Is The Answer To Younger Skin Found in Soap?

How Does Soap Work
Soap helps remove dead skin. Believe it or not, the skin is the body's largest organ, responsible for removing toxins and waste from the body.

Soap is made to remove the dead skin from the top layer of skin - the epidermis - and the microbes that eat them. Soap should be used with a brush to help perform this task.

A toner will close the pores and prevent them from being clogged with dead skin and pollutants in the air.

A good soap will do both. The soap does not need to lather to do this. There are different types of soap. A good soap is made from oils and fatty acid. The oils are mixed with alkali to form glycerin and the salt of the fatty acid.

The surfactants (surface-active agents) in soaps remove grease and dirt because Surfactants have a molecular structure that acts as a link between water and the dirt particles. So the soap actually works like a magnet, or glue, that picks up the dirt and adheres it to the water which then drains away.

A good soap may contain a toner or astringent to tighten the pores, but adding moisturizers, perfume, colors, and scents may actually work against the process by being deposited on the skin and clogging the newly cleaned pores.

Soaps work because of the structure of water. Water molecules contain 2 hydrogen atoms and an oxygen atom trapped between them. This makes the water molecule polar with a positive charge at one end and a negative at the other.

Ad an ionic compound like sodium chloride and the positive and negative parts of water are attracted to the positive ions and negative ions. This is what makes soap water soluble. The solubility of the soap depends on the strength of the attraction.

In this way, the fat in our skin, and on our skin are water soluble, making it easy for them to wash away. The epidermis needs a non-polar material that can be dissolved, moved, and then restored to its non-polar state, like a lipid, or triglyceride.

A lipid is made from two parts fatty acid, and an alcohol called glycerine. Both the fat and glycerine are water soluble.

Saturated fats are solid at room temperature, like l lard and butter. Unsaturated fats are liquids at room temperature like safflower oil. While the unsaturated fat is healthier, liquid soap is not easy to handle.

Cleansing and astringent herbs may be added to the mix, to improve the scent and cleansing ability of the soap. When the soap dissolves, dirt and pollutants are trapped, and sloughed away with the water.

As the soap takes away pollutants, dead skin, biological contaminants, and waste, the skin works less to remove toxins from the body. Drinking lots of water improves this task, and keeps the skin healthier.

This could be one reason why we are seeing woman in their 50s who look young. They have 'good' soaps, and a good diet that keeps their epidermis working well. Like all 'organs' a healthy epidermis looks healthy - and a chemically damaged and abused organ looks wasted, damaged, and color spotted.

Avoid Diabetes Getting Out of Control As You Age

Most people don't realize that diabetes becomes harder to manage as you grow older. Our bodies start to metabolise food differently, our needs for calories decreases, and our vitamin needs change.

When it comes to managing diabetes, a small change makes a big difference.

Currently the diabetic epidemic affects 2 million Canadians, and costs $13.2 billion a year. Earlier prevention, earlier diagnosis, and aggressive treatment of diabetes that controls blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and lipid (i.e. cholesterol) levels are proven to prevent the damage caused by diabetes.

One of the problems is caused by binging at holidays. There is a group where you can find help and friends who can help. SparkyPeople.com Managing Diabetes Over 50

New Cancer Discoveries

It is amazing, how many new discoveries are found for today's diseases. I write a lot about prevention, but cures give hope. They are our future, the secret to long life, and a better life style.

A new test analyzes some mysterious cancers and may provide a short-cut for treating them. Israel-based Rosetta Genomics (ROSG.O: Quote, Profile, Research) said its test, uses microRNAs, a genetic material that regulates genes that are involved in cancer.

Most cancers are named for the place they first develop:breast, lung cancer, or colon cancer. Even if they cancers spread, they are still identified by their primary origin.

"But there is a group of patients who have tumors that appear in a metastatic site which, with the best imaging, you can't find a primary tumor," said Dr. Martin Raber of the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

"It either acquired the ability to metastasize so early in development that primary didn't develop. Or the primary never existed," added Raber, who specializes in such cancers and who was not involved in the research.

Identifying the primary origin is the key to treating cancer , said Raber.

"Today we have specific chemotherapies. We have therapies for colon cancer that don't seem to work in other settings," Raber said in a telephone interview. "You can no longer design one regimen that captures all tumors."

"This research demonstrates the tremendous potential of microRNAs as effective biomarkers, and is a significant step towards the development of the first microRNA-based diagnostic tests," said Amir Avniel, president of Rosetta Genomics.

Raber, said eventually such tests will become more refined.

"At the end of the day as a doctor I don't really care if my unknown primary tumor patient had breast cancer, colon cancer or lung cancer," he said.

"All I really care about is what treatment will my patient respond to. Some day we will have gene panels that predict responsiveness to taxanes or ... Erbitux or responsiveness to Avastin," he added. REUTERS

New Cancer Discoveries

It is amazing, how many new discoveries are found for today's diseases. I write a lot about prevention, but cures give hope. They are our future, the secret to long life, and a better life style.

A new test analyzes some mysterious cancers and may provide a short-cut for treating them. Israel-based Rosetta Genomics (ROSG.O: Quote, Profile, Research) said its test, uses microRNAs, a genetic material that regulates genes that are involved in cancer.

Most cancers are named for the place they first develop:breast, lung cancer, or colon cancer. Even if they cancers spread, they are still identified by their primary origin.

"But there is a group of patients who have tumors that appear in a metastatic site which, with the best imaging, you can't find a primary tumor," said Dr. Martin Raber of the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

"It either acquired the ability to metastasize so early in development that primary didn't develop. Or the primary never existed," added Raber, who specializes in such cancers and who was not involved in the research.

Identifying the primary origin is the key to treating cancer , said Raber.

"Today we have specific chemotherapies. We have therapies for colon cancer that don't seem to work in other settings," Raber said in a telephone interview. "You can no longer design one regimen that captures all tumors."

"This research demonstrates the tremendous potential of microRNAs as effective biomarkers, and is a significant step towards the development of the first microRNA-based diagnostic tests," said Amir Avniel, president of Rosetta Genomics.

Raber, said eventually such tests will become more refined.

"At the end of the day as a doctor I don't really care if my unknown primary tumor patient had breast cancer, colon cancer or lung cancer," he said.

"All I really care about is what treatment will my patient respond to. Some day we will have gene panels that predict responsiveness to taxanes or ... Erbitux or responsiveness to Avastin," he added. REUTERS

Follow My Free Natural Holistic Colon Cleansing Program

This is a cross post from my blog www.healthafter40.blogspot.com This health blog is my most active, and ranks high among the blogging sites. I will be posting a daily journal there of my colon cleansing. I will not be posting the journal here - but in www.healthafter40.blogspot.com so you must go there to comment or follow my progress.


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My husband and I plan to start a colon cleansing program on April one. I will use natural foods and am aiming at 'cleaning out' the dangerous mucus build ups, not just restore my body's ability to create stools.

Feel Free to subscribe to follow this program. I am not going to become 'gross' or descriptive about my program, but I will tell you what I eat, the results, and how I feel.

I plan to do a full 7 day cleansing. At the end, you will have a basic understanding of the colon cleansing process. I will be posting articles within the next week to explain what I plan to do, and why.

The program will actually start a couple days early when I 'prepare' my body. Colon cleansing requires 'shocking' the body - but not making it ill.


USA Today, "Most people who eat the standard American 'goo and glue' diet have about 5-10 pounds of matter stored in the colon."

I will include fennel seed, flax seed, Psyllium but not senna. I will increase the fruits I eat, including (and most important) increasing the orange juice and adding rhubarb to my diet.

What Do 'Life Expectancy Numbers' Really Mean?

These numbers are from a report in 2000

the US population included 35.0 million people 65 and over. This number represents a 12% increase since 1990. The older population is growing.

Between 1990 and 2000, the total population increased by 13.2 percent, from 248.7 million to 281.4 million people. The population 65 years and over increased
by 12.0 percent. In 2000, there were 18.4 million people ages 65 to 74 years old, representing 53% of the 'mature' population in the US.

That means the total 'mature' population was about 37 - 40 million people. Or, to put this in perspective, the population of 'mature adults' in the USA exceeds the total population of Canada in 2007.

In 1960, only 7% of the Canadian population was over 65. Currently 11% of the population has reached this level, and in 2016 they expect that 16% of the population will be over 65. Currently, 4.4 million people in Canada are over 65.

This is a lot of people who 'beat the odds.' It is hard to imagine that about 16 million adults in the UK represent that 10% chance of reaching 70 years old.

So, next time you ask yourself whether all the exercise and healthy living are worth it, just remember the 40 million +/- old people in North America and how much fun they are having.

Some Life Expectancy Stats

I spent the morning looking through life expectancy charts. At first they were rather daunting. There are the world life expectancy charts which provide very vague numbers, and have no relevance to your current age, lifestyle, or mitigating circumstances.

If you are Canadian, expect to life between 70 - 75. If you are from the United Kingdom then you get to live to 77 - 80 years old.. a bit less if you are from the United States.

But, if you read the UK government's forms you get a bit of a different picture. If you are a male, and 44 years old, then you have a 50% chance of reaching 93. If you are male, and 60 years old, you have a 16 - 20% chance of reaching 93 years old. Canadians can expect to live between 75 and 80 for all income brackets, male and female. Americans born in 1980 (sorry, can't find older stats) can expect to live to 73.

