Vibrant Healthy U

Multivitamins Can Add Sparkle

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Sun, 16 May 2010 14:39:00 +0000

Trying to decide if a multi-vitamin is truly necessary? The majority of studies, up to this point, had been done on the elderly. But now a new study shows that men between the ages of 30 and 55 may also benefit from supplementation.

The effects of multivitamins are most often researched in the elderly. This is one of very few studies to assess the relationship between supplementation with vitamins/minerals and psychological functioning in healthy groups of non-elderly adults. This study shows how a proprietary multivitamin and mineral supplement improves mood and mental performance while also reducing stress, mental tiredness and fatigue in healthy males.

Research into a vitamin and mineral supplement by academics at Northumbria University shows it improves mood and mental performance while also reducing stress, mental tiredness and fatigue in healthy males.

Continue reading Multivitamins Can Add Sparkle

Does Your Weight Really Matter That Much?

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 19:53:00 +0000

Thanks to Linda Moore with Slimming Resources for this guest post.

Whether it’s looking good or being vain about your appearance, weight does matter and so does size. Although each of us has a reason for wanting to lose weight, being slimmer does have it’s advantages. And although most people know how to lose weight, the problem they have is actually doing it. Rather than having to take medications for a number of health issues due to being overweight why not take action and fight against the battle of the bulge?

Just how serious is obesity? Well, it is estimated that in the U.K. alone 9,000 people die prematurely each year, due to obesity. What’s even more astonishing is that over 100,000 people in the U.S. Die each year, from obesity. Being obese even shortens the lifespan of a person by over 9 years!

But there’s more. Obesity not only causes type two diabetes, it has also been associated with numerous health problems, such as high cholesterol high blood pressure, acid reflux disease and an array of psychological and emotional disturbances.

With so many health problems linked to obesity, it makes you wonder, why exactly do people allow themselves to me obese? The problem lies in their interpretation of what food is.

Too many people like to indulge in high fatty foods when they are stressed out or overwhelmed. This behavior becomes ingrained in their minds. They become used to grabbing high fatty foods whenever they feel stressed out. It is this association with food that ends up being harmful to their health. This behavior becomes repeated and eventually turns into a vicious cycle.

In order to counteract and change the thought process, the person must conclude to change their overall lifestyle. Below are some helpful tips to help you in your weight loss journey.

Weight loss tips

Eat smaller portions of foods and avoid foods and drinks with high sugar and fat content

Start exercising, even if it is only short segments for 10 minutes at a time. Your body needs to get used to physical activity, take it slow and work your way up.

Even when times are tough, stick with it. No one is perfect and neither is your diet. If you make a mistake, don’t allow yourself to throw in the towel. Remember tomorrow is another day.

Eat more foods from nature. It is always a good idea to eat foods that are not processed. Foods such as canned fruits and canned soups have a lot of added sugar and sodium in them. Always try to eat fruits that are fresh and make your own soups so you can control the amount of sodium in them.

Do not starve yourself. A diet is meant to help you lose weight, it is not meant to cause your body to go into starvation mode. When the body is not given an adequate amount of food, it will make it even harder to lose weight, and it will make you feel miserable.

Always consult with a doctor prior to starting any type of diet or weight loss program.

What Can I Do Instead Of ________ ?

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 20:11:00 +0000

Alright, let's say you go into the gym and it's waaaaaaay too busy (or you are exercising at home with only one set of adjustable dumbbells) and you need some alternative exercises.

What can you do in place of dumbbell presses, dumbbell rows, split squats, etc.?

Well, here are 27 alternative exercises for you.

Situation #1 - You can't do dumbbell chest presses because all the benches are taken, so you can do...

- pushups
- close-grip pushups
- decline pushup
- elevated pushups
- off-set pushups
- pushups with your feet on the ball
- pushups with your hands on the ball
- spiderman pushups
- pike pushups
- or possibly the hardest two hand pushup of them all, decline close-grip spiderman pushups

Situation #2 - You're superset calls for dumbbell chest presses and dumbbell split squats, but you only have one set of dumbbells and you're set on doing the chest presses...what can you do for your legs?

- 1-leg lying hip extensions for beginners
- high-rep Bulgarian split squats for advanced
- high-rep split squats with your front foot elevated 4-6 inches
- 1-leg deadlifts
- 1-leg squats onto bench
- 1-leg squats standing on the bench
- deepstep-ups
- reaching lunges

Situation #3 - You're at the gym on a busy Monday night and your superset calls for dumbbell rows and stability ball leg curls, but all of the dumbbells are taken. What alternatives can you do using a pullup bar or smith machine?

