health and Beauty 4Ever

Health Benefits of Bicarbonate of Soda by eHow

2013-05-17T07:51:00.001-05:00

By Chyrene Pendleton, eHow Contributor

Can you drink baking soda for health?

Bicarbonate of soda, better known as baking soda or sodium bicarbonate, has numerous uses--it's a cleaning agent, antacid, fire extinguisher and more. There also are interesting health benefits when you drink baking soda, which is alkaline, in water. Viruses and diseases such as colds, flu, cancer and even heart disease thrive in an acidic body, but cannot survive when your body is alkaline. The 2009 Journal of the American Society of Nephrology revealed a study of 134 patients with advanced kidney disease. Taking baking soda daily dramatically slowed down the progression of kidney disease, resulting in no need for dialysis.

Baking soda
Measuring spoons
Glass of water

Instructions

- 1
  
  To increase your body's pH, take 1/4 tsp. of baking soda dissolved in one-half glass of water on an empty stomach, once in the morning and again before bedtime. Acidity and alkalinity is measured by pH, which ranges from 0 to 14 with 7.0 being neutral; a pH above 7.0 is alkaline, and below 7.0 is acidic. Baking soda has the highest pH of 14. Create a healthy body by keeping your body's pH between 7.1 and 7.5.
- 2
  
  Drink the baking soda and water solution at the very beginning of cold or flu symptoms, such as a runny nose or sneezing, to help kill the viruses. Keep your body alkaline by increasing fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet.
- 3
  
  If you're an athlete, swallow sodium bicarbonate supplements with water to buffer lactic acid buildup and improve your exercise performance. Ingest 0.3 g of sodium bicarbonate per 2.2 lb. of body weight, one to two hours before the event, drinking plenty of water.
- 4
  
  Drink a glass of water with a half lemon or lime squeezed into it twice daily if you are unable to take baking soda and water. Lemons and limes are acidic but become alkaline in your body, raising your alkalinity almost as well as baking soda.

Read more: How to Drink Bicarbonate of Soda for Health | eHow http://www.ehow.com/how_5616960_drink-bicarbonate-soda-health.html#ixzz2TYOWAKT9
Test your saliva or urine pH levels inexpensively with litmus paper, the pink and blue strips you may remember from high school science class. Find them at drug stores or consider purchasing pH devices.

Do not take baking powder--baking powder is not the same thing as baking soda or bicarbonate of soda. Baking powder contains some baking soda and other ingredients such as aluminum, which is harmful to your body.

Avoid drinking anything with bicarbonate of soda if you're on a sodium-restricted diet or have high blood pressure, unless directed by your doctor.

Ask your doctor before taking baking soda if you're on prescription drugs.

Do not give baking soda with water to children younger than 5.

Do not take this baking soda/water solution if you're stomach is full from eating.

Check with your sports coach before taking sodium bicarbonate supplements before an event, to make sure it's acceptable.

200 Cardio Challenge

2013-05-17T06:53:00.003-05:00

Grilled Blasamic Chicken w/ Pesto

2013-05-17T06:53:00.001-05:00

Grilled Balsamic Chicken with Pesto
(adapted slightly from Eat, Live, Run's recipe on PBS)
-serves 2

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cups balsamic vinegar
1/4 to 1/3 cup shredded fresh organic mozzarella cheese
2 Tablespoons of pesto, homemade or store-bought

Place chicken and balsamic vinegar in a large plastic bag. Seal bag tightly and place in fridge to marinate for one hour. (Don’t marinate this recipe overnight because over a long period of time, the acid in the vinegar may break down the chicken breast, forming a mushy texture.)

After chicken breasts have finished marinating, preheat grill (or prepare grill pan on the stove, or oven to 400 degrees F). Grill chicken breasts until cooked through, about 7-8 minutes per side (about 15-20 minutes total in oven). Remove chicken and place on a plate.

Turn broiler on high and top each chicken breast with mozzarella. Place chicken breasts on a foil-covered sheet tray and broil until until cheese melts and bubbles. Top each chicken breast with a dollop of pesto. Serve immediately with garlic bread and broccoli (what we did) and enjoy!

*http://bakingdomesticityallthingsmini.blogspot.com/2012/02/fast-friday-grilled-balsamic-chicken.html*

Citrus Glow Smoothie

2013-05-17T06:48:00.000-05:00

This Citrus Glow Smoothie is chocked full of nutrients. It is very high in vitamins A & C, high in dietary fiber, iron and potassium, a great source of calcium and so much more! Plus the citrus helps the body absorb the iron in the pumpkin seeds. The cucumber is oh-so-hydrating and great for your skin. Oh and don’t forget the amazing boost of plant-based protein!! Look at that, 9.5g of protein in one serving!
Ingredients:
Makes 1.5 litres (2 servings)

3 cups water
3 large oranges, peel removed and chopped
1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds
1/2 cucumber, chopped
2-3 big handfuls spinach

Add all ingredients to the blender. Blend on low speed and gradually increase speed. Blend on high until smooth and frothy.

How to Manage Inflammation

2013-05-17T06:41:00.000-05:00

How to Manage Inflammation by Eating the Right Foods

By Michael A. Smith, MD

Chronic inflammation is the “common denominator” of age-related disease — including heart disease, many cancers, and Alzheimer's disease. Now you’re probably familiar with inflammation on the surface of your body as local redness, heat, swelling and pain. But what you may not know is this: Inflammation also happens on the inside of your body, and this is where it can be the most dangerous to your health.