The general numbers are not too far off. If you were a male born in 1850 then you had a 10% chance of living until 70 years old and 11.5% for women. The same groups born in 1960 would have a balanced 12% chance of reaching 80. Children born in 2000 will have a 16 - 20% chance.

Of course, you may be wondering how to get into the 11%. With the new health discoveries and understanding of fitness, an improved diet, and a safer lifestyle will all work to keep us living longer - and healthier. Hereditary factors will come into play too.

I am not sure I want to reach 93 if I am in a nursing hoe. However, it would be nice to life to 80 and stay on my feat until the very end.

The leading causes of death in 2003 were:

The leading causes of death For Americans in 2003
Rank Cause Deaths
1 Heart disease 684,462
2 Malignant neoplasms 554,643
3 Cerebrovascular diseases 157,803
4 Chronic lower respiratory diseases 126,128
5 Accidents 105,695
6 Diabetes mellitus 73,965
7 Influenza and pnemonia 64,847
8 Alzheimer's disease 63,343
9 Nephritis, nephrotic syndrome,
nephrosis 42,536
10 Septicemia 34,243
11 Suicide 30,642
12 Chronic liver disease and cirrhosis 27,201
13 Essential hypertension
and hypertensive renal disease 21,841
14 Parkinson's disease 17,898
15 Pneumonitis due to solids
and liquids 17,457
LiveScience Chart / SOURCE: CDC

So, when you look at these numbers, and remove things that you are no tprone to, your chances of living longer are looking positive.

I wanted to bring this information to light because I was talking to a friend a few days ago who said 'what is the point.' She was 50 and thought it was too late to extend her life. We have a better chance than our parents. They had no choice but to live on fat, purins (meat), and starch. Many of the healthy foods available to use were unheard of to them. There is a point - enjoying life.

The Car Accident

I'm starting to notice the effects of being stuck in the house all winter. I had a rude awakening this morning. I woke to the news report of a three car accident in my town. I guess this isn't news for many of my readers, but in a small town of less than 300, where horse and buggy out numbers cars, it is quite a shock.

The main road is closed - one car is still on fire at this moment. Emergency vehicles are racing back and forth. The radio ominously announced that there is at least one fatality.

Sometimes I just forget that life is precious. In our hectic daily routines we rarely stop to remember this. Life seems to be an indefinite, even at our age, then something happens to wake us up to the fact that we need to slow down and enjoy every day.

Do You Know What Body Fat Is Made Of?

When you think of body fat, you imagine a white substance that lines the muscles under your skin. We think that it is extra calories - wrong.

Fat is comprised of all the poisons and toxins, the pesticides, the food coloring, the preservatives, and everything in your food that cannot be easily digested. It also includes the poisons and toxins from your face cream, the residue from your shampoo, the air born pollutants in your home, the undigestible parts of your room freshiner.

No wonder the population finds it difficult remaining healthy. Add to this the lack of nutrients needed to energise and fuel the internal organs, and the exercise needed to keep the body healthy, and we have a receipe for disaster.

Once you decide to cleans your body and restore it to its youthful efficiency, stop. It is not time to head to the health food store.

Not All Herbs Are Equal

The first step is to learn about herbs. For example, not all Sage varieties work to help purify the blood and clean the digestive track. The pills may also cause health risks according to this Sage article on Medical Net.

Barberry, black radish, eyebright, lobelia, milk thistle, Oregon grape (do not use if pregnant), pau d'arco, wild yam, and yellow dock cleanse and detoxify the liver and the endocrine system. Use these independently or in combination

Many of these can become part of your diet, taken as a tea, or taken in pill form. But, it is vital to consult a doctor before adding a 'medical herb' to your diet.


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A Healthier You Starts With Body Purification

I spent 10 years living in an area with no doctors for 2 hours away. I learned to take control of my health, and learned a lot of things about health and wellness that are now becoming common knowledge.

Much of the 'health' fad a few years ago was not 'new'but repackaging information that has been around for hundreds of years.

Many health problems, including abdominal pain, constipation and lack of energy, can be related to an unhealthy bowel caused partly or largely by eating and drinking products that form a lot of built up waste inside the colon. People consume large amounts of toxic substances daily, including caffeine, sugar, white flour, aspartame, microwave-cooked food, hydrogenated fats and deep fried foods, which results in pounds of unwanted matter forming in colon.

To get rid of these unwanted accumulations colon cleansing is a natural and easy way. There are many colon cleaning changes you can introduce to your lifestyle that you can try right away.

When I moved to the city, I started trying the 'medical way' and left behind the natural way. The result - in 8 years I've had more flu cases, more allergies, a heart operation. All the result of problems caused by diet and lack of 'body maintenance.'

It is funny. We wouldn't let our car go for years without proper maintenance. We would never think of ignoring our furnace maintenance, chimney sweeping, or septic tank care. So, why do we ignore our body?

Health Foundation: The Colon

I never heard of colon cleansing until I moved to the city. That is because it wasn't a problem where I lived. We ate fresh vegitables (not hydrophonics) and drank lots of water instead of coffee.

Our diet is full of food that has changed from what nature intended. In fact, aggricultural animals refuse to eat some of our new foods - especially the genetically changed ones.

Improvements in nutrition often cure problems without spending hundreds of dollars on 'cures.'

The Colon

The colon doesn't become backed up until people stop keeping their skin working well. The skin was not meant to be covered by anti-persperants, perfumes, powders, lotions, etc.

To begin colon cleansing, drink water, to stimulate the peristaltic action, a person should drink half of his or her weight in ounces of pure non-carbonated water. The diet of 2 liters a day is not maintenance - but a jump start. This will shock the system and prevent you from damaging your system when the toxins start to 'move' through your system.

Herbal colon cleanse recipes help in removing fecal matter, prevent toxin formation, kill the harmful bacteria and parasites, and improve the function of colon muscles to promote regular movements.

Aloe leaf, senna, cascara sagrada, ginger, and cayenne pepper eliminate impurities from the colon and stimulat bowel movements. Herbal colon cleansing includes a bitter plant that cleanses the liver. Fennel and garlic remove bacteria and prevent gas formation.

Colon cleansing teas should be used in moderation to prevent frequent bowel movements that cause dehydration.

Purifying Herbs


It’s been said that according to his autopsy, John Wayne had forty pounds of impacted fecal matter in his body at death. Elvis Presley reportedly had sixty pounds. (January 11, 1999 issue of USA Today)

• cayenne pepper (or any pepper) purifies the blood.
• Psyllium seeds promote healthy bowel movement generally maintaining its good condition
• Nettles are used as a portion of the detox herb mixture in cleansing the urinary systems as well as any part of the body. Makes a nice tea.
• Burdock roots are also perfect for stronger cleansing needs. It is helpful in reducing the heavy metals build-up within your body which causes immune system problems.
• Dandelion roots are detox herbs having strong cleansing properties appropriate for your liver. It is good for removing the gall bladder wastes and also works well for kidneys if used with other compatible detox herbs.

I've used all of these in my diet with success. You don't need to eat the herb. They can be mixed with tea, a salad. I don't take pills, but I would take them before going without.




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Take a Second Look At Colon Cleansing

Read this before buying any colon cleansing products. There are several natural products that can work - without making you resort to eating grass.

Drink Water

Yes, water is the world's best solvent and purifyer. Drinking plenty of water can clean the oclon, reduce toxic levels in your body, and keep your skin looking younger. Many of the lexictives that pose as colon cleanswers are nothing more than a platform that requires an increased water intake, making me wonder whether it is the water or the laxitive that cleanses the colon.

My husband has been on this colon cleansing kick lately, mainly becuase of the number of tele-mercials offering a quick 'tasteless' cure. I've read a bunch of reviews on many of them and found some truths.

'you can loose 15lb.' This is true, because that is how much most people have in theri bowels according to the experts. So, taking any laxitive will result in a 15lb loss - for a day or two.

'extend your life.' This is true - anything that removes toxins from your body will prevent disease and extend life.

Natural Soaps

Most people do not realize that the skin is the body's largest organ. The more sprays, perfumes, and powders we put on our skin - the harder it must work to clean our body. This includes cleaning our body with fancy soaps.

Yes, we are washing off the dirt, but we are also covering our ephidermous with a layer of gunk that smells good and makes it difficult for our skin to perform its job - cleaning toxins from our body.

Scrubbing the body while bathing is one way to get rid of skin and dirt that clog the pours and improve its ability to keep us healthy.

The Lymph - Skin Brushing

Skin brushing is an excellent method of cleansing the lymphatic system. Uf this is not working well, then no amount of colon cleansing will be effective.

Waste material is carried from the cells by both blood and lymph. Skin brushing stimulates the release of toxins with their carrier cells, primarily lymphocytes, that will find their way to the colon.

A sedentary lifestyle, with the common use of anti-perspirant, keep people from perspiring enough. Toxins and metabolic waste are not released through sweat, but back up into the body and eventually, the colon. Skin brushing opens up the pores, allowing the body to breathe and thus enhances proper functioning of the organs.