Using the smith machine, you can do...
- inverted rows
- underhand inverted rows
- inverted rows with your feet on the ball
- inverted rows holding the ends of a towel hung over the bar (advanced grip strength there!)

Using the pullup bar, you can do...
- eccentric pull-ups
- regular pull-ups
- sternum pull-ups
- chinups
- side to side pull-ups

By: Craig Ballantyne, CSCS, MS
Get more workout substitutions along with the entire program and a 21-Day Trial at TurbulanceTranining.com

VitaDigest Review And Coupon Code

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 04:17:00 +0000

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of VitaDigest. All opinions are 100% mine.

I take a few supplements every day. Not a bunch, mind you, but there are a few things that I've had recommended to me by either Dr. Oz or from my own research that I feel the need for.

For instance, I take B12 for energy, but not a Complex B Supplement since I personally don't want B6. (With a neuromuscular condition excessive B6 is not good, that's why you should always consult your doctor before adding supplements to your diet.) Additionally, in the winter I like to take D3. It's recommended by Dr. Oz and not only boosts your immunity, but may improve my mood -- something I need in these dark, dreary days of winter! And, I feel the need for Probiotics. I was getting stomachaches on a regular basis before I started taking them regularly. They just simply add good bacteria to your gut and help your digestion - something anyone who eats a Western diet needs!

And there's one other supplement I purchase - but it's not for me. St the recommendation of my Vet, I give my dog Glucosamine for his arthritis.

So, knowing there are supplements I won't be without, I'm always on the lookout for new supplements sites and of course, the best prices!

Recently I was asked to take a look at VitaDigest. I felt good about looking at it since it was awarded INC5000 for 2009 as top 5000 Fastest growing company! And what I found was that the site was easy to navigate, had lots of choices (over 13,000 vitamins, supplements, and other health products) and the prices ranged from reasonable to incredible!

For instance, I searched for B12, since I take it regularly, and I received nearly 40 results with prices ranging anywhere from $3.98 to $18.98!

In addition to the great prices they already have, Vita Digest is offering my readers another 10% discount! Just use coupon code “izb10jan” when checking out, through end of February, to redeem it!

Want another bonus? They also offer FREE shipping for any purchase over $100!

So, go through your cabinets and see what your running low on and stock up on it now!

Home Remedies That Are Right In Your Cabinets

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 02:33:00 +0000

My husband swears that gargling Apple Cider Vinegar is one of the best home remedy cures for a sore throat. As gross as it is, I tend to agree that it helps. So when I stumbled upon the link to a post entitled 100 Healthy Remedies That Are Right In Your Home at PharmarcyTechnicianCertification.net, I thought I'd pass it along.

Some things you would know if you visited this site is that Rosemary promotes heart health and helps reduce inflammation that can trigger many diseases. And, that Bananas are good for a hangover.

Scoot on over there to find out what hidden home remedies are stored right in your kitchen cabinets, refrigerator, and pantry.

Take Charge Of Menopause

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 23:51:00 +0000

When you hear the word 'hormones' a teenager may come to mind. But actually, if you're a woman, hormones will affect you most of your life, in many different ways. Just about everything, from your sex drive, to your moods, to your skin, to your belly fat can change depending on your hormone levels.

Recently, I saw an episode of The Doctors with Robin McGraw (Dr. Phil's wife) as a special guest. She discussed many things from her beauty regimine to home remedies. But the major part of the discussion revolved around women's health in relation to menopause and hormones.

In the episode they visit a compounding lab, which custom-blends each customer’s prescriptions. (A doctor must be seen first and tests ran to see what hormones the person is in need of.)

I had never heard of a compounding lab before this show but have since found that there is one in my area, and a friend even gave me a recommendation to a physician that will test hormone levels and write a script for bioidentical hormones, if needed.

Whether it be debilitating headaches, inability to sleep, night sweats or other symptoms, don't suffer in silence. Find a physician in your area that will test your hormone levels and get you the bioidentical hormones you need. Feeling better may be as simple as rubbing a cream on twice a day, inserting a vaginal ring, or getting help with weight loss. (i.e. customized menus, exercise plans and/or supplements like oral hcg)

Can You Get Too Many Vitamins?

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 18:47:00 +0000

I'm a big fan of Emergen-C. (Visit EmergenC.com for a free sample.) At the first sign of a cold I start downing one or two a day. I like that they also contain extra B Vitamins too. I've found B12 to be a good energy booster. However, I have to be careful which mix I purchase because due to my neuromuscular condition, I'm not supposed to get too much B6.

