Vitality Today - Health & Wellness News

Johns Hopkins Health - Vitamin D May Be Good for Your Heart

2010-07-29T10:04:00.002+12:00

Johns Hopkins Health - Vitamin D May Be Good for Your Heart

Much has been reported about the effect of vitamin D on your health - including that some of the good news is overhyped. But we do know, says cardiologist Erin Michos, M.D., that low vitamin D is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

“Several studies have shown this,” Michos says. “Even after accounting for other risk factors.”

What we don’t know, she adds, is whether getting your daily requirement-or more-of vitamin D may actually prevent cardiovascular disease. Clinical trials are happening right now to try to figure that out. What they reveal may point to a potential target for cardiovascular disease prevention.

In the meantime, there’s no harm in supplementing your vitamin D. How much do you need? Women, older
people and those who are obese and overweight are more likely to be deficient, Michos says.

Generally, 1,000 to 2,000 international units (IUs) are considered safe and adequate. And, although no one recommends overexposure to sunlight, as little as 10 minutes can give you 3,000 IUs of vitamin D.

“You want to be sensible, of course,” Michos says. “If you don’t get outdoors much, you should take the supplement.”

Check out other recent heart health news from Johns Hopkins at hopkinsmedicine.org/heart.

Daniel Carruthers Shares USANA with Elite Cyclists

2010-07-28T10:43:00.001+12:00

After intense physical activity, it is important to replenish your body as soon as possible. The riders on the team I was supporting at the Tour of Luzon in March looked to Nutrimeal. They did not want to consume solid food straight away, especially with the heat.

Several riders who took part in the Tour of Luzon had the opportunity to try some USANA products over the course of nine days. They shared a few comments with me:

Daniel Carruthers Shares USANA with Elite Cyclists

USANA Health Sciences and TOSH Collaborate on New Vitamin Studies

2010-07-16T22:10:00.001+12:00

Can Vitamin D Reduce Muscular Weakness in Healthy, Active Adults?Second Study Examines Vitamin C Role in Knee Injury Recovery

MURRAY, Utah, Jul 15, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Can something as a simple as a vitamin supplement help your body recover more quickly from the pain and stiffness associated with vigorous exercise, or even improve recovery from surgery? Researchers at TOSH--The Orthopedic Specialty Hospital and USANA Health Sciences, Inc. /quotes/comstock/15*!usna/quotes/nls/usna (USNA 39.27, 0.00, 0.00%) are hoping to answer these questions with different studies focused on vitamin supplements.

In the first study, Tyler Barker, PhD., a physiologist at TOSH, and Brian Dixon, PhD., a senior scientist at USANA, are hoping to determine whether vitamin D -- most recently championed as a means to prevent or reduce a person's risk of cardiovascular disease -- can reduce post-exercise
muscular weakness in young, physically-active people.

"The implication here is that vitamin D will help shorten recovery time by minimizing muscular weakness," says Dr. Barker. "That could make a significant difference in an individual's performance and help them avoid some of the unpleasant after-effects of vigorous or unaccustomed exercise and establish the basis for future studies conducted at the molecular and cellular level."

Dr. Barker classifies the study participants as "weekend warriors," ages 18 to 45 years old, who are not taking any vitamin supplements. The athletes are randomly divided into three groups: one is given a placebo, the other two groups receive either 200 IU or 4000 IU (international units) of a specially formulated vitamin D (cholecalciferol) supplement.

Study participants will provide several blood samples and muscular strength measures prior to and following intense exercise. Dr. Barker says researchers are only testing study participants during the winter months when a person's vitamin D levels are at their lowest levels. The study began this past winter and is expected to run for two to three more years.

A second study involves patients at TOSH with ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injuries. Investigators are hoping this study helps them find a complementary therapeutic approach for improving muscular strength in post-surgical patients.

"In results recently published in Free Radical Biology and Medicine, we discovered an association between plasma ascorbic acid concentrations prior to surgery and muscular strength gains after surgery," says Dr. Barker. "Specifically, patients with higher levels of vitamin C in their blood before ACL surgery are showing greater strength recovery after surgery."

Which makes sense.

According to the National Institutes of Health, the human body needs vitamin C to produce collagen - which is used to create skin, scar tissue, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels -- as well as to heal wounds, and repair and maintain healthy cartilage, bones, and teeth.

Vitamins C and E are both antioxidants -- nutrients that slow the aging process and help our bodies eliminate the excess free radicals that accelerate aging. Dr. Barker says lowering oxidative stress and increasing vitamins E and C to adequate and safe levels in the body may improve recovery following ACL surgery.

"Oxidative stress occurs all the time," he says. "It's a natural part of living. But you don't want it to exceed your antioxidant capacity. That's when we find impairments in muscular strength or size, as suggested in experimental animal studies; causation remains to be explicitly tested in humans, a causation that we are uniquely exploring in several different human models."

