to anyone that has read about
fat loss. But a 2005 study from the American Journal of Clinical
Nutrition showed that eating 6 times per day was associated with eating fewer calories per day, lowering cholesterol levels, and lowering post-meal insulin levels.

Combine an increased meal frequency with an increased protein and fiber intake, and you'll see your body composition improve rapidly.

If you need more nutrition help, then you'll love the new
Turbulence Training Nutrition Guide for Men & Women - written by Dr. Chris Mohr, Ph.D.

See below for more details...

Secret #5 - My Synergistic Turbulence Training Workouts

My Turbulence Training Fat Loss workouts are fast becoming the most effective way to burn fat, build muscle, and get lean. The synergistic strength training-interval training workouts are
efficient and effective - getting you in and out of the gym in
under an hour.

Here are some tips that you can use for an advanced training phase

- use these tips for 2 weeks then return to your normal training
schedule:

a) Add 10 seconds to each interval but maintain the intensity

b) Add in some bodyweight circuits (10-20 minutes per day) done in the morning or evening (if you do your regular workout in the AM, do your bodyweight circuits after dinner; otherwise, do the bw circuits first thing in the AM, and then do your regular workout at lunch or later in the afternoon or evening)

If you are advanced, you can use squats, pushups, and bodyweight rows for your circuit.

If you are a beginner, you could use lying hip extensions, modified pushups, and stick-ups.

c) Add an extra set to each exercise in the first superset you do
in each workout.

Again, use these three tips for an advanced fat loss period of two
weeks, then return to a normal training schedule.

But always stick to the best fat loss nutrition plan possible.

If you have any other questions, just let me know.

Sincerely,

Craig Ballantyne
Author, Turbulence Training

P.S. Big Nutrition Announcement!

The Turbulence Training Nutrition Guide for Men & Women - written by Dr. Chris Mohr, Ph.D., is ready for you.

Here are just some of the things you'll learn from Dr. Mohr...

1) How to calculate your calorie needs (p. 6)

2) Calorie recommendations for obese individuals (p.7)

3) The 23 types of sugar (many hidden!) to avoid (p. 9)

4) The 20 whole-grain sources to fuel your fat loss program (p9)

5) Over 60 fruits and vegetables that should be added to your diet (p. 10)

6) The 16 protein sources you should select most often (p. 13)

7) Shocking trans-fat content of 18 common foods - find out which food is the deadliest in terms of fat content (p. 16)

8 ) The 9 Fat Sources you should select most often (p. 17)

9) Dr. Mohr's 12 Rules for Fat Loss (p. 18)

10) The TT Nutrition Plan for Men (p. 19)

11) The TT Nutrition Plan for Women (p. 23)

12) Bonus Supplement Report: The Truth About Fat Loss Pills (p. 27)

About the Author

Craig Ballantyne is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist and writes for Men's Health, Men's Fitness, Maximum Fitness, Muscle and Fitness Hers, and Oxygen magazines. His trademarked Turbulence Training fat loss workouts have been featured multiple times in Men’s Fitness and Maximum Fitness magazines, and have helped thousands of men and women around the world lose fat, gain muscle, and get lean in less than 45 minutes three times per week. For more information on the Turbulence Training workouts that will help you burn fat without long, slow cardio sessions or fancy equipment, visit www.TurbulenceTraining.com

How to Lose Man Boobs

2008-08-03T16:40:00.002-04:00

By: Craig Ballantyne, CSCS, MS
www.TurbulenceTraining.com

You don’t have to go through life with man boobs (otherwise known as male breasts). In fact, you can burn away chest fat and get rid of your man boobs forever with just three short, but intense workouts per week.

Getting rid of man boobs is as simple as getting rid of any other fat. You need to cut back on the junk, and fill up on the intensity. Turbulence Training is the fastest fat loss workout you can do at home. You don’t need fancy equipment or a gym membership (where you’ll be too embarrassed by your man boobs to go anyway).

Listen, women love a chiseled chest, but are turned off by the site of man boobs poking through a sweatshirt. That’s why I’ve put together a fat burning program that focuses on building muscle and blasting fat with all sorts of push-ups, chest exercises, and intervals. In fact, even the Turbulence Training abdominal workouts work the chest and help convert those man boobs back into a real man’s chest in just weeks.

You can gain muscle and lose fat with short workouts. You don’t need to be training 6 days per week or spending hundreds of dollars each month on fancy (but worthless) supplements.

Soon you’ll be the guy who is first to take his shirt off at the beach. No more hiding under sweats in the middle of July, or avoiding the water because you don’t want anyone to see your man boobs.

And no matter what anyone says, you don’t have to rely on surgery. Besides, that will leave ugly scars that will leave you just as self-conscious as when you had man boobs. The only fix is a permanent lifestyle change, thanks to the 3 short workouts per week of Turbulence Training. You’ll see changes in your man boobs, love handles, and arm definition within weeks, going from male breasts to ripped abs in the process.

Turbulence Training is not like all those other aerobic, slow cardio programs you’ve tried in the past that didn’t work. And it’s not a wimpy machine circuit that just ends up being a waste of your time. Instead, Turbulence Training is a unique exercise system that you can do in the comfort of your own home, so that no one at the gym can point or stare at your chest – at least not until they are staring with respect.

The fastest way, the safest way, and the only way to get rid of man boobs is with strength training and interval training. Combine that with Dr. Chris Mohr’s sensible nutrition guidelines, and you’ll have a new body, and a new chest in just weeks.

About the Author

Craig Ballantyne is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist and writes for Men's Health, Men's Fitness, Maximum Fitness, Muscle and Fitness Hers, and Oxygen magazines. His trademarked Turbulence Training fat loss workouts have been featured multiple times in Men’s Fitness and Maximum Fitness magazines, and have helped thousands of men and women around the world lose fat, gain muscle, and get lean in less than 45 minutes three times per week. For more information on the Turbulence Training workouts that will help you burn fat without long, slow cardio sessions or fancy equipment, visit www.TurbulenceTraining.com

7-Minute Weight Loss Circuit

2008-08-03T12:03:00.002-04:00

By Craig Ballantyne, CSCS, MS
www.TurbulenceTraining.com

One thing we have to lose from our workout mindsets is the idea of this "60-minute workout". Forget about spending that much time in the gym. Instead, choose better exercises that are more efficient. This will allow you to get your workout done faster, eliminating the "no time" workout excuse.

To do so, you need to eliminate irrelevant exercises. I know you want to do an exercise for shoulders, and one for arms, and one for abs, and one for this and that. But before you do, ask yourself, will these really get me to my goal, or have I just been convinced by bodybuilding magazines that I need 40 sets per workout to get results?

Now, taking those lessons, we can then create some pretty incredible bodyweight workouts as well. And these bodyweight workouts can get finished fast!

In fact, here is a 7-minute bodyweight circuit that can help you lose weight, burn calories, and blast your metabolism. You don't need machines or weights. You can do this anywhere!

Bodyweight squat (10-20 reps)
Pushup (10-20 reps) - do it on your knees if you must
Reverse Lunge (10 reps per leg)
Plank (30 second hold)
Close-grip Pushup (10-20 reps)
Side Plank (20 second hold per side)
Mountain Climber (10 reps per side)

Do this with no rest between exercises. Rest 1 minute at the end of the 7-minute circuit and repeat up to 3 times.

If you are a beginner, do fewer reps and take longer rests.

It's a tough, tough bodyweight circuit, especially the combination of two exercises late in the circuit. This combo literally exhausted me to my knees...twice...before I was able to finish the circuit.You can do the circuit up to 3 times.

Another weapon in your fat loss arsenal. Now you'll know how to train efficiently and eat effectively for fat loss.

Don't wait any longer to get started! Get all of these bodyweight exercises, and more, in the Turbulence Training workouts that you can do in the comfort of your own home. No more annoying drives to the gym, waiting in line for machines in an uncomfortable environment, or being intimidated by the super-buff gym bunnies. Lose fat, get fit, and workout your way - at home with only a bench, a ball, and dumbbells.

Sincerely,

Craig Ballantyne, CSCS, MS
Author, Turbulence Training

Allergic To Food?

2008-06-15T10:22:00.000-04:00

Food allergies are the most common and prevalent type
of allergy. Up to 12 million Americans suffer from
some type of food allergy.

The most common culprits are wheat, eggs, fish and shellfish,
peanuts and other tree nuts.

Children are most commonly allergic to the same foods
but with the addition to milk and other dairy
products.

Corn and corn products also commonly cause allergic
reactions in children.

Most allergic symptoms are often only bothersome, but
they can be life threatening.

The most common symptoms are itching of the mouth,
eyes and skin, hives, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea,
often but not always accompanied by stomach cramps and
wheezing, shortness of breath or trouble swallowing.

The more severe symptoms can include swelling. The
swelling tends to focus on the face area causing
swelling of the eyelids, lips, ears and tongue.

Mood swings and depression is another symptom.

The most severe symptoms can result in death. Around
200 deaths each year are reported from both the
initial allergic reaction and secondary complications.

There is currently no cure for food allergies. While
allergy shots have been developed to help with many
different types of allergies, none have been
successfully made for food allergies.

The people with the allergies usually avoid those
foods that cause the allergic reaction. Epinephrine
can relieve the symptoms, and is often carried by
people diagnosed with food allergies to be used in an
emergency.

How to Fight Hair Loss in Men

2008-05-17T11:59:00.002-04:00

Millions of people throughout the world are victims of hair loss. Of this population, about 70% are men, so that shows that men are more affected by hair loss problem than women. So if you happen to be one of the sufferers, think that you are not alone. A walk to the basketball court or a trip to your office will remind you of that fact. Your father, your friends, or your teammate could be one of them.

Although common, hair loss in men is not a matter to be ignored or joked. Many men out there, though aware that baldness in men is acceptable in the society, feel inferior or unwanted because of their being bald. Yes, baldness in men to some degree affects the males’ self-esteem and self-consciousness. This is also true, and is even intense among women, as women baldness is intolerable.

Now, if you are a man and you are currently suffering from this condition, would it be interesting to know what the basics of hair loss in men are? If you will ask me, I’d be affirmative. After all, knowing what hair loss in men is and what causes it to occur, or how to treat it is really a good move to take. It will not only help you understand what is involved in male pattern hair loss, but knowing its basics will teach you a lesson on how you can avoid or prevent extreme hair loss. That would certainly be enlightening!

So are you now ready to take the challenge? If so, then let’s get started.

Understanding the Basics

Male pattern hair loss is by far the most common form of hair loss. As the name implies, it applies greatly to men or its primary victim are men. Well, according to some surveys, male pattern hair loss affects men with close to 95% of all cases. Half of the total population of men in the whole world experiences this condition typically by the age of 50. However, there are some men who develop this type of hair loss in their teens, 20s, or 30s. Worse is that before men know it, a greater number of their hair may already be nowhere to be found.

The Appearance of Hair Loss in Men

Hair loss in men is often identified with the appearance of a receding hairline, also known as slow balding at the crown of the head. This condition is observed to be a progressive that if it is left ignored and untreated, the hair loss will continue and you will just notice in the end that much of your hair are already gone.

The appearance of hair loss in men is different from the appearance of hair loss in women. The main difference basically lies on the idea that male pattern hair loss is characterized by a noticeable receding line, as mentioned above. Typically, the hair loss in men starts from the crown an spreads through the forehead and few strands are left. This condition is what actually sets hair loss in men different from hair loss in women as in female hair loss, what occur are just spots on the head and women do not totally get bald. They just lose strands of hair, and perhaps the excessive hair loss in women can be associated with some medical operations like chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

There is a tremendous variation of how hair loss appears in men. This variation may include the following:

• A lot of men in society lose hair on the center of their scalp. This is what produces a “bald spot” at the center of the head surrounded by hair.

• Some men develop thinning of hair uniformly. The thinning usually starts over the top of the scalp and this presents no discernible pattern. What it results is complete baldness, especially if not treated earlier on its stage.

• A lot of men experience a sort of recession at the front of their hairline. This usually occurs above the temples, but with hair in the middle. If you will take a closer look at this appearance, you would certainly find an “M” shape on the hairline above your temples and forehead.

• Other men experience a recession at the front of their scalp join up with this area, then forming a balding area on the head.

So that is how hair loss appears in men. Let us now proceed to what causes hair loss in men.

Understanding the Hair Loss Causes

Hair loss in men is caused by a number of factors. For some who do not completely get bald, the root of hair loss is highly associated to hereditary and hormonal imbalances. The explanation for this actually holds that when your family has a history of baldness, the tendency is that you will go bald. But, it is important to note that hereditary factor that causes hair loss in men is not only rooted from having a mother or a father who happens to be bald. The notion that men inherit baldness through their mother’s male relatives is not even true. The real score is that hair loss in men, when dealing with heredity, can originate from either side of the family, or even both. Perhaps taking a closer look at your family may give you the best hint of about how your head will turn out year after year.

In terms of hormonal factors, hair loss in men is also often linked to certain imbalances in the male hormones. According to some studies, most men have areas on their scalp that are very sensitive to the male sex hormones that circulate in their blood. It is these male sex hormones that cause hair follicles to shrink. As you may know, the hair follicles are the areas from which our hair grows, so if they get weakened, they tend to prevent hair from growing. If the follicles are affected by these male sex hormones, what happens is that they eventually become small, turning them incapable of replacing the lost hairs. Well, understand that in this stage, the follicles are not completely dead. They are alive, but are not capable of performing their task the way it used to be.

In relation to this, recent researches have found a link between male hair loss and a substance known as dihydrotestosterone or DHT. According to then, men who tend to develop male pattern hair loss have elevated levels of DHT in their balding scalp. Further studies have revealed that this DHT is what contributes to the continuous shrinking of the hair follicles in the head, leading to a decrease in the number of the noticeable strands of hair. As this is substance is present in the scalp of almost every men, scientists were driven to believe that DHT is a key factor to hair loss in men.

Acute stress can also be a contributing factor to male pattern hair loss. Yes, that’s what most of the studies have shown. As far as I know, they based this claim on some medical illnesses like high fever and to sudden weight loss, as during these conditions the systems in the body passes through a stage of weakening. The result is sudden and rapid shedding of hair. This is where a chronic disorder like lupus happens, which is certainly alarming.

Other possible cause of hair loss in men may be linked to the medications that most men consider, as well as to some illnesses. There are some, however, who lose hair due to certain improper hair cares, like using too much solution for their hair.

Evaluating Your Own Situation

So you’ve learned the basics of hair loss in men, including its causes. Now is the right time for you to consider your own situation as a preparation to the possible treatment. Note that understanding your own hair loss condition is one of the biggest moves worth taking. So if possible, try to ask yourself or consult an expert about what kind of hair loss you are currently experiencing.

Also, don’t wait too long. Remember that most of the hair loss treatments available on the market these days are most successfully applied by those who haven’t waited too long to do the right thing for their condition. Many of those who have experienced balding at some point in their lives have said that the longer you wait to stop hair loss, the harder you can prevent it from occurring, and the harder it is to treat.

It is also very important if you want to treat your hair loss as early as possible to determine the extent of loss. According to some pros, determining this factor is perhaps one of the most significant factors in identifying how well a person will respond to the hair loss treatment. So if in case you find out that you are affected by a slick balding on your scalp characterized by only a small amount of microscopic hair follicles remaining, then note that this condition is much harder to treat than having a hair loss with noticeable existing hairs that are starting to give way to MPB. This latter hair condition is said to have a better chance of reviving.

To evaluate your own hair loss situation it is much advisable to talk to an expert whom you think can greatly help you. You can consult a dermatologist or a hair surgeon to help you determine the kind of hair loss situation you are suffering from.

Well, asking for an expert’s help is not a hard thing to do. These people are available throughout the world. You can find them through referrals, or by asking your friends and relatives about someone they know who can help you fight hair loss. You can also go online and surf the net. Yes, you heard me right. Today, the Internet is highly considered as one of the most important sources for finding everything you wanted to know. So, if you are really serious with battling with hair loss, then there’s no reason for you not consider these suggestions. After all, several sites are out there to help you locate the best doctor for you.

Evaluating the Possible Treatments

To evaluate the possible and available treatments for hair loss is like taking a brilliant step to knowing how you can treat the problem. Well, as you may know, there are a lot of possible ways to fight or prevent hair loss from happening. These ways, however, may require time and daily effort. So for those who are serious with treating their conditions, it is best to note and understand everything that will be said here as knowing the ways of preventing hair loss will eventually give you a better perspective and a better look.

Consider the following treatments:

Growth Stimulators

The growth stimulators, generally, are used in preventing hair loss for the fact that they are capable of working on a symptomatic level to stimulate growth of hair, although artificially. These agents are capable of performing such acts without actually dealing with hair loss at the root of the problem. Note that it is because of this function that growth stimulators are deemed ineffective. But the truth of the matter is, these agents are actually a very successful and powerful way of reversing the balding process, although cosmetically.

The available products in the market today that can be considered as growth stimulators are Rogaine, Tricomin, Folligen, Nano Shampoo, Proxiphen, Prox-N, and Retin-A.

Anti-Androgens

Anti-androgens are but another powerful fighter of hair loss in men. The use of this treatment stems from the belief that anti-androgens work to stop the DHT from binding to the androgen receptor. The androgens, according to studies, come in about ¾ of the way down to the actual process leading to hair loss, and as they come to the rescue, they tend to show off one of the last interactions before certain damages to the hair follicles occur, then restoring the then weakened follicles.

Here are a few of the most well-known and most marketed anti-androgens that could help your fight hair loss in men:

• Revivogen
• Spironolactone
• Nizoral 1% and 2% (Ketoconazole)
• Proxiphen
• Crinagen

Dihydrotestosterone or DHT Inhibitors

The dihydrotestosterone or DHT inhibitors, as the name implies, functions to inhibit the fastening of 5-Alpha Reductase and Testosterone. This combination is what actually keeps the DHT levels to stay close to normal. Once maintained normal, the DHT inhibitors work to help keep the hair growth as well as loss regulation as its normal state. With this condition and function, it’s no wonder that DHT inhibitors are used by bald men to deal and treat the root of their hair loss dilemma.

The most well-known DHT Inhibitors include the Propecia; Crinagen and Revivogen, which are best also as anti-androgens; Dutasteride; Xandrox; and Progesterone Creams.

Anti-Inflammatory Treatments

The name bears it. Anti-inflammatory treatments work to treat inflammation mainly in the balding scalp. It also works to reduce the level of itching that could possible felt upon losing hair. Aside from that, anti-inflammatory solutions can be of great use to control redness, as well as flaking in the scalp which is commonly caused by the immune response following the hair loss. Note that if conditions like redness, flaking, itching and inflammation not controlled as early as possible, they can make hair loss in men worse.

The anti-inflammatory hair loss treatments that are potent enough to do such function include the well-known Nizoral, T-Gel, Folligen, Betadine, Proxiphen-N, Proxiphen, and Tricomen.

Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD)

Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD) treatments are marketing throughout the world these days to prevent excessive hair loss in men. Claims have it that these treatments work by way of gripping and controlling the immune response the in body which may occur as a result of the excessive DHT in the hair follicle. The Super Oxide, which is released once a foreign body is sensed by the cells, is then considered as an alien body that is potent enough to help the body fight and defend against the invading cells, foreign tissues and viruses. However, this Super Oxide is reduced by SODs, which may in turn help lessen the body’s desire to turn down the hair follicle. It is with this function actually that the SODs are considered as effective enough to fight hair loss in men. It is important to know though that SOD treatments are a kind of a hybrid treatment for the reason that they carry within them a number of anti-inflammatory and growth stimulation properties.

Now, if you want to know what the most commonly noted and marketed SODs today, then note that there are actually four main products on the market marked as SODs. These include the Tricomen, Proxiphen, Proxiphen-N, and Folligen.

Note that all of the above mentioned hair loss treatments for men are now marketed throughout the world. So it’s no wonder that you can find even in your neighborhood drug store or grocery stores. But, before you decide on particular treatment, be sure to know and understand your situation first and if possible try to review the real causes of hair loss mentioned earlier in this article. If you fully understand what causes your hair loss, then decide only on the right treatment for you. Again, the best thing that you can do to prevent mistakes is to consult your doctor. It’s not a big hassle after all.

Sculpt Your Buns & Thighs With Windsor Pilates on Video

2008-05-03T17:04:00.003-04:00

Even if you have never seen a video on Windsor Pilates, you must be aware of the popularity of Pilates today as a method of getting and staying fit. The catchy jingle from a popular television commercial about calcium therapy says it all with, "Stand straight, stand out!"