In your quest to feel better, do you ever consider that you might be getting too many vitamins? If you walk into any pharmacy or health food store you will find shelves and shelves of vitamins and herbs. In addition you can purchase foods fortified with vitamins. Energy drinks are loaded with Bs and it's made to seem that we must need all these extra nutrients. It would seem... But remember, too much of a good thing can be too much.

That's not necessarily good. At some point, the upsides of added vitamins disappear -- and may even about-face into downsides.

When it comes to vitamin consumption, "some is good, but more is not necessarily better," says Joan Salge Blake, a clinical associate professor of nutrition at Boston University.

Some vitamins when taken in excess are just excreted through your urine, some are just stored in tissue, but when some build up they can cause nausea and vomiting, blurry vision, lack of coordination and, eventually, liver damage.

Learn more and find out what you can do to keep from overconsumption in an article I recently came across at the Los Angeles Times, Foods fortified with extra vitamins could prove costly - latimes.com.

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Top 5 Fat Loss Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 06:52:00 +0000

I ran across the Turbulence Training website a few weeks ago and read it over. It sounded like what I had done a few years ago when I had gotten down to my smallest and fittest. I decided this past Monday to give it a try. I've been faithful to the workouts for 5 days now and let me tell you, I was so sore today I could barely get up and down our steps! I'm not complaining, mind you! I love knowing that I'm doing something that is working, and I love lifting weights. And, even though I know it's working, it's not time consuming. Instead it gets to the point and gets the job done. And, can be done at home (with the right equipment) or at a gym. Whatever is more convenient, and motivational, for you.

Here's a letter from the creator of the program that will give you some valuable secrets to fat loss. And, let me know if you try it and if it works for you too!

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

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

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

Sounds backwards, right? But not when you look at how I structure my workouts.

Remember that Turbulence Training focuses on resistance training and interval training. Both of these use carbohydrate as the main source of energy. So it's obvious the workout is designed to burn carbohydrates during the training session.

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

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

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

Why do my fat loss workouts focus on burning carbohydrate rather than fat?

In order to burn more calories after the workout, that's why. When you exercise with intervals and heavy resistance training, your body uses more calories in the hours after exercise than it would if you did traditional cardio and lifted lighter weights.

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

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

In order to train more muscle fibers and burn more carbohydrates, I have clients use a range of repetitions within the same workout.

The Turbulence Training workouts now use 6, 8, and 12 reps per set in order to work the muscle the most effectively.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Secret #4 - Increase meal frequency

Okay, so this isn't really a secret to anyone that has read about fat loss.

But a 2005 study from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that eating 6 times per day was associated with eating fewer calories per day, lowering cholesterol levels, and lowering post-meal insulin levels.

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

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

See below for more details...

Secret #5 - My Synergistic Turbulence Training Workouts

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

Here are some tips that you can use for an advanced training phase.
Use these advanced secrets for 2 weeks then return to your normal training schedule:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,

Craig Ballantyne
Author, Turbulence Training

P.S. Big Nutrition Announcement!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Try Turbulence Training today:
Click Here!

Does Cellulite Hurt?

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 11:21:00 +0000

Today I hope you'll enjoy learning something about the dreaded cellulite in this great guest post written by Melissa from www.CelluliteInvestigation.com.

Cellulite is often thought of as a cosmetic issue. Our beloved Dr. Oz assures us that guys don't care about it, but we continue to pour billions of dollars a year into anti-cellulite products, from dimple-busting marshmallows to undergarments infused with heat-producing crystals and green tea. Is it vanity that impels us to such desperate measures? Or is it something more?

I won't go into the gruesome details of the fitting room meltdown (involving a particular milestone birthday) that spurred my research at The Cellulite Investigation. But it took a dramatic run-in with a dressing room mirror to get me to go beyond merely looking at my cellulite to actually feeling it. That's when I first noticed that cellulite hurts.

Since launching the Investigation, I've heard from women around the world who have also noticed that their cellulite hurts. It's not a sharp pain, but a subtle ache at the outer edges. Some women describe it as a constricting sensation, or a dullness that lingers after the area is pinched or massaged. If cellulite hurts, should it be considered a cosmetic issue? Can something so painful be truly harmless?

There are still many questions that need to be answered when it comes to cellulite, especially regarding treatment options. Is cellulite a symptom of lymphatic congestion? How is it affected by genetics, or hormones, or exercise? How much does the modern diet contribute to cellulite formation?