Participants in this study are all TOSH patients being treated for ACL injuries. Two weeks prior to their surgery, their blood is tested for vitamin C and E levels, and then each leg is separately tested for strength. Patients are given a placebo, customized vitamins E and C, or a multi-vitamin/mineral (USANA Essentials). Patients will supplement for a total of 18 weeks: starting 2 weeks prior to and concluding 16 weeks after surgery. Single leg strength and blood measures are tested again several times -- at two, three and four months post-surgery.

"We hope that our studies will provide evidence-based results that identify complementary therapeutic approaches for patients recovering from ACL surgery," says Dr. Barker. "The idea that we can use vitamin supplements to build strength and improve physical rehabilitation is provocative. Through the collaborative research efforts between USANA and TOSH, we are positioned to advance the body of knowledge regarding complementary and alternative medicine approaches in diverse human conditions."

In both studies, USANA is providing custom and existing supplements (i.e., USANA Essentials) with designated and certified levels of purity and potency. This is crucial, Dr. Barker says, because of the lack of oversight by some supplement manufacturers. Many supplements can have significantly more or less of the active ingredient than the label suggests.

"At TOSH, we appreciate and feel extremely fortunate for the collaborative research relationship established with USANA Health Sciences and the Research and Development department therein," says Dr. Barker. "In a scientific setting, it is important to know exactly what you are studying and what you are providing to subjects/patients. USANA Health Sciences provides remarkable scientific and research support, pharmaceutical grade supplements, and quality assurance of individual ingredients."

Dr. Dixon notes that USANA uses the highest quality raw materials in their manufacturing process and takes great pains to ensure their final product meets the highest standards.

He says they are excited to be part of these two important studies.

"TOSH's reputation precedes itself," says Dr. Dixon. "We are proud to be working together on these projects. TOSH has the ability to assess muscular-based end points with distinct clinical applications to patient recovery, whereas USANA examines mechanisms predominantly at the molecular and biochemical level. Working together, we should be able to identify if alterations at the molecular or cellular level improve clinical- and functional-based outcomes in patients."

Besides providing the supplements for both of these studies, USANA is also providing a partial funding to the Vitamin E and C study in ACL patients. The Deseret Foundation at Intermountain Healthcare is funding both the Vitamin D and Vitamin E and C studies. Persons who are interested in taking part in the studies can contact Dr. Barker at TOSH at 801-314-4951.

ABOUT USANA

USANA Health Sciences develops and manufactures high-quality nutritionals, personal-care, energy and weight-management products that are sold directly to Preferred Customers and Associates throughout the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Mexico, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Learn more at www.usana.com.

ABOUT TOSH

TOSH is one of the country's premier centers for orthopedic surgery, orthopedic research, sports performance training, comprehensive physical therapy and rehab, and sports medicine programs. TOSH's broad range of service includes TOSH Acceleration training, sports medicine, sports biomechanics, physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, nutrition, biomechanical engineering, and exercise and sport physiology.

91 & Still Going Strong

2010-07-14T13:17:00.001+12:00

USANA

Sisters Doing It for Themselves: A New Era of Business Ownership

2010-07-07T19:46:00.004+12:00

"Work-life balance has become a desirable commodity, with women in the workforce often juggling their career, family and relationships. RESCU spoke to three women about the pros and cons of going out on their own."

Click the post title to read the full article at Rescu.com

All enquiries just send comments my way :)

Optimal Wellness Online - Healing the Heart

2010-07-07T13:04:00.002+12:00

Healing the Heart - Heart Health

Wednesday 07 July, 2010

7.00 pm NSW, ACT, VIC, QLD - AUSTRALIA

6:30 pm SA - AUSTRALIA

5:00 pm WA - AUSTRALIA

9:00 pm NEW ZEALAND

Hosted by: Charmaine Wigglesworth, Nutritionist

Guest Speaker: Dr Gerald R J Lewis

Dr Gerald R J Lewis is a practicing cardiologist and general physician. In his 40 years in medicine he has worked in coronary care units, catheter laboratories and cardiac surgical units. He has an MD doctorate on the management of patients after Cardiac Surgery.

Join us for an informative session on the role of cellular nutrition in cardiovascular health.

Cardiovascular disease and symptoms of poor circulation and heart function are so common these days it's frightening. And with statistics like 1 in 3 people will suffer with cardiovascular disease and 1 in 2 people who have a heart attack will die from it, it makes a lot of sense that we really take care of our heart health and learn how to achieve optimal wellness. In this session by cardiologist Dr Gerald Lewis you'll learn just that. Join us for an informative session on the role of cellular nutrition in cardiovascular health.

www.goawebinars.com

1. Enter your name and email address

2. Please ensure you log in early. We don't want you to miss out!

Duration: 1 hour

This is a Free and Open online Webinar, please feel free to invite family and friends to join in.

Logging in to Optimal Wellness this Wednesday has the potential to totally transform your life!