Inflammation is characterized by an increased blood flow to an area of infection or injury. In this process, your blood carries white blood cells, nourishment and repair cells to the injury site to aid in recovery. But when inflammation persists, it can actually damage your body and cause illnesses.

So what causes chronic inflammation? Stress, lack of exercise, genetic predisposition, and exposure to toxins are all common culprits. However, there’s another major cause that’s often overlooked: the foods that you put into your body. Below, we’ll examine this in detail.

Americans Love Pro-Inflammatory Foods

The typical American diet is rich in animal protein, which is a source of Arachidonic acid — a polyunsaturated omega-6 fat that can increase inflammation. Arachidonic acid generates a number of potent inflammatory compounds, including the following:

Prostaglandins
Prostacyclins
Leukotrienes
Thromboxanes

It’s really important for people with inflammatory conditions to do everything they can to avoid increasing Arachidonic acid levels. Below is a short list of foods that anyone with an inflammatory condition should limit or even avoid entirely:

Red Meat – Especially fatty red meat
White Meat – Chicken, duck & wild fowl
Dairy – Any animal milk
Eggs – Avoid the yolk
Cheeses – Especially hard cheeses
Certain fish – Tilapia, catfish, yellowtail

Please note that a healthy diet usually contains a balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation, and some omega-6 fatty acids tend to promote inflammation.

Unfortunately, the typical American diet tends to contain far more omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3 fatty acids.¹ Fixing this balance can go a long way toward easing inflammation.

What Foods are Anti-Inflammatory?

Fortunately, nature offers us plenty of foods that can help ease inflammation. Even better, these foods work without side effects while supplying us with essential vitamins and minerals that can boost our overall health.

The table below includes some natural foods and beverages that are known to ease inflammation:

Type of Food or Beverage	Food Source	Supporting Research
Omega-3 Fatty Acids	Oily fish like salmon, tuna, sardines, anchovies	Suppress multiple steps in the inflammatory process and limit the production of inflammatory cytokines.^2,3
Monounsaturated Fat-Oils	Olive oil, canola, walnut, grape seed oil	Olive oil, for instance, decreases C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation.⁴
Seeds & Nuts	Flax seeds, pumpkin, walnuts	Flax seeds contains alpha-linolenic acid which has been shown to lower CRP.⁵
Whole Grains	Quinoa, bulgur wheat, barley, oats, rye	Lower CRP and are helpful in different types of arthritis.⁶
Dark Fruits	Tart cherries & dark berries	Tart cherry anthocyanins provide protection against pain and inflammation. The effect is actually comparable to that of the anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin.⁷
Green & black tea	Camellia sinensis	Black tea theaflavins, for instance, can help turn off specific genes in your DNA that express inflammatory cytokines.⁸
Seaweed	Brown kelp, wakame, arame	Seaweed is rich in fucoidan, a natural compound that reduces inflammation.⁹It’s also one of the key nutrients thought to be responsible for the exceptionally long lives of people living in Okinawa.¹⁰

Is Your Own Diet Pro-Inflammatory?

Want to measure up your own diet as it relates to inflammation? Try this: keep a food diary for 1 week. Create a table with 5 columns — meats, dairy, fruits, vegetables and grains. Place a checkmark in the appropriate column every time you eat a serving of food from that category. At the end of the week, simply tally your checkmarks to see where you land.

Here’s an example diary:

If you have more checkmarks to the left of the table, you’re eating what we’d consider to be a pro-inflammatory diet. If you have more checkmarks to the right, you’re eating an anti-inflammatory diet.

Please note: This table is not an exact science. It’s just a simple means of helping you assess your own diet!

How does your diet measure up in terms of inflammation? Have you ever considered this before? Let us know in the comments!

References

Nutr Hosp. 2011 Mar-Apr;26(2):323-9.
J Nutr Biochem. 2003 Sep;14(9):513–21.
Nutr Clin Pract. 2009 Aug-Sep;24(4):508-12.
Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis. 2009 Dec;19(10):697-706.
Obes Surg. 2007 Mar;17(3):341-7.
J Nutr. 2010 Mar;140(3):587-94.
Behav Brain Res. 2004 Aug 12;153(1):181-8.
Crit Care Med. 2004 Oct;32(10):2097-103.
Immunol Cell Biol. 1994 Oct;72(5):367-74.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2001;10(2):159-64.

Why Juicing Works

2013-05-16T07:43:00.003-05:00

Why Juicing Works: A Cardiologist Explains

By Dr. Joel Kahn

Tonight my head is spinning like a centrifugal juicer after attending a lecture by Joe Cross, star of the documentary Fat Sick and Nearly Dead. The movie, which chronicles one man's journey to health through juicing, moved me a few years ago to purchase my first juicer. It began what is now a regular practice of making fresh green juice several times a week and purchasing fresh cold pressed juice around town regularly.

Joe's presentation on both using juicing as a method to "reboot" a sick body and mind and also as a supplement to an overall plant-based, whole foods diet was inspiring and medically very accurate. But why is it that juicing is an effective means of redirecting one's health—whether the goal is vitality, weight loss, or even disease reversal?