But to seriously consider these issues, we must first decide if cellulite is a problem worth addressing. You can listen to well-intentioned experts who claim cellulite is harmless and cosmetic, but you can also ask yourself a telling question: Does cellulite hurt?

**Melissa continues to unravel the great cellulite mystery at www.CelluliteInvestigation.com. Check out her site for more info on cellulite causes and treatment options. You can even volunteer to go undercover as a Source for the investigation --or just read what other brave souls are reporting!

Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion Review

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 18:00:00 +0000

A few weeks ago Skin MD Natural™ was nice enough to send me bottle of their Shielding Lotion to review. I didn't post about it right away because I wanted to use it for a few weeks and see what the results were. First let me tell you a little about my skin, then I'll explain why the Skin MD Natural™ Shielding Lotion is different from other skin care products, and I'll finish up by telling you my opinion of it and I'll share the link where you can go to get a free sample of your own.

Why Would I Wanted To Try Skin MD's Shielding Lotion

I have thyroid problems. I was diagnosed with Grave's Disease about 13 years ago and was given a radioactive isotope to damage my thyroid. This left me hypothyroid, which means my thyroid is slow and that I have to take thyroid hormones for the rest of my life.

You hear a lot about hypothyroidism in the news today and one of the many symptoms of it is dry skin. I'm not sure if it's just that, or the face that I also have a hereditary neuropathy that affects my lower limbs, but whatever the cause - I have the driest knees you've ever seen! So, that's mainly where I've been testing the Shielding Lotion at, although I've also used it on my feet, hands, and even my face.

What Is Shielding Lotion & Why Is It Different?

Whatever you put on your skin is absorbed into it. So, if you are using soaps, shampoos, chemical cleaners, etc., those are all going into your skin and striping away the hydration in it.

Most lotions only replace hydration, but what makes a Shielding Lotion different is that it not only hydrates but it helps your own natural defenses turn the outer layer of skin into what could be described as a hydrating invisible 'shield,' so that it doesn't lose that hydration when in contact with irritants. Or, as Dr. Brian Zogg, a dermatologist in Albert Lea, MN, says, "Shielding lotion is a lotion that forms a protective barrier on the skin and keeps out irritants and chemicals. It also allows the natural oils and moisture to remain in the skin so it can heal better. It is a big advantage that shielding lotions are light and go on without a greasy mess."

My Review

The first thing I thought when I applied the lotion was that it was thin. Now, I'm used to using body butters, (which aren't really working) so this was almost a complete opposite.

Then I noticed how it immediately was absorbed into my skin. No greasy residue at all, my skin just felt smooth!

As I mentioned, I've been using it for a couple weeks now and my knees do look better. But, I think what has impressed me the most is the variety of uses for it. I read that though it has enough moisture in it to cure dry feet, (and even eczema) it's gentle enough to apply to your face. That got me to thinking about how it did feel a lot like the moisturizer I use on my face. So, when I was putting on my makeup and noticed how dry my forehead was I pulled the lotion out and lathered it on my face and neck. It felt incredible, and in just two uses my forehead was back to normal! I think I like it better as a facial moisturizer than anything. And, it contains natural ingredients - very important when comes to my face. And, I had no breakouts from it... something that normally happens when I put a new moisturizer on my face!

Remember, this isn't your Great Value lotion. Sometimes, and in this case, you get what you pay for. If you have severely dry skin, eczema, sensitive skin, psoriasis or are just someone who wants your skin to retain it's youthfulness, you'll want to try Skin MD Natural™'s Shielding Lotion.

To get a free sample visit them HERE.

To learn more about what a Shielding Lotion can do for your skin problems learn how it works HERE.

Balancing Fitness & Weight Loss

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 05:43:00 +0000

I'm very happy to have another guest post today. In this post, by Shannon Wills with x ray tech schools, find out how to balance your weight loss with fitness.

It’s a wonderful feeling when the scales start to reflect your efforts and reward your dedication – you know you’ve lost weight and you feel a sense of accomplishment at what you’ve achieved. But wait, before you start to feel too good about yourself, ask yourself if your weight loss is healthy or if you’ve lost your health in trying to lose those extra pounds. Losing weight is important, but it’s not the only thing that matters. You need to ensure that you shed that flab wisely and healthily.

We all know that putting on or losing weight is a simple issue of mathematics – when you take in more calories than you expend, you gain weight and vice versa. So you would think that the easiest way to lose weight is to reduce the amount you eat. And yes, when you starve yourself, you do become slim. But that’s not all there is to weight loss – in fact, losing weight must be a combination of getting slim, toning your body, and becoming fitter.