Continued in Future Articles




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Food Allergies Are Dangerous

I have severe food allergies. I've had them hit so hard that I can't breath and am so 'out of it' that my husband has taken me to the hospital. Most 'non sufferers' don't really understand how dangerous it can be. I don't need to be fed crab to suffer. You just need crab juice on your hands when making my salad. This makes eating at a restaurant very dangerous.

If you have food allergies then you understand what it feels like to be eating a meal with friends and feel your senses dull, your throat close, your chest become heavy.

Those who do not have food allergies need to learn the symptoms, causes and treatments. An allergy can hit someone you love quickly. Their favorite food can become deadly without any warning.


Allergy – Food Allergy Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Allergies stem from an inappropriate reaction of the immune system to certain proteins. These proteins are known as allergens, and they are usually common and harmless substances such as pollen, mold spores, animal dander, dust, various foods, insect venoms, or medicines.

Any substance that triggers an allergic reaction is called an allergen. There are many different types of allergens; three of the most common are pollen, dust mites and nuts. Allergens contain protein, which is found in all living organisms, and it is the protein that causes the reaction. Some drugs such as penicillin can also cause allergic reactions. They do not contain protein, but they can cause a reaction if they bind to proteins in the body.

Cause Of Allergy

An allergic reaction occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to an allergen, in this case a food protein.
•The white blood cells produce an antibody to this allergen, called immunoglobulin E or IgE.
•Any food has the potential to trigger an allergic reaction, but a few foods account for most food allergies.

Allergic reactions occur when the immune system misidentifies harmless foreign substances and reacts to them as if they were as harmful. These substances are called allergens. Common pollens, mold spores, house dust mites, cockroaches, and animal dander (shed skin, fur, or feathers) are among the allergens that most frequently cause problems. Allergic reactions to allergens such as insect venom, latex, and certain types of food or medications are more rare.

Symptoms Of Food Allergy

Reactions to foods are usually rapid, appearing within an hour (or sometimes even seconds) of consumption, although in some cases they may be delayed and appear up to four hours after eating.
Skin rashes, such as nettle rash (also called urticaria or hives) can appear which are generally short lived, disappearing within a few days. Longer lasting, chronic skin reactions (such as scaly patches) can also be experienced. Some of these longer lasting rashes are called atopic dermatitis.

The complex process of digestion affects the timing, location, and particular symptoms of an allergic reaction to food. All of the symptoms of food allergy occur within a few minutes to an hour of eating. A food allergy can initially be experienced as an itching in the mouth and difficulty swallowing and breathing. Then, during digestion of the food in the stomach and intestines, symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain can start

You may also get some or all of the following symptoms:
• skin reactions, such as swelling and itching, eczema and flushing
• vomiting and/or diarrhoea
• coughing, wheezing or a runny nose
• swelling of the lips
• sore, red and itchy eyes

Home Treatment

• For localized hives or other mild skin reactions
• Take cool showers or apply cool compresses.
• Wear light clothing that doesn't irritate your skin.
• Take it easy. Keep your activity level low.
• To relieve the itching, apply calamine lotion or take over-the-counter antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or the nonsedating antihistamine, loratadine (Claritin)


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What Does Eating Healthy Mean?

We have had to abandon all of our favorite restaurants since my husband was diagnosed with diabetes. It is so hard to find a restaurant that has healthy food. No one wants to go a restaurant and eat nothing but salad. Even the salad dressing is too high in salt and sugar for many diabetics.

The American Diabetes association has a few tips for people who want to eat out. But, even that is not comfort. Especially, as much of the food we eat at home has the same salt and sugar content as in a restaurant.

One thing that my husband has learned is that he only need to look at a portion, not the 'can'. For example, he stopped eating spaghetti sauce (eliminating tomatoes from his diet completely) because it was about 1/4 salt. But, when we broke that can into a single portion and then further diluted the sauce with water, the salt intake dropped to an acceptable limit.



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Tell Everyone Your Secret for Celebrating Life

Post comments to tell everyone how you celebrate your life. What little things do you do to make life better - to make people feel loved - and to make yourself happy. Celebrations of life are easy to make a part of your life.

We celebrate by having a family night. We get together and have a few laughs as a family.

Another thing we will do is just stop life mid stride and go out for hot chocolate and pastries or donuts.

Sometimes we just have a group hug. Anything it takes to get through the day and feel loved and happy.





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How to Tell if You Have Arthritis

Arthritis is not an old person's disease. Children have arthritis. Anyone can develop the disease. It hits people in different ways, with varying levels of pain from mild to chronic. My husband is on a full disability because of problems which were driven worse by arthritis.

Pills do not work. They may for a while, but after a few bottles they stop working. This makes it harder to manage. The best advice is to try anything - try everthing.


Do you have arthritis?


Do you have arthritis? If so you are not alone. 66,000,000 people do almost 1 in 3 adults.

Arthritis is second only to heart disease as a cause of work disability. Besides limiting daily activities arthritis can cause many lifestyle problems. You may assume there's nothing you can do that will help. Don't believe that. There are steps including supplements and lifestyle changes you can make to significantly improve your life.

Your doctor may ask a few of these questions:

• Where is your pain
• When does it hurt
• How long have you had it
• Any swelling or redness
• Family history of arthritis

He may wish to perform a movement test and have some x-rays taken.

Inflammation from your arthritis is a significant source of pain. Your physician may recommend OTC medicines or a prescription.

You should be aware of alternatives such as natural supplements and physical exercise.

Nettle Leaf Extract This supplement appears to suppress TNF-alpha and IL-1-beta. Nettle leaf may inhibit inflammatory cascade in rheumatoid arthritis. Also joint protection is assisted with nettle leaf.

MSM: Msm contain Sulfur and anti-inflammatory properties

Glucosamine Sulfate/Chondroitin: Reduces joint pain and may substantially rebuild cartilage. This may take a while to see results.

Fish Oil: DHA, EPA and Omega 3 found in quality fish oil. Reduces painful inflammation and may promote joint lubrication. Look for a high quality, low mercury supplements like Carlson's fish oils. Flax seed is another practical choice.

Try high quality multivitamins such as Purity's Perfect Multi Super Greens.

Vitamin E: Use a natural product like Vitamin E-8 daily.

Cherries: Recent research has shown that tart cherries contain powerful antioxidants that may help relieve the pain of arthritis and gout and also protect the body against cardiovascular disease and inhibit cancer tumors.

There is also a cherry capsule that is very good named Fruit Advantage.

Exercise: Exercise is important not only for arthritis but your overall health.

Weight Control: Even modest weight loss will bring healthy results. Start slow if you need to, and then try to reach your target weight.

Stress: Ah Stress. This one unnecessarily causes us so many health concerns. It practically seems to be the source of most health problems.

There are many options to help deal with excess stress. Exercise is one of these. Even if you begin by walking to the corner and back, then around the block pretty soon you will be walking a mile or more.

Other things you may consider are Yoga, Meditation, Music and a new hobby.

There is a rather unique procedure I came across a while back called Emotional Freedom Technique or EFT for short. This works on the principles of Acupressure and Acupuncture.

Wait! Don't let that intimidate you. Even though EFT is a remarkable tool it is actually easy to grasp. I personally have seen significant results. You won't have to poke yourself at all. It just basically requires limited number of words and some tapping on certain key points.

So don't give up. There are many options for you to vastly improve your health.

Lambert Klein is the owner of Think Healthy supplements and products. Arthritis supplements can be found at Think Healthy. http://www.coral-cure.com/Arthritis-Supplements.html

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Overcoming The Migraine

I sometimes have migraine headaches caused by neck and back strain. I sometimes have muscles grow so taunt that they feel like cords in my neck and back. I need to stay in a dark, cool room. The room must be quiet. I remain as quiet as possible until the pain passes.

I am lucky. I do not suffer from them often. I have the proper chair. I keep my feet off the floor. I have a slanted keyboard which keeps my shoulders 'back' instead of forcing them to curve forward like old 'flat' keyboards do.

Stress is the number one cause of my headaches. I become tense, unable to relax.



Do I Have Migraine Headaches?



If you have headaches and are wondering if they could be migraine headaches we can probably help you figure that out. There are some very distinctive characteristics of migraine headaches that can differentiate migraines from other types of headaches such as tension headaches, stress headaches, cluster headaches or other types of headaches.

Migraine headaches are more often than not one-sided, meaning the pain is felt on only one side of the head. Most of the time the pain of a migraine headache can be felt in the temple area or behind one of the eyes or ears. Migraine headaches can become severe and disabling. Nausea is a common symptom of this type of headache as is vomiting or sensitivity to light or sound. About 20% of patients with migraine headaches experience an aura. An aura is a disturbance in vision that can consist of bright blinking colored lights that move across the field of vision.

Migraine headaches can become chronic in nature. When they are chronic the patient most commonly experiences them once or twice a month. However, in some instances migraine headaches can occur as often as once or twice a week. Migraine headaches affect people between the ages of 15 and 55 and are more common in women than in men. Migraines affect women about 3 times as often as men.

Migraines affect about 30 or 40 million Americans, but they are less common than tension headaches. It is estimated that about 75% of all headaches are tension headaches. Tension headaches are typically characterized by a dull pain over the entire head while migraines are usually throbbing in nature and located in one particular spot. In other words, tension-type headaches are a constant dull pain while migraines throb like the beating of the heart.