Windsor Pilates has created an excited buzz on most of the fitness experts and fitness junkies nowadays. The trend of Pilates has gripped this country and most of Europe, with no sign of waning popularity in the future. If a person is interested in exploring this trend, he or she only has to go as far as the nearest video store and pick up a DVD on Windsor Pilates that can show that Pilates can be applicable to everyone, young and old alike, physically fit or out of shape, too.

There are many good Windsor Pilates videos on the market today. Choosing the most effective can be difficult, but with a little guidance, the novice should be able to find a challenging workout. Most of the videos have a specific focus. For example, one of the most challenging, rated by amateurs and experts alike is the Windsor Pilates video on Windsor Pilates Buns & Thighs Sculpting. This particular Pilates video was designed specifically for those who wanted to target gluteal, hamstring and quadricep muscles for shaping and toning in their workout. In fact, most experienced Pilates practitioners who have used this video consider it to be particularly time effective for a Windsor Pilates video. It is always a good idea to get feedback from others who have "been there, done that," before committing to an expense in time and money.

The Windsor Pilates Buns & Thighs Sculpting video was designed by none other than Mari Windsor, one of the acclaimed Pilates instructors who developed the new and innovative Windsor method of Pilates instruction. The Windsor Pilates Buns & Thighs Sculpting video in conducted by Mari Windsor herself doing the instruction. She doesn't waste a minute of time in this video while she instructs the viewer in Buns & Thighs training. Under Mari Windsor's capable hands, the video contains a purposeful, body-conscience, and well-taught lesson for the novice or the expert in Pilates. This video uses the proven method of Buns & Thigh sculpting using core conditioning as its basis. These workouts are specially designed to target and tone every Buns & Thighs muscle, with help from the smaller muscle groups surrounding them.

The Windsor Pilates Buns & Thighs Sculpting video has something for everyone, every beginner to intermediate exerciser to the regular, hard-core exercise junkie. You just work at your ability level by imitating the movements on the video to the best of your ability until you gradually work to a higher level. But even if you are a novice to Pilates, you can choose to do a lighter version in the video. If you are used to strenuous exercises and many Buns & Thigh weight training a few times a week, then you are ready for the more strenuous version of workouts the Windsor Pilates Buns & Thigh Sculpting has to offer. If your a Pilates junkie, go ahead and select the complex and challenging exercises offered and I guarantee you that you will see results in your Buns & Thighs after a few workouts.

The participant watching the video can also choose either high or low impacts if joint or back health is a problem. If your joints can handle the strain, you can choose the version on the video that has jumps, skips, or hops. It's all up to you.

Getting Started With Pilates

2008-05-03T15:57:00.006-04:00

Pilates was founded around 70 years ago as a series of 500 movements designed to build up the core muscle groups of the abdominals, shoulders, back, and pelvis, while improving flexibility in the practitioner at the same time. The Pilates method usually produces longer, leaner muscles rather than the shorter, bulky muscles that traditional weight training produces. Pilates also use the method of holding certain positions for a number of breaths rather than the repetitions of other exercise methods. Because you are holding poses, you are required to balance, which also brings smaller muscle groups into play, making the workout very effective in overall toning.

So, you are interested. How do you get started? One likely place to look for help might be the public library, which could contain books or DVDs on Pilates. You need to see for yourself what Pilates looks like when its being practiced. You can learn a lot about the technique by seeing it in a DVD, book, or visiting a Pilates class.

Here's an excellent guide for getting started with your own Pilates practice that you can do in the privacy of your home. It's an instant download, so you won't have to wait.

This is an instant video download from Amazon, Pilates Workout Makeover Your Abs, Butt, and Thighs Fast. You can view this in the privacy of your home as well.

If you think that this method might appeal to you, then you are ready to move to the next step, which would be to visit your doctor for a checkup to see if you are physically fit enough to add Pilates into your exercise routine.

If your doctor agrees that you can add Pilates to your exercise routine, then join a beginning class and begin to build a relationship with a qualified Pilates instructor. This person will tailor a Pilates program especially for you, only adding exercises when you need them, with your particular exercise needs in mind. If you enjoy the beginning classes, you might want to visit an advanced class, with the ultimate goal being to eventually work your way to the class.

But, what if your schedule does not allow for outside classes? The beauty of the Pilates method is that, once learned, most of the exercises can be done in the comfort of your own home and in a matter of minutes a day. People nowadays need an exercise program that is flexible enough to move into a tight schedule and Pilates can fit into the tightest schedule, whenever the practitioner choose to do it.

Eventually, if you become adept at the floor Pilates exercises, you may want to add exercises to your routine using some of the available Pilates equipment, such as a Pilates exercise ball, mat, circles, and resistance bands or others. But for right now, learning to perfect the floor Pilates exercises is enough of a challenge. Later on, if you become a Pilates enthusiast, you can research the most strenuous Pilates workout, which is called Windsor Pilates, which will burn the most calories and cause the most weight loss. This method, however, uses more complicated machinery, so itÕs best to save it for later.

Whatever type of Pilates you choose to put into your exercise routine, the most important thing is to get started. if you follow the principals of the Pilates method, you should be on the road to getting and staying fit for life.

Losing Weight the Healthy Way

2008-04-26T16:59:00.002-04:00

Almost 108 million Americans were overweight or obese in 1999. Obesity continues to be a serious problem and is predicted to reach epidemic levels by the year 2020.

One way to prevent this scenario is to make people aware of the risks of being overweight or obese.

Here are some diseases that you are putting yourself in risk of if you are carrying a lot of extra pounds:

1. heart disease
2. stroke
3. diabetes
4. cancer
5. arthritis
6. hypertension

Losing weight helps to prevent and control these diseases.

The quick weight loss methods which have spread like fire these days do not provide lasting results. More often than not, dieting methods which involve dietary drinks, foods and supplement or pills do not work. If they do, the results are just temporary.

It is better to rely on a healthy weight loss option which will provide lifetime results. You have to set realistic goals and not expect to lose a lot of pounds in a short span of time.

Here are some tips on how you can lose those unwanted pounds the healthy way:

1. Do not starve your self.

The key to a healthier way of losing weight is: Do not diet.

You may seem happy and feel that you are losing those unwanted flabs on your belly and thighs by skipping meals. But remember that this would not last long. Your body cannot tolerate having insufficient food to fuel the energy that you use up everyday.

If you get used to skipping one or two meals a day, your stored calories will be used up instead of the energy that should have been provided by your meals. So if you just eat one huge sandwich in one day, it will end up straight to your problem area (i.e. highs, buttocks, hips).

2. Start your day right.

Mothers always say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Have a healthy meal in the morning to jump-start your metabolism.

Your food intake after you wake up will be used to burn fat all day long.

3. Eat small, healthy meals frequently.

Five small-serving snacks per day is better than three hearty meals. Eating more frequently, and in small servings, can prevent over-eating. This will also increase your metabolism and make calories burn faster.

4. Decide on how much weight you want to lose.

Keep your goals realistic. In the long run, it is virtually impossible for you to lose 40 pounds in 2 weeks. Have a mindset that you want to eat healthy to stay healthy for the rest of your life.

Once you have decided on a weight loss plan or program, stick to it and make sure that you follow your own set of dieting rules.

5. Drink lots of water.

Your body needs sufficient water to burn fat and keep your cells hydrated and healthy.

6. Avoid too much sugar.

Plan your meals around lots of fruits and vegetables, some bread, rice or pasta for that carbo fix that you need, plus lean meat and protein rich-foods. Sweets, sodas and pastries should be once-in-a-while indulgences only.

7. Watch your fat intake.

Fat is not the culprit to being overweight. You need this to keep your weight at the proper level.

There is such a thing as healthy fats. Olive, peanuts and canola oil have them. Tuna, salmon and mackerel have omega-3 fats which are good for the heart.

8. Exercise.

Leave your car if you are only going a few blocks from home, take the stairs instead of the elevator, jog, cycle or skate. Use these activites and other home chores if you are too lazy to go to the gym and take exercise classes. Make sure that you do this regularly and you will not even notice that you are already shedding pounds with these mundane activities.

It does not matter how much weight you plan or need to lose. What is important is that you set realistic goals for yourself.

Go slow. If you have already lost 5 or 6 pounds, give yourself a break then try to lose the next 5 pounds.

Eat healthy, drink lots of water, have enough sleep and exercise. This will give you a higher chance of losing weight and improving your health, which would result to a new, healthier you.

Building a Strong Core With Pilates

2008-04-26T16:22:00.001-04:00

A vital part of the fitness package these days is core strength and flexibility. But, what is core strength and how do we get it?

In the past five years, there has been a growing interested in learning techniques in resistance or weight training, aimed at stabilizing and strengthening the core. It turns out that a strong core is more important than we ever realized.

The muscles of the core are those of the pelvis, spine, shoulders, and abdominals. There is not a human movement that is done that does not involve the muscles of the core, which stabilize the spine and move the body throughout its various tasks. If these muscles are weak, each movement becomes more laborious, causing the posture to degrade and an increased restriction of the muscles.

The core muscles are the catalyst that transfers energy from large muscle groups to smaller ones in the body. Pilates trains the body by mimicking the twisting and turning that occur with everyday chores and movements. If you properly train your core muscles, you can reduce the risk of injury while increasing strength along these same muscles for when you need them during the day.

In addition to strengthening the core muscles, Pilates helps to develop the platform for the actions of the arm, shoulders, and leg muscles. Pilates is an effective way to stabilize the core by developing core strength.

The core muscle themselves are made up of the muscles of the trunk and pelvis, the deep abdominal muscles that protect the spine, the oblique abdominals that run alongside the abdomen, the erector muscle, located in the lower back, and the muscles of the hips and pelvis. Just because you have a "six-pack," it doesn't necessarily mean that you have a strong or stable core. Some of the most important muscles to good core development actually lie just beneath the six-pack. These muscles, with the erector muscles, help you to maintain your balance and have good posture throughout your active day.

The first and most important aim of core strengthening with Pilates is in its performance of exercises that mimic everyday movements, but that isolate specific muscle groups while balancing and strengthening the core. The Pilates exercise program emphasizes using diagonal, rotating movements that promote balance and strength. Equipment such as balance beams, wobble boards, foam rollers, and fit balls are used while sitting or standing, but balancing all the while. The very best core exercises in the program involve moving while balancing one one leg, or shifting from one leg to the other, while performing the exercises.

However, Pilates is not the only way of strengthening the core muscles of the trunk, back, or pelvis. Using a variety of core exercises will better target the area. Some of the best ones are, of course, Pilates, sit ups or crunches, fitness ball exercises, and resistance exercises which use the dead lift, squat, and lunges. Another great type of exercise to strengthen the core uses the medicine ball, throwing overhead to a partner, or using a side pass, and other various exercises. Any of the balancing exercises using a wobble board, balance beam, or foam roller are also good for developing the muscles of the core. If you have access to any of this equipment, you can add these exercises to your Pilates routine and condition your core faster.

Trainers and enthusiasts alike have made Pilates core training part of their weekly exercise routines. Many experts in the field have said that you should not go through an entire week without some sort of core training, whether Pilates or something else.

Necessary Vitamins and Their Sources

2008-04-06T12:25:00.002-04:00

Vitamin A
Liver, carrots, sweet potatoes, kale, spinach, collard greens, cantaloupe, eggs, mangos and peas

Vitamin B6
Fortified cereals, bananas, baked potatoes, watermelon, chick peas and chicken breast

Vitamin B12
Red meat, poultry, fish, shellfish, eggs and dairy foods

Vitamin C
Citrus fruits, raspberries, bell peppers, green beans, strawberries, papaya, potatoes, broccoli and tomatoes

Calcium
Dairy products, fortified juices, fortified butters and fortified cereals, spinach, broccoli, okra, sweet potatoes, lentils, tofu, Chinese cabbage, kale and broccoli.

Vitamin D
Milk, fortified cereals, eggs and fatty fish (salmon, catfish and mackerel)

Vitamin E
Vegetable oil, wheat germ, nuts, spinach and fortified cereal

Folic Acid
Oranges, orange juice, strawberries, leafy vegetables, spinach, beets, broccoli, cauliflower, peas, pasta, beans, nuts and sunflower seeds

Iron
Red meat and poultry, legumes, vegetables, some grains and fortified cereals

Niacin (Vitamin B3)
Eggs, meats, fish, peanuts, whole grains, bread products, fortified cereals and milk

Protein
Beans, poultry, red meat, fish, shellfish, eggs, milk, cheese, tofu, yogurt, fortified cereal and protein bars

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
Whole grains, dairy products, red meat, pork, poultry, fish, fortified cereals and eggs

Thiamin (Vitamin B1)
Whole grains, pork, fortified cereals, wheat germ and eggs

Zinc
Red meats, poultry, beans, nuts, grains, oysters, dairy products and fortified cereals

Healthy Calories Vs. Unhealthy Calories During Pregnancy

2008-03-30T09:27:00.002-04:00

It is important to note at this time that no two calories are created equal. There are 300 calories in a protein bar and a banana smoothie, and there are 300 calories in the average piece of cheesecake. Guess which one is going to be better for your baby?

The difficult part of counting calories when you’re pregnant is that you need to maintain a careful balance on several levels. First and foremost, you want to make sure that you’re eating enough to give your baby what it needs. Secondly, you want to make sure that the calories you are eating are “good” calories, calories coming from foods that are going to provide your baby with nutritional benefit as well.

On the flip side, you do not want to consume too many calories. If you do you will gain too much weight, potentially putting you at risk for early labor, pre-eclamsia, diabetes and heart problems. You also do not want to restrict your food intake too much. Pregnancy can lead to some pretty intense cravings, and ignoring these cravings can lead women to do some crazy things.

Unless you have one of the weight problems mentioned above you are probably better off considering your calorie intake guidelines to be just that-guidelines. It’s not going to hurt you to go over every once in a while and indulge in a piece of cheesecake or a chocolate chip cookie. Just don’t do it too often or too excessively. (Binging and eating a half a gallon of chocolate ice cream once isn’t going to hurt you, although it might make you sick, but doing it every day could be a problem.)

Try not to count your “junky” calories as part of your daily necessary intake. This will help you to continue eating the required number of “good” calories in a day, making sure that your baby is getting the nutrition that it needs. (That half gallon of ice cream is going to account for about half of your daily caloric intake, which means that half of the calories that your baby needs to grow today just went down the drain.) It is also going to help keep you from doing it too often, since consistently eating five to six hundred calories over your recommended daily intake is going to lead to excessive weight gain. The first time you step on the doctor’s scale and see you’ve gained ten pounds in a month the urge to binge flies out the window!

Junk food aside, not all “good” calories are created equal either. Here are some basic guidelines for choosing calories that are going to meet your caloric needs, your nutritional needs and your basic food desires. You have doubtlessly at some point in your life gone on a diet that has required you to limit yourself to certain types of foods. The Adkins diet, for example, severely limits your carbohydrates, while the Sonoma Diet cuts your dairy in half. What happened when you gave this diet a try? Unless you are extremely creative (or have an incredible amount of self control) you probably stuck to this diet for a short while, then tossed it to the wayside.

The trick to eating healthy when you are pregnant is the same as eating healthy when you’re not. You have to recognize what foods are best for your body and attempt to focus on them rather than their more tempting and less healthy counterparts. When you are choosing the foods you will eat when you are pregnant, consider the following:

Is it whole? Whole foods are those that are as close to their natural form as possible rather than being processed. Fresh fruits and vegetables rather than canned, whole grain breads rather than refined white and real cheese fall into this category. Whole foods are especially good for pregnant women because the fiber and water contained in them makes them easier to digest. This not only helps keep you from being even more tired than you already are because your body is struggling to digest your food, it also helps you to decrease your chances of suffering from constipation.

Is it a fruit or a vegetable? Fruits and veggies, particularly when fresh and/or leafy and green, are a valuable component of any pregnancy diet because most necessary vitamins can be found in them. Look below for a quick recap of necessary vitamins and the foods that provide them.

Is it a good carbohydrate or a bad carbohydrate? You cannot eliminate carbohydrates from your diet entirely when you are pregnant. They provide both you and your baby with the energy that you both need to grow and be healthy. What you can do is make sure that the carbohydrates you eat are good for you. There are two primary classes of carbohydrate, simple and complex. Simple carbohydrates are made of small sugar molecules that your body quickly absorbs. Examples of this are cakes, white breads, cookies, candies and pastas. These are the carbohydrates that you want to avoid because they will give you a quick sugar rush then leave you feeling tired and cranky-like the little toes digging into your ribs all night long weren’t enough to do that!

The second type of carbohydrate is a complex carbohydrate. Complex carbohydrates include fiber and starches, such as whole grains and potatoes. These carbohydrates take a little longer to digest, leaving you feeling fuller, longer and giving you energy that lasts more than an hour or two. Of course, even among the good carbohydrates there are some that are going to be better for you than others. If you are having trouble eating due to morning sickness and suffering from exhaustion due to hormonal swings this is important to know!

In order to get the most punch from the foods you eat you should focus on eating those that provide you with more energy, longer. That way when you can’t eat as much as you did your baby isn’t going to suffer. Sweet potatoes and real whole grain and whole wheat products are your best choices, as well as fruits such as grapes and bananas. Bear in mind that just because a package says “whole wheat”, “whole grain” or “multigrain” that doesn’t necessarily mean that it is.

Yes, this is false advertising (sort of) but it’s important to know. A food is only required to have a very small amount of whole grain in order to claim the title legitimately. It’s not that there aren’t whole grains in it, it’s that it’s not all whole grain. There are usually plenty of processed and refined ingredients included as well.

Are you eating the right kinds of protein? Like carbohydrates there are good proteins and there are so-so proteins. When you’re looking for proteins that will give you the most bang for your buck you should focus on lean meats, eggs, beef and beans. The less processed it is, the better it is for you. Does that mean you can’t eat those chicken nuggets? Certainly not. After all, when the sweet and sour sauce calls…It does mean that you shouldn’t allow processed meats to become the dominant protein source in your diet.

Is it organic? Organic foods are usually more expensive but are more healthy than their counterparts. Organic foods, as defined by the Healthy Children Project, are those that are grown without “pesticides or synthetic (or sewage-based) fertilizers for plant materials and hormones and antibiotics for animals, does not allow genetic engineering or the use of radiation, and emphasizes the utilization of renewable resources as well as the conservation of land and water.”

If your budget won’t stretch to include an all-organic diet (unfortunately, some of those products came with a pretty hefty shipping fee) attempt to focus on the foods listed by the government as the best to be bought organically. These foods are those most likely to be contaminated or high in pesticides and include apples, bell peppers, celery, cherries, grapes, nectarines, peaches, pears, potatoes, raspberries, spinach and strawberries.

If you are concerned about the foods you are eating (and not buying organically) peas, pineapples, papayas, onions, mangos, kiwi, sweet corn, cauliflower, broccoli, bananas, avocados and asparagus have been judged the least likely to be contaminated or contain high amounts of pesticides.

What kind of fat is it? Your body needs certain types of fat, but trans fats (partially hydrogenated vegetable oil on the ingredients list) is difficult for your body to deal with and provides you with no nutritional value. Saturated fats are less healthy than unsaturated, are found in animal products such as butter and are best enjoyed in limited quantities.

Caloric Intake During Pregnancy

2008-03-22T10:37:00.000-04:00

The first thing you must understand is that pregnancy is not the time to be counting calories. If you are on a diet that involves severely restricting your caloric intake get off it. Right now. For the next nine months you have permission to not suffer for beauty. Not only is restricting calories not going to result in weight loss (you’re going to gain some as the baby grows whether you like it or not) it could potentially harm your baby.

Not getting enough calories during pregnancy can lead to the baby not having what it needs to develop properly. Low birth weight is a common complication, as is poor fetal development. The baby may have any number of deficiency-associated birth defects. In short, it is vitally important that when you are pregnant you get enough to eat. You can burn it all off after the baby is born, although to be honest if you have time to worry about your weight you will be handling new motherhood much better than most!

The first thing you want to do is calculate your pre-pregnancy Recommended Daily Caloric Intake. If you are a health buff or have been living on a terminal diet you may already know this number. If you do not you can visit one of the following sites to figure it out, or consult with your physician.

http://www.globalrph.com/dieting_calc.htm

http://www.yeraze.com/scripts/calories.php

http://pregnancychildbirth.suite101.com/article.cfm/eating_for_two (this site will also provide practical advice about estimating caloric intake for the rest of your pregnancy, although it doesn’t take into account weight gain or loss.)

For the first three months of your pregnancy you actually do not need to consume any extra calories. Your pre-pregnancy calorie consumption will be perfectly adequate for your baby’s growth and development as long as you are not dieting. If you are dieting, stop! This is the number of calories (roughly) that you want to eat in a day.