Presented by USANA Corporate ANZ in collaboration with Global Online Alliance

STUDY: Flaxseed Oil and the Treatment of Dry Eyes

2010-06-24T14:15:00.000+12:00

BROOKLINE, U.S.A. — Dry eye treated orally with flaxseed oil has a high success rate, according to a 3-year follow-up of 200 patients. “We found that 85% had total relief of their symptoms at the 2-month check,” said investigator Carol F. Boerner, MD, an ophthalmologist in private solo practice here. “These patients, including my mother, commonly reported that the burning and stinging of their dry eyes went away in about 2 weeks. The results lasted as long as the treatment was continued.” Patients also reported
that “dry skin symptoms, such as cracked cuticles; flaky elbows, legs and feet; and itchy backs were alleviated.”

Dr. Boerner said that dry eye complaints are the most frequent reason for consultation in her practice. “Whether it’s complaints from young people using video display terminals (VDTs) all day or older folks trying to read the newspaper, tear film stability is an issue,” Dr. Boerner said. “A healthy tear film is important for comfortable contact lens wear, as well as prompt healing from corneal abrasions or laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).”

Dr. Boerner believes that meibomian gland dysfunction leads to oily layered tear defects, “which permit aqueous layer evaporation and subsequent surface damage and symptoms.” When one of her patients cured his rosacea with parenteral flaxseed oil, “I wondered if the burning and stinging of dry eyes could also be helped with the same supplement.”

Major components

The major components of flaxseed oil are alpha-linolenic acid omega 3 (57%), linoleic acid omega 6 (15%) and oleic acid omega 9 (18%). “Flaxseed oil is the world’s richest source of omega 3 fatty acids — twice as much as fish oil, for instance,” Dr. Boerner said. Likewise, “alpha-linolenic and linoleic acids are essential to our diet because our body cannot make them, yet we use them to make other fatty acids our body must have.”

These are also important components of the stratum corneum for skin stability “and act as precursors to prostaglandins, which affect inflammation and arteriole muscle tone, among other actions,” Dr. Boerner said. Furthermore, “flaxseed oil causes hair and nails to grow more quickly, lowers triglycerides and makes platelets less sticky.”

The 200 patients in the prospective study were all from Dr. Boerner’s general practice and ranged in age from 22 to 85 years. All patients were given 2,000 mg of flaxseed oil orally every morning. “I chose 2,000 mg because that’s what helped my rosacea patient,” Dr. Boerner said.

Patients were evaluated at 2 months and then at yearly intervals for 3 additional years. “The patients were evaluated by noting changes in reported symptomatology of dryness and observation of the quantity and quality of meibomian gland secretions,” Dr. Boerner said. “We found that the change in tear break-up times did not really correlate very well with symptoms, because the values could change from morning to night on the same day, in the same patient.” The symptoms monitored were burning, stinging, redness at lid margins and the complaint of dry skin.

OptOmega delivers a balanced ratio of essential fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6 through a unique blend of organic, cold-pressed flax, sunflower, pumpkin seed, and extra-virgin olive oils and is vegetarian safe.

Product	Autoship AUD	RRP AUD	Autoship NZD	RRP NZD
OptOmega	$21.00	$31.00	$28.00	$39.00
OptOmega (2 Pack)	$35.00	$55.00	$45.00	$67.00

For orders and/or enquiries leave a comment or send me an email.

Source

Carol F. Boerner, MD, can be reached at Eyes of Boston, 1101 Beacon St., Brookline, MA 02446-5502 U.S.A.; +(1) 617-566-0062; fax: +(1) 617-734-3264. Dr. Boerner has no financial interest in flaxseed oil.

Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet.

Using Flaxseed Oil to Relieve Dry Eyes!

2010-06-24T14:04:00.001+12:00

Flaxseed oil contains important dietary fatty acids that have multiple health benefits, including prevention or control of dry eyes. Other benefits include a lower risk of heart disease and a reduction of chronic inflammation that can lead to a variety of serious diseases, including cancer and stroke. Chronic inflammation also has been indicated as an underlying cause of osteoarthritis and Alzheimer's disease.

Daily supplementation of flaxseed oil, when used alone or in tandem with lubricating eye drops, appear to reduce dry eye symptoms, including burning, stinging, redness and intermittent visual disturbances. For this reason, many optometrists and ophthalmologists are now recommending flaxseed oil for their patients who suffer from dry eyes.

Research also suggests these same fatty acids may reduce the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.

Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet.

Antioxidants and a More Beautiful You!

2010-06-24T11:47:00.000+12:00

It's true: You are what you eat, and consuming foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can benefit you both inside and out. Antioxidants may help lower cholesterol, reduce your risk of certain cancers, promote good circulation, support healthy gums, and protect your skin. Many skin and beauty experts also believe that antioxidants are a key factor in maintaining a health and youthful apprearance.

Vitamins and Antioxidants for Skin Health

Age, stress, sun exposure, pollution, and smoking cigarettes can contribute to a reduction in the concentration of antioxidants in the skin, which may lead to visible signs of damage, such as wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. A few antioxidants that studies suggest may be particularly beneficial to the skin are:

Vitamin E. Vitamin E, also called tocopherol, is an antioxidant that may benefit the cellular membranes and "oily" structures in the skin.
Flavonoids. Flavonoids, a class of antioxidants, may also protect skin against free-radical damage, particularly damage that results from the sun's ultraviolet rays.
Vitamin C. As an antioxidant, vitamin C may do more than neutralize cell-damaging free radical activity; it may also aid in the production of collagen.