Cells in the body require nutrients (i.e. vitamins and minerals) to function optimally. Many of these are referred to as micronutrients, to distinguish them from the macronutrient classes of fats, carbohydrates and proteins. When cells receive adequate micronutrients, you feel energized and full. On the other hand, many foods provide calories from macronutrients, but are devoid of the essential micronutrients cells crave. These are calorie-dense, nutrition-poor foods and this characterizes most processed foods.

Let's look at a few more reasons why vegetables, legumes, seeds, and nuts are so powerful. They provide:

1. Fiber.

This is the indigestible portion of plants. Diets high in fiber are associated with lower risks of heart disease, colon cancer, diabetes, and obesity. In the Nurses Health Study, one of the longest-running studies of women's health, women who ate more fiber were more likely to live longer. There is fiber in broccoli, beans and other members of the vegetable and fruit families, but none will be found in bagels, burgers and almost all other processed foods.

2. Phytonutrients.

These are a family of chemicals found only in plants that often give the color to vegetables but also confer many health benefits. Many of these plant-based chemicals are anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer, such as the sulforphane found in broccoli. There are perhaps 10,000 of these health-promoting chemicals in the edible plant world. (You'll never find phytonutrients in a bagel.)

3. Antioxidants.

Many chemcials found in plants confer a resistance to the damage that can occur to the human body from oxygen and the process of metabolism. Just as rust can destroy metal, oxidation can lead to diseased arteries or brain cells, and contributes to diabetes and other conditions. Within plants are chemicals such as carotenoids, polyphenols, and flavonoids that are natural antioxidants.

4. Omega-3 fatty acids.

These essential fatty acids, including DHA and EPA, are taken into cell membranes and used for the internal workings and repair of cells throughout the body. While seafood can provide Omega-3 fatty acids, they're typically absent from other animal products. Flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, hemp seeds, algae and soy are some of the plant-based foods rich in this nutrient class.

So .... how does this get us back to Joe Cross and juicing?

The USDA recommends five or more servings of vegetables and fruits daily while Canadian authorities set the bar higher, saying 10 servings a day is optimal.

In order to consistently ingest this large amount of plant-based material, we need to do some planning.

Some ideas to get your greens: preparing large salads, adding greens in soups, and blending smoothies with berries and greens for a power breakfast or a snack. Juicing is just one more tool you can use to build a plant-based nutrition program rich in phytochemicals, and it can make it easier to reach your goal of 5 to 10 servings a day of vegetables.

As Joe Cross said, "If you let people in white lab coats design your food, you'll see people in white coats to treat your disease."

Happy juicing!

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com

350 Rep Brutal Challenge Workout-12 Minute Athlete

2013-05-16T07:14:00.001-05:00

350 Rep Brutal Challenge Workout

Workout equipment:

Workout type: Challenge

Time: ?

Timer setting: Stopwatch

Complete 5 rounds for time of:
10 Burpees
20 Air squats
10 Handstand push ups
30 Mountain climbers

Ranch Chicken and Dressing Recipe

2013-05-16T07:08:00.003-05:00

Ranch Seasoning or Dressing:

1 Tbsp dried parsley
1 tsp dried dill
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp ground mustard

Combine the parsley, dill, and basil in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle and grind to a powder. Combine the mixture with the rest of the ingredients. Makes about 4-5 Tbsp. To make Low Carb Ranch Dressing mix 2 Tbsp of Ranch seasoning with 1/3 cup mayonnaise and 1/4 cup of almond milk or heavy cream

4T Ranch Season
4 Chicken Breasts(I like bone and skin ) or chicken thighs and legs
Salt and Pepper

Take the chicken breasts and a T of season and sprinkle all over and under the skin.Do that with all 4.You might need more seasoning.Grill or Bake at 375 for about 40 - 45 minutes..Serve with a salad and the Ranch Dressing!!

Mood Booster Smoothie

2013-05-16T06:56:00.000-05:00

DIY Ranch Dressing

2013-05-16T06:54:00.000-05:00

Home Made Ranch Dressing: 1/3 cup dry buttermilk 2 Tbsp. dried parsley 1 1/2 tsp. dried dill weed 2 tsp. garlic powder 2 tsp. onion powder 2 tsp. dried onion flakes 1 tsp. ground black pepper 1 tsp. dried chives 1 tsp. salt Whisk together or pulse in food processor to make fine. Store for up to 3 months.

**To Make Dressing: 1 Tbsp. mix with 1/3 cup mayo and 1/3 cup milk. Greek yogurt can be substituted for mayo

DIY No More Icky Pans

2013-05-16T06:47:00.000-05:00

Make your pans SHINE!!! - 1 simple ingredient

(Thank You Jamie)Click on her link below to read her fabulous blog!

Want to know how I did it?

With this

Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap with tea tree!!

However I was running a little low.

But even with that itty bitty amount I was still able to shine one corner.

Just dump it on and start scrubbing.

It did take quite a bit of scrubbing but I think it was worth it.