As you go into your second and third trimester you should increase your daily caloric intake by 300 calories. This will help to compensate for the increasing rate of your baby’s growth. If your pre-pregnancy caloric intake was 1800 calories you should consume 2100 calories a day. If it was 1400 calories you should consume 1700 calories, and so on and so forth. Again, this is not the time to try and lose weight. Do not omit these extra calories in favor of allowing your body to burn them instead. This is not healthy for you or your baby, and if you are breastfeeding you will quickly work these calories back off.

The number of calories you need during pregnancy is going to vary if you were not a healthy weight when you became pregnant. Women who were obese may be told to consume fewer calories to prevent excessive weight gain, which would place extra strain on the heart and lungs and increase the likelihood of blood pressure related problems during pregnancy. In this case this is a fine time to diet, as long as you are following your doctor’s advice. The healthier you are, the healthier your baby is going to be.

On the flip side of that coin, if you were underweight at the beginning of your pregnancy or have not gained what the doctor considers to be an adequate amount of weight since becoming pregnant you may be told to increase your caloric intake by more than 300. The baby needs to be able to take enough calories away from your body to grow, and if you don’t have any to spare either because you aren’t eating enough or your body is burning everything that you eat they are going to suffer.

Relief for Common Pregnancy Discomforts

2008-03-01T12:19:00.000-05:00

Being pregnant is no piece of cake! From the first spells of nausea before you even realize that you are pregnant to the swollen ankles of the third trimester, there are plenty of uncomfortable symptoms that go along with pregnancy. While it is impossible to get rid of them all, there are a few tricks to making these pregnancy discomforts easier to manage. We´ll take a look at a few of the most common ones right here in this article.

Morning sickness is one of the first and most prevalent complaints that women have in pregnancy. While a very few do not suffer from nausea, the majority have at least three months of it and some go right through the nine months feeling ill.

Pregnancy-induced nausea can be quelled to some extent by sipping ginger ale and having soda crackers on hand to eat right before getting out of bed. An empty stomach seems to cause more nausea, so if you get some crackers into you before you start moving around, sometimes the nausea will go down. Many women find that they can’t even get up without vomiting, though. You can talk to your doctor about other nausea solutions.

Once your pregnancy gets far enough along that your center of gravity has shifted, aches and pains tend to set in. Most of these are caused by stretching ligaments and muscles in order to accommodate the growing baby inside, but some are just the baby pressing on nerves, particularly if you have shooting pains down the backs of your legs. Having a midwife gently encourage the baby to move a bit can make your pregnancy much more comfortable.

Other pregnancy pains caused by the baby’s position can be remedied by changing your own position. Doing the downward facing dog yoga position is ideal for shifting the baby into a more comfy position. You can also just get on all fours for a few minutes each day to get the baby to move around a bit and hopefully relieve some of the pregnancy pain you are experiencing.

Backaches are another thing entirely, caused by carrying all that weight out front! The best way to treat this pregnancy problem is to get your partner to give you a very firm back massage. Support yourself against a wall or bend over a desk and let him really get the heels of his hands into the sore spots. You might need to repeat this each day until the baby is born. Proper posture can help prevent this common pregnancy pain.

Swollen feet are a major problem during the third trimester of pregnancy. Excess fluid builds up in the feet making them puff up painfully. Sometimes this swelling goes all the way up to the knees. If you notice that your face and hands are also retaining fluid, this could be a sign of problems in your pregnancy and you should see a doctor. Feet however, are a very common pregnancy complaint and can be helped by laying with your feet propped up higher than your head, or sit with them in a cool tub of water.

The most common pregnancy complaints usually have a solution. You don’t need to suffer more than necessary, so if you don’t find the solution to your problem here, go ahead and ask your doctor or midwife for help.

Recommended Prenatal Vitamins

2008-03-01T12:09:00.000-05:00

Even those women who pay attention to the nutritional needs of their body will want to consider the extra requirements necessary before and during pregnancy. Many obstetricians and health professionals will prescribe prenatal vitamins for their patients at an early visit, or even at a prenatal visit. There are many different formulas for prenatal vitamins, both prescribed and over-the-counter types, with prescribed formulas generally superior to those purchased over-the-counter.

If you decide to select your own prenatal vitamins formula there are certain standards which you should look for in the product you purchase.

VITAMIN A- The beta-carotene form is the safest version of this supplement. This is a vitamin where more is NOT better. Do not take more than 4-5,000 IU of Vitamin A daily. Amounts of 10,000 or more have been shown to have toxicity.

VITAMIN D – Vitamin D is another supplement where too much is toxic. Keep your daily intake at 400 IU or less.

FOLIC ACID – The B vitamin may be one of the more important supplements for fetal development. Any formula should contain 800 to 1000 mcg of folic acid.

CALCIUM – A supplement that contains 2-300 mg calcium is just a start toward reaching the recommended 1200 mg daily. However, anything beyond 250 mg of calcium (or 25 mg of magnesium) should not be taken at the same time as supplemental iron since both calcium and magnesium interfere with the absorption of the iron. A two hour gap in time between taking the iron supplement and the calcium/magnesium supplement will allow for maximum assimilation.

VITAMIN C – Most formulas contain at least 70 mg of this essential vitamin. There are no known side effects from taking a higher dose.

THIAMINE, RIBOFLAVIN, PYRIDOXINE, NIACINAMIDE, AND VITAMIN B-12 – Most formulas contain two to three times the recommended daily allowance of these prenatal vitamins and there are no known toxicity levels.

VITAMIN E – 10 mg of Vitamin is the minimum amount which should appear in the supplement formula. Most formulas contain at least two to three times the RDA. Vitamin E has no known toxicity level.

ZINC and IRON – You should be getting at least 15 mg of zinc and 30 mg elemental iron. In addition, a supplement that contains zinc needs additional copper. Both copper and zinc are needed to assist in the assimilation of iron. Zinc is also required when the calcium supplement reaches 1200 mg or more.

Although trace minerals are important in nutritional health, few if any prenatal vitamins formulas contain any of the trace minerals. Making sure that prenatal supplement formulas are balanced to each other and contain all the essential nutrients for mother and infant health is a difficult task. You are aided in your attempt though, with the availability of a wide variety of healthy food choices. That is the importance of eating healthfully and using the vitamin and mineral supplements as extra nutritional coverage.

These prenatal vitamins are sometimes available in liquid form for those who have difficulty swallowing a capsule, but you should be aware that much of the vitamins taken in liquid form will be lost in the digestive process. One other point to remember is to be sure to take the supplements with food or drink. Some of the vitamins taken on an empty stomach can cause unpleasant aftertaste and the assimilation rate is much higher when it is taken with food or drink.

Natural Depression Treatments

2008-03-01T11:57:00.000-05:00

Depression is a problem that affects millions of people worldwide and can range from being fairly mild to completely devastating. While there are a variety of drugs available to help control the symptoms of this disease, they often have nasty side effects and can be hard to tolerate for many sufferers. On top of this, antidepressants often carry a stigma with them, causing users to suffer harassment and possibly lose potential jobs.

To avoid the problems associated with poor mental health and the side effects of traditional medicine, many depression sufferers decide to go the natural route. They look for alternative treatments to use in place of regular pills.

Natural depression treatments have several advantages to them. One is that they tend to be cheaper than the average antidepressant. Also, they are available without a prescription, which means instead of having to see your doctor for a refill, you can simply head to the nearest natural supplement or health store to get what you need, depending on the treatment you have chosen.

One of the most renowned natural antidepressant is St. John’s Wort. This herb has been used for centuries to treat mild to severe depression, ranking in studies on the same level as Prozac. It comes in capsules, tablets or in a tea. The tea is probably the weakest of the three choices, but it is easy enough to replace your morning Earl Grey with a cup of depression treatment! The downside to this natural treatment is that it can affect your oral birth control and several women have found that the Pill is no longer effective when taking this herb.

Ginseng and Ginkgo are two other herbs that have been proven to relieve depression symptoms, particularly in the elderly. They can be used separately, but are best together. The herbs come in capsule or tablet form as well and are pleasant smelling as well as fast working. They may not be quite as effective as St. John’s Wort, so this natural therapy is better used for mild depression.

Other natural remedies for depression include an amino acid called 5-HTP, which helps your body produce more serotonin, the happy hormone. Since most antidepressants help boost serotonin levels (low levels have been linked to depression), it makes sense that 5-HTP would work just as well. This treatment is effective, but made more so by combining it with St. John’s Wort.

Depression has also been linked in some cases to a Vitamin B deficiency, so this is another natural treatment. When a deficiency is indeed the cause of the depression, then taking a supplement and increasing intake of foods that contain the missing nutrient should help clear up the problem. It is a good idea to check with your doctor on this one first since this may or may not be your particular problem.

Antidepressants are often considered to be a last resort and many people who suffer from depression would much rather take a natural supplement than admit to friends and family that they are suffering from a mental illness. Natural treatments have become more and more popular over the years as people become more familiar with their options and realize that the side effects associated with typical antidepressant medications do not need to be tolerated in every case.

Get Your Kids to Exercise

2008-03-01T11:47:00.000-05:00

Today’s children tend to be grossly overweight in many areas. While steps are being made to prevent this epidemic from continuing, the real battle is on the home front. If you can give your kids healthy, low-fat meals and get them to exercise, you shouldn’t have any problems with overweight youngsters. The big problem is how to get them moving.

Kids love to play and if you can have them play active games, they will automatically exercise! There is no need to force pushups and squats on your children, they don’t need to follow a typical adult workout routine (although many kids enjoy dancing along with exercise dance videos). Just being outside, running around the back yard is perfect for them.

If you don’t have a good yard to play in, you can make a point of taking the kids to a nearby park or playground. The toys on a playground are built for exercise and your kids will automatically start climbing and running and sliding when they have the opportunity. However, even in the absence of cool playground equipment, there are a few ways to encourage exercise and active movement.

Balls are the perfect prop for getting kids to exercise. They can throw it, kick it, and bounce it, whatever they wish. And you need no other equipment. Kids can easily make up their own games or set up goals, marked by rocks or jackets and play their very own version of soccer. Smaller children will simply enjoy running after the ball as it rolls away!

If there are hills near where you live, introduce your children to the joys of rolling down a hill. You remember the game, you lay flat at the top of a hill and then start to roll down it. At first, you need to push yourself over, but if the hill is steep enough, you just pick up speed and tumble over and over down the hill. It is wonderful fun, but the exercise part comes when the kids have to climb back up the hill again to try again.

If you have three or more children together, organize a game of tag. This gets everyone running around and laughing and is a great hit among younger kids. There are other versions of tag as well, including freeze tag and TV tag. See if your children can’t come up with more ideas.

A dog offers endless possibilities for adding exercise to your daily routine. While you shouldn’t get a puppy for that reason alone, it is certainly a big help. The whole family can participate in walking the dog around the block, plus children will enjoy playing and rolling around on the floor with their new pet, all great forms of exercise.

Kids these days don’t get enough exercise and the best way to motivate them to move is to set a good example. If you are constantly on the move, walking and exercising from the time the kids are small, you shouldn’t have a problem. The trouble begins when kids are allowed to sit on the couch and watch TV all day!

Nutrition Tips for Vegetarians

2008-02-18T14:46:00.000-05:00

Whether you became a vegetarian for moral and ethical reasons or simply for health, there are certain things you need to know about nutrition. Vegetarians are far more susceptible to vitamin and mineral deficiencies because of the restrictions they put on their diets and it is very important that you understand how to replace what you have removed from your diet, if you wish to remain healthy.

The most obvious mineral that is often lacking in the vegetarian diet is iron. Anyone who knows anything about nutrition can tell you that taking meat out of your diet, red meat in particular, is the perfect way to end up with anemia. What they might not realize, however, is how many other foods contain iron.

For example, eating a good quantity of broccoli and beans will also provide the vegetarian with the iron that he or she needs in order to avoid problems. Also, eating whole-grain products such as bread and cereals is an excellent way to boost nutrition and iron in your diet. If you make sure that you take in Vitamin C at the same time, your body will actually absorb more iron than without the Vitamin C.

Vitamin B12 is often lacking in a vegetarian diet as well. To maintain good nutrition, you need to include this vital vitamin in your food. It is found naturally in dairy products and eggs, which many vegetarians also remove from their diet. So if you are not lacto-ovo, you should consider having plenty of soy products and possibly a supplement.

Calcium is another common nutrition deficiency found in vegetarians who do not eat dairy products or eggs. Although it is a bit more difficult to find in other sources, you can supplement your intake by adding tofu and green leafy vegetables to your diet. Also, fortified soy milk contains a good quantity of calcium.

Protein is one of the most obvious nutritional concerns of vegetarians. However, it is also one of the easier things to replace in this type of diet. Soy contains protein and there are plenty of imitation meat products on the market. Textured vegetable protein contains a healthy amount of protein as does whole-grain. However, with whole grains, such as brown bread, you need a complementary food like peanut butter or another legume in order to create a complete protein.

Vegetarians really need to watch their nutrition and make sure that they are eating a very balanced diet. If you tend to eat only miso soup with noodles, you are pushing towards a major body breakdown. While vegetarianism is supposedly more healthy for you, if you don’t know how to replace the missing nutrition in your food, you will actually be more unhealthy!

To avoid this, it is important to study up on basic nutrition and cook healthy meals with portions from each nutrition group. This is even more important when we are looking at the diet of vegetarian children who are still growing and need a fully rounded diet.

Balance Point for Men and Balance Point for Women provide the best nutritional balance in a bottle.

Secrets to Post-Partum Weight Loss

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Having a baby is a wonderful event, but many a mother wonders if her body will ever return to normal after having changed so drastically during the pregnancy. The truth is, no. Your body will always be slightly different, perhaps the hips are wider, the breasts saggier, it all depends on the person. However, there is no need to continue carrying around baby pounds for years after the birth! A healthy weight loss is possible for every mother with a bit of patience and time and the right techniques.

The body has natural methods of weight loss and one of these is breastfeeding. If you can manage to breastfeed even for the first three months, you will experience far faster weight loss than if you bottle feed right from the start. The baby is taking nutrients that your body has stored up in the form of fat cells, thus depleting the fat cells and returning your body to its original shape . . . more or less. Also, breastfeeding stimulates uterine contractions and the uterus will shrink back to its pre-baby size much faster, which helps with that extra tummy bulge.

Getting a good night’s sleep might seem impossible during those first few nights, but if you can manage to nap with the baby and try to stay well rested, you will be able to lose weight faster as well. This might mean leaving some of the housework for later or asking for help, but it is very important that you have enough sleep so your body can recuperate and get back to its regular metabolism faster.

Eating a healthy diet is important not only for you, but also for the baby. Instead of splurging on fast food and sweets just because you are too tired to cook, look for healthy alternatives. Frozen vegetables only take a few minutes to microwave and a chicken breast or two sprinkled with parmesan cheese doesn’t take much time to cook up, even if you are dead on your feet. This all helps move you in the direction of post-partum weight loss.

Showing off your new infant is the perfect excuse to get some exercise and promote weight loss. Get out with the baby in a front carrier or sling and go for a walk every day. Invent errands if you like, the point is to get out of the house and to enjoy taking a little exercise with your child. The walking will help return your body to its pre-baby state faster as well.

There are also special weight loss exercise classes and yoga classes meant for moms with babies. These involve everything from going for a jog in the park to doing stretches and lifting your baby on your legs. These classes are a great way to get in shape while bonding with your newborn and are usually not very expensive.

A complete weight loss is not going to happen overnight. You do need to take your time to recover, and give your body the nutrients and rest it needs. Then the weight loss will happen almost on its own!

If you continue to have trouble in your weight loss efforts, this product is a very good all-around weight loss supplement:

When taken in combination with a healthy lifestyle, Lipitrex can help to reduce risk factors for disease while supporting your overall weight loss goals.

Get Rid of Acne - Herbal Acne Remedies

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One of the more powerful forms of acne remedies is herbal. For people who are averse to taking strong acne drugs this is a very good option. The only problem with herbal remedies is that they are very slow acting and the results can take up to a month to become visible.

Even so, herbal acne home cures are a good side effort to whatever other treatments being used. The reason why herbal acne remedies take time is that these remedies depend on the body's capacity to metabolize fats and carbohydrates. Herbal remedies cure acne by encouraging the elimination of acne through the lymphatic system.

There is a class of herbs called "alternative herbs". These herbs are basically used for the purpose of cleansing body tissues. They are herbs that help the body with the detoxification process. However, they do not remove the toxins from the body through normal elimination pathways like lungs, kidneys, or colon.

While they are not so popular in western culture, herbal acne remedies have a long history of successfully treating acne problems and they are so harmless that you should at least give them one try. Moreover, since most herbal acne remedies work inside the body they do not interfere with conventional topical (applied externally) acne medications.

Alternative herbs are very mild acting so there is no discomfort in their use. However, since they are mild by nature they take a longer time and consistent use to show results. Despite this, the fact remains the results are better and longer lasting. What is more, these herbs usually have a beneficial affect on the rest of the body. They can even be used to treat chronic inflammatory conditions.

Some of the alternative herbs include burdock, cleavers, red clover, figwort, poke root, Echinacea, and blue flag.

Like most herbal remedies these herbal acne cures are also best when a combination of herbs is used. One frequently used and very popular combination is Echinacea, burdock, blue flag, and yellow dock. Just mix and prepare an infusion using hot water. Drink a cup about three times daily. If you wish to improve the flavor then please do no add sugar, instead, use honey.

A second combination is dandelion, sarsaparilla, and burdock. Mix them up when they are dry herbs. Prepare an infusion as before and have 3 cups a day.

A third decent combination for acne is lavender, yarrow, and elder flowers.

Besides these, herbal acne remedies are available for topical use.

Take the oil from a tea tree and apply it to the acne-affected area. This oil can be a bit strong so if you have sensitive skin just dilute it with water. Fresh cabbage juice makes another great topical herbal cure for acne. This is also a better choice for people with sensitive who cannot stand tea tree oil.

Calendula and chamomile can be used to make a very effective anti-inflammatory skin wash. Just prepare an infusion with these two as before but instead of drinking it let it cool. Store it in the fridge. When required, dab it onto affected areas.

Minerals like potassium phosphate and magnesium phosphate are also good for the skin. Zinc aids in the prevention of scarring.

Vitamin C helps in healing acne lesions as well as acting as an anti-oxidant.

These are but a few cases of how herbal acne remedies can be of help.

There do exist some preformulated treatments. My favorite, Actimine provides the nutrients needed by your body to regulate the occurrence of acne, eliminating the potential scarring and embarrassment which often result from chronic breakouts.

Natural Skin Remedies

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Organic skin care refers to the use of natural skin care products or therapies. The ingredients of these natural products are grown organically in places that are rich in nutrients, unlike similar products that are purely manufactured using synthetic processes and ingredients.

Organic skin care makes use of several different types of plants, extracts, herbs, flowers, and natural oils.

Organic skin care products are merely an extension of natural skin care therapies.

Organic skin care products are non-toxic and full of essential nutrients for the skin extracted from natural sources. These products nourish the skin and rejuvenate it gently. Some of the problems they can cure are dark circles, wrinkles, and pimples. The overall effect of organic skin care products is younger and healthier looking skin.

There are different organic skin care products available for the face and for other parts of the body. Since the structure of skin is different depending on the part body it is important to choose the appropriate product.

Apart from rejuvenating the skin, organic skin care products also have a soothing and healing effect on the body. Some of the ingredients are quite rich in soothing essences that have a calming effect. Organic skin care products can make you feel fresh in addition to nourishing your skin.

Newer products do not merely rely on plants and flowers. Some of them have already started using the special qualities of herbs and herbal extracts. Aloe vera, lavender, jojoba, olive oil, and rosemary extract are now regular ingredients in many organic skin care products.

Nourishment of the skin takes place through cleansing, moisturizing, and toning. Regular use of organic skin care products will ensure that your skin has no blemishes, pimples, or allergies. These products also keep the skin soft and supple. Healthy skin will produce fewer wrinkles because of its firmness.

Ayurveda

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Ayurvedic cures are based on ancient formulae that have been written down in the ancient Ayurvedic traditions. The success of an Ayurvedic cure depends on the quality of its ingredients.

Looking to plants for healing powers is an old idea and was embraced by the early physicians in ancient India. Ayurveda is an alternative herbal medicine therapy from India that believes heavy metals are therapeutic. The FDA considers heavy metals very dangerous for consumption and that is why Ayurvedic medicines are sold as supplements rather than medicines in America. Ayurveda is one of the oldest of traditional medicine that first established the routine of proper diagnosis and herbal cures for several diseases.