E-Prime - $55.00 NZD, 60tabs/bottle. Rec dose: 2 tabs daily

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Poly-C - $49.00 NZD, 120tabs/bottle Rec dose: 2-4 tabs daily

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Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet.

Nutrition for Our Eyes

2010-06-23T22:23:00.007+12:00

When we think of nutrition for our bodies, most of us don’t consider our eyes. But our eye’s are organs to and also need a variety of nutrients to remain healthy. What exactly can go wrong with our eyes? The first thing that comes to mind is requiring glasses. Another biggy is blindness. There are a number of other diseases and conditions that can also occur. Some common conditions that afflict the eye are:

Glaucoma
Farsightedness
Nearsightedness
Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
Sty
Blindness
Astigmatism
Tumors
Infections
Cataracts
Dry Eye Syndrome
Macular Degeneration
Ectropion

So is there anything we can do about it? Research suggests that antioxidants reduce your risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Specific antioxidants can have additional benefits as well; for example, vitamin A protects against blindness, and vitamin C may play a role in preventing or alleviating glaucoma. Essential fatty acids appear to help the eye in a variety of ways, from alleviating symptoms of dry eye syndrome to guarding against macular damage. So which foods provide the best eye-protecting nutrients:

Vitamin A: cod liver oil, liver, carrots, sweet potatoes, butternut squash.
Lutein and zeaxanthin: spinach, kale, collard greens.
Fatty acids: cold-water fish (salmon, mackerel, trout, tuna), flaxseed, sunflower, pumpkin seeds.
Vitamin C: capsicums (red or green), kale, strawberries, broccoli, oranges, honey dew melon’s.
Bioflavonoids: citrus fruits, cherries, grapes, plums.
Vitamin E: sunflower seeds, almonds, hazelnuts.
Selenium: brazil nuts, yeast, seafood.
Zinc: oysters, wheat, nuts.
Antioxidants: blueberries,cranberries, blackberries, prunes, raspberries

It goes without saying that for optimal health we should be consuming at least 2 serves of fruit and 5 serves of vegetables every day. This not only provides great nutrition for your eyes but for the rest of your body. Bon appétit!

What are EFA's and what do they do?

2010-06-21T20:54:00.005+12:00

In the past few years, researchers have begun to understand the fundamental and crucial role that a certain class of fats, known as essential fatty acids (EFAs), plays in health and wellness. EFAs are called "essential" because the body needs them, however it is unable to produce them. Therefore, essential fatty acids must come from your diet.

There are only two essential fatty acids – alpha linolenic acid (omega-3) and linoleic acid (omega-6).

EFAs support the cardiovascular, reproductive, immune, and nervous systems. The human body needs EFAs to manufacture and repair cell membranes, enabling the cells to obtain optimum nutrition and expel harmful waste products. A primary function of EFAs is the production of prostaglandins, which regulate body functions such as

heart rate, blood pressure, blood clotting, fertility, conception, and play a role in immune function by regulating inflammation and encouraging the body to fight infection. Essential Fatty Acids are also needed for proper growth in children, particularly for neural development and maturation of sensory systems, with male children having higher needs than females. Foetuses and breast-fed infants also require an adequate supply of EFAs through the mother's dietary intake.

Some of the food sources of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are fish and shellfish, flaxseed (linseed), hemp oil, soya oil, canola (rapeseed) oil, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, leafy vegetables and walnuts. However achieving a healthy balance of Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fatty acids is difficult with today’s modern eating habits and depleted levels of EFA’s in our foods.

Benefits of Flaxseed Oil:

Flaxseed oil contains lignans, which can be used to counter hormone related problems and ward off the ill effects of certain, bacteria and fungi.
controls high blood pressure, helps to lower cholesterol and guards against heart disease.
combats inflammation due to gout, lupus and also inflammation in the joints and kidneys.
reduces the intensity of joint pain and also reduces joint swelling.
is useful in controlling constipation. The dietary fiber content in the oil is considerable and helps to ease bowel movements.
has been known to combat inflammation and it is useful in repairing intestinal tract damage.
it has been known to keep gallstones at bay and sometimes even dissolve existing stones.
acne, eczema, psoriasis, sunburn and rosacea have all been known to respond favourably to flaxseed oil.
Omega-3 fatty acids ensure healthy hair and nails and it also helps to revitalize skin and prevents nails from cracking and breaking.
flaxseed oil helps to reduce the severity of nerve damage and also aids in the triggering of nerve impulses. As it nourishes the nerve, it may possibly be of some use in the treating of Parkinson’s disease^*.
it helps to combat the effects of aging and the lignans present in the oil guard against cancer.
another important area where it is of great help is the brain. The omega 3 fatty acids help retain emotional health of a person, helping to tackle depression and possibly Alzheimer’s disease^*.

^*studies are ongoing into use of flax seed oil and the treatment of these diseases

Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet.

Moisturise from the Inside Out this Winter!