When you deprive your body of food, you end up depriving it of nutrients too, and this means you begin to:

* Have less energy
* Suffer hair fall and lackluster hair
* Fall sick often because your immune system is not strong enough
* Look pale and sick because your skin loses its glow
* Be more prone to sprains and fractures because your muscles and bones become weak and brittle.

So instead of eating less to achieve weight loss, you must balance your effort with health and fitness by:

* Providing your body with enough fuel to energize you. This means you must eat healthy food while avoiding processed and junk food that are zero in the nutrient department. Load up on fruits, vegetables and foods that are made of wholegrain. Eat foods that are rich in protein, complex carbohydrates and unsaturated fat.
* Exercising regularly to build up your cardiovascular fitness and increase your muscle mass. Get involved in cardio workouts interspersed with a little weight training to strengthen and tone your bones and muscles. Yes, you are bound to feel hungrier when you exercise, but when you choose the right foods to fuel your body, you don’t put on any weight.
* Drinking adequate amounts of water and going easy on the aerated and sugared soft drinks that add calories to your body without providing it with any nutrients.
* Avoiding cigarettes and minimizing your consumption of alcohol so that your health does not suffer in the long run.

In short, for weight loss to be a success, it must be a lifestyle change rather than a single activity that ends in a certain period of time.

By-line:

This post is contributed by Shannon Wills, who writes on the topic of x ray tech schools. She welcomes your comments at her email id: shannonwills23@gmail.com

Manage Migraines With A Face Lift?

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 05:33:00 +0000

Some migraines appear to be caused by irritation in parts of a large facial nerve. By using botox to "freeze" the muscles around this nerve some patients have found a reduction in pain. In the same manner, doctors have found that a procedure similar to a forehead 'lift,' where the muscle in areas where the headache begins is removed, may provide longer-lasting relief. In fact, 83% of those who had the surgery reported up to a 50% drop in the frequency, intensity and duration of their migraines. What a boon -- feel better and look younger in one step!

Learn more by visiting AmericanMigraineCenter.com.

Natural Colon Cleanse: Your Ticket to Weight Loss

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 19:46:00 +0000

Today I am excited to share with you a Guest Post by Kristina with Colonista.com. In this post you'll learn the benefits of colon cleansing, especially after the holidays. To get more information about colon cleansing, check out her site.

With the holidays just around a couple of days away, you're sure to have attended many a Christmas party. And with these parties, you have surely indulged in perhaps, a fattier dish, an extra heaping of dessert, or perhaps a couple more glasses of alcohol than you usually have. Thanks to such indulgences, you might start the year with more weight or flab than you did. While it may cause some alarm, this situation, by no means, is not without solution. In fact, you could actually lose some weight through natural colon cleanse methods in just a couple of weeks.

Natural colon cleansing means that you are removing blockages, toxins, and old buildup along your intestinal tract. These blockages and toxins cause your belly to look bloated and your bowel movement to be irregular. The food you ate and the drinks you had one too many off contain fat and toxins that line the intestines, especially the colon. Your body's system has a natural way of removing these through bowel movements but an increased amount of food and drink could mean that your digestive system would be overworked and could not function properly.

There are a lot natural colon cleanse methods that you could choose from and apply as soon as the holidays are over. You could go on a colon cleansing diet if you want to go cold turkey from fatty foods, alcohol, sugary treats, and salty snacks. A colon cleansing diet means that you have to eat nothing but a recommended dose of fruit or drink for weeks on end.

Meanwhile, if you're not so keen on a colon cleanse diet or you want to kick it up a notch, you could take colon cleanse supplements. These products usually contain herbal or fruit ingredients that have been combined in order to help your digestive system purge itself free from fat, toxins, and even parasites. You should, however, compare colon cleansers first before buying one. By doing so, you are ensuring yourself of getting the best colon cleanse supplement for you.

Weight loss after the holidays need not to be a such a difficult thing to do. A natural colon cleanse aided by a good sensible diet as well as a really excellent colon cleanse supplement would help you go back to your original weight or even let you shed a few more extra pounds.

Would You Sail Away On A "Cougar Cruise"?

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 20:39:00 +0000

I had never even heard the term cougar used for anything other than a large, wild cat until a year or two ago. Now, the term is pretty common. ABC even launched a new television series recently, Cougar Town, based on the premise.