Thank you to:

http://diyhshp.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/make-your-pans-shine-1-simple.html

UPPER BODY 10 MINUTE WORKOUT-FIT SUGAR

2013-05-15T06:58:00.000-05:00

10 MINUTE

8-15 LB WEIGHTS

Green Superfood Soup

2013-05-15T06:53:00.004-05:00

Green [Superfood] Soup

What You’ll Need:

2 TBS. Olive Oil

2 Leeks (chopped)

4 Garlic Cloves (thinly sliced)

2 Celery Root bulbs (cubed)

8 C. Filtered Water

1 Turkey Drumstick

2 bunches of Broccolini

4 C. Spinach (baby or regular)

1 bunch of Swiss Chard

1 TBS. fresh Lemon Juice

2 TBS. Pine Nuts (toasted) optional

Scallions (to taste)

S&P (to taste)

METHOD

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add leeks, season with S&P. Cook for about 5 minutes. Add garlic and then cubed celery root. After about 2 minutes add filtered water and turkey drumstick. Bring to a bowl, reduce to simmer and allow broth to cook between 30-45 minutes. Remove drumstick (remove meat from bone, and chop into pieces, and add to individual soup bowls, or save for a different purpose.) Add broccolini and cook for 10 minutes. Add greens, and lemon juice and cook for another 5 minutes. Divide among bowls, season with freshly ground S&P, sliced scallions and toasted pine nuts.

Enjoy!

Beauty Tips For Beautiful Glowing Skin by detox

2013-05-15T06:43:00.000-05:00

Beauty Tips For Beautiful Glowing Skin

Posted by detox

We would all love to have the complexion of a Hollywood starlet and to have their budget to spend on the latest beauty products and spa treatments. But, if like me, you find yourself well below the movie star breadline, there are plenty of at-home beauty tips and treats for your skin to make you look and feel fantastic.

Getting the basics right is the first step to great looking skin. Look carefully at your skin and work out what type it is. Is it dry, oily, normal or a combination? Using the wrong kind of product for your skin can aggravate existing problems.

Look at your daily routine. Time might be short, but proper cleansing is essential for young looking skin. When you apply cleanser and moisturiser to your skin, throw in a quick facial massage to boost lymphatic drainage and get your skin glowing. It may not be a full on spa treatment, but two minutes of massaging in small circles and sweeping movements up your face will improve the quality of your skin. Something as simple as two spoons of baking soda mixed with one spoon of warm water makes a great cleanser, as do many natural oils, such as coconut and jojoba.

Always wear sunscreen, even if it isn’t a sunny day. Most daytime moisturisers will contain an SPF, but it may not be high enough for where you live, and will not last all day. The sun is the skin’s worst enemy. Not only does it make us scrunch up our faces, causing unsightly wrinkles, its rays damage the layers of our skin. This can lead to dark spots, premature aging and even skin cancer. There are no proper at home alternatives to sunscreen, other than avoiding the sun and wearing a hat, so investing in sunscreen is a must.

Treat your skin to a scrub and mask. First cleanse your face thoroughly to remove any dirt then gently exfoliate your skin. This should only be done once a week and the eye area should be avoided. Make a home-made scrub by combining 1tbsp of oats with 1tsp of lemon juice and 2 tsp. of yogurt. Rub gently into your skin then rinse. This can be used all over your body and as a mask by being left on for five minutes before rinsing. Perfect for when you are having a soak in the bath.

Once you are all squeaky clean, keep your skin hydrated by applying a home-made moisturiser. Use a base oil such as almond oil mixed with a few drops of a nourishing oil, like evening primrose oil, plus a few drops of your favourite essential oil; simple, effective and personal to you.

How To Eliminate Old Scars

2013-05-15T06:40:00.000-05:00

Natural, Safe, and Effective Ways to Lessen and Eliminate Old Scars

http://www.realfarmacy.com/natural-safe-and-effective-ways-to-lessen-and-eliminate-old-scars/

Instead of opting for cosmetic surgery or chemical peels, consider the following safer options:
* Flaxseed oil is a great way to fade scars. You can buy it at almost any health food store. It is also great for new scars, helping them heal faster and keeping them from becoming as noticeable. Rub the flaxseed oil on old and new scars a few times each day, including after you shower and again before going to bed.
* Virgin, unrefined hempseed oil used twice daily often results in improvement and fading within a few weeks
* Grapeseed extract, jojoba and almond oil are all effective scar treatments, especially when combined together.
* Apply vitamin K cream topically to scars. Depending on the severity of your scars and skin type, you may see results in as little as a couple of weeks to a couple of months when used twice d

Wilted Spinach Salad w/ Chicken & Honey Mustard Dressing

2013-05-15T06:38:00.002-05:00

Wilted Spinach Salad With Chicken and Honey Mustard Dressing

By The Nourished Kitchen

WebMD Recipe from Foodily.com

A wilted spinach salad, simple and nourishing, offers an excellent way to incorporate fresh greens onto your supper table. Heating the spinach very slightly, as in this wilted spinach salad recipe requires, provides a dual purpose: not only does it make the dish more suitable for cold days when fresh, raw greens can be unappealing, but it also helps to mitigate the effects of oxalic acid – an anti-nutrient naturally found in spinach and other greens.

Ingredients

4 slices
bacon
1/4 cup
prepared honey mustard dressing
4 cups
baby spinach, fresh
1 small
red onion, sliced into rounds
1 small
apple, sliced thin
1 cup
cooked chicken, chopped into bit-sized pieces
1/4 cup
raw honey
2 tablespoons
Dijon-style mustard
2 tablespoons
unrefined extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons
raw cider vinegar

Instructions

Fry four slices bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon from the pan, turn off the heat and gently stir ¼ cup honey mustard dressing into the rendered bacon grease. Set aside to cool slightly.
Toss remaining ingredients together, garnish with fried bacon and dress with the mixture of bacon grease and honey mustard dressing.
Prepare the honey mustard dressing by whisking together raw honey, Dijon-style mustard, unrefined extra virgin olive oil and raw cider vinegar. You can always substitute this dressing with a prepared dressing of your choice.