2010-06-21T19:12:00.007+12:00

Taking only a few seconds per day you’ll love OptOmega and your hair, skin and nails will love it too.

OptOmega^TM delivers a balanced ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 EFA’s is an all-natural, vegetarian product. It is produced from certified organic, unrefined cold-pressed flax seed, sunflower seed, pumpkin seed, and extra-virgin olive oils. OptOmega is an excellent way to return essential fatty acids to your diet and balance your intake of omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids.

Just two (2) teaspoons per day is all that’s required, and it doesn’t take long for most people to see and feel the difference.

So why not moisturise from the inside out this winter with OptOmega^TM?

Product	Autoship AUD	RRP AUD	Autoship NZD	RRP NZD
OptOmega	$21.00	$31.00	$28.00	$39.00
OptOmega (2 Pack)	$35.00	$55.00	$45.00	$67.00

Pumping up Your Vitality – Strategies for Sexual and Reproductive Health

2010-05-17T22:05:00.004+12:00

Sexual and reproductive health has many implications on our overall satisfaction and enjoyment of life. Reproductive health is influenced by many factors. These include our age, lifestyle, habits, genetics, use of medicines and exposure to chemicals in the environment. Vibrant health in this area has wide ranging benefits. Join us for this informative presentation to learn more on the following:-

falling pregnant when you want to
sailing through menopause
alleviating period pain
having healthy urinary flow at all ages
enjoying a healthy libido
guiding teenagers through puberty

Event: Optimal Wellness: Pumping up Your Vitality – Strategies for Sexual and Reproductive Health

When: Wednesday 2^nd June 2010

Times: 9.00 pm NEW ZEALAND
7.00 pm NSW, VIC, ACT, QLD - AUSTRALIA
6.30 pm SA - AUSTRALIA
5.00 pm WA - AUSTRALIA

HOW TO ATTEND: www.goawebinars.com enter your name and email when prompted. Please ensure you login 10mins prior to start time using the link below

Duration: 60 minutes

Our guest speaker Stacey Roberts (pictured right) is a Sports Medicine Physiotherapist, Qualified Herbalist and Member of National Herbalist Association of Australia

She has been involved in health care for 2 decades in both conventional and complementary medicine. Stacey is an international therapist who has assisted people in over 32 countries with improving their overall health and wellbeing by addressing their physical, physiological, and psychological health with complementary products and services.

International speaker and best selling author, Stacey has authored and co authored over 7 books/ebooks and has been featured on World News Now in New York, A Current Affair, Oprah, filmed by the Discovery Channel , Sunrise in Sydney, and WIN TV among other radio and television shows in the US and Australia.

Stacey lectures nationally and internationally on fertility, hormone health, kinesiology, musculoskeletal assessment, parenting issues, and creating optimal health.

Stacey is the director of Sharkey's Healing Centre on the Gold Coast which specialises in providing solutions for couples with fertility issues. Sharkey’s Healing Centre received the 2007 Stevie Award for the Best Overall Company in Asia (Subcontinent Australia and New Zealand).

Stacey is a Silver Director USANA Associate.

This is an open event and everyone is welcome. Please feel free to invite anyone you think might be interested.

Quote

2010-05-11T10:17:00.002+12:00

"People who make money often make mistakes, and even have major setbacks, but they believe they will eventually prosper, and they see every setback as a lesson to be applied in their move towards success." - Jerry Gillies

Focus

2010-04-06T20:14:00.003+12:00

"Your imagination is your preview to life's coming attractions" - Albert Einstein

Playing out a situation in your head before you do it in real life, will afford you ways to improve the situation when it comes time to do it for real. Visualisation in the achievement of your goals helps you further "see" who you have to be and how you need to operate to accomplish your objectives. Another way to reinforce your visualisation practice is to prepare a personal visualisation board with pictures or other items that remind you of all your goals and mount it somewhere you can see it every day. Begin to act now as you will act when your goal is reached. If you were a millionaire, how would you walk, talk, shake hands, or enter a room? If

you were already an amazing, romantic, and considerate husband, how would you enter the house from work? How would you enbrace yur wife? How would you talk, listen and behave? If you were already your ideal weight, how would you walk, hold your shoulders. What would you say to yourself when you look in the mirror?

Focus and commitment to that focus will get you where you want to be. Too often we let other things take our attention and then we "react" to that stimuli, be it negative or positive, and therefore we create the outcome. If we can "respond" rather than "react" then we have a much better chance to create the result we want, rather than the result we don't want.

Amazing Life Checklist

2010-04-01T16:19:00.006+13:00

By Cari Vollmer

Ever wondered what you need to know and do to live your best, most amazing life?

Some people make it look so easy. They're happy most of the time, have interesting jobs that they love, plenty of money to do what they want and freedom for fun on a regular basis. If something "bad" happens they seem to recover quickly and get back on track fast.

So what do you do if you're not one of those people? Wonder no more. There are very specific things you can do right now to get your life on track and keep it there long term. None of these things are new, but using them together packs a powerful get-your-life-on-track-and-keep-it-there punch.