So, what is a cougar? According to the Urban Dictionary she's a 35+ year old female who is on the "hunt" for a much younger, energetic, willing-to-do-anything male.

Which brings us to the Cougar Cruise. Do you think this is a good idea?

I'd love a good caribbean cruise, don't get me wrong, but can't imagine boarding a ship knowing that my only goal was to hook-up... and that was also everyone else's goal too.

But, apparently I'm in the minority because I've heard the cruises are selling out fast. And, in my mind the cougars would have way outnumbered the cubs (20 or 30-something men looking for an older woman) but apparently I'm wrong again. According to Ann Thomas, owner of the Singles Travel Company, "there's been a paradigm shift in recent years, so now the cubs are more excited about it than the cougars."

Can you imagine your grandmother going on one of these?

Six "Look Incredible In Winter Party Photos" Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:56:00 +0000

Do you swear you're not photogenic and always look old, sick or drunk (even when you're not) in party photos? Here are a few tips to help you look incredible instead of inebriated.

Wear color. Lots of indoor colors can make you look washed out, especially if you're in black. It's not that you can't wear black (it's slimming.) but be sure to add a colorful accessory. (Though, as a rule avoid patterns.)
Look happy! "The happier you look, the prettier the picture," says Olympus spokes-person and photographer Maki Kawakita. Apply blush to your cheeks and tuck your hair behind your ears to avoid covering your face and you'll look more cheerful and fresh. And, putting your tongue behind your teeth will relax your face.
Blot, don't powder. Reapplying too many layers of powder can age you. Instead, blot oil with mattifying sheets.
Blend foundation. You don't want a face that looks like it's on the wrong body because it's paler than your neck. To prevent this blunder, blend your makeup at your jawline and dust a bronzing powder over your face, neck and chest.
Natural expression. To avoid looking like a deer in the headlights, "try not to stand straight in front of the camera," says Kawakita. Instead, position yourself at a 45-degree angle and look just above the camera . Another bonus? You look thinner and have better posture if you're looking upward.
Open your eyes. If you tend to close your eyes in photos, try closing your eyes, then opening them slowly just before the photo is taken.

Source: Nov. 23, 2009 issue Woman's World

Ginseng, What Does It Do?

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 04:46:00 +0000

When my husband was young he and his cousins would set out for the woods on fall mornings (Aug 15 - Dec. 1) to try to find wild ginseng. Even back then, (25+ years ago)he says they would get about $120 a pound. This year the price is more than $350 a pound and I'm sure it will continue to go up because it's in such high demand.

You've probably noticed ginseng in many herbal products including energy drinks, Korean Ginseng Capsules, Korean Ginseng Tea and it's even in cosmetics. It's said to do everything from increase energy to decrease inflammation.

So, does ginseng do all it is touted to do? It's hard to verify all the benefits of ginseng using science. Many of the studies are contradictory, probably because there are many different types of ginseng.

The American ginseng is said to promote Yin energy in traditional Chinese medicine. One study showed it to reduce the cases of the influenza in the elderly when compared to a placebo. That's probably why Dr. Oz recommends it, along with Vitamin D, a probiotic and adequate rest to help ward off viral infections.

The Korean Red Ginseng, on the other hand, is said to promote Yang, improve circulation and blood supply, and stimulate the body. One study showed it to be an effective alternative for treating male erectile dysfunction and another reported that it reduces the relapse of gastric cancer.

Bodybuilders and athletes have turned to ginseng in an attempt to helps the body adapt to higher levels of stress, to increase endurance, and as a remedy for fatigue.

Ginseng has not been evaluated by the FDA so not all potential risks or advantages are known. Pregnant women are advised not to take it along with persons who have a bleeding or blood clotting disorder, diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease. It's wise to talk to your doctor before taking this, or any other herbal supplement.

Just Add Water And Relax

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 03:47:00 +0000

Why is it the sound of water is so relaxing? I don't know if it's because we spent nine months in water before we were born, or some other reason, but if you close your eyes and imagine yourself in a deep forest near the edge of a babbling brook, you will immediately feel better. Now, what if you could bring that stream to your office or home? The sound of flowing water has been proven to improve employee moral and lead to a less stressed, more relaxed feeling in the workplace. With a Soothing Wall Fountain, it can sound as if your desk is next to the river's edge. (Wouldn't that make you more productive?) Indoor fountains come in a number of styles to fit in with any decor. Wall Fountains take up little space and are beautiful to behold, you can even have your company, or family name etched in to a custom fountain. As another bonus, water fountains act as natural humidifiers, remove dust particles from the air, and help keep wood floors from cracking. Allow the magical properties of water to envelop your home or office with a Soothing Walls water fountain.