Natural Herbal Nutrition Supplements

People who opt for natural supplements or a whole food diet usually also wish to include whole food vitamins. Natural herb based supplements are usually lacking in certain vitamins that are only found in the animal kingdom so including a vitamin supplement is a wise decision. There are many companies making these vitamin supplements. One reason to prefer whole good vitamins is that they are not manufactured in a factory; they are as close to the natural form as it is possible for a packed product to be.

When you go shopping for whole food vitamins, pay close attention and make sure you do not purchase products that have preservatives or additives. Some people might also prefer their supplements in liquid form. In case a healthcare professional recommends you take supplements then it is your duty to make certain that the product you purchase is 100% natural and contains no synthetic chemicals. It is common for whole food products to contain a combination of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. You are not likely to find a whole food product that contains just one specific vitamin or mineral.

Eating whole foods and taking natural whole food vitamins is a good idea because they help to maintain healthy cells. Due to environmental pollution there are too many free radicals floating about that can easily cause cellular damage. Whole foods in all shapes can help repair that damage. Another healthy option is to include as many raw diets as you possibly can. Nowadays, thanks to pesticides, preservatives, chemical treatments, and other processes that are inflicted on foodstuff to make them healthier typically kill off a considerable proportion of important vitamins and nutrients. When you finally get these to your kitchen, the raw food is already deficient in nourishment. Cooking only makes matters worse by washing away even more vitamins and minerals. Eating a raw diet ensures that you get the maximum out of your food. A raw diet will make you feel healthier.

The New Trend?

Despite the increase in popularity that alternative medicine and herbal therapy are enjoying since the late 20th century there are opponents to the belief that these alternatives are better than conventional medicines. The growing number of adherents to the alternative therapies and herbal remedies nicely balances this out. These people have made the choice to lead a completely drug free life. According to them, even the legally manufactured and sold products by pharmaceutical companies are unhealthy because of their synthetic chemical base.

This trend is getting more widespread because nowadays there are more and more celebrities and rich public figures who are adopting the drug free lifestyle. These prominent examples prefer the use of alternative remedies for even simple problems like headaches, pains, and cramps. They steadfastly refuse the use of conventional medications and would not casually take an Advil or Aspirin because of their firm belief in the inherent health benefits that come from a drug free lifestyle.

Since herbal cures and remedies have been around for several millennia, it should not be surprising that the list of ailments they can cure and the number of cures they offer is exhaustive. There are wide arrays of symptoms, diseases, mental problems, and some physical deformities (acne), or embarrassing conditions like bad breath that can be effectively cured or greatly improved through the use of herbal remedies.

And, after all, why not? Don't you ever wonder where prescription drugs and medications come from? Everything has to have its roots in nature. There are no alien supplied medications. Every drug available on the market today once used natural substances. This changed when chemical synthesis in a factory led to rapid drug production. This was good because more people could be treated quickly and it made some pharmaceutical companies very rich.
It turned out to be bad because those same pharmaceutical companies now refuse to acknowledge their roots in nature or to try and give some respectability to their parent science. Also, note that the same product when it is in a natural state requires less processing by the body as compared to its manufactured equivalent. Natural products also tend to leave behind fewer toxins in the body and are therefore better than artificial products.

A little bit of skepticism is only natural when it comes to abandoning a lifetime of faith and dependence in pharmaceutical drugs. What should be considered is the ever-increasing number of people who are adopting the herbal and natural way of life and actually benefiting from its outcome. The fact that there are some bad companies out there putting out unreliable natural and herbal products only increases the skepticism.

The marketplace is so bad today that on an average for every good product that are at leas two or three competing and thoroughly useless products. The good guys are being drowned out by the bad guys who only want to make a quick buck in a high selling market.

In such a situation, the responsibility rests with you to properly research the product and the company that is manufacturing it. Look for testimonials and reviews published on third party, neutral web sites. What sort of approvals does the product have? Are the ingredients checked for purity? What is the natural source for ingredients? What are the manufacturing standards that are being followed? How long has the company been in this business? These are all legitimate questions and usually you should be able to call up the company on a provided telephone number to have all your queries answered.

It does not matter what is the reason for your decision to take herbal supplements. It could be that you simply want an improvement in general health or you might be trying to combat some symptom that indicates the deficiency of some essential nutrient missing from your diet. What does matter is that you remember that when you go shopping for the supplement of your choice. An incorrectly chosen herbal supplement will plunge you into the group of people who think that all this "natural" business is so much humbug. A well chosen supplement on the other hand just might make you a convert and have you spreading the "natural" gospel to everyone you meet for the rest of your life.

Are Their Any Side Effects To Natural Cures?

2008-02-18T11:01:00.000-05:00

A scientific study has found that, though for the most part herbal supplements seem harmless, some of the more popular products pose a very special risk. This particular supplement interacts with and reduces the effectiveness of the drug saquinavir. The only thing to do for the moment is to avoid taking herbal supplements if you are being treated with saquinavir.

Herbal supplements are meant to boost our immune system, provide more ready energy, and improve general health. Though scientists say that research that is more extensive is required to determine which herbal supplements can have an adverse effect on our body, or, can interact with other medications and reduce their effectiveness, they remain united in their stand that several of the so-called harmless supplements can prove very harmful.
Some of the more popular herbal supplements are chondroitin, ephedra, Echinacea, and glucosamine.

Chondroitin is typically used in the treatment of osteoarthritis. One side effect of chondroitin can be bleeding complications. This is more like when used in combination with a regular prescription drug that causes blood thinning.

Ephedra used to be a big favorite among people looking for a fat loss supplement. Ephedra promotes weight loss, provides energy boosts, and can also be used to treat respiratory tract problems like asthma and bronchitis. Recently, the FDA banned Ephedra because of dangerous side effects like high blood pressure, increased heart rate, false increase in metabolism, all which could lead to a cardiac arrest, heart arrhythmia, stroke, and might even be fatal in some cases.

Echinacea helps in the prevention and treatment of viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. It also helps in curing chronic wounds, ulcers, and arthritis. On the other hand it can cause immunosuppression that will cause the body to lose its self-healing capacity so wounds will not heal on their own. Immunosuppression also reduces the effectiveness of the immune system making infection easier.

Glucosamine is very often administered along with chondroitin. It contains chemicals that mimic the function of insulin and can cause the body to misbehave when this artificial insulin enters the blood stream. It can be especially bad for diabetics.

Other herbals supplements suspected of adverse side effects include gingko biloba, goldenseal, milk thistle, ginseng, kava, and garlic. It is highly advisable to seek the consultation of your doctor before taking any supplements, herbal or otherwise. More than informing you about potential health risks the doctor can give valuable advice about food, nutrition, and supplements.

Advantages of Herbal Diet Supplements

2008-02-18T10:55:00.000-05:00

Here is a crash course in the advantages of herbal supplements and medicines:

They are cheap. Did you look at your medical bills for the past year? Now add up all that you paid the pharmacist for prescription and over-the-counter medications. Is the number looking scary yet? So if you have been using conventional medicine for small problems like common cold and stomachaches then perhaps it is time you considered herbal medicine. It might give you a healthier wallet or purse besides a healthy body.

You can do it. Did you know that herbal medicine and supplements can be assembled in your own kitchen? There are thousands of herbal recipes available on the Internet. Just follow them like a recipe to bake a cake and there you are. Your medicine made by your own hand. If you have a garden you could even grown your own herbs.

They are natural. Man has learned to do many things but nature continues to know more. So matter how much noise the pharmaceutical companies make you should at least give some time to listen to nature and her own remedies.

Now for the long version:

Herbal medicines, therapies, and supplements are nothing new. People have used them for centuries but it is only recently that western culture has rediscovered the wonders of herbs. In part, this was because the development of allopathic medicinal techniques in the west combined with the lack of scientific support for non-conventional medicines to give an unsavory (and quite wrong) reputation to herbal medicines and supplements.

Recent discoveries have forced the medical community to reconsider the benefits of herbs. This has mostly come about with increasing exposure of western community to the healing techniques practiced in other cultures and countries that proved to be more effective than, or at the least complimentary to, allopathic treatment.

People were falling sick a long time ago and even they needed something to help ease the pain and maybe do away with the cause altogether. In the absence of modern medical techniques, they turned to the only things they had around them: plants and herbs. Soon they were busy treating everything from stomachaches to depression and insomnia.

Modern medical science is discovering that these simply remedies from the distant past are not without merit and when combined with a healthy lifestyle and present day rules of personal hygiene, they can really be a potent force in preventing illness and promoting general good health and well-being. Since they do not involve some of the more serious side effects of conventional medicine these herbal supplements can be taken for a variety of preventative reasons. For example, some herbal supplements help lower cholesterol, enhance memory performance, improve the quality of mental concentration, strengthen the cardiovascular system, and increase energy and stamina.

There was a time when food had to travel a very short distance. Grains arrived quickly from the farmer, milk and bacon came fresh from the milkman, most people had gardens to grow their own plants. Those were the days without preservatives and fertilizers and, hard as it may be, people were a lot healthier back then. The reason is that massive production and manufacturing pressures inevitably result in poor handling and use of artificial preservatives. Due to this, a lot of the food that we eat today is lacking in important vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients before it even appears on the shelves.

No matter how healthy the label claims the food inside to be, fresh is fresh, and preservatives mean loss of food quality for the sake of profits. A normal diet comprised of the same elements will leave you deficient in several important nutrients if it is not fresh.

This is one reason why herbal dietary supplements have suddenly become important today and are being studied so closely by the medical community. They are safe, they are as close to natural and fresh as they get, and they are the most effective means available to the common people to ensure that their body has all the required types of fuel to keep it going at maximum efficiency day after day even in the face of improper diets.

A note of caution is in order here to warn you that since herbal supplements are not subject to government regulations or general scrutiny it is quite natural that there are some very ill-minded people out there who are putting up substandard products to cash in on the herbal medicine and supplement craze. It is vital to avoid these products, as the total harm they will end up doing is unjustifiable against the limited good they might do.
When you go shopping for herbal products, do a thorough research of the company manufacturing them. You are shopping for your health so make certain that it is safe from malicious products and greedy corporations. Look out for Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each ingredient in the supplement. Also make certain that the manufacturing company follows the GMP manufacturing processes strictly. In the absence of regulations similar to those that apply to pharmaceutical companies, GMP is the best you can hope for from a company manufacturing herbal products.

Nowadays you do not need to go down to the local health store to purchase nutritional health supplements.
Just connect to the Internet and there are countless websites from where you cannot only purchase products online but you can also perform extensive research. Researching products is a good idea.

Do a web-search for reviews of people or visit forums where such products are discussed. People will be more than willing to exchange posts on a personal basis on those boards.

While herbal supplements are sold as individual products it is a good idea to look for comprehensive formulae that involve different herbal extracts along with a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and cofactors. Try to treat your herbal supplement as a balanced that should have a bit of everything while staying on the safe side.

Most importantly, before you make a purchase, take a print out of the details of the product that interests you and discuss it thoroughly with your doctor. Some herbal supplements might be more useful for you and conversely you might be about to spend money on supplements you do not need in the least. Your doctor can help with the practical details.

Herbal supplements are growing popular day by day. People all over the world are always looking for ways to improve their health and more and more of them are turning to natural remedies rather than the mainstream drugs that have been around for most of recent history.

Due to this increasing trend, scientists have finally decided to conduct studies to determine the therapeutic benefits and applications of the different herbs and their extracts that are used in herbal therapies and supplements. A majority of results from these experiments strongly indicate that taking herbal supplements along with maintaining a healthy lifestyle and good diet can be greatly beneficial to general health.

This is the reason why many people prefer natural health supplements. The trouble comes from the fact that like other nutritional supplements, herbal supplements are not regulated in the United States. Therefore, the manufacturers do not have to make any assurance of the safety and effectiveness of their products. They are not even required to reveal the ingredients in a health product.
One outcome of this is that a product can claim to contain a herb but a manufacturer can easily put in a chemical equivalent. This might sound criminal but unfortunately in modern corporate culture of "profits first", it is quite a normal occurrence.

The use of dietary supplements saw a dramatic increase in the 1990s but since then the use of such supplements has gone into a decline. The slight correction in this downward trend is attributed to the introduction of herbal supplements into mainstream multivitamin products.

Within the last decade the use of alternative medicines, and herbal products in particular, has increased considerably.

In the year 2001, Americans spent almost $4.2 billion on herbal and botanical remedies. This coincided with extensive media coverage of the benefits that people were enjoying from herbal remedies.

The percentage of people who were using dietary supplements increased from 14.2% (1998) to 18.8% (2002), with the low spot of 12.3% in 2000 and the highest peak at 19.8% in 2001.

The number of people ages 45-64 who were taking supplements increased by 50% between 1998-99 and 2001-02.
Broadly speaking it was discovered that the majority of people taking dietary supplements were older and mostly female (59.9% as compared to 55.5% of males).

There are many reasons for this increase, not the least being that herbal supplements do in fact being many benefits with them. People can take herbs and supplements for any number of reasons. There are herbs like Echinacea that are extremely helpful in case of common cold or flu. If you feel constantly lethargic even when there is no weakness in the body then perhaps Ginseng tea can help to give you a boost of energy instead of a cappuccino. Ginseng can also increase sexual stamina, reduce stress levels, and fight against aging effects like memory loss.

Herbal medicine is varied and within its diversity it covers a broad range of conditions where it can be effectively applied for treatment. Furthermore, these treatments are conducted on several different levels that can range from generic every day problems that need nothing more than symptomatic relief to completely customized prescriptions that are prepared for individual conditions in patients that have undergone extensive analysis and examination at the hands of an experienced medical herbalist.

Some herbals remedies do not require consulting a qualified medical herbalist. Minor problems like mild infections, cold, cough, catarrh, stomach cramps or gas, indigestion, constipation, etc. can be cured with self-help using over the counter herbal remedies. Self-medication using herbal remedies has never been easier thanks to the limitless information that is available today, mostly though the Internet. All it needs is a little investment of time in order to peruse these websites and anyone can make an informed decision without having to visit a medical herbalist.

In the 10th century, Arabs invented a process of distillation for the extraction of essential oils from plants. These oils were inhaled as aromas, drunk as potions, and worn aromatic amulets. This is one of the first uses of aromas as personal scent preference. This is allegedly the root behind the use of perfumes and modern day deodorants. Nowadays, this extraction process is mainly used to get the oil from plants and flowers for use in aromatherapy. This form of therapy that involves nothing more than deep inhalation of different types of herbal oils is being used to treat a wide spectrum of maladies, both physical and emotional. Headaches, herpes, dry skin, acne, arthritis, and asthma are just a few examples of the problems that people have cured using aromatherapy.

Recently, France and England started the process of reintroducing the various ancient healing techniques to the western world. This began in 1990 and aromatherapy gained a wider acceptance in the traditional community since that time.

France remains the world leader in rediscovering modern uses for ancient healing techniques. Several prominent French doctors prescribe aromatic remedies as a matter of routine for most of their patients. A visit to most French pharmacies will reveal that all of them are well stocked in a wide array of essential oils. Insurance companies in France are more than willing to pay for treatments involving aromatherapy and other traditional methods.

Herbs for Diabetes

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Since antiquity, herbs have been used to treat diabetes symptoms and root causes. Particularly in Chinese medicine where such common plants as dandelion and licorice root as well as ginseng has been used for centuries. Herbs for diabetes, when used under the care of a naturopathic practitioner can quite possibly cure Type I Diabetes and hold off the onset of Type 2 Diabetes. Other herbs for diabetes are efficacious in treating symptoms rather than root causes.

Generally, any herb that strengthens the pancreas or liver will be helpful for diabetes treatment. Herbs for diabetes include Pterocarpus Marsupium, Gymnema Silvestre, Momordica Charantia, Allium Cepa, Allium Sativum, Trigonella Foenum-Graecum, Vaccinium Myrtuillus, Asian Ginseng, Bilberry, Stevia, Ginkgo Biloba, cinnamon and barberry.

Pterocarpus Marsupium is also known as Dragon’s Blood, Kino, Pitasara and Venga. The gum resin of this Indian tree has the look of dried blood, hence the name. An alcohol extract of the resin and the flavonoid epicatechin extracted from the bark of the tree both have been shown to prevent pancreatic alpha cell damage in rats and to actually regenerate beta cells. These pancreatic cells directly or indirectly control metabolic processes to balance glucose in the blood stream.

Gymnema Silvestre reduces the desire for sweets. It helps in the production of insulin in Diabetes Type 2 and reduces the blood sugar levels for both types 1 and 2. 500 mg per day of Gymnema extract is a substitute for oral medications to lower blood sugar for both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes.

Momordica Charantia or bitter melon is also known as balsam pear. It is widely cultivated in Africa, Asia and South America as a vegetable and as a diabetes treatment. Several compounds in bitter melon are confirmed as effective in treatment of diabetes. Charantin is a hypoglycaemic agent; Momordica contains a polypeptide which is confirmed by clinical trials to reduce blood sugar when injected subcutaneously.

Allium Cepa and Allium Sativum are respectively onion and garlic. Both foods are helpful in diabetic treatment plus have the added benefits of being beneficial in treating cardiovascular problems. Both substances lower blood sugar levels.

Trigonella Foenum-Graecum is also known as Fenugreek. Fenugreek contains an anti-diabetic compound via the defatted portion of the seed.

Vaccinium Myrtuillus is commonly called blueberry. A concoction of the leaves of the blueberry plant injected is only slightly less effective but less toxic than insulin. Its beneficial effects can last several weeks. The active ingredient is myrtillin, used to improve the functioning of the vascular system and effective in preventing diabetic retinopathy—an eye disorder associated with diabetes.

Each of the other herbs for diabetes mentioned above is helpful in treating particular symptoms of the disease. Particular mention should be made of barberry—one of the best liver tonics available and cinnamon which make insulin three times as effective as without the use of cinnamon.

Continuing research into the use of herbs for diabetes may well result in a cure for the disorder. In the meantime these herbs for diabetes have been shown to be helpful in treating the disease or its symptoms.

Herbal Diet Supplements

2008-02-16T14:38:00.000-05:00

Herbal supplements are a type of dietary supplement that contain herbs. An herb (also known as a botanical) is a plant or plant part used for its scent, flavor, and therapeutic properties.

Diet supplements derived from herbs usually contain more than one type of herb. The purpose of an herbal diet supplement is to increase the benefits that you get from your normal diet and to ward off the negative effects. Herbal diet supplements are rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, etc.

Obviously, dietary supplements are not meant to be used as treatments or cures of any disease or medical condition. They are more effective as preventative agents that help strengthen the body and the immune system to naturally ward off any infections or internal malfunctions. For people who do not manage a balanced diet herbal diet supplements also supply necessary nutrients missing from regular diet. Many herbal dietary supplements can provide substantial aid for different types of medical conditions.

Some herbal diet supplements are:

Ephedra. This supplement increases the body resistance towards common cold, helps in the treatment of asthma and upper respiratory problems. For people who work out regularly, ephedra is an important ingredient in most fat loss supplements.

Magnesium. Minerals and salts are the biggest deficiencies in an unbalanced diet. Magnesium is essential in preventing kidney, thyroid, and heart disease. There are many herbal diet supplements rich in magnesium.

St. John's wort. Also known as hypericum, Klamath weed, and goat weed, this supplement has been used for centuries in the treatment of mental disorders, nerve pain. In older times it was also used as a sedative and malaria cure. Nowadays, the common uses are treatment of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. It is typically consumed as a tea or in pill form.

Vitamin E. One very potent anti-oxidant is vitamin E. Herbal diet supplements rich in vitamin E make good anti-oxidants. Uncontrolled oxidation in our body can result in long-term damage. That is why our bodies generate anti-oxidants. However, if the production of anti-oxidants falls below safe levels then external supplements are required.

Copper. While metals and minerals are essential to the normal functioning of our body, sometimes they can fail to get absorbed properly. Zinc is essential for our body and there is nothing better than a copper rich herbal diet supplement. These supplements increase the absorption of zinc. The result is better protection against heart disease, and healthier skin and hair color.

Folate. From a certain viewpoint, folates are required more than anything else because they can affect us down to our DNA. Folates are required for the production and maintenance of new cells (especially during pregnancy and infancy). DNA replication cannot take place without folates. Folates also prevent cancer causing DNA changes. Folate deficiency affects the bone marrow where most new cells are produced. Folates are needed to make new red blood cells and prevent anemia. As you can see, any deficiency in folates can be devastating in the end. One of the earliest indications of folate deficiency is anemia. Herbal diet supplements that have folates as major ingredients are always good for you, even if you do not have any problem currently.