To live your best and most amazing life, day in and day out, takes focus, commitment and action. It also takes information. After all, you can't be expected to drive a car without first learning how to drive. So how can you live your best, most amazing life if you haven't learned how to yet?

The good news is you can learn. Below are five steps you can take to get your life on track sooner, rather than later. Do these five things and your life will begin to feel better and more purposeful and you'll be on your way to creating a life you love.

1. Create SPACE in your life
It's hard to create a life you love if you're burdened with too much stuff; emotional and physical clutter.

Work at clearing the clutter in your life. Deal with your emotional issues and get rid of all the extra stuff you have in storage, closets – everywhere!

By doing so you'll free up energy that you can then use to go after your dream.

2. Become incredibly GRATEFUL
What you focus on expands. If you're using most of your time focusing on things you don't like, guess what? You'll see more of (and attract more of) things you don't like!

Implement a gratitude practice. Every day find at least five things you can be grateful for. Soon enough you'll shift your attention to your blessings in life, rather than what you perceive is missing from your life.

3. Take 100% responsibility
Nothing will really happen for the better until you're willing to take 100% responsibility for your life and all you create in it.

Stop the blame game. No more pointing fingers. You are responsible for your life. No ONE, or no THING will ever make you happier or more successful than you can make yourself.

4. Focus on your FEELINGS
Most of us spend so much of our time "doing" that we get lost in the "doing" and forget that a rich life experience has much more to do with how we "feel" about our life, then it does with what we "do" with our life.

How do you want to feel about your life? Answer that question and then find the things you can do that will generate the feelings you desire.

5. Create a VISION for your life
Once you know how you want to feel about your life, create a vision for your life.

What will you BE, DO and HAVE in your life?

6. Get to Know Your Brilliance Self Better
You have a unique set of talents, passions and values. Get to know them up close and personal!

Creating your best life includes leveraging the best of WHO YOU ARE.

When you can infuse the work you do with your innate, natural specialties the happier you will be. Work won't feel like work. Life will be easier.

7. Set Goals. Take ACTION
What do you want? You'll only get it if you set a goal to get it and then take the necessary action.

Your goals can be lofty or down to earth. Consider setting your goals a bit outside your comfort zone. Doing so will inspire you to take action and allow you to grow.

If only we could create our best life from our arm chair, but life doesn't work that way. You've got to take action to make your dream come true.

8. Surround Yourself with Good People
This is such an important point I considered making it #1 on this list!

You are a reflection of the five people you hang around most. Eye-opening, isn't it?

Surround yourself with people that care about you, support you and want to see you succeed. Surround yourself with people that lift you up, rather than bring you down.

9. Know Your Triggers
What easily derails your best efforts? When you're stressed-out do you spend more money than you should or eat more than you should? If so, find a way to handle your stress so that when "life happens" you won't take 1, 2 or 3 steps back by falling into old habits.

Become aware of what triggers you and sets you back.

Awareness is power.

10. Have FUN!
Enjoy your life. Let your hair down. Laugh. You get the idea!

Take frequent breaks to balance out your focus and hard work. Allow yourself to have fun. The highest achievers have learned that frequent breaks/vacations actually help them perform better. Give yourself a break and see how much more you can get done by doing so.

Copyright © 2008 Cari Vollmer. Cari Vollmer, founder of LifeOnTrack.com and creator of InspireYourSuccess.com, simplifies personal growth by showing you step-by-step how to create and live a life that works well and feels great! To sign up for her FREE how to articles and no-charge 5-Day Feel Great Now E-Course visit http://www.LifeOnTrack.com

Recession-Proof Formula

2010-03-22T11:12:00.001+13:00

Click the "Recession-Proof Formula" title to view a short video about home based business'. It provides important information about what to look for if your are considering working from home.

Quote for a Change

2010-03-19T07:55:00.000+13:00

"Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great."

– Mark Twain

Sorry people, the "updated editor" still is not working and I'm unable to post any pics or even place line breaks. I have swapped back to the "old editor" however it is just the same. I have posted a message in the "help section" but no-one has responded. I have also looked through all the Google FAQ's and there is nothing to tell me how to fix it. Might have to leave blogger and go to wordpress?

Again, apologies for my posts being so visually boring.

Will's Wisdom

2010-03-18T11:07:00.004+13:00

Hi All

Check out this thought provoking interview chop with Will Smith.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLN2k0b3g70

either copy and paste the link above or click on "Will's Wisdom" title to watch.

Weird Ways to get Kids to Eat Vegies

2010-03-16T12:28:00.001+13:00

I have tried so many things over the years. From mashing cauliflower into potato to hiding minuscule sized pieces of vegies amongst mince and pasta. But the thing that has worked best for me in recent times is “naming” the weird coloured piles of goop spooned onto their plates.

My most recent creation is “alien creation goo” from none other than Ben 10. It’s at least 5 vegies, usually potato, pumpkin, broccoli, cauliflower, spinach and carrot mashed with a bar mix until its soft “condensed milk” consistency. It’s a green coloured mess, but the kids eat it with very few complaints.