Easy Way To Ease Eyestrain

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 03:43:00 +0000

Too much time sitting in front of the computer causing strain on your eyes? (Believe me, you are not alone!) To reduce the strain, use your thumbs to press the spots on both sides of the bridge of your nose, where it meets your brow bones, and hold for one minute. Acupressurists attest that stimulating this point, triggers the release of pain -killing endorphins and increases blood flow to the area, which relaxes muscles. It also signals the sinuses to drain, relieving any pressure you may have had. source: First, August 24, 2009 issue

Eye Creams, Gels, and Serums, Oh My!

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 01:22:00 +0000

The older I get, the more I try to protect my face from the sun. No matter how good of shape your body is in, (not that mine is anything to write home about) wrinkles tell your age! I never used to use moisturizer or eye creams either - but that's something else I've had to come to terms with. I'm always on the lookout for new products that will help plump, fill-in or at least reduce the appearance of my crows feet and squint lines. If it's not overly expensive, I'll try just about anything. Right now I'm using L'Oreal, but it will be empty soon and so I'm on the hunt for the next best thing. In my quest, I found a site to help me. Eyecreams.com is an authority on eye creams, eye serums, and eye gels. Read an Eye Cream Review before you shell out the money for it, only to find it doesn't work. Find out what they claim to fix, such as dark circles, eye wrinkles, skin discoloration, puffiness, bags, etc. and then purchase only according to what you need. You can also submit a review. So, if you have an eye cream that you just love, let us all know about it. With over 100 eye cream reviews, maybe I'll find the magic one that makes me look 20 again ~ or maybe not!

More Than Likely It Wasn't The Mayo That Made You Sick

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 23:27:00 +0000

Mayonnaise has the bad reputation for always being the culprit for 'picnic poisoning.' At one time they may have been true, however, that was when people made their own mayo using raw eggs which can carry harmful bacteria. Today's store-bought mayonnaise though, is pasteurized and sterile, and according to a study in the Journal of Food Protection, modern mayo may actually hinder the growth of salmonella and other bacteria on food due to the natural acids in the vinegar and lemon juice used to make it. Of course that doesn't mean you should leave it out in the heat all day, all perishable items can spoil if they sit out for over two hours. But it does mean that as long as it will be eaten quickly, you don't have to forgo the potato salad while on your picnic in the park!

A Natural Way To End Common Back Pain

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 14:44:00 +0000

Back pain is a common complaint, but treating it can be quite complex. My friend disappeared from a lecture we attended recently and when I asked her what happened she said it was her back. She just couldn't get comfortable no matter whether she sat or stood, she was still getting this charlie-horse-like pain in her lower back. I used to have problems with my sciatic nerve too, but I found that Back Exercises helped to improve it tremendously. And, apparently I'm not the only one that has benefited from it because Back2Yourself has designed an innovative online exercise platform for people suffering from back pain. With daily back exercise programs - designed specifically for you and your type of back pain - self-evaluation tracking, and a team of professionals always available to support you, you could find yourself in less pain in a matter of days! What value would you place on becoming back pain free? How about less than $1 a day?

Sleep Like A Baby

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 21:55:00 +0000

Having trouble staying asleep at night? Try this trick. Grab a dried kidney bean (or other flat type of bean) and, using an old pair of panty hose or a soft scrunchie, affix the bean to your inner wrist, about two inches down from the crease. Accupressure practitioners say that this point on the arm, called Inner Gate, is known for its ability to promote deep sleep. Why? Because putting constant pressure on this area slows your heart rate increases your sense of relaxation. source: First, June 9, 2009

A Non-Chemical Solution For Mosquito Bites?

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Wed, 27 May 2009 20:09:00 +0000

I love summer! I feel so much better, and happier! Being out, exercising, being with friends, great grilled foods, the list could go on and on. The only thing that bugs me (no pun intended) about summer are the mosquitoes! As we speak I'm sitting here with a couple itchy red welts on me. And for some reason, when they bite me the bite gets huge - I must be allergic to them! I've often wondered, and even did a little research on Google, as to why I seem to get bit while my dear hubby never, ever does. The answer was unclear. Researchers think it's a combination of things that attracts the little buggers which may include blood type, the natural processes of our bodies, drinking, etc. Whatever the case, I worry about getting bit because of the diseases they can carry, but on the other hand I worry about applying bug spray because of the chemicals that are leaching into my system through my skin. So today, when I stumbled upon the Mosquito Magnet website I thought, "what a great answer to the mosquito problem!" The Mosquito Magnet runs off propane (or you can get a solar version if you have a lot of sun) and lures mosquitoes by emitting carbon dioxide (a proven mosquito attractant) then they are vacuumed in and die. It sounds almost too good to be true, but after taking a look at some of the mosquito magnet reviews, I was quite convinced. If you live in the South, East or Mid-West, like I do, you know just how annoying mosquitoes can be. Mosquito Magnet just might be the solution!