Chronic tension headaches can occur every day while chronic migraine headaches occur less often, usually once a week to once a month. Fatigue and stress can cause both types of headaches, but migraine headaches can be triggered by other factors such as different types of food. Migraine headaches can sometimes be helped by eliminating these triggers. Foods that may lead to migraines include cheese, alcohol, MSG (monosodium glutamate), nuts, beans, caffeine, chocolate, onions and others. Eliminating the trigger may eliminate the migraines.

Cluster headaches are far less common than either migraine headaches or tension-type-headaches. Men are about six times more likely than women to experience cluster headaches. The pain of a cluster headache starts quickly, without any warning, and typically reaches its peak between two and fifteen minutes.

The pain of a cluster headache can be extremely intense, deep and explosive. Migraines are usually "pulsing" while clusters are not. Between 10 and 20 percent of cluster patients have "ice-pick" or "stabbing" pain around the eyes. This stabbing pain typically lasts for a few seconds, but can occur several times in succession. When this sudden attack of intense pain occurs it usually means that the headache is near its end.

For natural migraine headache relief it is often beneficial to relax and rest. Sometimes lying in a dark room with an ice pack on the base of the skull can reduce the pressure that is felt in the head. The same treatment can also help tension or stress headaches. Reducing stress can go a long way to relieving many headache symptoms.

If you experience chronic headaches and over-the-counter medication or natural remedies do not help it may be wise to consult a physician.


Dr. Larry A. Johnson, D.C. has patented a popular chiropractor-recommended headache cushion for the home treatment and relief of tension and migraine headaches. Visit http://www.soothe-a-ciser.com/tension-headaches.html for more information.


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How to Manage Pain

It is not joint that reduces our ability to enjoy life. It is not the inability to move freely that keeps us locked in a chair. It is the pain. My husband has arthiritis. His hands are not warped. His legs do not look bowed or show signs of swelling. But, the pain keeps him from playing in the summer baseball league. Pain keeps him from spending the summer touring amusement parks and the zoo with the children.

We use to buy a year's pass to the Science Center and the Zoo. We would spontaniously decide to head out and spend the day checking out the latest exhibits. Now, we go to a local hotel where we can swim in the pool and have a 'family day.' This concession has gone from a day swimming, to a day where the family can swim while he rests in the room.

Start learning how to reduce pain early on - before it is too late.


Eight Tips for Managing Pain

Perhaps the hardest part of having arthritis or a related condition is the pain that usually accompanies it. Managing and understanding that pain, and the impact it has on ones life, is a big issue with most arthritis sufferers. The first step in managing arthritis pain is knowing which type of arthritis or condition you have, because that will help determine your treatment. Before learning different management techniques, however, it's important to understand some concepts about pain.

No. 1: Not All Pain is AlikeJust as there are different types of arthritis, there are also different types of pain. Even your own pain may vary from day to day.

No. 2: The Purpose of PainPain is your body's way of telling you that something is wrong, or that you need to act. If you touch a hot stove, pain signals from your brain tell you to pull your hand away. This type of pain helps protect you. Chronic, long-lasting pain, like the kind that accompanies arthritis, is different. While it tells you that something is wrong, it often isn't as easy to relieve.

No. 3: Causes of PainArthritis pain is caused by several factors, such as (1) Inflammation, the process that causes the redness and swelling in your joints; (2) Damage to joint tissues, which results from the disease process or from stress, injury or pressure on the joints; (3) Fatigue resulting from the disease process, which can make pain worse and more difficult to bear; and (4) Depression or stress, which results from limited movement or no longer doing activities you enjoy.

No. 4: Pain FactorsThings such as stress, anxiety, depression or simply overdoing it can make pain worse. This often leads to a decrease in physical activity, causing further anxiety and depression, resulting in a downward spiral of ever-increasing pain.

No. 5: Different Reactions to PainPeople react differently to pain. Mentally, you can get caught in a cycle of pain, stress and depression, often resulting from the inability to perform certain functions, which makes managing pain and arthritis seem more difficult. Physically, pain increases the sensitivity of your nervous system and the severity of your arthritis. Emotional and social factors include your fears and anxieties about pain, previous experiences with pain, energy level, attitude about your condition and the way people around you react to pain.

No. 6: Managing Your Pain
Arthritis may limit some of the things you can do, but it doesn't have to control your life. One way to reduce your pain is to build your life around wellness, not pain or sickness. This means taking positive action. Your mind plays an important role in how you feel pain and respond to illness.

Many people with arthritis have found that by learning and practicing pain management skills, they can reduce their pain. Thinking of pain as a signal to take positive action rather than an ordeal you have to endure can help you learn to manage your pain. You can counteract the downward spiral of pain by practicing relaxation techniques, regular massage, hot and cold packs, moderate exercise, and keeping a positive mental outlook. And humor always has a cathartic effect.

No. 7: Don't focus on pain.
The amount of time you spend thinking about pain has a lot to do with how much discomfort you feel. People who dwell on their pain usually say their pain is worse than those who don't dwell on it. One way to take your mind off pain is to distract yourself from pain. Focus on something outside your body, perhaps a hobby or something of personal interest, to take your mind off your discomfort.

No. 8: Think positively. What we say to ourselves often determines what we do and how we look at life. A positive outlook will get you feeling better about yourself, and help to take your mind off your pain. Conversely, a negative outlook sends messages to yourself that often lead to increased pain, or at least the feeling that the pain is worse. So, in with the good, and out with the bad.

Reinforce your positive attitude by rewarding yourself each time you think about or do something positive. Take more time for yourself. Talk to your doctor about additional ways to manage pain.

Bruce Bailey, Ph.D.
----------------------------
Dr. Bailey lived with the pain of arthritis for over 30 years. Now he is living pain free! Visit http://www.clobberarthritis.com to listen to a FREE audio report about the fruit juice blend that changed his life



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Green Tea Can Stimulate Life

Green tea has been called the elixir of life. It has many untapped benefits, much like garlic. We know that it heals, restores, and boosts the body's ability ot protect and heal itself. We also know that it works better than some of today's medical discoveries.

Every year doctors learn more about the healing abilities found in nature's drugs. We learn that many of them cannot harm us, but it is important to learn that others can.

Green tea is one of those that cannot harm us. You cannot drink too much green tea - so enjoy.


Green Tea Health Benefits


For many centuries people of China used green tea for treating various diseases. However with the advancement of time, today people of west use green tea, realizing its several benefits. Green Tea has long been esteemed in China for its involvement to good health. Fame of Green tea in the United States persists to develop, viewing that green tea is an innate foundation of antioxidants. These antioxidants aid defend the body from accelerating aging and augmented danger of ailments. Years of research reveal that green tea restrains the expansion of objectionable cell colonies, thus building it the healthiest tea obtainable.

Let us take a look at the benefits of green tea:

Green tea has many health benefits, and it can be used for avoidance of the diseases: Cancer, Rheumatoid Arthritis, High Cholesterol, Cardiovascular Disease, cataracts, Infection, and Impaired Immune Function.

Green tea helps in weight loss course. The green tea leaves augments metabolism in the body there fore consumption green tea helps you burn more calories.

Green tea has the capability to fight bacteria and this can be counted as one of the chief benefits of green tea. This boosts your immune system thereby increasing the resistance power. It also helps kill bacteria that cause plaque and succeeding tooth decay. Green tea can help in fight food poisoning.

In addition, green tea can help lessening blood sugar level and cholesterol level in your blood.

Also green tea helps in getting rid of bad breath. Some element is present in green tea that stunts the growth of bad odor causing bacteria. Therefore a cup or two of green regularly can help in maintaining fresh breath.

If you are a chain smoker and also you consume around six cups of green tea a day then the propensity of risk caused due to the toxins emitted by cigarette smoke is reduced to a great extent.

Green Tea also contributes to maintain your beauty. With the help of green tea you can freshen up your face and apply around your tired eyes to get soothing feeling. If you have freckles or blemishes on your face you can apply the green tea to get rid of the spots. The green tea also has benefits for antiseptic purposes. It can be used to treat minor cuts, rashes and also can be treated to cure sunburn.

Green Tea is organically grown and the customary drying method used with Green Tea prevents the tea from the harmful effects of fermentation.

Products of green tea are available in different strength levels. Some supplements are comprised of low strengths of the active polyphones, whereas others go as far as using un-standardized green tea leaf powder.

It has been confirmed that green tea is stuffed with health benefits. It acts as a influential antioxidant, which has been identified to assist prevent cancer, pull through from the harmful cholesterol, and guard against harm caused by free radicals.

It has been reported by National Cancer Institute that Green Tea has Cancer avoiding aptitudes and components for fighting against insert fresh life to the market. People who have depended on costly anti-oxidant products are finding that Green Tea is very cost-effective and organic. Tea is one of the foremost selling fresh drinks, only after water.

However you manage to incorporate green tea in your diet, as well as it on a standard basis will help you receive utmost results. Put in green tea to a vigorous, balanced diet and exercise schedule for general fitness.

Rich Marsiglia at YourHealthyPlace


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Tomatoes Fight Cancer

Our family has increased the amount of tomatoes we eat after first learning that they have the ability to fight cancer, especially prostate cancer in men. We eat a lot of tomato paste. This is a little difficult now that my husband is diabetec, because there is a lot of salt and starch in the paste.