Iron. In the human body, the metal iron is more pervasive than any other. It plays an important part in several vital functions. Iron carries oxygen to the lungs and muscles in the form of hemoglobin. It acts as a means of transport for electrons between cells. It is a catalyst for enzyme reactions in tissues. Iron deficiency most commonly occurs in children and pre-menopausal women. It can easily prove to be fatal if left unchecked. Herbal diet supplements rich in iron can help to prevent such a situation.

Vitamin B6 and B12. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) deficiency can lead to anemia, depression, dermatitis, and high blood pressure. Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) deficiency can lead to anemia, memory loss, and cognitive decline. It is most likely to occur among elderly people. In extreme cases it can even cause paralysis can result. It is widely used in the treatment of alcoholism, depression, diabetes, hair loss, and stress. Vegans are especially at risk of B12 deficiency because vitamin B12 naturally occurs only in meats. So if you are a vegan than an herbal dietary supplement with vitamins B6 and B12 is an absolute must for you.

Tea. Most herbal teas (and especially Medicinal Strength Teas) involve the use of herbs that have anti-oxidant properties useful in prevention of cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure. Since these teas usually do not involve caffeine and other associated chemicals they are better from a health perspective than regular tea or coffee.

Vitamin D. The human body (especially skin) develops its own vitamin D. It is necessary to maintain normal levels of calcium and phosphorous. A direct result of vitamin D deficiency is a weaker skeleton, a condition known as osteoporosis where the bones become porous and hence break easily. Vitamin D herbal supplements can help prevent osteoporosis.

Selenium. This is a chemical so volatile that it does not occur in its free state in nature. Toxic in large amounts, trace amounts of it form the center of some enzymes that are vital to the normal working of all cells in nearly all living organisms. In the human body it behaves as an anti-oxidant and is also important for the normal working of the thyroid gland. Cereals, meat, fish, and eggs are good sources of selenium. Since the majority of sources are animal based, vegans and vegetarians should seriously herbal dietary supplements containing selenium.

Vitamin A. This vitamin is responsible for maintaining good eye sight and promoting bone growth. It is also an anti-oxidant. Most skin and eye problems are related to vitamin A deficiency so if you have any such conditions, consider a herbal diet supplement rich in vitamin A.

Different Types of Herbal Medicine

2008-02-16T14:12:00.000-05:00

There are many positive aspects that herbal medicine has going for it. Unfortunately, the lack of adequate scientific understanding means that there is no way a doctor can completely take responsibility for what is being prescribed and hence the safety factor involved in taking herbal medicines is suspect.

The drugs that we normally take have to undergo thorough testing and need FDA approval. This entire process ensures that every single chemical in the medicine and its interaction with the human body (and resulting side effects) are well understood, documented, and scientifically demonstrable.

While herbal medicines enjoy the reputation of being less complicated it should be remembered that they are manufactured by Mother Nature and she does not need FDA approval or scientific testing. Fortunately, thousands of years of development have put herbal medicines into a certain safety zone that has helped many a human being with being cured.

So herbal medicines might be risky but there is no need to worry if you take the simple precaution of consulting your doctor before consuming any herbal concoction. Doctors are sort of walking pharmacopoeias and they know more about all those chemicals and stuff. They can advise you properly.

Another thing to know with herbal medicine is that different cultures have resulted in different types of herbal therapies. Finally, thanks to the Internet and online marketing there is no shortage of frauds selling roots and leaves grown in their backyards. Make certain that when you get herbal medicine it comes from genuine herbs. The wrong herbs might possibly contain toxic chemicals that make a trip to the hospital inevitable.

Some common forms of herbal medicines are as follows:

Essence. You have probably come across the line "essence of …" followed by some plant or flower when reading an ad for a cosmetic product. While Essences tend to get associated with cosmetic products due to massive advertising of those products, certain essential oils are always available for therapeutic purposes. The popularity of essential herbal oils processed through cold pressing or steam distillation is because many people prefer to get a massage than eating a pill. The most common benefit of essential oils is the help they provide in relaxing. They do not really cure any problems. Their major effect is to provide relief.

Body massages can release toxins in the muscles, aiding relaxation.

Head massages can likewise reduce heaviness or, in some cases, cure headaches. Similarly, chest massages using essence of certain herbs can help with congestion resulting from common cold.
Pills or capsules. There was a time when this alternative was not available. It was a dark time for people who could not stand the taste of raw herbal medicines. The pills and capsules were a godsend for people who wanted to try herbal remedies but were unable to swallow. In order to convert a herb to pill form it first needs to be dried and crushed into powder. What is of interest is that there are hardly any herbal medicines available in pill or capsule form that target specific ailments. They act more like secondary medications to provide moral support to whatever primary medication is being taken. Professionals in herbal medicine believe that the drying and crushing of the herbs robs them of their potency. Others suggest that herbal medicine should be taken in its raw form for complete effectiveness. Anyway, if you are looking for specific herbal medicines instead of general health enhancers and supplements then this option is not for you.
Infusions. The most popular form of herbal infusion is the drinking of various kinds of tea. Infusion involves the use of the delicate parts (leaves, seeds, and fruits) of a herbal plant and are quick to administer. Some ingredients of infusion tea could be stinging nettle, oat straw, red clover, raspberry leaf, and comfrey leaf. Infusions can be just the tea you drink normally (but using herbs instead of tealeaves) or what is known as Medicinal Strength Tea. Most herbal teas fall into this category though the preparation is slightly different. There are several recipes available on the Internet for making Medicinal Strength Tea.
Poultice. For injuries, inflammations, cramps, or other spasmodic problems it can become necessary to apply the herbal mixture as a poultice. The required herbs are first macerated or chopped into small pieces. These are then applied directly to the affected area and covered with a hot and moist bandage. In some cases, the herbal mixture can be applied as a layer to the moist bandage before wrapping it around the affected area.

Raw

Tinctures. There are very few kids who get exposed to this form of medicine these days but about twenty odd years ago no kid that got into a scrap in the field escaped the terror of tincture. These are basically herbal medicines in a liquid form. They can be for external as well as internal use. Modern incarnations are a lot milder that their older forms.
Decoctions. A decoction is a liquid preparation made by boiling a medicinal plant with water usually in the proportion of 5 parts of the drug to 100 parts of water. Typically, certain specific parts of a plant like berries, roots, and herb-bark are used in this process. Depending on the consistency of the plant part being used, it can take up to two hours to prepare a decoction. This process extracts the flavor and increases the concentration of the herb through the process of boiling.

That more or less covers the different types of herbal medicines available. Depending on your requirement and personal taste you might need to take them in one of the above forms.

Warning Signs of Mental Illness and Where to Turn

2007-08-21T07:09:00.000-04:00

Mental illness is very common in the United States today. The National Mental Health Institute states that about 26.2% of the population in the United States, or about 57.7 million people, has some kind of mental illness. About 6% of the population has severe mental illness. Mental illness is the major disabling factor in the United States today for adults from 18 to 44 years of age.

“Mental health problems” actually strike everyone at some point in his or her life. Whether it’s an acute but temporary episode of depression caused by the death of a loved one and eases on its own and without professional intervention, over time or the more lasting clinical depression that needs professional intervention and treatment.

“Mental illness” is defined as a disease that causes detrimental changes in behavior and thought that interfere with an individual’s life. Unlike acute episodes of stress or depression brought on by life events (but which nonetheless can themselves benefit from intervention such as a temporary course of medication or work with a therapist, if distressing enough), these changes are prolonged and interfere with an individual’s normal functioning.

Before mental illness is diagnosed, physical problems that may cause symptoms should be ruled out and treated, such as an under- or overactive thyroid. Once any physical causes are ruled out, though, mental illness should be considered a possibility and appropriate treatment sought if any of the following symptoms occur in adults:

Thinking becomes disorganized and not clear
There is prolonged depression or sadness present (can either be related to a precipitating event such as the death of a loved one or come “out of the blue”)
The person exhibits periods of extreme or worsening depression, followed by periods of increasing and extreme excitability, euphoria, energy and/or engages in impulsive behavior such as excessive and inappropriate spending
Withdrawing from friends and family
Sleeping too much or too little
Eating too much or too little
Excessive anger out of proportion to the situation at hand
Excessive worrying or being overly anxious or fearful
Inability to handle normal daily tasks or to function “as usual”
Thoughts of suicide
Denial that there’s any problem when confronted
Physical illnesses or complaints with no medical basis
Abuse of drugs, alcohol or other mood-altering substances

In children, symptoms can include:

A drop in grades or other uncharacteristic changes in school performance
Poor grades even when effort is applied
Expressing anxiety or worry, such as a refusal to go to bed or unwillingness to go to school
Having frequent nightmares
Frequently disobeying or showing anger or aggression
Having temper tantrums past the appropriate age (i.e., school age)

For adolescents, symptoms can include:

Drug and alcohol abuse
Inability to handle “everyday” problems or perform daily activities
Sleeping too much or too little
Eating too much or too little
Physical illnesses or complaints with no medical basis
Engaging in truancy, theft or vandalism or “excessively” defying authority beyond normal teenaged rebellion
Obsession with gaining weight
Protracted moodiness or depressive behavior, perhaps with changes in eating or sleeping and/or with thoughts of death or suicide
Excessive anger out of proportion to the situation at hand

There is help if you or someone you love is suffering from any of the above symptoms and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. The National Alliance on Mental Illness has resources to assist you in finding help local to you.

Visit http://www.nimh.nih.gov/healthinformation/gettinghelp.cfm for more information, and/or http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/databases , offered by the federal government’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, to find help in your area.

Disasters, Trauma & Your Mental Health

2007-08-21T06:09:00.000-04:00

Disasters and trauma are an unfortunate part of life. Every person is affected differently by a trauma, but none the less, disasters ultimately will have some sort of impact on just about everyone. Different factors determine how a disaster or trauma will affect one’s mental health. Broaching the subject of “mental health” still carries a stigma for some, but there is nothing to be embarrassed about. Realizing what normal feelings and reactions may result from a trauma is the first step in determining if one needs professional help.

What exactly constitutes a “disaster” or a “trauma”? That truly depends on the person. However, the following is a list of such known occurrences:

Various accidents
Physical, emotional or sexual abuse
Neglect
War experience
Alcoholism
Illness, surgery or disability
The death of a family member of friend
A natural disaster

Obviously, this list is in no way conclusive, but meant as a help for someone experiencing intense emotions due to a traumatic experience.

After someone experiences a traumatic event or disaster, they may feel a whole host of emotions. Most will feel some level of anxiety, grief and/or anger. Other normal experiences after such events include shock, inability to focus, difficulty making decisions, loss of appetite of overeating, crying, headaches and difficulty sleeping. These responses are normal and some are to be expected. Over time, these negative emotions should lessen.

But for some, these emotions and disturbances don’t lessen over time. The following list is a brief example of warning signs that you may need to contact your health provider and seek professional medical help to alleviate your distress.

These signs include:

Continued nightmares and thoughts about the event
Inability to stop thinking and ruminating about what happened
Continual avoidance of thoughts, feelings or conversations that remind you of the event
Inappropriate avoidance of places or people that remind you of the event
Fearful of the future
Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
Easily startled or “jumpy”
Overly concerned about safety
Having intense feelings of guilt, worthless or hopeless
Not enjoying activities you once enjoyed
Any thoughts of death or suicide

When these feelings are so intense that they affect your daily ability to function, that also is a strong indicator that professional help is in order. Even if the trauma occurred years ago, you may have never fully overcome it. Professional health providers can help diagnose potential underlying problems or prescribe medication that can significantly improve your daily life.

It may even be the case that you have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression or even phobias without realizing that trauma is the cause. It has recently become accepted to look at traumas and disasters as serious causes of mental illness. If your current diagnosis and treatment are not delivering the results that you want, make an appointment with your health provider. Don’t give up on your treatment. Life events occur and can cause great pain and significant emotional disturbances, but these events need not dictate your life. Give yourself time to heal, but do seek professional treatment if your symptoms are significantly disturbing your daily life.

Frozen Shrimp Plus Angel Hair Pasta Makes Easy Diet-friendly Meal

2007-08-20T08:56:00.000-04:00

Negative Calorie Foods

2007-08-15T15:25:00.000-04:00

Negative calorie foods are those that need more calories to metabolize than the calories they have. For example, if you eat an apple, which has about 65 calories, your body spends about 100 calories in digestion. That is, the body loses about 35 calories in the process and results in weight loss to that extent. Therefore, the apple you have eaten is a negative calorie food. Normally, when you eat any food, your body burns anywhere between 150 and 250 calories, on an average, for its digestion. So if the food you eat has more than 250 calories, say 350 calories, then your gain in weight is equivalent to 100 calories, which represent the excess calories contained in the food eaten over the calories used up in the digestion of that food. Negative calorie foods result in net loss in terms of calories for the body and, naturally, cause weight loss.

Can I lose weight with negative calorie foods alone?
Based on this theory, negative calorie foods have gained immense popularity as means of losing weight quite effectively. However, considerable controversy surrounds the theory. Negative calorie diets attract criticism because of several factors that go against them. There are people who overeat negative calorie foods under the mistaken notion that they will not gain any weight, but instead, they can lose their excess weight faster that way. There is another wrong notion that negative calorie diets work for weight loss, without any physical exercise being included in the weight-loss program. There is no conclusive evidence based on scientific studies that negative calorie foods work the way they are believed to work. Negative calorie foods are only vegetables and fruits, so it is rather difficult to depend exclusively on them, even if you are a vegetarian.

On the other hand, supporters of negative calorie diets say that they are the only diets that work in fact for weight loss, while the other diets never work. You can always add other foods like fish or lean meat to a negative calorie diet containing fruits and vegetables, and they will not fail.

Starvation diets are, they say, a myth, as starvation or skipping meals will only slow down the metabolism in the body, which holds on to its stored fat in times of food deprivation, but will not result in weight loss in the long run. Fat-free and low-fat diets also do not work; speeding up metabolism is the only way for losing weight. There is no end, however, to the criticism directed against one diet or the other.

Almost all negative calorie foods contain antioxidants. They are also full of vitamins and minerals. Most of them possess properties beneficial for preventing diseases and promoting good health.

One can list more than a hundred negative calorie foods that really help you to lose weight. You must incorporate a lot of physical exercise in the negative calorie diets for them to work much better.

Like most others, you may be in search of a wonder weight loss program, which is easy and quick, which works painlessly, which is safe without side effects, which does not put you through unpleasant and strenuous physical activity, which does not deprive you of your favorite dishes and so on, but negative calorie foods do not meet all your conditions.

How Honey Can Help You Stay Young

2007-08-15T15:03:00.000-04:00

Honey is a great antioxidant. Studies conducted on the beneficial properties of honey have established that it protects the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. Honey also helps in the rejuvenation of the skin. Free radicals resulting from the metabolism in your body when oxidized are responsible, along with other things, for ageing. Being a natural and superb antioxidant, honey fights the free radicals and decelerates ageing. You can either consume honey or apply it topically to reap its many benefits.

Honey has a high sugar content, moderately high acidity and therefore low pH and low protein quantity. Add to these its antioxidant property and the presence of Hydrogen Peroxide in it, and you have a wonderful anti-bacterial and anti-microbial agent in honey.

To stay, feel and look young, you should have to maintain your face, your skin and your hair. They must have a good and young appearance. Honey will help you do this extremely well. You may not have either the time or the mood to spend a lot of money to go to a spa but that’s okay because honey provides you with an easy and effective alternative.

Honey in history

Legend has it that even since the times of Cleopatra, honey has been used for enhancing and maintaining one’s youthful looks and beauty. As you grow in age or when affected by exposure to unfavorable environmental factors, your skin tends to lose its elasticity, softness and supple character. Honey is a good natural product with excellent properties for restoring these very qualities to the skin. It has the capability of retaining and maintaining the moisture in the skin. Honey inhibits scaling and smoothes the wrinkles on the skin. Because of this, the skin looks naturally young.

Uses for honey

Mixed with some other things, honey can work as a facial mask, a hair conditioner and a skin clarifier. To make dry skin smooth, apply a mixture containing four tablespoons of honey and three tablespoons of milk. After about ten minutes, rinse the skin for a smoother look. Mashed apple mixed with five tablespoons of honey is good for tightening your skin. These mixtures can be topically applied anywhere, face, neck, arms or anywhere you need a healthy skin boost.

Of course, you can use also honey alone. Apply it directly on your skin when it is rough, scaly or dry. Leave it in place for a few minutes and then wash it off to find revitalized skin.

Home facial
A recipe for a home facial consists of two egg whites and about three to four tablespoons of honey. You can make a paste out of these with the help of a little flour. Liberal application of the paste on your face and washing it off with lukewarm water after ten minutes or so will leave your face look squeaky clean.

Honey can be used as a hair conditioner too. Combine ½ cup of honey with ¼ cup of olive oil and add a few drops of the oil of rosemary. Apply this to your hair and hair roots. Leave it for about 30 minutes and then rinse well. You may also use a good shampoo to wash your hair. You will be left with excellently conditioned hair.

How Eating More Often Can Help You Eat Less

2007-08-15T14:55:00.000-04:00

Instead of eating three big meals, breakfast, lunch and dinner, at approximate intervals of four to six or seven hours, it is always better to eat four to six smaller meals at shorter intervals, say of two to three hours. You may wonder why eating more often contributes actually to eating less or to weight loss.

Lighten the load

Your digestive system works more efficiently on a lighter load. You overeat, overload the digestive system, and see what happens. It slows down considerably. In addition, if you overload the system frequently, it may result in indigestion, which in turn might lead to other health problems. In other words, your metabolism will work favorably for your weight problem when you eat less more often.

Your energy levels drop when the intervals between meals are too long. If you wish to work continuously at peak energy levels keep supplying the digestive system with small amounts of nutritious food every three hours or so.

Starvation or eating too little too infrequently is not at all a solution to your weight problem. Your body holds on to its fat content in that case. If you eat smaller meals of the right type (food that contains proteins, carbohydrates and even a little fat) more frequently, your body burns more fat or more calories than it takes in, resulting in a net loss. It may seem to be the impossible, but it is true.

Steady does it

When your blood sugar levels increase, you have less craving for food. Eating frequent small meals keeps the sugar levels constantly at a high level and you actually eat less ultimately. Low blood sugar levels are accompanied by hunger and you rush to nearest vending machine for that soft drink or lemonade laden with high-fructose corn syrup or other sugar which are turned right to fat, just adding to your weight.

Heavy and infrequent meals make you inactive and lethargic. You might have had the experience of feeling like resting after a heavy meal. You have to be as active as possible during the entire day for weight loss. For this, small meals will be very helpful, as you won’t ever feel stuffed.

Being busy throughout the day, you may not pay enough attention to eating for long hours. In that case, you will feel the calorie-deficiency, and are likely to feel tired. Stress levels also might rise. When you finally get time for food, you have a great tendency to binge. You might not care much for your diet at that time.

Healthy eating in small quantities more frequently will help lower LDL cholesterol, according to some scientific studies. Remember physical activity and exercise will only add to the beneficial effect of small meals on the bad cholesterol levels.

You will certainly get used to eating less and eating more often, if you make eating more frequently a habit. Perhaps you will then have to make a conscious effort at finding more about nutrition and the various foods you would eat in small quantities for good health. Allotting more time for more frequent meals becomes necessary and that itself gives you an opportunity to focus on important weight and health issues that many people do not make the time for.

How to Cope with Failure and Frustration

2007-08-04T05:36:00.000-04:00

Failure is defeat and the opposite of success. Everyday, we are likely to experience failures of various degrees, some very insignificant but some others major. We constantly attempt to do or achieve something as part of our daily lives. We are happy and elated when we succeed, but depressed and downcast when we fail. Most of us may be able to somehow cope with the day-to-day minor failures rather easily at least with a little patience and effort. We may tend to forget them quite easily. However, they can hurt and we may need reinforcements to help overcome and cope with these failures and frustrations.

When some major devastating failure strikes you, you have to deal with the experience. A feeling of incompetence may wash over you. You lose your self-confidence. Your self-esteem plunges to an unfathomable low. Life suddenly loses its verve and enthusiasm. You feel weak and helpless, as your situation appears very hopeless. You may think that your very survival is worthless. Some people get so depressed due to their failure that they may go to the extent of giving up their lives.

Therefore, you have to learn to cope with failures, whether small or big. One of the things you can do in this regard is to anticipate failure as a possible outcome, notwithstanding your best efforts for success. Realize that failures are an unpleasant fact. Be prepared to accept them, without being overwhelmed by them in a negative way. While you do your best for success, you should remember that in a world of competition, your best efforts may fall short in rewarding you with the desired outcome.