Review Of The E-Cloth - Clean Without Chemicals

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Fri, 22 May 2009 15:16:00 +0000

In March I wrote about the benefits received by cutting harmful chemicals out of your lifestyle. As I mentioned in one of those articles, the easiest thing to do is to start using 'green' cleaners. But what if you didn't have to use cleaners at all? In addition to the advantages it would have on your health, think of the money you'd save! The makers of the E-Cloth have a product that they claim does just that, allows you to clean all hard surfaces without the use of harsh chemicals; and they gave me both their General Purpose Sponge Cloth and their Glass and Polishing Cloth (The Bathroom Pack) to try and see for myself if it works. I have to admit, I was somewhat skeptical. When I received the package from U.P.S. my son looked at the two cloths and said, "It's material. You could go down to the fabric store and buy the same thing." Of course it's material, but I could not go down to the fabric store and purchase the same thing. Why? Because although other factories make microfiber cloths, they are not created equal.

The difference... is derived from using only the highest grades of raw materials and a state-of-the-art manufacturing process. The superior manufacturing process of Eco-Cloth utilizes technology to “split” and combine fibers which create millions of tiny scrapers which serve to cut through dust, dirt, grime, oils, grease, bacteria without scratching surfaces.

So, the true test began. I went to my bathroom equipped with just the two cloths and the spray bottle filled with water and got down to the nitty gritty - cleaning! The first thing I cleaned was my mirror. Below are the before and after photos of it. OK, yes, I know it was gross - all the better for this test! Look how well it cleaned up - with just water! Not a streak on it! I was immediately in love with the Glass & Polishing Cloth and went to my bedroom to clean the windows. With the help of the Sponge Cloth (used on the sills) I had perfectly clean windows in minutes -- with no chemicals and paper towels! (And believe me, I would have normally used a ton of paper towels!)

BEFORE

AFTER

Now it was on to try out the General Purpose Sponge Cloth. I cleaned the sink off and then the tub. The sink was a breeze and ended up just as shiny as when I use cleaners. The tub came clean as well, but I had to put a little more muscle into it. Look at it this way, I got a workout as well as a clean tub with no chemicals - I should be extremely healthy now! I'm sure it was just because it had soap scum built up on it. The E-Cloth company recommends that for best results you wipe the tub or shower out after each use. In this way the scum never develops so you won't be scrubbing as hard as I was. All-in-all I was very impressed with the E-Cloth and have been using them not only at my own home, but I took them with me and used them on my paid cleaning jobs. So, if you're interested in reducing the amount of chemicals in our environment, and/or have chemical sensitivities, allergies, or respiratory ailments, visit www.ecloth.com and find out more about cleaning with just water.

Join BeeWell Miles To Get Healthy And Help Find A Cure For Breast Cancer

noreply@blogger.com (Angies Photos, Blogs, etc.) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 03:51:00 +0000

Which is more important to you? Getting healthy or helping a great cause? Well, here's a great way to do both! The BeeWell Miles program let's you track your own health progress, but, in addition, for every mile you log they will donate 15¢ to Breast Cancer Network Of Strength. At the BeeWell Miles site you'll find a ton of resources to help you get your body and life to that healthy lifestyle you're dreaming of. You can interact with healthy living experts, log your miles, count your calories burned, calculate your route's mileage, see how your activity and nutrition offset each other, and interact with others while sharing ideas and tips on getting healthy. There are also two blogs with helpful tips, one of them is a blog by Coach Jenny where you'll find information on walking or running and the other one, by Willow and Stephanie, contains articles on nutrition. If you needed anymore reason to join, by logging miles or entering game codes from the back of pink 5oz cans of Bumble Bee Solid White Albacore Tuna in Water, you'll also get a chance to win one of over 15,000 prizes - including a $25,000 weeklong spa trip for two! Doing it for yourself is a great thing, but if you've ever know someone with breast cancer, you know the need to find the cure for this disease. By joining BeeWell Miles you get the chance to help not only yourself but others.