Attack of the Cancer Fighting Tomatoes


Copyright © 2005 Michael Brooks
That’s right, the colorful little fruit (yes, it’s a fruit) has been shown to pack a powerful punch against several forms of cancer. A variety of studies indicate that a diet rich in tomato based products (tomato paste, sauce, juice, soup and ketchup) can significantly reduce the risk of prostate, lung and colon cancer. Not bad for a fruit that was considered by many to be poisonous and inedible until the 19th century.

What is the Active Ingredient?

The active ingredient that makes tomatoes such a formidable opponent against cancer cells is the carotenoid called Lycopene. Lycopene is the natural red pigment found in tomatoes and tomato based products. The redder the tomato, the more lycopene is present.

How does Lycopene Fight Cancer?

In the body, lycopene is deposited in the liver, lungs, prostate gland, colon and skin. Its concentration in body tissues tends to be higher than all other carotenoids. Some organs, such as the testes and adrenal glands, store higher levels of lycopene than do other organs or tissues. Lycopene acts as a super antioxidant by picking up free radicals in the body. Free radicals are atoms or groups of atoms with an odd number of electrons and can be formed when oxygen interacts with certain molecules. Once formed these highly reactive radicals can start a chain reaction. Their primary danger comes from the damage they can do when they react with important cellular components such as DNA, or the cell membrane. Cells may function poorly or die if this occurs.

Is there any Research on the Cancer fighting power of Lycopene?

Although more large-scale studies are needed before any definitive conclusions can be made, current research does suggest that lycopene from various tomato products is indeed associated with the lowered risk of several types of cancers. Several published reports are listed below.

Gann et al. 1999 - Cancer Research
The study examined initial plasma caroteniods (including lycopene) of 1872 men in 1982, and then followed them for 13 years. These men were randomly assigned to a placebo group or a group to receive beta-carotene and aspirin supplementation. Of the men studied, 578 developed prostate cancer versus 1294 control subjects. Lycopene was the only antioxidant with a significantly lower average blood level in those men with cancer as compared to those without cancer. In those men not receiving the aspirin and beta carotene, plasma lycopene levels were very strongly related to a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. This study concluded that increased consumption of tomato products and other lycopene-containing foods may reduce the onset of prostate cancer.

Giovannucci 1999 - Journal of the National Cancer Institute
This journal is a review of research studies available regarding cancer risk (not just prostate cancer) and intake of tomato based foods as well as blood lycopene levels. After identifying 72 studies that fit these criteria, it was found that an inverse relationship between tomato intake or blood lycopene levels and cancer risk was reported in 57 of them. Of these 57, it was found that 35 of these inverse relationships were statistically significant. It was also found that cancer protection from lycopene was strongest for prostate, colon and stomach cancers, but also appeared to have some benefit in the treatment of other cancers.

Rao et al. 1999 - Nutrition and Cancer
This study examined plasma and prostate lycopene levels in cancer patients and a control group free of cancer. Though only 12 patients were in each group, significantly lower serum and prostate lycopene levels were found in those with cancer. Levels of other carotenoid substances did not vary between the groups.

Additional Benefits

In addition to fighting cancer, the lycopene found in tomatoes has been associated with better mental activity in old age and a reduced risk of heart disease. A University of Maryland study found that tomatoes might protect the eyes by hampering macular degeneration, a cause of vision loss in older adults.

How do I get Lycopene into my body?

The best source of lycopene intake is through eating tomato-based products. This is more effective than supplementation. You will get the most lycopene through concentrates and processed products such as tomato paste, sauce, soup and canned tomatoes. Heating helps to release lycopene and adding a little light olive oil will increase absorption. Start packing your diet with more tomato based recipes and begin enjoying the cancer fighting power of the mighty tomato.

Mike Brooks has been a life long follower and proponent of the fitness lifestyle. Through his avid research, Mr. Brooks has come to the realization that being healthy is a choice and encompasses not only proper diet but also a fitness regimen that includes the mind, body and soul. Mike Brooks is the publisher and editor-in-chief for the health information site http://www.Ultimatehealthreport.com.



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Allergies That Develop As We Age

I vividly remember the first time I had an allergic reaction to sea food. I was at a favored buffet restaurant, enjoying my favorite Chinese food dishes. I felt tired, puffy. At first I thought I was coming down with the flu. Lucky for me, I stopped eating.

My husband noticed the change. He asked what was wrong. I just shook my head. I didn't know. I arrived home later and went to bed. I slept for two days. My next reaction was more severe. By then, I understood the problem and I haven't eaten sea food since.

I tell people that I have food allergies, but they do not take the problem seriously. They will eliminate things from the table that may have an effect on my husband's diabetes, but I usually get 'oh don't eat the salad, there is shrimp in it.'

That is great - I am left wondering what they touched after making the salad. It took a long time to educate them to the fact that I could die if I ate shrimp.


Food Allergies and Fatalities


Every year, millions of people worldwide are affected by allergies to particular foods. It is estimated that in America alone, over 11 million people suffer from potentially life threatening food allergies. It is estimated that over 200 people die each year from allergic reactions to food in the United States. Furthermore, there are approximately 30,000 emergency room visits each year that are attributed to food allergies. These numbers are astounding, to say the least.

There has been a lot of talk in the popular press as of late, regarding food allergies. In fact, the White House recently designated a National Anaphylaxis Day to raise public awareness about the dangers of certain types of food. Anaphylaxis is a term used to describe extreme allergic reactions that have the potential to cause death.

The most troubling element of food allergies is that they are next-to-impossible to diagnose. More often than not, an individual does not realize that they have a food allergy until they are having a reaction. At that time, it is too late to consider preventative measures. The scariest part is that there is literally no way to determine how serious the reaction might be, so the utmost care and consideration must be taken when dealing with an allergic reaction.

Some of the most common foods people are allergic to include nuts (peanuts, walnuts, etc.), shellfish (lobster, shrimp, crab, etc.), eggs, and dairy products (milk, cream, etc.). Now take a moment to consider how many prepared foods contain one or more of the above ingredients. For those suffering from intense food allergies, every meal is like playing a game of chance.

There are few ways to protect one self from having an allergic reaction. The best strategy is simply to be prepared for the worst. You certainly have to be aware of what you are eating, but also of the environment in which the food was prepared. In the case of an individual with peanut allergies, mere traces of the nut can cause like-threatening illness. If you are dining out, be sure to inform the restaurant of any allergies you suffer from. In the kitchen, extra care should always be taken to ensure cross-contamination is not taking place.

As mentioned above, there is no way to determine how severe an allergic reaction might be. The frontline tool for defense against allergic reactions to food is a compound known as epinephrine. Epinephrine is absolutely critical for managing allergic reactions, and could mean the difference between life and death. If you or somebody you know is suffering from food allergies, be sure to consult a physician regarding management strategies. Alternately, you can visit our site for more information.


Harold Miller is allergic to shellfish, and carries his Epipen everywhere he goes. He also writes for allergyrelief101.com an online guide to allergies and allergy treatment with extensive information about hay fever, sinus problems, allergy-free product reviews and more.

Harold Miller used to suffer from allergies until he took it upon himself to get educated. While Harold still has the occasional bout, he has learned many ways to improve his allergies and enjoys serving as a contributing editor at http://www.allergyrelief101.com a site dedicated to providing information on air purifiers, information about allergy relief, dealing with dust mites and more.



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Dieting Does Not Need to Be Hard

I spent more than 10 years trying every diet on the list. I lived on soup, protein, grapefruit. What I didn't do was lose weight. One summer I lived on peaches and granola bars.

Sometimes I would lose a lot, but it always came back as soon as I stopped the diet. No matter how carefully I watched my calory intake. I have always carried more weight around my hips than most women - every woman in my family does.

I've raised my daughter to eat well. She is not overweight, but she is developing the family hips.




Top Ten Tips for Lazy Dieters


Tip no. 1: Set SMART goals. Goals give dieters something to aim for and are a good source of inspiration. Fitness experts worldwide would agree that all goals you set should adhere to the following acronym:

S (simple): All goals should be easy to remember. Saying I want to lose 20lbs of fat, gain 10lbs of muscle, speed up my metabolism and lower my cholesterol in 6 weeks unless I get promoted in which case I want to lose 10lbs of body weight in 8 weeks may well be ambitious and time-considerate, but you are hardly going to remember it in 6 weeks when you need to figure out how much you have lost.

M (Measurable): Your goals should almost always contain a number. Whether it is to drop 10kg or to fit into those 34 inch jeans, having numbers involved means that you can check your own progress.

A (Achievable): Many people often ask me: Is it possible to lose all this weight in 3 weeks or I want to lose 50 kilos! Can I do it before Christmas? The answer to the latter question is usually a resounding no, and I often suggest that these people might want to set themselves a target that can actually be hit. Above all, it prevents disappointment and makes them less likely to fall off the rails halfway through a dieting program.

R (Realistic): Your goals should reflect your lifestyle. It is a good idea to diet when you are likely to have little stress from outside influences (such as work) and you have plenty of time for the exercise you enjoy.

T (Time-considerate): Which of the following sounds like a more positive statement: I am going to lose 20lbs, or I am going to lose 20lbs in 10 weeks? If you never put a limit on when you need to lose the weight by, you are never going to push yourself to shed those pounds.