Learn to look at them as occasions that provide an opportunity for improvement and analysis. Remember, they can really work for your future success, if you care to learn the lessons they teach. Treat failures as passing phases of your life, maybe essential phases that help you in modifying your subsequent actions that might lead you on to a more satisfying and successful path later on.

One must realize that any learning situation is fraught with frequent and even repeated failures, which unfortunately result in creating a sense of frustration. Children have to be made aware of the fact that failures are only an indication that they have attempted to exceed themselves in the process of their learning and that they are sure signs that they are indeed learning properly. This way the effects of frustration due to repeated failures will not be damaging. They will then take failures in their stride.

Accept responsibility for your failure. Searching for a scapegoat and blaming an external factor or another person for your failure will not reduce your pain in any way. It only betrays a weakness of the mind and a lack of appreciation of the limits of your own abilities. If you accept that nobody else need be blamed for your failure, you can actually strive better in future and even taste success because of your heightened effort.

Learn to cope with failure with the same sense of humility that should mark your success. Sometimes, you may need external support to help you deal with your failures and frustrations. Seek it. Learn to face failures with courage and without wilting under the stress of frustration that they cause.

Staying Fit can increase your Sex Drive and How Sex can improve your Fitness

2007-07-28T17:29:00.000-04:00

If you want to improve your sex drive then staying fit is the answer to your problems, while this applies to both men and women, men need to be vigilantly aware of this. On this note the more sex you have then the fitter you will be, so on this note, sex is the all around answer to your fitness goals.

The man’s libido, even more so than the women’s, depends greatly on how fit he is. Similarly, the healthier the man is, then the bigger impact it has on his sexual ability and also the enjoyment that he gets from it. Age doesn’t really play a factor in this and it doesn’t matter how old you are, you can still develop your sexual ability to its fullest simply by leading a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Stress also plays an important role in a man’s ability to perform. Here again, exercise plays an important role, participating in some form of daily exercise allows you to work off your stress, which in turn makes you feel more relaxed and allows you to let go of whatever worries and anxieties you have collected. Learning how to be able to relax is essential; if the man is faced with long-term stress, then this can cause problems with him being unable to reach an erection and can also have an effect on his fertility. This of course can all be avoided by simply increasing the level of fitness and taking on some form of exercise at least three times a week.

Eating a healthy diet as a part of your keep fit regime is also essential; a poor diet can have a bad effect on the sex life for both the man and women. If you don’t eat a healthy diet full of all the essential vitamins and minerals but instead include too much fatty foods then you risk becoming overweight. If you become too overweight then this could mean that fatty deposits will block the arteries and this could result in the man being unable to gain an erection.

While staying fit will improve your sex life, sex will also help you to stay fit and healthy. One of the greatest forms of exercise is sex because it will give your whole body and muscles a through workout like no other can. One of the biggest killers through lack of exercise is coronary artery disease; during sex the whole cardiovascular system gets a through workout. The heart beats faster and the blood is pumped around the body quickly, the whole body becomes alive. In addition to this all the other muscles are used, so when you give this some consideration you can quickly begin to see why sex is a must for keeping fit, and it is also one of the more enjoyable ways of becoming a fitter and healthier person. Of course if you haven’t been active for a long period of time then it is essential that you build up slowly into a fitness regime, and also that you expect to have aches and pains where you never had them before, because you will be using muscles that you probably haven’t used in a long time.

8 Great Ways to Last Longer in Bed

2007-07-28T17:20:00.000-04:00

Is your relationship lacking in the bedroom? Sometimes, despite a good solid relationship outside the bedroom, when it comes to bedroom activities, many are left disappointed or feel that they have disappointed. For all those who wish they could last longer in bed or that there partner could last longer then here are some excellent tips and advice keeping the romance alive.

While it might only sound like common sense, slowing down while making love is one of the best ways to last longer in the bedroom. Foreplay is essential and the longer you take with it, the longer you will last, lots of kissing, touching and caressing will go down great and help to make the experience more sensual and in turn heighten both you and your partner’s pleasure. Enjoy and experience every single touch and caress to its extreme. This means focusing on what you are doing and noticing how the touch feels, the different sensations the touch brings and the way it makes you feel.

Make sure that you are breathing deeply and evenly during lovemaking. If you find your mind wandering towards non-bedroom things, focus in on your breathing and the experience that is at hand. By making yourself more aware of the moment, you will be better able to enjoy the experience your partner is giving you. Instead of focusing on the out come of lovemaking i.e. the release at the end of the act, instead focus on the actual moment and the feelings the moment brings. For example how does the touch or the caress feel, take notice of how it makes your skin feel, does it make you tingle? Take time out to learn about the different parts of the body, the more you know about the body and how it works the better the sexual experience will be.

Don’t go into lovemaking with high expectations in mind, if you have high expectations to begin with then the chances are that the lovemaking is going to fall far short of your ideas, leaving you very disappointed. On the same note, don’t go into the experience thinking that you already know exactly what the other wants. As you grow as a couple, you will enjoy different things. Never be afraid to ask what the other likes and where they enjoy being touched and never be afraid to tell your partner what you like. Sex should be open and you shouldn’t be afraid to ask about preferences. Some people are more sensitive on their backs and across their shoulders, others they find touching the feet and hands an erotic experience, others can’t stand having their feet touched. Knowing what the other wants and being open with your own desires can greatly can heighten the sensual experience and make sex last longer if you spend longer on the areas that are the most sensitive.

Finally don’t be afraid to try something new, take your time and bring sex toys into your lovemaking, experimenting with sex toys and aids is a great and fun way to make the act last longer and can bring great pleasure to both partners. For something different you could try food, whipped cream, body chocolate and fruit are all great introductions in the bedroom and are another fun way to make the lovemaking last and more enjoyable.
Above all the best advice when it comes to lasting longer in the bedroom is to not worry, worrying about how long you can last and if you will disappoint your partner is sure to ruin what should be a wonderful and pleasurable experience between two people.

24 Easy Ways to Lose Weight and Get Healthy

2007-07-28T08:32:00.000-04:00

It’s no secret that obesity is a problem round the world. And it’s also no secret that some people can sure seem to abuse their bodies, eating the wrong foods, smoking and even practicing illegal drug abuse, and yet their bodies are much slimmer and healthier than those of people who regularly try to eat the right foods and get the right amount of exercise.

Yet medical science today still has no one-size-fits-all cure for obesity. What they can offer, though, are a variety of helpful hints ad tips that do help a lot of people, depending upon their genetic makeup, and physical environment and other factors. So try these and see which help you the most. And then try our tasty recipes and adjust them for your meals.

1) Exercising before you eat can make you hungry. So exercise AFTER you eat; afterwards is when your body has to work harder digesting the food, too.

2) Don’t skip breakfast – or any other meal. Your body often goes 12 hours without food since your last meal or snack (and often from the day before) and it needs fuel. Plus when you skip meals, the natural tendency is to over eat to make up for it and also not face starvation.

3) Eat a maximum of four egg yolks in a week.

4) Drink skim milk instead of other types, to cut back on fats.

5) Remember these shopping tips: don’t shop when you’re hungry, always shop from a prepared list and no impulse buying (that goes for convenient grocery items on the end of aisles and in check out lines!)

6) If you eat while you are in front of the television, measure out your foods first so they you don’t mindlessly much away and overdo it. In other words, no carrying along an entire bag of chips that can turn into trough eating.

7) Instead of butter and margarine, experiment with apple butter and other healthy fruit alternatives.

8) Fruit juices can be very sweet and high in sugar content, so water them down before drinking them.

9) Add more fish to you diet, fish not prepared with batter and breading that is. Fish has omega 3 fatty acids which help reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. So add fish to your weekly diet, at least twice a week is best.

10) Experiment regularly with new recipes so you add new food and experience in your meal planning. Eating the same old things like hamburgers and pizza can equal boredom and cause overeating to try to get your fill for something more.

11) Add more veggies into you daily eating. Try new dips, sauces and fun ways to cook and serve them.

12) Fresh veggies don’t stay fresh too long. And that can be a difficult dilemma for those who don’t have a lot of time to shop. So try adding a quick veggies stop in weekly with a special errand so that you stop at a local farm market or at least the produce section once a week: combine this trip with your weekly bank deposit or post office visit, for example.

13) Practice alternative cooking means than frying: broiling, microwave, steaming, crock pot with rack, toaster oven with rack, grilling, etc.

14) Substitute water for beverages at home and when eating out, even diet drinks. Plenty of fast food joints and good restaurants serve flavored waters. Ask for lemon, if nothing else, in your water. And stock up on lemons and limes at home. Skip the diet pop.

15) Experiment with new veggies, dressings, nuts and fruits in salads to make your meals more interesting, tasty and varied. Try home-made salad dressing recipes, different colored peppers, dried and fresh fruits, different types of lettuce and other goodies.

16) Choose wheat bread over white.

17) Substitute applesauce for oil in baking recipes.

18) Use non-stick no-fat and low-fat cooking sprays instead of adding greasing. And bake on cooking sheets covered with aluminum foil, then sprayed fist, for easy clean up. Place a cooking rack on top of the cookie sheet, too, for allowing fat to drip off meats.

19) Forget about super-sizing. No one needs that much food, especially junk food. Get smaller services and do ask for them. If you don’t ask or you just say something like, “I’ll have a coke and fries” with that, they’ll automatically super-size everything unless you say SMALL with coke and fries when you order. So re-learn how to order and do it!

20) Use portion control, at home and outside the home. No one says you have to eat a whole sandwich, for example, especially if your work is sitting behind a computer where you aren’t doing heavy lifting or anything. So save half your sandwich for another day. Ditto with eating out. Ask for a doggie bag WITH your food order. Then split up your meal and take half of it home for later.

You can also ask for a child’s portion or order an appetizer in place of a regular adult meal. So experiment and watch not only calories and fat, but money you save.

21) When you order out, order your dressing to be off to the side. Some places like Wendy’s are known to load on the mayo, tarter sauce and other toppings. And you don’t need all that fat. So get your toppings off to the side and add them yourself sparingly.

22) Bake with cocoa instead of chocolate; for example use 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder for each ounce of unsweetened chocolate.

23) Substitute nonfat or low fat yogurt for sour cream in salad dressings and other recipes.

24) Add some flavor to low fat and no fat recipes and food choices to make them more appealing: herbs and spices like garlic, basil, ginger, onion or onion powder, oregano and tarragon. Look in cookbooks and also try your own combinations.

Healthy Recipes

Fried Rice

Ingredients

3 cups Cauliflower, grated
3 Green onions, chopped
4 Cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp Low-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp Garlic salt
3 Eggs, beaten
Oil
4 cups Rice

Preparation

In a large pan, heat enough oil to cover bottom of pan. Fry minced garlic and onions (white bulbs, not green stems) for 2 min. Add grated cauliflower and fry 5 min, while you stir constantly. Next add soy sauce, garlic salt, green onion stems and stir until mixed. Place all off to the side of pan. Then scramble eggs, adding a little more oil if needed, in the empty side of pan until it’s done, yet still moist. Then stir the eggs into the rice mixture and remove from heat. Makes two servings in approximately 15 minutes.

Mixed Vegetable Variety

Ingredients:

Large tomato
White pumpkin
Onion
Carrot
Potato small
3 cups Water

(Pressure-cook all the above ingredients and keep it aside)

Carrot
Capsicum
Spring onion sprig
Cabbage leaves

(Chop all these vegetables)

Plus:

1 tbsp Butter
2 tbsp Boiled, drain pasta (any kind like: noodles, macaroni, spaghetti, etc.)
2 tbsp Red garlic sauce
½ tsp Ginger grated
1 tbsp Tomato ketchup
Salt and Pepper to taste

Preparation

Blend the above pressure-cooked vegetables in a mixer and strain. The heat butter in a pan, add ginger and stir. Mix in the chopped vegetables and stir-fry the mixture for approx. 3 minutes. Mix in pureed stock and bring to a boil. Add all of the other ingredients, then stir and simmer for roughly 3 minutes. Makes two servings in approximately 15 minutes.

Banana Power

Ingredients:

4 Ripe bananas
1 tsp Lemon juice
1 tsp Oil
2 tbsp Honey
2 tbsp Sesame seeds

Preparation

Brush peeled bananas with oil, and then with lemon juice. Place them in oiled baking pan and drizzle them with honey and then sprinkle them with sesame seeds. Broil all for about 6 minutes until heated throughout and browned, and until the sesame seeds toasted. Makes two servings in approximately 15 minutes.

Healthy Chocolate Shake

Mix in blender:

¼ cup Cream
¼ cup Cottage cheese (optional)
¼ cup Egg substitute
½ cup Water – ½ cup
1 tbsp Cocoa – 1 tbsp
2 tbsp sugar substitute
2 tbsp Low carb protein powder

Preparation

Blend a few minutes until all is well mixed, and then add up to 8 ice cubes, blending one in at a time. A super drink for two in approximately 10 minutes.

Healthy Vegetable Soup

Ingredients

9 spinach leaves
5 leaves just below cauliflower
3 coriander leaves
1 small onion
1 Stalk of celery
1 tbsp Ginger peeled and crushed
1 clove Garlic crushed
1 tsp Corn flour
¼ Dried red chilly crushed
½ tsp Sugar
Salt to taste
½ tsp Soya sauce
½ tsp Oil
21/2 cups Water

Preparation

Clean all vegetables and stems. Chop vegetables making them into thin slanted slivers. Heat the oil in a pan and add ginger garlic. Sauté for one minute. Next add vegetables and stir fry until tender. Then add water and bring to a boil. Mix in corn flour with 1/2 cup cold water, then add to soup. Stir continuously until it comes to a boil, then add the salt, sugar, chilly and soy sauce. Boil until it thickens. Serve fresh and hot. Makes two servings in approximately 15 minutes

Spice Up Your Sex Life with Natural Aphrodisiacs

2007-07-26T10:36:00.000-04:00

If you are like the majority of couples, you have probably experienced a lull in your bedroom activities at one point or another. Sometimes work, stress, financial obligations, or kids can leave to feeling to drained to satisfy your mate at the end of the day. But when you consider that sex can actually help you deal with the stresses of day-to-day life, you have to ask yourself - why aren’t you taking advantage of this amazing natural anti-stress?

There are many other reasons why your sex life may be put on a shelf for a time, but stress is perhaps the biggest underlying problem for a sudden drop in libido. However, there are many other reasons that cause both long and short-term libido problems for both men and women. To remedy these problems, there are also a wide range of prescription and over-the-counter products that claim to restore or spice up a failing sex life. Many of these are known to have side-effects such as headaches, impaired vision, dependency and in the worst case scenario, heart attacks. Despite claims to the contrary, these types of drugs, such as Viagra, are truly meant to correct erectile dysfunction, not bring the lust back to the bedroom. Just because the man is able to achieve an erection, does not make it an erotic experience. What many people are in search of is a good old fashioned aphrodisiac. Very few people actually need drugs like Viagra, Cialis or Levitra. The fact of the matter is that most people can treat their low libido levels not by taking erection-enhancing drugs but by correcting their diet, attitude and experimenting with natural and herbal aphrodisiacs.

Correcting your diet and eating light

Eating right is the first thing you need to do to spice up your sex life, but by no means is the only thing you should try. With a well balanced diet, you will find yourself more eager and willing to at least get things going. Try to avoid any foods that cause you indigestion and acid-reflux. As soon as the indigestion starts, you’re bound to be irritable and in no mood to be frisky. One of the less obvious suggestions you need to consider is to not overeat. Avoid eating to a point where you feel bloated, heavy or lackadaisical. If you are planning a special night out on the town, think about sharing a meal or visiting a restaurant with lighter fare. Most restaurant meals are packed with calories, fat and ridiculously large desserts that would put anyone out of the mood.

Not only will portion control help put you in the mood, but there are also a wide variety of foods that have been proven to make you think twice about turning the TV on in bed. Some great aphrodisiacs to nibble on include:

Chocolate – Aztecs were the first to use chocolate to seduce their mates and the tradition has continued to this day and spread across the globe.

Asparagus – Your mother always told you to eat your vegetables. This green stalky vegetable was traditionally eaten without silverware and has been used for centuries as an aphrodisiac.

Oysters – This widely coveted delicacy can be difficult to open if you choose to eat raw oysters. So if you are going for their widely acclaimed aphrodisiac effects, avoid injury and eat them cooked.

Strawberries – Looking for a seductive dessert? Try a simple dessert of strawberries and whipped cream and expect decadent returns.

Avocados – In Aztec, the name of an avocado tree is “the testicle tree.” Today we simply recognize the stimulating effects of avocados and it’s scrumptious counterpart, guacamole.

Attitude is everything…well, almost

One of the most overlooked recipes for a natural increase in bedroom fun is a good attitude. Instead of telling yourself you’re too tired, too overworked or too burdened with your everyday activities, try telling yourself how much you are looking forward to the intimacy and snuggling with your spouse. Promise yourself that you will initiate things with your spouse at least XX times per week. Choose whatever number is comfortable to you. Chances are that once you change your attitude and look forward to it, you will enjoy it more too. Don’t expect every time to be a scene from an Oscar-winning romance scene, but expect that you will wonder why you would ever avoid initiating it in the first place.

Natural herbal remedies

Natural herbal remedies can often contain a variety of herbs, spices and flowers right from your own garden. If you lack a green thumb, space or are ready to raise your libido levels now, you can find all sorts of great herbal supplements and remedies at the grocery store or an online drug store. Along with herbal supplements, you can also find ready-made tonics, creams, oils and pills that will have the same desired effects without the undesirable side effects of prescription and other similar manufactured treatments.

While there is no magic pill, herbal aphrodisiacs are thought to help bring back the desire that has been lost. Herbal remedies can serve to increase the production of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. Other herbs can help you feel more calm and others still can help your circulatory or nervous system function properly for sexual activities. One you are feeling good and have an enhanced emotional state, it will invariably bring your sensual side thus turning you on.

There are many herbs that can be used as aphrodisiacs, many of them can be bought at the store and cooked with food, others can be bought in pill form but should have the overall desired effect: enhancing your sex life. Common aphrodisiac herbs and remedies include:

Ginkgo biloba is one of the most popular herbal remedies and attracts a huge following for it’s aphrodisiac effects. In particular, ginko biloba is thought to be of particular help to males who have trouble achieving erections. It is also known to bring back the sexual desire to those on medication such as Prozac. In a recent study, it actually increased the sex drive of over 80% of those who took part in the trial.

Ginkgo is said to be helpful in sending blood flow to the genital area, it relaxes the blood vessels and is said to boost the flow of blood which improves and maintains the erection. In research half of those men who used ginkgo showed beneficial effects after 6 to 8 weeks of treatment and after 6 months half had regained full potency. It is also said to boost the erection and increase the sex drive in smokers and those who suffer fatigue.

Korean ginseng is the favorite among all herbal remedies for spicing up your sex life; it has been used in China successfully for over 7000 years. It is said to have properties that balance your sex life, it improves the blood flow to man’s genitals and those who have problems with their sex life due to stress, fatigue, overwork or hormone imbalances

Arginine is another great herbal remedy that has been tested to be effective in treating sex drive. It works by increasing blood flow, DHEA – which helps the body produce the hormones estrogen and testosterone.

Muira puama is an herbal remedy from Brazil and has been widely used for many years by the natives of the Amazon and Orinoco river basin. Natives have used it as a way to combat impotence and to increase and enhance sexual desire. The natives have another more popular name for it “potency wood”. It is thought to give a boost to the sex hormones and stimulate sexual drive through the central nervous system. It is also said to work wonders for those with a lack of sex drive and to help the man gain an erection when they are having temporary difficulties.

Yohimbe is an herbal remedy that originated in Africa and has been shown to drastically increase one’s libido and to be an excellent cure for impotence. Unlike most herbal remedies, yohimbe can have a mild side effect of increasing blood pressure.

Katana, meaning “sword” in Japanese is a formula is said to be a formula from Asia which increases the male libido and sexual performance, it contains all natural ingredients which have been used for centuries. The product claims to also strengthen the erection and help the man to overcome insecurities and master sexual dysfunction.

Provestra are pills that can be bought in monthly supplies and contain 100% natural herbal ingredients. They claim to increase the women’s sexual response and sex drive, they work by restoring the hormones and it is also claimed they can increase the pleasure of the women’s orgasm in both frequency and the intensity.