Another triumph is Giant’s Snot – no description needed I’m sure. We also have Worm Guts and Monster Poo which is a more yellow/orange colour. For me, just their name’s makes me feel ill, but these names seem to work quite the opposite for the boys. It’s strange to see them excited about eating Worm Guts. Now I don’t have any little girls but I imagine that names like “butterflies, fairy’s and sunshine” might work well. I’m keen to hear your thoughts or results on that one. Please feel free to leave a comment or two.

I know, I know.....I can hear you saying “but they are used to eating all their vegies combined, they’re not getting to know the individual flavours and textures”. Yes you’re right. However my boys are so picky that I’m just glad to be getting food into their bellies. And the fact that it is healthy has me doing cartwheels. I hope that in years to come that they will become curious and start eating their vegies steamed in whole pieces. If not..........I’ll still be happy to come up with weird names as long as they get healthy and nutritious food into their growing bodies.

Importance of Drinking Water Regularly

2010-03-12T12:28:00.003+13:00

When you consider the fact that the human body is comprised of more than seventy percent water, it’s easy to see why regular consumption of water is beneficial for every human being. Water enables the body to function in more ways than one might think. The benefits of drinking water extend far beyond simply quenching thirst. Water contributes to almost every aspect of a person’s health.

As a person uses their muscles, they are constantly losing water. The simple act of breathing and using the lungs costs the average person between two and four cups of water every day. Typical, non-exercise related perspiration can remove another two cups of water per day. Using the bathroom facilities costs the body precious water. If the body uses this much water through everyday activities, imagine how much water physical exertion demands from the body.

It is obvious that the body needs water, but what are the benefits of drinking water? Cells in the body need water in order to work properly. Water helps cells to process blood, which is made mostly of water. Blood is essential to the body’s ability to carry nutrients and transport waste from the body.Organs and joints tend to work better when supplied with adequate water. Not only does water lubricate, but it hydrates as well to promote proper flow throughout all organs and body systems. Muscle discomfort can be reduced with plenty of water as well.

The benefits of drinking water can be seen on the surface of every individual. Our skin is probably the most obviously benefited recipient of adequate hydration. Skin looks younger and wrinkles are visibly reduced with adequate hydrate. People who have radiantly smooth skin are most likely providing their skin with plenty of water.

It’s easy to drink enough water every day. Simply have a glass as soon as you wake up in the morning. Also have a glass with every meal and snack. Have a glass before bed, and if you wake during the night for any reason......have a small glass then.

Cheers

Your life can be what you choose! Do not accept less than optimal health!

2010-03-10T13:25:00.001+13:00

Firstly I wish to apologise for the lack of text formatting. For some unknown reason all my formatting tools, including being able to add pictures and page breaks, have disappeared. Anyway, if you're down Christchurch way this seminar is well worth a visit. Read on for details....

Dr Monica Lewis will explain in simple terms why we desperately need to be pro- active with our health BEFORE we lose it. She will show us how many of today’s modern diseases are preventable, and how top quality nutritional products can help YOU start to make important health changes today, even if your health is already suffering and you feel you are aging too quickly. Many of today‘s health problems can largely be reversed with this approach.

She will also discuss the effects of stress and present a way to make changes in your life. She has used this approach to turn her own life around after bad accidents caused her to develop serious generalized arthritis. Many people today are aware their medication is having other effects and are looking at alternatives.

Dr Monica Lewis is a NZ holistic doctor who has been in practice for 40 years. She specializes in chronic (long term) and hormonal illnesses by incorporating mind/body medicine, counseling and nutritional medicine. She is passionate about helping children with health and behavioural problems. Along with her cardiologist husband, Dr Gerry Lewis, she has authored several best selling books, including books on prevention of Cancer, and how to use Dietary Supplements correctly.

Date: Thursday, 11th March 2010

Time: 7.15pm for 7.30pm start

Cost: $10 per person

Location: Science Alive Building, next to Hoyts on Moorhouse Ave. Christchurch

Car parking behind - drive up ramp by House of Travel

More Evidence Supports the Importance of Vitamin D in Heart Disease Prevention

2010-03-09T20:50:00.004+13:00

by Marek Doyle, citizen journalist

Although the link between low Vitamin D status and chronic disease has been well known for some time, a new study has shed further light on the role of Vitamin D in cases of hypertension and congestive heart failure.

Researchers from the Medical College of Wisconsin analysed genetic data from 617 individuals stored at the Marshfield Clinical Personalized Medicine project, a DNA databank. They separated the group equally into a healthy control group, those with high blood pressure and those with high blood pressure and congestive heart failure, and it became clear that there was a striking correlation between those who suffered from both ailments and a deviation in the CYP27B1 gene, which reduces the rate that the body converts stored vitamin D into its active form.

Robert Simpson was one of the authors of the study. "This study revealed that a critical enzyme absolutely required for production of the vitamin D hormone has a genetic variant associated with the development of congestive heart failure," he said. "If subsequent studies confirm this finding and demonstrate a mechanism, this means that in the future, we may be able to screen earlier for those most vulnerable and slow the progress of the disease."