Tip no. 2: Write Down Everything You Eat. Many people are overweight because they are heavy snackers and eat far too much than they realise. The simplest way to beat this is by writing down everything you eat. That way, when you eat something that you did not mean to eat, you will know about it.

Tip no. 3: Use Smaller Plates. As silly as this may sound, a smaller plate will look fuller than a bigger plate with the same amount on it, so your mind will tell the rest of your body that it is getting more food. Besides, you can only fit so much on a small plate!

Tip no. 4: Proteins. Low fat protein rich food, such as egg whites and chicken breast, are fantastic for dieters that want larger portions, as they contain amino acids that build muscle fibres. Aim for 60g per day (I favour tofu or soya bean; its cheap, easy to fry -with fat-free Pam spray- and contains beaucoup protein).

Tip no. 5: Low Carbs, Not NO Carbs! Atkins enthusiasts rave about the benefits of carb-starving and that fats are not really that bad, but the simple fact is that your body needs carbs as a basic energy, so after starving yourself of them only to eat them again, your body stores that energy as, you guessed it; fat! Aim for around 240-260g of carbohydrates per day (look at potatoes, pasta, rice and wholemeal bread).

Tip no. 6: Buy a Bag of Nutrasweet. Any sweetener can be used as a sugar substitute and I believe they taste fairly similar. Plus, a tablespoonful contains about 0.1 calories, compared to the 18 that you will often find in sugar.

Tip no. 7: Lift Weights. Lifting light weights can burn calories and tone up every muscle in your body. It is a common misconception that lifting weights will always build big muscles, which is something that many women are keen to avoid. However, this is only true if your body is of the correct somatotype (body shape) and if you really are overweight then believe me, its not.

Tip no. 8: Drink Green Tea. The benefits of green tea have long been discussed, the main one being that it contains the right chemicals to speed up your basal metabolism (which in turn burns fat faster). Two cups per day (without sugar!) is enough, while the only known side effects are that the caffeine in it can cause minor sleep deprivation, so drink it in the morning.

Tip no. 9: Get Busy! As I mentioned earlier, many overweight people are heavy snackers and these are usually people with two much time on their hands (that are often bored). The best way to combat this is to, quite simply, do something! Getting a new hobby, and therefore spending less time near the TV, are ways to keep you away from the fridge.

Tip no 10: Stop Talking About it! Diet must be one of the most discussed topics in modern society, yet, the people who talk about it are often the ones who want to lose weight. Then, how to prevent obesity? The real secret is to get on with it. As of tomorrow, you are officially dieting, so scribble down five small meals and brew yourself a cup of green tea!


About the Author

Dietpolicy.com is a website that deals with various topics like junk food, obesity, weight reduction and diet tips and many more. This article has been written by Tom Eveleigh. He is a Physiology student and a health and fitness enthusiast.



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Improve Your BloodPressure with TAI CHI

I do not push TAI CHI for everyone. Some people need the 'burn' of aerobics and weight training to keep them motivated. But, TAI CHI has benefits that are not found in other health maintenance campaigns. The exercise is safe for people at all levels of fitness, at all stages of life, and in all age groups.

It is fairly easy to learn, and you cannot hurt yourself if you do it wrong. Consult your doctor if you are worried, or if you already have health problems. There is very little to learn. I learned enough to stay fit in less than two hours.


High Blood Pressure and Tai Chi Therapy

Way back in 2003, the Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine’s Oct. 9th issue reported a study finding that Tai Chi “could decrease blood pressure and results in favorable lipid profile changes and improve subjects' anxiety status. Therefore, Tai Chi could be used as an alternative modality in treating patients with mild hypertension, with a promising economic effect.” This study laid out a way to save our society, perhaps billions of dollars annually, and possibly save some patients with mild chronic hypertension the potential negative side effects of chronic lifelong medication. However, this largely hasn’t occurred.

I caught a glimpse why when I was staying in the beautiful mountain town of Otavala, Ecuador, with a woman known for her knowledge of traditional Indian medicines. A tour of young American medical students stopped here to listen and learn from the Indian woman’s tour of her herbal gardens. As I followed them, I asked a group of young bright medical students if they were aware that Tai Chi was found to reduce high blood pressure. One lovely young woman replied, “Oh, yes, I’ve heard that, but I would never prescribe it.”

I asked why, and she responded that she couldn’t because she didn’t know if it would work. Although Tai Chi studies do show that Tai Chi indeed helps lower high blood pressure, it is true that it does not reduce it in every person. However, it is also true that every drug prescription does not work on every person either. I suggested to the young medical student that she consider that many times I’ve been to the doctor, and he’s pulled out a prescription pad and explained, “Let’s give this a try, and see how it works for you, and if it doesn’t do the job, we’ll try something else.” Most of us are familiar with this, and by the confused look on the student’s face, I’m assuming her memory banks were bringing up similar images.

So, why are our medical universities giving students the impression that they should not be prescribing Tai Chi, since we know it can help lower high blood pressure for many, who if it is successful with them, can enjoy a lifetime free of chronic and costly medications? And not only do that, but offer a plethora of GOOD SIDE EFFECTS including a stronger immune system and healthier respiratory system. This is a deep and important question we need to be asking as patients and consumers, and health professionals must begin asking this question regularly in order to fulfill the duties of their Hippocratic oath. For, today we have even a much better understanding of Tai Chi’s potential than we did a few years ago, so ignorance or inconclusive data is not an acceptable explanation from our medical universities that train our future doctors, without teaching them about Tai Chi research, and what it portends for their future patients.

Today, we are clearer on exactly why Tai Chi is such a powerful therapy for high blood pressure sufferers. In a March 17, 2005, article by the Mayo Clinic staff posted at mayoclinic.com they lay out what a “stress response” is, and the effects it has on the body. This is at the core of high blood pressure problems and the physical changes chronic stress responses illicite that creates or aggravates hypertensive conditions.

In their article, they explain that a stress response, or “fight or flight” reaction involves our pituitary gland releasing adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which sets a domino effect signaling other glands to produce additional hormones, such as adrenal glands which flood the blood stream with stress hormones, such as “cortisol” and “adrenaline.”

When ordinary life’s daily frustrations trigger this effect over and over again, the results can be damaging to the mind and body. Many of us experience this domino effect of triggers and hormones daily, which is why about 1/3 of Americans, or over 90 million Americans, suffer from high blood pressure.

Cutting edge scientists like Dr. Herbert Benson, President of the Mind/Body Institute at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, are discovering a stunning reality through their research. In a wonderful article by Jeanie Lerche Davis at WebMD Medical News entitled The Mysterious 'Medication' of Meditation (http://my.webmd.com/content/article/25/1728_
57992.htm), she writes of how such researchers are discovering that “meditation can indeed be medication – creating long lasting physiciolgical effects that reduce high blood pressure and even help unclog arteries to reverse heart disease.”

Dr. Benson, who is also associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, sought to prove how this effect could be shown objectively, and had five long-time meditation practitioners take MRI brain scans while meditating. Dr. Benson informed WebMD in the aforementioned article by Davis, "There was a striking quietude across the entire brain which was documented through MRI . . . The areas of the brain that became active from that quietude were those that control metabolism, heart rate, etc., . . . We knew meditation caused a relaxation response, but we couldn't prove it. We knew that if you thought in a certain way, with repetition, that physiologic changes would occur in the body. Here now is proof that mind, in the form of repetition, is affecting the brain, which affects the body . . . "

Stroke Magazine reported on a study funded by the National Institutes of Health, conducted by Dr. Amparo Castillo-Richmond, from the Maharishi University, more specifically on high blood pressure afflicting black people. The meditating group saw a reduction in the thickness of one of the arteries that supplied blood to the brain. Which indicates that blood flow is increasing. The group only using diet and exercise saw their artery walls getting thicker, which indicated that less blood was flowing through to the brain. This finding led Dr. Castillo-Richmond to make the profoundly exciting assertion, "It's possible to reverse heart disease through meditation."
In fact, not only hypertension, but up to 90% of other illnesses sending us to the doctor are being caused by stress, according to Dr. Herbert Benson. Which makes Dr. Benson’s and Dr. Castillo-Richmond’s findings that meditative techniques can so dramatically alter our stress producing “fight or flight” response in healthy ways even more wonderful.

Dr. Benson explains, that the relaxation response triggered by repetitive forms [like tai chi, yoga, etc.] can result in decreased metabolism, heart rate, breathing rate, blood pressure, and also slower brain waves.” Benson asserts that it is the repetitive nature of acts like praying the rosary, yoga, or tai chi’s physical repetitive muscular actions that provides the profound hope for reducing anxiety, mild and moderate depression, anger and hostility, hypertension, cardiac irregularities, and all forms of pain, which are made worse by stress.

This concept of Tai Chi being an effective tool for reducing or even avoiding incidence of high blood pressure or other illnesses all together, is echoed elsewhere. Mayoclinic.com also recommends Tai Chi for relaxation training in an article entitled, “Relax: Techniques to help you achieve tranquility” which also explains why relaxation is important and what you might experience by practicing tools that will help you relax.