Vigorelle is advertised as an erotic stimulation cream to boost arousal instantaneously. It is a 100% all-natural herbal topical lubricant that is applied directly to the clitoris and immediately triggers response and sensitivity. It is a popular sexual aid and has often been called “the woman’s Viagra”, it can be applied before or during lovemaking and is said to bring unbelievable intense excitement and orgasms beyond all boundaries.

St Johns wort is a very popular herbal remedy that is used for a wide variety of illnesses and problems. It is used to help lift the mood and so boost the sex drive, in recent tests St Johns wort helped and improved 60% of women’s sex life who had a loss due to pre-menopause. It is thought to be most helpful to those who suffer a loss of sex drive due to anxiety, stress, tiredness or depression.

Damiana is a traditional herbal aphrodisiac from Central America; it boosts circulation to the genital area and increases sensitivity to the nerve endings. This brings about an increase in sexual desire, is said to enhance sexual pleasure and stimulate the sexual performance. It is thought to work by gently irritating the urogenital tract to produce a stimulating effect. Those who have difficulty in achieving an erection and who have a loss of sex drive linked to a decrease in sensitivity are thought to benefit the most, the easiest and pleasantest way to take this herb is by brewing a tea.

VigRX - This 100% natural oil contains some of the most powerful sexual stimulants that have been used for centuries including ginseng and ginkgo. VigRX oil works quickly and immediately to improve the quality of the erection and brings increased pleasure to orgasm. Using the skin to deliver the stimulants, oil is applied directly onto the penis and the effects are seen and felt immediately. The oil provides general arousal, increased sensitivity and circulation. It is also said to increase the man’s staying power and boost the strength of the orgasm.

Many of the single herbal aphrodisiacs listed above are combined formulas and there are many, many more that may carry exotic names such as Passion Flower, Wicked Willy or Super Sex. Combinations such as these often include many different ingredients that have been carefully selected to work together in increasing your sex drive.

Safety of herbal aphrodisiacs

Most herbal remedies are considered to be safe and only few have any side effects at all. However, it is always wise to check with your doctor to see if a particular herb is right for you or if it will interact with any medications that you may be taking. When consulting your doctor, make sure the herb is safe for you.

You may find that your doctor is overly eager to prescribe some sort of manufactured drug such as Viagra to treat your problems. He may even argue that herbal remedies don’t work at all. The fact of the matter is that herbal remedies work in a much gentler way than do prescription medications. For this reason you will find yourself more interested in sex, but you will always have to take some initiative in the bedroom. Don’t expect herbal or manufactured remedies to do all the work for you.

Tantalize your sense of smell with essential oils

Essential oils taken from herbs and plants have been used for thousands of years to stimulate your sense of smell and spice up your intimate life. Of the five senses, smell is very elusive and very little is known. However, it is thought that the sense of smell is strongly linked to sex and there are many must have bedroom scents all have been used for thousands of years to raise libido and peak sexual interest. However, not all scents work for all people – don’t be afraid to experiment with a few until you find one or more that work for you and your partner.

Aphrodisiac scents are typically on the rich and robust side of smells. Their tendency to be spicy and warm in scent, such as cinnamon, relates directly for your need to be warm when aroused. You’ll find that most aphrodisiac scents fall into the warm or spicy category and frilly, fruity or light scents probably won’t do much to arouse you.

To properly incorporate essential oils into your normal routine, remember that just a little goes a very long way. You’ll find that just 2-3 drops in enough to enjoy the scent for quite some time. You never want to apply essential oils directly to the skin because they are almost always a skin irritant and can cause great discomfort if used alone. One great way to utilize them is to add a few drops to a bottle of almond oil to create your own sensual massage oil. Use the oil to seduce your partner with a sensual massage that will peak both your interests.

You can create your own sensual room mist by filling a sprayer bottle partway with water and adding a drop or two of your favorite essential oil. Since essential oils do not mix with water, you will have to shake the bottle often to keep them oils mixed up with the water. Use the mist setting and mist your bedroom, sheets or anywhere you need a little more spice.

There is nothing as romantic for setting the mood for a sensual night than a candlelit room and by carefully selecting a properly scented candle you can greatly add to the ambiance. Most herbal stores will stock candles that are scented with a wide variety of herbs and spices. Choose those aphrodisiac scents such as ylang ylang, sandalwood, rosemary, bergamot or geranium. These are all excellent choices for spicing up your sex life but it goes without saying that the only thing you will want to be burning is your desire, so use great care with the naked flame.

Some common aphrodisiac essential oils include:

Ylang-ylang – is a flowery scent with a much sweeter smell than most aphrodisiac scents. It works great when mixed with other, slightly spicier scents.

Patchouli – As one of the most common ingredients in high end men’s cologne, patchouli is known for it’s luxurious and relaxing scent.

Clove – a common kitchen ingredient produced a warm, slightly spicy scent sure to arouse and stimulate more than just your taste buds.

Sandalwood – Most seductive in its natural form, sandalwood has a strong earthy and woody scent that is often attempted synthetically. However, the synthetic sandalwood does not have the same aphrodisiac effect as true sandalwood.

Jasmine – A strong scent is produced from this small white flower. Jasmine is a wonderful addition to massage oils or as a candle scent.

Vanilla – Vanilla is sure to make you and your loved one feel warm and fuzzy inside. Researchers can’t even explain the overwhelming calming effects vanilla has on people, but we know it’s a great scent to make your partner feel close.

Musk – Musk is a very natural scent that will drive your partner wild.

Positive Attitude and Optimism for Promoting Health

2007-07-25T16:30:00.000-04:00

Perhaps you know that your mental health has a strong relationship with your physical health. If you adopt a positive attitude and an optimistic view of life, you will lead a more satisfying and healthy life than when you constantly look at the dark side of things or take a negative stance. Studies have shown that people with a happy state of mind live healthier and longer. They lead more fulfilling lives. People who are highly pessimistic are known to run a higher risk of suffering from cardiovascular disorders and other ailments than those who are habitually highly optimistic.

You would like to live a good and healthy life for long, surely. The best way for this is to shed your negative way of thinking and replace it by positive thinking, positive attitude and optimism. This is the very foundation for well-being and a fulfilling and happy life. Real enjoyment in life comes when your good health permits you to reap the benefits of your material wealth. And that is possible if you habitually look at the brighter side of life. The power of positive thinking cannot be underestimated in terms of its effect on promoting health.

Adopt a way of thinking which helps you always to be hopeful, even in times of extreme misery and sorrow. As day follows night, if you remember that a brighter and better life is round the corner and that the present, however poorly lighted it might be, will give way to a brighter future, your attitude is optimistic. It will help you to deal with the prevailing circumstances with fortitude and patience.

Psychological studies conducted on some Harvard students have established a strong correlation between the optimistic attitude demonstrated in their student days and the health they enjoyed after they attained the age of 40 and above. Optimism has proven benefits. You deal with your life’s problems in a better way if you adopt a positive attitude. You will then lead a healthier, happier life and there is a high probability of living longer.

It is not impossible to change your way of thinking from negative to positive, even when you have been a pessimist all along. You can change your attitudes, with a little bit of effort and training. Remember, it is never too late to change, if that change is for the better and holds out hope for a better health and happier life. Start right away by banishing all negative remarks and utterances that you are in the habit of making. Gradually improve upon it by thinking with hope for better things to come, for better health and for a favorable solution to your problems, whatever they might be.

Practice is essential for thinking in a positive manner even when faced with an apparently hopeless situation. Analyze the facts, get rid of your fears and above all take full responsibility for your actions. Just see some good in the worst of situations and events. If you adopt this attitude, you will see for yourself how your life takes a new meaning. You will be healthy and happy.

Super foods for great health: Spirulina

2007-07-25T16:22:00.000-04:00

Spirulina has been used for centuries to nourish those in South Africa and is now used in the Western world because of its many benefits. By definition, it is a micro algae which is 60 percent vegetable protein, however, it does have many other beneficial components too including iron, Vitamin B12, beta carotene and iron. It is one of the health foods that has received interest and studies by scientists and is showing to have some remarkable benefits on the health.

Spirulina contains 10 times more beta carotene then carrots do, which means that even if you don’t eat the recommended five portions of fruit and veg per day as long as you are eating spirulina in your diet you can be sure you are getting enough of this much needed substance, which is essential to help build up the body’s defenses.

Spirulina has one of the highest values of protein, which includes all the essential amino acids without having to worry about the calories, as there are just a few minimal calories in spirulina. Another component of spirulina is a product called Gamma linolenic acid, this is only found in mother’s milk and is said to give babies an excellent start in life. Spirulina is the only natural substance that replicates this product.

It can also help to build strong bones and a strong system, along with iron, spirulina contains trace minerals and magnesium and is also one of the highest forms of the Vitamin B12. B12 is valuable in keeping the nervous system under control and in good health.

Spirulina is also one of the easiest forms of supplements to take and taking as little as five mg a day can prove to have substantial effects on the body. It is available in both tablet and powder form and can be taken with, before or after meals on a daily basis, it can also be mixed with fruit juice.

Those who firmly believe in the product and its beneficial effects have said that from the moment you start talking it you immediately begin to feel a difference. Because digestion is the one of the biggest processes that occurs within the body when we eat the body will automatically send the majority of the blood supply to help the digestive organs. However, while this is essential for the digestive system it can leave the body feeling very sluggish and tired, however spirulina can be taken as a liquid and when taken this way it has the effect of nourishing the body and giving it the vitamins and minerals the body needs just the same as when you eat food but it doesn’t give you the sluggish feeling.

One of the biggest pluses of growing spirulina is that acre for acre it gives more nutrition than other food possible can and it doesn’t erode or pollute the environment in which it grows, which means its not only excellent for the body but also for Mother Nature.

Water for Weight Loss and Health

2007-07-23T09:29:00.000-04:00

Unbelievably, water is the only natural wonder weight loss product. We all take water for granted. We are too busy looking for miracle potions and remedies and drugs to take a second at look at one of the most common and ordinary compounds that we cannot do without, water. It plays a great multi-dimensional role in our lives. And an important dimension pertains to its help for permanent weight loss.

Water is a natural appetite suppressant. It helps in the metabolism of the stored fat in the body. This fact has the support of scientific studies, which prove that water deficiency in the body causes the rise in its fat deposits. If you drink more water, the body’s fat deposits dip. A scientific explanatory support to the role of water in regulating fat levels in the body can be given, quite easily. When water deficiency occurs in the body, the kidneys cannot do their work well without enough water supply and the liver rushes to help the kidneys in their function. In the process, the liver is obliged to leave behind some of its own work, which is to metabolize the stored fat into the energy that the body needs. The net result is obvious: increase levels of fat in the body.

Since water is essential for survival, if you do not drink enough water, the body reacts by holding on to every little drop of water that is there in it and retains it in the spaces outside the cells (extra-cellular spaces), with the result that you have swollen limbs. While diuretics help in releasing this trapped water, and therefore reducing the swelling but the condition will return not long after. Ironically, drinking more water is a better solution to the problem of water retention in the body. Additionally, perhaps, you may have to reduce your salt intake, for discouraging your body from retaining water in this way. This is because the excess sodium coming into the body through excess salt intake is usually the main culprit for water retention. Therefore, drinking more water and taking in less common salt is essential. If you allow, water retention in your body, your weight increases. Drink more water for weight loss.

Water prevents dehydration. Your muscle tone improves, your skin grows healthier and softer, and your body sheds its waste products better, if you drink plenty of water. For getting rid of constipation, water is essential. It aids the passage of food through the digestive tract and helps the bowel movement.

It is true that drinking too much water causes many health problems for the brain, the heart, the muscle and so on. “Water intoxication” may cause dizziness, nausea etc. It is equally true that drinking too little water also causes many other problems. You must know, therefore, how much water intake is good for you. Most health care professionals and weight loss experts advise you to drink about 2 ½ liters of water per day. However, during days of hot weather, you should drink more. Also, when you do a lot of physical activity or exercise, your body needs more water. It is better to drink cold water, as it burns more calories, and helps you to lose weight.

Remember, most foods and drinks that you consume have water in them. Follow the golden rule about water intake for health and weight loss: not too little, not too much, but enough.

Herbal remedies for hair loss

2007-07-22T12:33:00.000-04:00

While hair loss is only nature at work a great majority try anything and everything to bring back their locks. Or at least some of their once full head of hair. While it would be wrong to assume that you will sprout a full head of glorious hair equivalent to your youth it seems that in some cases herbal remedies have promoted hair re-growth.

While everyone is different of course and so will see different if any results, it seems that herbal remedies could be worth trying when all else has fails and does seem to offer some hope. Here we take a look at some of the more popular forms of herbal medicine that have thought to help with hair re-growth.

Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba is a very popular herbal remedy that is thought to help with many problems, among them improving the circulation of blood to the brain and skin. The majority of herbalists who prescribe this for loss of hair do so believing that the increase of blood to the brain and skin delivers more nutrients to the hair follicles and so promotes hair re-growth.

Green tea

Green tea is another popular herbal remedy it is thought that the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase is inhibited by the catechins found in the green tea. This herbalist’s claim help to reduce the risk of male pattern type baldness if you drink several cups on a daily basis.

He Shou wu

He shou wu is an ancient Chinese herb that has been used for centuries for hair loss and baldness. It is frequently available in both tea and capsule form and is one of the main ingredients found in many commercial remedies for the treatment of hair loss.

Pygeum

Pygeum is taken from the bark of the evergreen tree and works in a very similar way to green tea. It has been used to treat problems with the prostrate for many years in China and can be taken in pill or capsule form.

Saw palmetto

Saw palmetto is a very popular choice among with hair loss; this is due to the fact that it also has the ability to protect the prostrate. Not only does it encourage the hair to re-grow but it also slows down the loss of hair.

Stinging nettle

Stinging nettle blocks the conversion of testosterone into DHT; this is the main cause of hair loss in men. It can be bought in either pill or capsule form and is said to be more effective when used in combination with saw palmetto or pygeum.

Other natural remedies

Other herbal remedies can be used in the treatment of hair loss in a similar way to shampoo, by rubbing into the scalp. The most popular forms of external herbal remedies include onion and red pepper. Onion is thought to help because it has a high content of sulfur. Sulfur is thought to be a hair healing mineral and it is thought that by rubbing half an onion into the scalp or hair before washing can help to promote hair re-growth. Red pepper is also thought to help re-growth as it draws blood to the scalp because of irritation. It is also said to help encourage the release of histamines that stimulate hair re-growth.

The Secrets of Traditional Chinese Medicine

2007-07-21T16:40:00.000-04:00

“A single untried popular remedy often throws the scientific doctor into hysterics.” -Chinese proverb

With modern medicine to take care of every scrape and pain, we may find ourselves reaching for the Tylenol bottle and band-aids much too quickly. Popping pills has almost become routine and you can take them for anything that ails you. However, we don’t have to be chained to modern medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine has been around for thousands of years keeping people healthy and happy and continues to do so to this day.

As we begin our study of traditional Chinese medicine, we must keep in mind that for those that practice traditional Chinese medicine, this is a way of life. It is not like the modern medicine we experience in the United States, in fact, it is quite different. This traditional form of medicine treats more than just the illness. You would not pop a pill every time you got a headache. You may consider other treatments such as massage or acupuncture to cure your headaches, especially if it is a chronic condition. There are three major branches of traditional Chinese medicine include only herbal, massage and acupuncture.

Today in China, traditional Chinese medicine is a distinct branch of medicine that is practiced in conjunction with modern western medicine. It is important to note that western medicine is far superior in treating trauma cases while traditional Chinese medicine excels in treating things such as: infections, chronic conditions and the side effects of chemotherapy and drug addiction withdrawals. This in no way is meant to infer that traditional Chinese medicine is inferior to its western counterpart. It is simply good to remember Chinese and western medicines are two distinct ways of treating illnesses. Traditional Chinese medicine offers a more comprehensive look at your overall health and will help maintain a better overall well-being while western medicine is more focused on treating the illness at hand.

Controlling your Chi

Much of the basis for traditional Chinese medicine lies in the concept of Chi. (This word is also commonly spelled “Qi” or “ki” –there is no “correct” way since it is just the sounds of the words being transcribed into roman letters). Chi is the energy of life that we all possess and control. Literally, the word translates as “breath” or “energy flow.” Similarly, the Chinese symbol used for the word Chi is symbolic of steam rising off of rice while cooking.

Since Chi is the flow of energy throughout your body, illness is thought to occur when this energy cannot flow properly, it’s path becomes too narrow or is blocked from flowing all together. Although some may claim to control Chi with their mind, this is not the mainstream idea behind controlling your Chi. Typically, a Chinese healer will use massage, diet, herbs and possibly exercise to help increase the flow of Chi.

As a westerner, we can still control our Chi through similar practices as the Chinese. To begin to understand how to feel your Chi, you can rapidly rub your hands together until they start to become warm. Then slowly separate them until they are about one inch apart. Between your hands you will feel your Chi flowing from hand to hand. Although this little exercise will be fun to show your friends, a much more serious way to begin to actually control your Chi is through meditation. Find a quiet corner where you can begin to focus your mind on your Chi. You must remain calm and concentrate intently on finding the force of life as it flows throughout your body. You may be able to focus in on the energy itself, however, many people are also successful at visualizing it as it travels through the body. As you experiment, you will gain more control over your Chi and be able to direct it throughout your body to help relax and heal you.

Yin and Yang

Yin and yang is a traditional Chinese concept of philosophy that explains the difference between dark and light. Yin and yang is a metaphor for all opposites and tradition holds that although forces may be opposite, they are also complimentary. Yin is thought to be the dark force, representing dark or night and all things passive. Yin does not represent evil, as is a common misconception among westerners. Since yin and yang are complimentary, neither one can possibly a representation of good or evil. They are simply different. Yang, being the opposite of yin, is viewed as things that are bright and sunny and is often symbolized with fire. Yang is a force with active qualities.

The concept of yin and yang is also unique in that it is not an absolute theory. No one thing is purely yin or yang. Everything is constantly changing and so is the balance of yin and yang. You can also not have one without the other. They are interdependent entities that need each other to survive.

The concept of yin and yang is directly applicable to your health. In traditional Chinese medicine, if the two are consistently unbalanced and one dominates over the other, then the result will be sickness and disease. Chi, yin and yang are all common threads that tie the branches of traditional Chinese medicine together.

Acupuncture as a healing aid

Acupuncture, meaning, “needle prick,” is a form of treatment that involves sticking needles into various points, known as “acupuncture points.” These points are specific to what ails you and acupuncture has been proven effective in treating pain, headaches, nausea and other various ailments. However, in traditional Chinese medicine, the purpose is more than merely curing what ails you, the purpose is to put your Chi and body in harmony and to ensure that each part of your body had adequate yin and yang.

The acupuncturist will typically use solid, thin stainless steel needles (But copper or silver needles work well too) at each acupuncture point you need treated. Most points are not tied directly to any one specific part of your body, such as the liver or lungs, but rather, each point represents an area or function of the body.

To diagnose a patient, an acupuncturist will often take many signs from the face area to determine the correct course of treatment. After a quick study of the tongue and mouth, the acupuncturist will often inquire about your recent well-being. Then, before the actual treatment, the acupuncturist may try to locate “ashi” points on your body, or soft spots, to help determine the proper course of treatment. There is then a complex array of points, channels and systems for determining the acupuncture points, of which there is not enough room to discuss for the purposes of this article. The important thing to know is that each acupuncture point is a way to redirect your Chi to improve the function of your various body parts.

It is still a secret how acupuncture works to relieve pain and there are many theories surrounding it. One of the leading theories is that the needles used release hormones or other chemicals that interact with pain in a positive way. Others believe that it has a good effect on blood pressure to improve circulation and target pain at its source.

Herbal Medicine

Traditional Chinese herbology is just about as complex as modern medicine itself. A traditional Chinese herbologist would not simply prescribe an herb for whatever condition it is you have. Instead, the herbologist would choose one or two main ingredients to target your illness and then augment the concoction with other herbs to put the rest of your body back into harmony. Equally important, a Chinese herb doctor will include certain herbs to act as a catalyst to the main ingredients and others to nullify the toxic effects that some other herbs may have. Traditional Chinese herbology holds that no single herb is the key to health or treating pain. Each patient actually needs an herbal remedy tailor fitted to them.

The herbs themselves are not long held Chinese secret, but the manner in which they are combined and used is. Common herbs and their corresponding remedies include: tangerine peel to help regulate your Chi, Hawthorn fruit for improving gastrointestinal function, pumpkin seed to kill parasites, red sage root to invigorate your blood and aster berry to help eliminate phlegm. There are literally hundreds of herbs and combinations of herbs that can be used for various aches, pains and diseases.