Although more likely to suffer from hypertension and CHD, individuals with this genetic disposition will not necessarily succumb to poor health. It is important to note that not individuals who expressed the deviation in the CYP27B1 showed chronic disease and this altered gene does not stop the body from using Vitamin D; instead, it slows the rate that calcidiol is converted into calcitriol (this is the `active` form of Vitamin D). This means that affected individuals may require significantly more UVB exposure/dietary Vitamin D than average, although this research is still to be done before any true comparison can be made. "This initial study needs to be confirmed with a larger study that would permit analysis of the full cardiovascular profile of the population possessing the gene variant," added Simpson.

A variation in the CYP27B1 gene has previously been associated with an increased risk of developing Type 1 Diabetes, and more research is expected to further elucidate both the role of this gene and Vitamin D in general in a range of degenerative disease. Meanwhile, this latest research is unlikely to change recommendations made in nutritional clinics, although it gives rise to the possibility that, in future, tests may exist to identify those who require more Vitamin D than average. Mainstream medicine is yet to welcome the use of Vitamin D, regardless of the wide array of protective effects it has been shown to have on cancer, CHD, hypertension, depression, auto-immune conditions and insulin sensitivity. This latest research represents more useful insight into the function of this powerful nutrient, and another slow step towards acceptance of this fat-soluble vitamin as an important weapon in the fight against chronic disease.

Reference:

American Heart Association (2008). Lack Of Vitamin D May Increase Heart Disease Risk. ScienceDaily. Retrieved December 5.

Bailey R, Cooper JD et al (2007). Association of the vitamin D metabolism gene CYP27B1 with type 1 diabetes. Diabetes, 56(10):2616-21

Wilke RA, McCarthy CA et al (2009). Genetic variation in CYP27B1 is associated with congestive heart failure in patients with hypertension. Pharmacogenomics, 10(11):1789-97

Exquisite Preservative Free Skincare!

2010-03-08T11:10:00.001+13:00

Your skin is the last organ to receive nutrients from the body and often the first to show signs of nutritional deficiency, imbalance, or the unhealthy effects of free radicals. True health and beauty requires a synergy of internal and external nutrition, as well as protection from the environment and oxidative damage, which can accelerate the appearance of sagging and wrinkling

Sensé beautiful science® skin-care products offer an innovative approach to skin care. With groundbreaking, patented Self-Preserving Technology, Sensé™ products contain no added chemical preservatives—meaning they stay fresh naturally—so they are more gentle and healthy for even the most sensitive skin. Our skin-care specialists have carefully formulated exclusive antioxidant complexes in every product using ingredients proven to revitalize skin cells, leaving skin looking younger and more radiant. In addition, every product has been dermatologist, allergy and clinically tested.

Developed by scientists and recommended by dermatologists, Sense products use patented Self-Preserving Technology that combines purifying botanicals in protective liquid crystals, so products stay fresh naturally.

All Usana packaging is recyclable, BPA and pthalate free.

Cardiovascular Disease is largely a LIFESTYLE disease!

2010-03-06T06:00:00.002+13:00

Did you know that Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in the developed world. It is largely a lifestyle disease, and simple changes in diet and exercise can considerably lower the risk. One such simple change is an increase in the consumption ofn-3 (omega-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) (1). The authors of a 2009 article estimated that between 72,000 and 96,000 premature deaths could be prevented annually in the U.S. alone by optimizing n-3 fatty acid levels (2).

The importance of n-3 PUFAs in health and disease is readily acknowledged by mainstream health organizations. For example, the Nutrition Committee of the American Heart Association (AHA) has this to say about omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular disease (3):

"Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown in epidemiological and clinical trials to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease. Large-scale epidemiological studies suggest that individuals at risk for coronary heart disease benefit from the consumption of plant- and marine-derived omega-3 fatty acids, although the ideal intakes presently are unclear. Evidence from prospective secondary prevention studies suggests that EPA + DHA supplementation ranging from 0.5 to 1.8 g/day (either as fatty fish or supplements) significantly reduces subsequent cardiac and all-cause mortality. For alpha-linolenic acid, total intakes of 1.5 to 3 g/day seem to be beneficial."

Pictured:

OptOmega - $39 NZD suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
BiOmega III - $59 NZD

BiOmega III is guaranteed to be virtually free of heavy metals, organic contaminants, pesticides, and trans-fatty acids.

Sources:

Jung UJ, Torrjon C, Tighe AP, Deckelbaum RJ. n-3 Fatty acids and cardiovascular disease: mechanisms underlying beneficial effects. Am J Clin Nutr 2008;87(suppl):2003S-2009S.
http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/reprint/87/6/2003S

Danaei G, Ding EL, Mozaffarian D et al. The preventable causes of death in the United States: Comparative risk assessment of dietary, lifestyle, and metabolic risk factors. PLoS Medicine April 2009;6(4)
http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1000058

Kris-Etherton PM, Harris WS, Appel LJ. Fish consumption, fish oil, omega-3 fatty acids, and cardiovascular disease. Circulation 2002;106:2747-2457.
http://atvb.ahajournals.org/cgi/reprint/23/2/e20