They detail how you can improve body responses to stress, such as: Slowing your heart rate; Reducing blood pressure; Slowing your breathing rate; Reducing the need for oxygen; Increasing blood flow to the major muscles; Lessening muscle tension.

They go on to explain that practicing relaxation techniques may help you experience: Fewer symptoms of illness, such as headaches, nausea, diarrhea and pain; Few emotional responses such as anger, crying, anxiety, apprehension and frustration; More energy; Improved concentration; Greater ability to handle problems; More efficiency in daily activities.
So, time and time again as we begin to examine one particular benefit of Tai Chi, such as lowering high blood pressure, we see a whole universe of potential opening up before us.

An article from Archives of Internal Medicine, as reported on NBC’s local WCAU Health (http://wcau-tvhealth.ip2m.com/index.cfm?pt=itemDetail&Item_ID=112735&Site_Cat_ID=77) explained a Tai Chi research program at Tufts-New England Medical Center in Boston revealed a great deal. The article authors wrote, "Overall, these studies reported that long-term Tai Chi practice had favorable effects on the promotion of balance control, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness and reduced the risk of falls in elders . . . Cardiovascular and respiratory function improvements were noted in healthy people and those who had undergone coronary artery bypass surgery as well as people with heart failure, hypertension, acute myocardial infarction, arthritis and multiple sclerosis . . . Benefit was also found for balance, strength, and flexibility in older subjects; falls in frail elderly subjects; and pain, stress and anxiety in healthy subjects.” They add the actual ways that Tai Chi provides these benefits are not well known.

The fact is that less than .5% of the National Institute of Health’s budget goes to research alternative therapies, leaving yoga, meditation, tai chi, massage, herbal therapy, aroma therapy, and the entire massive field of alternative health systems to struggle over .5%, or a little over $100 million of the $28 billion (approx.) annual budget. Given the above studies, it boggles the mind that such a small portion of the health research dollars are going to Tai Chi.

To recap, about 1/3 of the American population suffers high blood pressure. Tai Chi is proven to be a beneficial therapy that not only has no bad side effects, but dramatically improves immune function, respiratory function, lowers the incidence of anxiety and depression, and profoundly improves the balance of practitioners. Tai Chi does more, but for our purposes here these profound realities are enough to show exactly why it is truly unbelievable that Tai Chi is getting so little scrutiny in medical research dollars, when it can save so many from chronic suffering and perhaps some from a lifetime of chronic costly medications.

It is time we all began to ask the question that all good consumers should ask, “What is the best way/product for my health?” If Tai Chi is that product, the next question is, “Why isn’t every physician offering it as an option to their patients with hypertension, as a prescription?” “Why aren’t all insurance policies covering such prescriptions for Tai Chi?” Ask and ye shall receive. We must become informed and demanding health consumers, in order to get the best health options available.

This article does not advocate self-treatment, and encourages all to make health choices in conjunction with their physician. However, if your physician is close-minded to anything but a certain group of health options, even when research indicates your choices may be wider, than it is time to have a good talk with your physician about possibly widening your options.

Bill Douglas is the Tai Chi Expert at DrWeil.com, Founder of World T'ai Chi & Qigong Day (held in 50 nations each year), and has authored and co-authored several books including a #1 best selling Tai Chi book “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to T’ai Chi & Qigong.” Bill’s been a Tai Chi source for The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, etc. You can learn more about Tai Chi & Qigong, and also contact Bill Douglas at http://www.worldtaichiday.org





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How I Got Rid of MY MOTHER's Arms

I had flabby arms. I looked in the mirror one day and thought, 'Those are my mother's arms.' I was a little shocked because it is the only part on my body that really looks old. What amazed me was how easy it is to get rid of flabby arms - without liposuction.

I started by placing 2 soup cans on my desk. Every day I lifted them above my shoulders a few times. I did this for a few weeks before I realized that I was helping my heart to...win-win.


How To Get Rid Of Flabby Arms

Hats off to a very brave women who stepped up and finally wanted to get rid of the flabby arms and the sooner the better. Luckily for her, this problem is quite common and the solution is quite simple and two-fold. Working to get rid of flabby arms comes with overall fitness but there's some specific exercises you can to in addition to reducing body fat that will bring those arms into super shape once again.

On just another normal day, I received an email with a cry for help.

"I would like to know how to build up the muscle around the humerous bones of the upper arms. I would like to know how to build up the muscle around the humerous bones of the upper arms. I want to get rid of flabby upper arms!"

For starters...

The muscle that is most problematic for flabby arms is called: The Tricep

Most women think of these things when it comes to that area:

* flabby arms * exercise for flabby arms * tone flabby arms * how to get rid of flabby arms * flabby arm help * flabby upper arms * etc

There are really two key concepts to that particular predicament. Keep in mind that this is such a common question so you are certainly not alone in this. But just keep reading because the answer is pretty simple and may surprise you!

First, get the idea out of your head that there's any such thing as 'spot reduction.' Meaning, if you do certain exercises for that area, the fat will magically disappear just from there and your arms will suddenly be taunt and tone again. Let me give you a real quick lesson on fat. Don't worry this is going to be easy.

Your body stores fat. It stores it in general areas that are common to you as a female. Most men store the most fat in their stomachs. Women tend to store it in their thighs, hips and buttocks. But with anything, you can and will store fat wherever. So the first thing you want to do is...

Reduce the body fat period!

Once you start to reduce fat, you'll see it disappear. Don't bother with creams and rubs and all the other gimmicks out there. You cannot spot reduce. Your body stores fat and the only way to reduce fat in any particular area that is bothering you is to reduce fat period from your body as a whole.

For all these reasons,...

Your first mission, should you choose to accept it, is to reduce the body fat.

Second, in order for that area of your arm to become tone, you'll want to build muscle in the back of the arm. That is called the Tricep and there's several good exercise you can do to build up that area.

But first, let me give you a list of some of the best exercises for flabby arms that will focus on the tricep and help you develop the area and make it stronger. This isn't all inclusive but it's some of the more common and better exercises you can do for the back of the arms.

* Weighted dips * Close grip bench press * Close grip push ups * Lying barbell French press * Overhead cable extensions * Cable press downs * Reverse cable press downs

Frankly...

Many people are caught up in the idea that in order for them to get rid of a problematic area they need to just work it out and do some exercises to target that area.

But that's only half of the solution as you've read.

By working out the area AND reducing body fat, you will progress at twice the speed and make twice the visual differences.

Let's suppose you only worked out the back of the arms. The muscle would be stronger and firmer no doubts, but it might not show IF your level of body fat is such that the muscle is still covered up.

As you see, by doing both, you will tone up (build) the tricep and make it more visible when the layer of fat that covers it up is reduced.

Men and women who want to reduce the 'flabby' anything simply have to realize that it's a combination of body fat in that area, maybe loose skin and a muscle that generally needs to be developed in order to be taunt.

But I'm getting way ahead of myself!

This is a two fold mission.

1- Reduce body fat

2- Do specific exercises to build muscle in the back of the arm so that once the fat is gone, you'll have a tricep and it will appear tight and tone

In a nutshell what this will do for you is make the back of your arms less flabby as the fat is lost from your body and the new muscle will bring added tone and tightness to the back of your arm.

Marc David is a bodybuilder and author of the, Beginner's Guide to Fitness and Bodybuilding. You can get info on Marc's e-book at: http://www.justaskmarc.com/


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Improve Your Health with TAI CHI

TAI CHI is easy for anyone to start learning, no matter how out of shape or overweight you are. It is easier than yoga, and can be done in your home. I learned my first lessons in TAI CHI from tapes borrowed from the library. There is no need to push to keep up with the class, and no pressure to preform to certain standards.

In fact, TAI CHI is something that can be done by beginners without being obvious newbies - like in an aerobics class. There is no strain on the knees or other joints. There is no pain. This is not a 'no pain no gain sport.' In fact, I've lost weight and built muscle after a heart operation while 'taking it easy.'


Bone Loss, Osteoporosis, Depression, Menopause & TAI CHI


Copyright © 2005 Bill Douglas
Emerging medical research indicates that an ancient health therapy may be the prescription for the future. Increasingly the menopausal problems of hormonal imbalance, often resulting in bone loss, are also affected by depression and stress. Change is stressful for all of us, even good changes, like changes of life. Maturity is a good thing, yet the stress of major life changes can result in stress and depression, which according to emerging research may further aggravate the uncomfortable symptoms of menopause. Is there any escape from this catch-22? Yes, although this may seem overwhelming in its scope, there may be great news. An ancient Chinese natural health therapy, known as Tai Chi, may help alleviate many of the aggravating symptoms of menopause in profoundly healthful ways.

Of course only your physician can help you decide what is right for your personal therapy as you enter the menopausal transition. However, you may find that you need to educate your physician regarding the benefits Tai Chi may offer you at this important time in your life. Or, perhaps if you ask around you may find a physician who has already educated himself or herself about the benefits Tai Chi may offer all women, but definitely has much to offer women entering menopause.