ZWOW 68 CHALLENGE-HOT 12 MINUTE WORKOUT

2013-05-14T06:58:00.000-05:00

ZWOW 68

12 MINUTE AMRAP

JUMP LUNGE 3X & SIDE STRETCH-10 REPS
SCORPION PUSH-UPS-5 EA SIDE
SQUAT & LEG LIFT-20 REPS
PLANK & SKI SQUAT-10 REPS

GET IT WARRIORZ!!!!!!

How Much Vitamin C Do We Need?

2013-05-14T06:37:00.002-05:00

How Much Vitamin C Do We Need?

Posted by detox

Vitamin C or ascorbic acid is one of the most renowned, effective and accessible vitamins, that we’ve known since childhood. Although better known to provide a powerful support if you’re trying to prevent a cold, it is also effective in stimulating collagen production, helping maintain a healthy skin and even aiding your workout.

As a water-soluble vitamin, Vitamin C is not stored by the body, so we need to consume it daily. But exactly how much of Vitamin C do we need and what are the best sources?

Vitamin C bolsters immune system

Vitamin C affects the strength of cell membranes and their ability to resist damaging factors. Taking sufficient doses of ascorbic acid makes the cells “impenetrable” for viruses.
Apart from pathogenic viruses, strengthening of the blood vessel walls prevents cholesterol from penetrating the cell as well, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. In addition, vitamin C itself affects the synthesis of cholesterol in the body.

Vitamin C and sport

Vitamin C plays a crucial role in development and repair of your body. It helps the formation of protein collagen, which is important for strength and flexibility of blood vessels and improves overall appearance of the skin. It also acts as an antioxidant, preventing the cellular damage caused by free radicals.

Ascorbic acid is also essential for the growth and repair of tissue as well as synthesis of glucose into glycogen, which is the main source of energy during exercises and daily activities.

Vitamin C daily requirements

Generally, daily requirement of Vitamin C is about 90 milligrams for a man and 75 milligrams for a woman. Smokers or people with health conditions have higher suggested dosages. It is not recommended to have more than 2 grams of vitamin C a day as it can cause digestive disturbances.

Vitamin C content in foods

Foods highest in Vitamin C are hot chilli peppers, bell peppers, black currants, parsley and spinach. Other good sources of vitamin C include kiwi fruits oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit, broccoli and strawberries. Citrus fruits are known for their high concentration of Vitamin C, however orange for instance has 53.2 milligrams of Vitamin C per 100 gram, while green chilli pepper has 242.5 milligrams per 100 gram. A great way to spice up any dish and boost your immunity in these cold times!

Image owned by Zdravlje I

Cherry Chia Smoothie

2013-05-14T06:35:00.000-05:00

DIY Skin Smoother for Silky Soft Legs by Jillee

2013-05-14T06:33:00.002-05:00

DIY Skin Smoother for Silky Soft Legs

http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2012/07/diy-skin-smoother-for-silky-soft-legs.html#more-6187

Did you know you are supposed to exfoliate your LEGS? I always assumed that the very act of SHAVING your legs was exfoliating in itself. But this treatment will give you the softest legs ever!!

Super Silky Summer Legs
Ingredients

1 1/4 cup sugar

1/2 cup oil (I used olive oil, but you can use any oil, coconut oil, baby oil, canola oil, etc.)

3 tablespoons citrus juice (lemon or lime)

Razor

Mix everything together. I put mine in a mason jar and just shook it all up. (If you take the glass jar into the bath or shower with you, please be extra careful.)

Soak your legs in the tub for 5 minutes. Or if you’re taking a shower, wash and conditioner your hair first, then after your legs have had a chance to soak for a few minutes, apply the mixture to your legs and rub it in. I was surprised at how GOOD this felt! I ended up using it on my feet and arms as well!
The abrasiveness of the sugar rubs off all the dirt and dead skin, the lemon juice works as a mild skin peel revealing brighter, smoother skin, and, of course, the olive oil penetrates deep into the skin and provides long-lasting moisture.

After rubbing the mixture in for a few minutes….it’s time to shave your legs. Feels pretty good huh? Well, we’re just getting started!

Now, rinse and REPEAT! Yep, do it again. Rub mixture all over legs (and feet!)…shave….and rinse again. This time you might want to use a mild soap to get some of the oil off. Or not. Your preference. (Note: make sure the bottom of the shower is oil-free when you are done so the next person in doesn’t get a slippery surprise. Since I used body wash after shaving, mine was fine.)