Today, off the shelf varieties of traditional herbal remedies can be bought over the counter in China. Two major brands of Chinese herbal remedies are exported to the United States: Plum Flower and Mín Shān. It is important to use one of these two mainstream Chinese brands or buy something made in the United States because off brands may contain higher than recommended quantities of undesirable substances such as mercury or lead. Although manufactured pills lack the individual quality found in true traditional Chinese medicine cocktails prepared by herb doctors, the various groupings of herbs are still very effective in treating minor things. For more severe cases of pain, it becomes more important to go the more traditional route of having a true herb doctor find the right balance of herbs for you.

Massage

Chinese massage is an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine, and rightly so. Chinese varieties of massage focus on the principles of chi or acupuncture, depending on the style of massage being practiced.

Zhi Ya is a form of Chinese massage that focuses on the acupuncture points. Pinching or pressing each particular acupuncture point helps to stimulate these points and achieve increased flow of chi. Tui Na is a form of Chinese massage that focuses less on the acupuncture points and focuses more on relaxing the muscles themselves by kneading and stretching them. Although these are both bona fide methods of Chinese massage, perhaps the most traditional method is Tai Ji massage, a method that focuses on cleansing the body through massage to create balance between your yin and yang.

Does it really work?

Just like modern medicine, what works for some, may not work for others. Some may find peace with traditional Chinese medicine and find that they are healthier and happier for practicing it. Although there is evidence that many of these traditional practices have been successful, it is not a branch of medicine based in scientific fact. However, when you take a look at the individual components of traditional Chinese medicine you can see that they are all factors in creating harmony in your life and keeping you in a position less prone to sickness.

Through controlling your Chi, you will find yourself more in tune with your body, more willing to cut out stress from your life. You will probably also find yourself eating healthier, participating in healthy exercises as well as other health promoting things. Massage and acupuncture will work with your body in much the same way, you will become more in tune with your body and able to diagnose sicknesses and realize the times your body needs rest, relaxation or even increased activity. Chinese medicine may be successful due to the increased awareness of your body and self. If you know that your Chi is blocked, you know you need to so something about it.

The results of traditional Chinese medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine will undoubtedly help to create a better, more well-rounded you. By concentrating on your Chi and balance of yin and yang, you are guaranteed to live a more serene life. If you haven’t guessed it by now, the true secret to traditional Chinese medicine is that you will stop focusing only on sickness but include your wellness as a health aspect. When you become stressed out from work or family affairs, you will be able to recognize that and find ways to better balance your yin and yang and work through the stress. You won’t keep bad things from happening to you, but with traditional Chinese medicine, you will be able to better deal with any challenge that you face.

Overcoming Trauma

2007-07-21T15:54:00.000-04:00

There are many thoughts and feelings associated with a traumatic experience. Trauma occurs when we are faced with any terrible situation, such as a car accident, fire, witness to an accident, natural disaster, an attack on your person, war, e.t.c. Many people who are recovering from a traumatic experience mentally block out the experience that caused distress while others will relive it time and time again.

Trauma can bring many feelings such as:

Shock – shock is a normal reaction to any traumatic experience and the closer you were to the experience the more shock sets in. Your brain has to process the terrible images you have seen and this is when the feelings of shock set in and will take time to digest.

Disbelief – many people experiencing a shocking situation have strong belief that what they have witnessed cannot possibly have happened.

Denial – many people deny that the event happened; they try to force it out of their mind.

Emotional pain – even if you haven’t been hurt in the incident you will feel the pain of those around you who did.

Anger – after shock, anger will set in, you will ask yourself “why has this happened to you” and you can feel anger towards anyone and everyone.

Blame – we very often blame ourselves or others for what has happened, we may even blame God for letting this happen.

Sadness – when overcoming a particular traumatic experience you will feel waves of sadness suddenly overwhelming you.

Depression – for some time after the experience you may suddenly lapse into depression from time to time.

Anxiety – anxiety often develops from fear and can continue for some time after the experience.

All of the above are the most common feelings and thoughts associated with having gone through trauma; these feelings can come in no particular order and at any time. What you should realize is that these feelings are only natural and are your body and minds way of coping with what happened, the feelings and thoughts will eventually dissipate with time. There are many ways you can cope with them and help yourself to overcome them, the best way for you of course will depend on the severity of the trauma you were exposed to. There are however a number of coping skills which can be learnt in order to help you overcome trauma.

Taking about what happened and letting it all out

Listening to and accepting advice from family, friends or counselor

Accepting what happened and continuing on with life

Changing your environment

Taking part in recreational activities

Picking up your old daily routine

Taking part in seminars

Study Finds Milk Protein Improves Shut Eye

2007-07-21T15:23:00.000-04:00

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) says lack of sleep is the single most overlooked health problem in the country and it's only getting worse. Many Americans are chronically sleep deprived which over time impairs memory, well-being and can even endanger life - as evidenced by the more than 100,000 car crashes attributed to fatigue each year. But, for the estimated 126 million adult Americans who experience symptoms of insomnia on a regular basis, relief might be found in the refrigerator, not the medicine cabinet.

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finds that a protein naturally found in milk may improve sleep quality and next day alertness. "Milk contains a protein alpha-lactalbumin, rich in tryptophan, that tells the brain to sleep," says Dr. Milton Erman, President of Pacific Sleep Medicine Services and a member of Scripps Clinic Medical Group in La Jolla. "Plus you wake up feeling rested the next morning, without the side effects that often come with sleep inducing drugs."

Milk's sleep-inducing properties have been documented for centuries.
Dating back to 1500 BC, the oldest medical text -- which forms the basis of Indian Ayurvedic medicine -- advises poor sleepers to drink a glass of milk before bed.

"Milk makes more sense than a pill," says Jeff Manning, executive director, California Milk Processor Board (CMPB). "And, you might wake up with stronger bones."

"It doesn't have to be a glass of white milk," stresses Manning.
"Flavored milk, hot chocolate or a bowl of cereal all work."

Sleep Facts

According to a study conducted by Unity Sleep Medicine & Research Center, St. Louis, the cost of products and services to treat chronic and occasional insomnia totals more than $16 billion dollars annually.
Americans spend over $4 billion dollars each year on prescription and over-the-counter sleep aids.
Lactose-free milk contains the same sleep-inducing proteins as regular milk.
Lack of sleep is a rampant problem among teens and puts them at a risk for cognitive and emotional difficulties. Insufficient sleep has also been shown to cause difficulties in school, including disciplinary problems, sleepiness in class and poor concentration.

A positive outlook for a positive life

2007-07-21T13:32:00.000-04:00

Our outlook and attitude on life in general plays a huge part in how happy we are in life and how successful we become. Someone who thinks positively about everything will be more relaxed, calm and smile more than someone who is always looking on the bad side, who lets stress get to them and who constantly wear a frown.

Not only does how you think and feel affect you, it also affects those around you, in short our mood affects our day. Developing and keeping a positive outlook is essential if you wish to lead a positive and fulfilling life.

There are many ways in which you can develop a more positive outlook and begin to change how you think and feel about many situations that you encounter in day-to-day living. Changing your attitude and not slipping back into negative thinking will take time but eventually the new outlook will become second nature.

The five main key points to remember when changing your outlook are:

Turn your way of thinking into positive thinking and practice on a daily basis thinking positively. You should set your mind on completing one task at a time and think only of a positive outcome and how good you will feel when you have completed the task. Never give in to doubt and let yourself believe that you have taken too much on and just keep going.
Don’t let your conversations turn negative, when in a conversation it is easy to let others discourage you, particularly if they have a negative outlook on life. Don’t be tempted to fall back into your old ways, turn negative talk into positive and look for the good in everything and any situation.
Look for the positive in those around you and point it out, this way you can encourage a positive attitude all around you.
Whatever you are doing in your day-to-day life always look for the good in it, although it might be a boring task which you usually hate doing and one which leaves you feeling negatively, try to find something about it that turns it into a more positive situation.
Never let yourself become distracted or hoodwinked into going back to negativity, it takes time to change the way you feel and think and if you have been down on yourself and the world for a long time then your new outlook will take a while to register and stay around.

You will find over time that many areas of your life can be changed just by changing your outlook from a negative one to a more positive. You will find that your self-esteem improves, you become more popular, you feel happier and are more confident than before, you are able to tackle the tasks you once hated without them causing you stress and anxiety and your relationships improve. These are just a few of the areas where you can self-improve and gain a more positive outlook and thus lead a more positive life.

Get into the yogic experience to chase away that insomnia

2007-07-21T13:30:00.000-04:00

While any form of exercise can help those who have trouble sleeping to get a good nights rest there is one form of exercise that can be especially useful for those suffering from sleep problems. Yoga can work wonders for your body and mind and help you to nod off much more easily.

Causes for insomnia

Although there are many reasons why people suffer from insomnia one of the main reasons is stress and anxiety. If you have been diagnosed as being depressed or suffering from anxiety then it is quite likely that you also suffer from sleep disturbance. Here is where you could benefit from practising yoga, yoga is known to relax the body and mind and bring about a feeling of wellbeing.

By practicing yoga for as little as ten minutes you could gain a better night’s sleep. There are many different yoga positions and some are harder to learn than others, with some only being suitable for those who are very supple. However there are three yoga positions that specifically benefit those who have problems sleeping and which anyone of any age can perform.

All yoga positions have specific names and the three which are especially beneficial to insomniacs are called “supported downward dog”, “legs up the wall” and last but not least “child’s pose”.

The supported downward dog relaxes your mind while stretching your spine. It can help to slow the brain down particularly if you rest your head on something during performing the exercise. Very little special equipment is required to perform the movement, a stack of books or a rolled up blanket and a yoga block is all that’s needed.

Begin the movement on your hands and knees’ making sure the block is resting underneath your chest. Slowly move your hands forward roughly 6 inches in front of you while tucking your toes in and straightening out your legs. Make sure your neck is relaxed and rest your head onto the block.

The legs up the wall as the name suggests requires you to sit facing a wall about a foot away, then lie on your back while straightening your legs and bringing your heels to rest against the wall. This is said to cool down the nervous system that allows you to relax easier and quicker.

The child’s pose takes you back to the days when you were a child and would rest your head on your hands to take a nap if you were tired. It is a pose that encourages sleep. To perform it correctly sit with your shins on the floor and your hips resting on your feet, let your knees fall open should width and fold forward. Slowly bring your head to rest on a pillow with your arms either extending by your head or resting them by your hips.

You can perform these three exercises before going to bed to encourage a more restful night. The three exercises when combined should take no longer than 15 minutes and bring about a sense of deep relaxation when performed correctly.

Aromatherapy for Beginners

2007-07-21T13:10:00.000-04:00

The use of oils to help affect a person’s mood and well-being has been practiced for thousands of years. The oil from various plant species is extracted and concentrated to form what are known as essential oils. These essential oils are basically concentrated versions of the plants fragrant essence and are typically about 100 times as fragrant as the corresponding dried plant.

The nature of essential oils and carrier oils

Most often, a pure concentrate of an essential oil is far too strong to be used alone. Typically, these essential oils will evaporate if exposed to air so they must be stored in airtight containers. Essential oils do not have the same properties as fatty oils such as olive or almond oil. However, they are soluble in fatty oils. For this reason, these types of fatty oils are often used as carrier oils to create a usable form of the aromatic essential oil. Almond oil is a very common carrier oil for making massage oil and most essential oils are used at 2-5% strength, requiring a large quantity of carrier oil due to the high concentration of the essential oil.

When used in massage, the oils are thought to penetrate the skin and enter the tissues and bloodstream in a matter of minutes or hours, depending on the essential oil. From here, the oil goes to work to help rejuvenate and regenerate dead or unhealthy cells. However, as the term aromatherapy implies, the aromas are often received through smell alone, whether it be through candles, scented oils, shampoos or other personal care products, and transmit a signal to our brain to create an emotion, feeling or response from us.

Essential oils to consider

Basil oil - Basil essential oil is typically extracted from the basil plant through a steam distillery process. The oil itself can be useful in treating a number of different chest related sickness such as colds, bronchitis, flu, coughs and rheumatism. It can also be used as an effective insect repellent or as a treatment for bites. However, basil should be avoided by pregnant women and should never be taken in large doses.

Sandalwood oil – Sandalwood oil is reminiscent of a forest like floral scent and is often used to treat depression, stress and a variety of skin problems such as stretch marks, scars, oily skin or dry skin. Sandalwood oil is very high in demand and very scarce due to many species sandalwood trees being endangered. For this reason sandalwood is often imitated or diluted and it can often be very hard to tell the real thing from the fake.

Spanish Sage oil – Spanish Sage is an evergreen shrub and can produce an uplifting aroma to treat circulation, arthritis, acne, asthma, coughing, laryngitis as well as stress, headaches and exhaustion.

Vetivert oil – Vetivert oil is derived from a perennial grass and has woody, smoky scent with sweet undertones. This oil typically mixed well with more common scents such as sandlewood, sage or jasmine. Vetiverts therapeutic qualities can be used as a treatment for depression, tension and insomnia.

Tagetes oil – Tagetes oil is derived from its flowering annual counterpart and is used primarily as a treatment for skin conditions such as corns, calluses and bunions although it may also be used to treat fungal infections. Occasionally, contact with too high of a concentration of tagetes oil can cause dermatitis so use should be discontinued immediately if any adverse reaction is seen.

Men and Depression

2007-07-21T12:32:00.000-04:00

Depression affects men as much as it affects women. Due to social stigma, few men are willing to report it and get the necessary treatment. Since the number of women seeking medical treatment for depression outranges the number of men, depression in men is left unnoticed. It is said that about 6 million men in

America

suffer from depression every year. There are numerous reasons for this. Some of these include a failed relationship or marriage or even work pressures. At times the reason for the depression is unknown.

The symptoms for depression in both women and men are the same. The only difference is the way they express it. Some of the symptoms in men are insomnia, lack of concentration, fatigue, irritation etc. They also experience lack of interest in their work place or any other social activities.

As mentioned earlier, more number of women are seen visiting psychiatrist for depression related problem. However instead of seeking for medical help, men tend to engage themselves in various other activities. They try to do other activities by which they can forget the root cause of their depression. Some of these may not be healthy. Such activities are working more than usual, consuming alcohol excessively. Some men take the extreme steps of indulging in drugs or driving recklessly. These are some of the ways men use to cope up with the situation. It is well known that women attempt suicide more than men do. But statistics show that the number of men committing suicide in USA is four times than that of women.

Whatever may be the reason for your depression, it should be given proper treatment. For this, the first thing is that men should come forward and voice out their feelings in open. Self initiative is the best help. Other than that you should try for psychotherapy, or counseling. If possible look around for a support group nearby. You can also try going for a Psychotherapeutic work. It can be done individually or in a group. The advantage of doing it in a group is that you are motivated in an environment where there are several other suffering like you. You can help each other come out of the depression and face the challenge together.

You can consult your doctor for antidepressant medication. You can try different kinds of medicines and see which one can get rid of the depression. In rare cases or in emergencies, it is recommended to go for ECT (electroconvulsive therapy). If you are feeling suicidal do talk about it to someone. There are many organizations, doctors, physicians who are working for the same cause. You can seek help from any one of them.

Yoga Today Introduces Free Internet TV Yoga Courses

2007-07-21T12:26:00.000-04:00

Original, One-Hour Courses Bring Yoga Practice Conveniently to the Masses in High-Definition

JACKSON, Wyo., June 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Yoga Today has announced the availability of free, one-hour yoga classes in high-definition video over the Internet (iHD) via Instant Media's (I'M) free software available at http://www.im.com/. I'M's patent-pending caching technology enables the highest quality, full-screen viewing experience on the market today, making the breathtaking setting of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, in which Yoga Today is filmed, all the more inspiring to Yoga novices and experts alike. In each episode of Yoga Today, world-class instructors Adi Amar, Neesha Zollinger and Sarah Kline will take viewers through sessions that focus on strength building, flexibility and stamina, as well as meditation-in-motion. Yoga Today will deliver new shows seven days a week, 365 days per year, keeping workouts fresh and energizing. This new, free, yoga-on-demand format provides excellent training for everyone from students to stay-at-home parents to traveling business executives.

According to a study commissioned by Yoga Journal, 16.5 million Americans stay fit through yoga -- up 43 percent from 2002. With yoga courses averaging $15/session and yoga DVDs averaging $15 each*, Americans can save hundreds -- if not thousands -- of dollars by accessing the courses from Yoga Today. Yoga Today's free content will be supported by four 30-second ads at the beginning of each episode.

"Yoga Today's mission is to bring free yoga to the world," said Kim Whitman, President and Executive Producer of Yoga Today. "It is really yoga for everyone, anywhere they are, providing the perfect balance of hands-on instruction with fresh, new courses in an inspiring setting directly to consumers via their laptops, PCs or televisions. Yoga-on-the-go is a convenience we are offering people with busy schedules, and with the I'M delivery platform, we're able to make on-demand fitness available to our customers."

Each Yoga Today episode will feature an expert instructor and two students. The students will have different skill levels and instructors will interact with them to improve their poses. This down-to-earth approach to yoga training makes the class more authentic and accessible to viewers, allowing them to improve their practice from the comfort of their own homes, hotel rooms or anywhere they see fit. Courses will be filmed outdoors in spectacular Teton settings or, when weather does not permit, indoors in a state-of-the-art yoga studio.

In addition to its availability through I'M, Yoga Today's content will be downloadable for Mac users in QuickTime format in a video archive on the company's Web site: http://www.yogatoday.com/. Yoga Today also plans to offer individuals or groups the chance to practice yoga live, with its instructors on retreats in rejuvenating destination locations.

How To Access Yoga Today on Internet TV

Viewing Yoga Today on Internet TV is easy. Consumers can download the I'M player for free at http://www.im.com/. Once the player is installed, consumers can browse an integrated directory of channels, including videocasts and audiocasts, and subscribe for free to Yoga Today. Viewers can perform work on their PC while shows download in the background, or leave their systems on through the night and wake up to a fresh class every morning. New shows appear automatically, and are ready to watch instantly. Instant Media also provides an automated disk management capability system to ensure that your allocated cache for Yoga Today remains updated with the latest shows. All shows are archived in a lower resolution QuickTime format that can be easily downloaded by PC and Mac users alike, directly from http://www.yogatoday.com/.

About Yoga Today

Yoga Today delivers yoga practices that are accessible to anyone, anytime through Internet TV. With new courses posting everyday and training from world-class instructors, Yoga Today brings the benefits of yoga to experts and novices alike in the comfort of their own homes. Yoga Today also offers viewers the chance to practice live with their instructors through exclusive Yoga Today retreats. For more information, visit http://www.yogatoday.com/.

* Yoga Journal, How to Open a Yoga Studio, By Constance Loizos, June 2006; Average cost of top 50 yoga videos on amazon.com, June 2006.

Website: http://www.yogatoday.com/
Website: http://www.im.com/

Fitness and Self Help with Yoga

2007-07-21T12:23:00.000-04:00

The word ‘yoga’ is originally from the Sanskrit language and began in India some 3,000 to 4,000 years ago. By definition, yoga means, to integrate, to become a union or to join.

Some say that the practice of yoga began as part of the philosophical system of India. However, not everyone practiced yoga. Nor was yoga ever a religion.

In the United States alone, roughly some 5 million people practice some form of yoga. As examples, stretching exercise classes and some dance classes often incorporate portions and pieces in their routines that directly are derived from some form of yoga. Plus physical therapists also often advise clients to practice types of therapeutic exercises that contain yoga postures.

There are a variety of types of yoga. Some yoga most often shown on television and at local gyms and YMCA centers plus even at adult education classes is the type called hatha yoga, also known as physical yoga. Others call this type yoga for health, as this same type of basic yoga is also often taught hospital and other medical settings, and many health professionals believe that yoga can be part of a healthy treatment plan today.

This popular form of yoga, hatha yoga, contains three main parts: a series of movements or exercises known as asana, also poses or postures in English, breathing techniques of a variety of types plus relaxation.

How to Get Started with Yoga

Head to the public library, bookstore or online store for audio or video tapes that can offer breathing instruction and relaxation techniques. Or you may consult with a yoga instructor in your area or online. Note that although yoga instructors do not have to be certified, many are through various programs.

Yoga can be invigorating, fun, healthy and relaxing. It is considered by many as a ‘wise way’ handed down throughout many thousands of years. So most find little if any danger in yoga. In fact, most find that with at least a little progress, it brings them freedom and peace of mind.

Here are a couple of tips:

With yoga, always make sure to warm up and cool down.
Don't exercise outdoors when the weather is too humid, too hot or too cold.