Emerging research indicates that Tai Chi can help reduce the incidence of depression, anxiety, and mood disturbance in regular practitioners. In a Prevention Magazine report entitled, “Tai Chi May Relieve Anxiety and Depression,” Donal P. O'Mathuna, Ph.D., a lecturer in Health Care Ethics at the School of Nursing in Dublin City University, Ireland says that, “. . . . evidence there is suggests that the benefits of tai chi extend beyond those of simply exercising. The combination of exercise, meditation, and breathing all may help relieve anxiety and depression. . .” In its article entitled, “Tai chi,” the Mayo Clinic staff at MayoClinic.com stated that preliminary research shows that practicing Tai Chi regularly may not only reduce anxiety and depression, but also increase bone mineral density after menopause. This was echoed by a report in http://www.intelihealth.com by Natural Standard and the Faculty of Harvard Medical School.

This is a very important finding, and begins to make even more sense, when you consider the National Institutes of Mental Health reports that the stress hormones found in depressed women caused bone loss that gave them bones of women nearly twice their age. Exactly why Tai Chi offers such benefit may be explained by a study from Australia’s La Trobe University that found that Tai Chi reduced levels of stress hormones more effectively than some other forms of activity. (Details at: www.seniornet.org/php/default.php?PageID=6055).

But, no matter how you slice it, research is indicating that Tai Chi may be a “very” effective multi-level beneficial therapy for women. A Chinese study reported in the December 2004 “Physician and Sportsmedicine” found that tai chi could retard bone loss among postmenopausal women significantly. Bone mineral density was measured before and after the study period. Both groups experienced general bone loss, but the rate of bone loss for the Tai Chi group was less than in the control group. In fact, the Tai Chi practicing group of women slowed bone loss by 2.6 to 3.6 times more. The study reported, “Bone loss was 2.6 to 3.6 times slower (p<.01) in the distal tibia in the [Tai Chi] exercise group compared with bone loss in the control group.” Back in 1999, before these studies began showing that Tai Chi may actually improve bone density, or at the least dramatically slow bone loss, the “Journal of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery’s” 1999; 7:19-31, reported that “…Coupled with drug therapy should be a comprehensive approach to exercise and fall prevention. Stretching, strengthening, impact, and balance exercises are effective. Of the balance exercises, tai chi chuan has proved to be the most successful in decreasing falls..”

This was because falling injuries are a grave health risk for all aging Americans, but given the dangers of osteoporosis for women, an especially important concern. In fact the sixty leading cause of death for aging Americans is complication from falling injuries. However, research has shown time and time again in major medical studies, such as John’s Hopkins, that Tai Chi can reduce the incidence of falling injuries by 50% in those who practice Tai Chi. So, even before emerging research began to show that Tai Chi may contribute to stronger bones in menopausal women perhaps by reducing stress hormone levels and providing a gentle weight bearing exercise, it was know that Tai Chi was a powerful therapy to reduce falling injury. Now, there may be even more benefit ancient Chinese health therapies can offer to relieve the discomfort of life changes. Tai Chi is known as a general therapeutic form of “Qigong” (pronounced chee gung) exercise. Qigong means “energy exercise” or “breathing exercise” in Chinese.

This indicates that Qigong combines gentle motion, or physical stimulation, with breathing techniques, and visualization/relaxation techniques to achieve substantial health benefits. There are over 7,000 Qigong therapies in the Chinese Medica (the Traditional Chinese Book of Medicine). Tai Chi, again, is a highly sophisticated general health Qigong practice, therefore this Qigong research may be relevant to the Tai Chi’s applications for those in menopause. An interesting study at healthy.net, revealed that sex hormone levels may be balanced by the practice of Qigong exercises (http://www.healthy.net/scr/article.asp?id=382). The report stated, “…female sex hormone (estrogen) levels tend to increase in men and decrease in women. Three studies indicate that qigong exercise can reverse this trend. The effect of qigong exercise on plasma sex hormone levels was determined for hypertensive men and women.

The sex hormones levels were measured before and after qigong practice for one year…” Results showed that high estrodiol levels in men lowered to near normal, and low estrodial levels in women raised to near normal after qigong practice. Medline Plus, a service of the National Instututes of Health’s March 3, 2004 update discussed the problems with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which had been the main treatment for menopausal symptoms. But in the update, Medline Plus, explains, “…the results of a major study -- called the Women's Health Initiative -- has led physicians to revise their recommendations. In fact, this important study was stopped early because the health risks outweighed the health benefits.

Women taking the hormones did see some benefits. But they greatly increased their risk for breast cancer, heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots.” The Medline article goes on to offer non-drug alternatives to reduce menopausal symptoms that included “yoga, tai chi, or meditation.” (See entire article at: www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000894.htm) In a great article at webmd.com, Dr. Herbert Benson, head of hypertension studies at Boston’s Beth Israel Hospital and author of “The Relaxation Response,” goes further to suggest that Tai Chi’s moving meditation is “…vitally important in PMS, infertility, hot flashes, insomnia,…" (Read the entire article at: my.webmd.com/content/article/25/1728_57992.htm).

Dr. Benson’s comments illustrate the vast multi-dimensional possibilities that Tai Chi offers everyone’s health on so many levels. The purpose of this article is not to prescribe treatments for you, but to help you expand your dialogue with your health professional to explore more possibilities for your health. However, the purpose here is also to encourage physicians to begin demanding more focused medical research on what Tai Chi may offer their patients on many levels. Currently all alternative therapies research is only about one half of only one-percent of the National Institutes of Health’s budget, meaning that Tai Chi research is only a tiny fraction of that tiny fraction. Given the emerging possibilities of benefit Tai Chi is showing already with such limited research, this is inexcusable.

Massive resources should be used to fully explore what Tai Chi offers, so that all hospitals can not only offer classes, but prescribe them. Tai Chi should be covered by medical insurance and national health insurance programs. The future is ours, by beginning to demand of our health system a natural and cost effective approach to our health and well-being.

Share this article widely with everyone you know, but especially your health professionals, and your local media’s health reporters. Bill Douglas is the Tai Chi Expert at DrWeil.com, Founder of World T'ai Chi & Qigong Day (held in 50 nations each year), and has authored and co-authored several books including a #1 best selling Tai Chi book “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to T’ai Chi & Qigong.” Bill’s been a Tai Chi source for The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, etc. You can learn more about Tai Chi & Qigong, and also contact Bill Douglas at http://www.worldtaichiday.org/



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How to Eat More and Drop Pant Sizes

This was me for years. I ballooned to 220lb while on diets. I didn't start to lose weight until I started to eat smaller meals, more often. In six months I dropped under 200lb, without exercise. But, it wasn't the number - it was the way I looked.

My body tightened. I dropped several pant sizes. My legs are firmer. I've also noticed that I am sleeping better. But, the more I lose, the more I want to do - so I will start exercising soon. Before I do I will take measurements of myself, because I know that muscle weighs more than fat.

I use to be very athletic, and looked as good at 160lb, as many women look at 130lb.


Why Eating More Often Will Help You Lose Weight


People will often look at me in disbelief when I tell them they are not eating often enough. The logical mind wants to think, "If I skip meals ... I am bound to lose weight." WRONG!!!!! There has been a ton of research that has proven, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that the body gears down and hangs on when put under this type of stress.

I call it "starvation mode." When your body isn't receiving nutrients every few hours, your metabolism drops into low, low gear; basically, the rate it maintains while you are asleep. In that state, your body is ultra-conservative. It uses energy very efficiently, and if any nutrients come in, they are immediately stored for fear that it won't be getting any more for another long period of time. Hence, you will not lose weight and, in fact, may even gain.

On the other hand, if you were to begin eating 5-6 small meals every day, in a week or two your body will be convinced that "more nutrients are always coming ... on a regular basis", and you will begin to drop weight almost effortlessly. Hard to believe but its true.

Now, an important key is to eat the right small meals every 2-3 hours. You can't be eating fast food or double fudge brownies and expect the weight to fall off. Of course you need to eat a balanced healthy diet consisting of 7-8 servings of fruit and vegetables, 2-4 servings of grains, 1-3 servings of good fats, 2-3 servings of dairy and 2-3 servings of lean protein. The actual reality is that you will be eating more food then you have probably ever eaten but, because it is the nutrient-packed food that your body needs, you will lose weight with relative ease.

So, let's go through a typical day's food plan.

7 a.m. - 8 oz glass of purified water, 1-2 eggs, 1 slice hardy multigrain bread, 1-2 teaspoons all fruit, 2 slices turkey bacon, 1 cup decaf or green tea.

Midmorning snack - 8 oz water, a small apple or 15 raw almonds.

Noon - Ideally, this is your largest meal of the day with 4-6 oz lean protein, 2-3 servings of veggies, 1/2 sweet potato or 1/2-cup brown rice and more water.

Afternoon snack - Warm or cold herbal tea, 5-7 Triscuits with a thin coating of peanut butter.
Dinner - Very large mixed green salad with all the fixings, put 2-3 oz. of lean meat on it and use balsamic vinegar and olive oil as dressing, more water.

Evening - Finally, if you so choose, an evening snack of a small container of no-fat yogurt or 5-7 strawberries cut up and mixed with 1/3 cup of no-fat cottage cheese and, of course, more water.

This may seem challenging at first, but over the course of a week or two, as you settle into this food regimen, you will notice that your energy level will markedly increase, you will not have sugar or non-healthy carb carvings and you will sleep much more soundly. Give it a try, and mark my words ... you are going to feel wonderful and lose weight to boot. Click on Fitness Tips for more information.



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