When you get out of the bath or shower, put lotion on and enjoy your silky smoooooooth legs! I guarantee you will be so amazed at how soft your skin feels, you won’t be able to keep your hands off yourself! ;-)

Cobb Salad w/ Basil Vinegarette

2013-05-14T06:33:00.001-05:00

For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/8 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, crushed
salt and pepper

For the dressing:
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves, crushed
6 basil leaves, chopped
salt and pepper

For the Salad:
2 cups baby romaine or spring mix
2 cups shredded romaine hearts
1 cup chopped artichoke hearts
1 cup chopped tomatoes
4 hard boiled eggs, sliced
6 pieces of bacon, chopped
1 avocado, diced
2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced

http://www.againstallgrain.com/2011/10/13/cobb-salad-with-basil-vinaigrette/

6 Fruits For Energy

2013-05-13T11:16:00.001-05:00

The top six fruits for energy

by: PF Louis

Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/040313_fruits_energy_papaya.html#ixzz2TBq4Wd6B

(NaturalNews) This may be controversial. Since high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) has been pointed out as a leading cause of fatty liver, obesity, and other bad health issues, many assume the same is true for consuming fruits.

Yes, fruits contain fructose. But that fructose is in much smaller quantities than HFCS. Dr. Mark Hyman refers to the massive amounts of HFCS in processed foods and beverages as pharmacological, or intensely condensed and isolated or extracted from it's food source. (Source below)

All the doctors sourced below agree that fructose in excess gets converted mostly to triglyceride fats instead of glucose for energy. Even table sugar (sucrose) gets converted to glucose more efficiently and without clogging up the liver.

The sudden surge in obesity and type-2 diabetes began with the introduction of HFCS into processed foods and beverages. Our livers don't convert pharmacological fructose doses into energy the way it can sucrose. Even IV pharmacological glucose can be beneficial under dire circumstances without damaging the liver.

Fruits in their natural solid forms contain much smaller amounts of fructose than processed HFCS. Their fructose is combined with other nutrients and fibers. So they are digested more slowly and can be assimilated without overdosing on fructose. This keeps the liver from being overwhelmed by a massive dose of fructose.

Making HFSC matters worse, almost all corn is GMO. And the process of converting corn that's already compromised with GMOs produces mercury. So you get a troublesome gene transfer virus with your mercury. If the massive fructose doesn't kill your liver, the GMO and mercury may finish the job.

Caveats: Eating the whole fruit is advised because juices, especially from concentrates, multiply the amount of fructose without the fiber that helps slow its digestion and keep your liver from being overwhelmed. Also, most fruits are exposed to toxic chemical interventions during cultivation and/or ripening.

Eat organic or locally grown fruits without excessive chemical interventions, or pick a fruit from the "clean fifteen" list (http://www.ewg.org/foodnews/summary/).

With all that said, here are six edible fruits that will provide stable energy safely.

(1) Apples are highly regarded for several reasons. They are hardy and don't spoil quickly unrefrigerated. They are higher in fiber than most other fruits as well, and they contain several other basic nutrients.

Some nutritional experts point out that the energy from apples sticks around a little longer than most other fruits. Conventionally produced apples rank high in the "dirty dozen" list of sprayed produce. So stick with organic.

(2) Bananas boost energy with a good amount of potassium, which is good for maintaining membrane potential, a stimulus response that enables muscles to contract. Very important for the heart. Organic is better, but not as vital as it is for apples. Bananas are in the "clean 15" list.

(3) Strawberries provide an excellent energy boost too. But the most toxic pesticides are used on them. They have to be organic.

(4) Pineapples made the "clean 15" list, and they can give you a good energy boost. Just try to purchase Mexican pineapples to avoid playing GMO roulette with Costa Rican and Hawaiian pineapples.

Not all Hawaiian and Costa Rican pineapples are GMO, but there are enough to contaminate non-GMO or organic pineapples.

(5) Papaya can give you and energy boost and improve your digestion if you eat the seeds, but the same regional GMO advice for pineapples applies to papaya.

(6) Oranges provide a lot of energy and vitamin C. Don't buy and consume juices, however, especially those generated from concentrates. It's best to eat the complete wedges from a freshly peeled orange.

Sources for this article include:

Dr. Mark Hyman http://drhyman.com

http://drsukol.teachmed.com/2009/10/13/high-fructose-corn-syrup.aspx

http://www.menshealth.com/nutrition/eat-fruit-energy

Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/040313_fruits_energy_papaya.html#ixzz2TBqHBZZ6

Coconut Oil Outperforms Petroleum

2013-05-13T10:01:00.002-05:00

Let Food Be Your Cosmetic: Coconut Oil Outperforms Dangerous Petroleum Body Care Products

Written By:

Sayer Ji, Founder

What you put on your skin goes directly into your body. Indeed, human autopsy studies have shown that mineral oil widely permeates our internal organs; major moisturizer brands have been found to cause tumor formation in treated animals. All the more reason why we need healthy "food cosmetics" as alternatives to petroleum-derived body care products.
It boggles the imagination how most mass market body care products today are almost entirely composed of petroleum-derived chemicals, whose toxicity are thoroughly established. Take parabens as an example. These endocrine-disrupting, estrogen-like petrochemicals have been found at concentrations 1 million times higher than the estrogen (estradiol) levels naturally found in human breast tissue, leading to the highly concerning conclusion that human hormones are now being eclipsed by synthetic chemicals.
When we slather these chemical concoctions onto our skin, they enter directly into the lymphatic and circulatory systems, depositing in internal organs and body fat. And unlike things you ingest orally, there is no "gate keeping" liver there to protect you from these chemicals entering rapidly into your body through your skin. This is why, of course, you should never put on your body anything you can not, or would not eat.
Unfortunately, major trusted brands have been found to be just as bad as more generic, cheaper ones in this respect, making it exceedingly difficult to avoid harm unless you are already wise to the issue and using completely natural body care products.
For instance, back in 2009, the Journal of Investigative Dermatology published a highly concerning study titled "Tumorigenic effect of some commonly used moisturizing creams when applied topically to UVB-pretreated high-risk mice," wherein branded moisturizers, including Dermabase, Dermovan, Eucerin Original Moisturizing Cream (Eucerin), or Vanicream, were found to increase the rate of formation and number of tumors when applied topically to UVB-pretreated high-risk mice.[1]
Chemical industry public relations spokespersons love to point out that we are not mice, implying that preclinical research like this should not throw up a red flag. Should we be made to wait for the very industries guilty of poisoning us to voluntarily fund multi-million dollar, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trials to determine whether their products are not also causing cancer in humans? Short of a legal mandate, self-incriminating research like this will never be performed, and not only because such a study would be highly unethical (i.e. intentionally poisoning trial subjects), but because it will reveal a truth fraught with immense legal and financial liabilities. Needless to say, a logical approach would be to apply the precautionary principle so that when animal toxicological risk assessments show harm, instead of extrapolating an Orwellian "acceptable level of harm" to humans, we take the sane step of avoiding human exposure altogether.

Crude Awakening: Mineral Oil Contaminates Everyone's Bodies

Sadly, the reality is that we are not only immersed in a sea of petrochemical products, but we bioaccumulate them in our bodies over the decades, carrying them with us to our early graves.
As we disclosed in a previous article titled "Crude Awakening: Mineral Oil Contaminates Everyone's Bodies," one of the only studies ever performed on the topic of petrochemical accumulation in the human body found that 48% of the livers and 46% of the spleens of the 465 autopsies analyzed showed signs of mineral-oil induced lipogranuloma (a nodule of necrotic, fatty tissue associated with granulomatous inflammation or a foreign-body reaction around a deposit of an oily substance), indicating just how widespread pathological tissue changes associated with petrochemical exposure really are.
And why should be surprised? Petroleum is everywhere. We build and power our cars from it. We implant plastic into our breasts, and we coat our vegetables with USDA/FDA-approved 'food grade petroleum.' Our entire global food system is driven by nitrogen urea based fertilizers, pesticides and related agrichemicals which are all petrochemical in origin. Oil derived hydrocarbons form the basis for the molecular building blocks of many synthetic patent medicines, and even some of our vitamins (e.g. dl-alpha tocopherol). Our foreign policy is largely based on invading countries for ostensibly political/ethical reasons who just happen to be sitting on 'our oil' (i.e. War = Resource Procurement). It is hard to imagine how we might escape our dependence on the petrochemical industrial establishment, given how vertically integrated it is into every facet of modern life, including the very fabric of our bodies.
But there are concrete steps we can take to improve the situation, starting with our own bodies. One of those is to bring back ancient 'food cosmetics' like coconut oil.
In a previous post, we discussed the 13 Evidence-Based Medicinal Properties of Coconut Oil, but we did not mention its beneficial effects on hair and skin. While coconut oil has been used for millennium as both food, medicine and cosmetic, only in the past few decades has scientific research emerged confirming its ancient uses.

Coconut Oil Is Superior to Mineral Oil for Treating Dry Skin

A 2004 randomized double-blind, controlled trial comparing extra virgin coconut oil with mineral oil as a moisturizer for mild to moderate xerosis (dry skin) found that coconut oil performed equally well, as far as objective measurements, and better than mineral oil, as far as the subjective perceptions of those using it.[2]

Coconut Oil Is Superior to Mineral Oil at Protecting the Hair

A 2001 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science found that coconut penetrates the hair shaft while mineral oil does not. This difference was attributed to coconut oil's higher affinity with hair protein. The researchers explained their findings further: "

The results show that coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft while mineral oil does not. The difference may be due to the polarity of the coconut oil compared to the nonpolar nature of the mineral oil. The affinity of the penetrant to the protein seems to be the cause for this difference in their behavior. This study also indicates that the swelling of hair is limited by the presence oil. Since the process of swelling and deswelling of hair is one of the causes of hair damage by hygral fatigue, coconut oil, which is a better penetrant than mineral oil, may provide better protection from damage by hygral fatigue.[3]

Coconut Oil Protects the Scalp from Fungal Infections

Another study published back in 1993 in the journal Mycoses looked at the use of various commonly used hair oil preparations in India. They found that coconut oil was effective at inhibiting the skin fungi known as dermatophytes, lending a possible explanation for why the fungal infection of the scalp, a condition known as tinea capitis, is so rare in India.[4]

Coconut Oil + Anise Beats Pesticide Spray for Lice

A 2010 study published in the European Journal of Pediatrics found that coconut and anise spray can be a significantly more effective than the highly toxic insecticide Permethrin as an alternative treatment for head louse infestation.[5]
Increasingly, science confirms the value of traditional folk medicine in disease prevention and treatment. After many years of vast misrepresentation, coconut oil has gained wider acceptance not simply as a wholesome food, but as a medicinal agent capable of both nourishing and healing the body in ways that xenobiotic chemicals by their very nature can not.

Resources

[1] Yao-Ping Lu, You-Rong Lou, Jian-Guo Xie, Qingyun Peng, Weichung J Shih, Yong Lin, Allan H Conney. Tumorigenic effect of some commonly used moisturizing creams when applied topically to UVB-pretreated high-risk mice. J Invest Dermatol. 2009 Feb;129(2):468-75. Epub 2008 Aug 14. PMID: 18704106 - Article Published Date : Feb 01, 2009

[2] Anna Liza C Agero, Vermén M Verallo-Rowell. A randomized double-blind controlled trial comparing extra virgin coconut oil with mineral oil as a moisturizer for mild to moderate xerosis. Dermatitis. 2004 Sep ;15(3):109-16. PMID: 15724344

[3] S B Ruetsch, Y K Kamath, A S Rele, R B Mohile. Secondary ion mass spectrometric investigation of penetration of coconut and mineral oils into human hair fibers: relevance to hair damage. J Cosmet Sci. 2001 May-Jun;52(3):169-84. PMID: 11413497

[4] A P Garg, J Müller. Inhibition of growth of dermatophytes by Indian hair oils. Mycoses. 1992 Nov-Dec;35(11-12):363-9. PMID: 1302812

[5] Ian F Burgess, Elizabeth R Brunton, Nazma A Burgess. Clinical trial showing superiority of a coconut and anise spray over permethrin 0.43% lotion for head louse infestation, ISRCTN96469780. Eur J Pediatr. 2010 Jan ;169(1):55-62. Epub 2009 Apr 3. PMID: 19343362

5 Rules of Self-Tanning

2013-05-13T08:30:00.000-05:00

The 5 Rules Of Self-Tanning

by Shannon Farrell

We’ve all had self-tanning mishaps: orange palms, streaky color, splotchy elbows and knees. But with the right products and technique, your fake bake doesn’t have to end in disaster. We tapped Sophie Evans, St. Tropez Finishing Expert, for her best tips on how to get natural-looking color without the UV rays.
1. Prep the skin.
No matter the product, streaking will occur if skin isn’t smooth. “You want to exfoliate well prior to tanning so that you are tanning fresh skin [and] lotions or mousses can absorb into the skin properly,” Evans told us. Also, make sure to moisturize a few hours before because dry skin creates streaks as well. “Shaving is also a form of exfoliation and can be done immediately before tanning. Waxing must be done 24 hours before to allow the hair pores to calm down.” Waxing and shaving after tanning will speed up the fading process.
2. Use a mitt.
“Always apply self tanner with a mitt for even application. Don’t be shy with product when applying self-tanner; use enough to fully coat the skin. Blotches generally appear when areas are missed,” Evans says. A mitt also protects your palms from tanner. There’s no easier way to spot a self-tanning job than to get caught orange-handed. When applying, use small, circular strokes, but don’t rub harshly or you risk creating an uneven finish. Both St. Tropez and Irish tanning brand, Vita Liberata, offer tanning mitts as part of their product line.
3. Go lighter on the face.
Because your face gets the most sun time, it will naturally be darker. Use a face tanner, such as bareMinerals Faux Tan Face ($24, bareescentuals.com), that provides subtle color and works as a facial moisturizer with built-in peptides. You also want a lighter formula if you plan to layer tanner under SPF and makeup.
4. Fix your mistakes.
Still finding streaks on your body? Erase with the Bronze Buffer (2 sponges/$10, bronzebuffer.com), a cushiony sponge (with no added chemicals or ingredients) that just needs a little water. Brush the buffer along skin to remove unwanted color. Another trick is applying nail polish remover to a cotton ball and rubbing against the streaks.
5. Make color last.
Because the top layer of skin sheds naturally, self-tanner only last a few days. Evans recommends you extend the life of your tan by moisturizing daily and using a gradual tanner or the new St. Tropez Self Tan Booster ($30, sttropeztan.com) to extend color up to 3-4 days longer. “Also, do a light exfoliation about three days after you apply self-tanner to ensure your color fades evenly,” she says.

Paleo Honey Mustard Wings

2013-05-13T07:04:00.002-05:00

Paleo Honey Mustard Chicken Wings
via Paleo Cupboard

Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh chicken drumettes and wings
- 1/4 cup raw honey
- 1/4 cup spicy brown mustard
- 1/2 Tbsp. lemon juice
- Dash sea salt and ground pepper

Read more:
http://www.paleocupboard.com/honey-mustard-chicken-wings.html

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By Michael A. Smith, MD

Americans Love Pro-Inflammatory Foods

What Foods are Anti-Inflammatory?

Flax seeds contains alpha-linolenic acid which has been shown to lower CRP.5

Is Your Own Diet Pro-Inflammatory?

References

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350 Rep Brutal Challenge Workout-12 Minute Athlete

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6 Fruits For Energy

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Coconut Oil Outperforms Petroleum

Let Food Be Your Cosmetic: Coconut Oil Outperforms Dangerous Petroleum Body Care Products

Crude Awakening: Mineral Oil Contaminates Everyone's Bodies

Coconut Oil Is Superior to Mineral Oil for Treating Dry Skin

Coconut Oil Is Superior to Mineral Oil at Protecting the Hair

Coconut Oil Protects the Scalp from Fungal Infections

Coconut Oil + Anise Beats Pesticide Spray for Lice

Resources

5 Rules of Self-Tanning

Paleo Honey Mustard Wings

Flax seeds contains alpha-linolenic acid which has been shown to lower CRP.⁵