health care

Learn How To Tighten Skin On Your Face

2011-09-28T12:22:00.000-07:00

It takes a nearly perfect anti aging skin care product to effectively tighten skin on your face, and the majority of the wrinkle reducing formulas out there are far from perfect. The formulas I am referring to are some of the best selling, most popular creams and lotions available, and from some of the biggest companies. You have probably used some of these products yourself, without even knowing you were throwing your money away.

Everyone understands what causes wrinkles, but few know exactly what it takes in order to make wrinkles go away. A cosmetic company can tell consumers just about anything they want about the best way to smooth out wrinkles, and consumers are likely to buy their products. We all need to gain a better understanding of what is necessary in order to effectively smooth and tighten your skin.

For years cosmetic companies have gotten away with products containing collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid to tighten skin on face, but these formulas do nothing for the user. It would seem that absorbing these compounds into the skin would be the perfect solution to the lagging production and constant degradation of these tissues and polymer, but things aren't always as they seem. The truth is that all three of these substances are too dense to even be absorbed by our skin.

Even if you could effectively absorb them they would be of little or no use to you. The minute amounts of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid you took in would be quickly attacked and broken down by the enzymes designed to destroy them. The answer to eliminating wrinkles is not simply trying to add animal derived substances into the skin, but increasing our own ability to produce these substances while preventing their degradation.

In the way of increasing collagen and elastin production to tighten skin on your face there has been a couple of recent scientific breakthroughs. A company in New Zealand has discovered a pair of odd keratin proteins in the wool of native sheep that have been proven to significantly increase collagen and elastin output. This same company also discovered that by molecularly reducing the nutrient coenzyme q10 collagen and elastin creation can also be stimulated.

Two other ingredients these companies use in their anti aging skin care products are grape seed oil and Phytessence Wakame kelp extract, which is derived from a kelp only found in the Sea of Japan. These compounds work together to eliminate the threat to your collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid posed by harmful enzymes. By controlling the behavior of these enzymes grape seed oil and Phytessence Wakame allow your tissues and polymer to flourish.

These are the type of ingredients you need in order to successfully tighten skin on your face, as they have been scientifically proven to work effectively. There is nothing unnatural in these New Zealand products at all, so you don't have to worry about all the potentially dangerous additives and preservatives you find in most anti aging formulas.

I can honestly say to you these products are the safest and most effective anti aging formulas available today, and you would do well to get your hands on some.

Stress and Chapped Lips

2011-09-28T11:20:00.000-07:00

Stress is something we all have to deal with at some point. This is just a fact of life, but if left unchecked, stress can have a seriously negative impact on more than one aspect of your life. Stress can cause weight gain, hair loss, heart and blood pressure issues, headaches, emotional distress, etc. So how does stress cause chapped lips?

Different people have different reactions to stress. These reactions can form into nervous habits, and often these repetitive habits can be harmful to us. One such habit would be to lick or bite at the lips when they become chapped. Another habit is to start playing with or chewing objects such as pens and paper clips in and around the mouth. This may bring temporary comfort, but it will worsen the condition of the lips substantially without ever allowing a chance for the lips to heal.

Sometimes when people are stressed out they turn to coffee, smoking, or drinking to help deal with the stress. All of these things will aid in dehydrating the body and will further dry out the lips, along with causing other more serious issues.

Also, stress diminishes vitamin B levels in our body. Vitamin B plays a crucial role in cell and skin repair, among other things. Without a good amount of vitamin B, it will be difficult to get rid of chapped lips and restore their health.

It's also worth noting that typically stress tends to breed more stress. This usually makes all those little annoyances in life into huge problems (for example, if you're stressed out about something at work or school, and you end up biting at your lips out of nervous habit to cope, you now have two things to be stressed about! Yikes!). It's important to step back and find a way to relax and deal with your stress in a healthy way. You'll find that even the worst of problems are more manageable this way (including chapped lips).

So how can you minimalize your stress? Sometimes it can be as easy as figuring out what your coping mechanisms are, and see if they are actually helping you deal with stress (dealing with stress in a healthy manner). If those coping mechanisms aren't helping (causing stress instead of helping you manage it), then you can reduce your stress levels simply by creating healthier habits - and eliminating the unhealthy ones. If you find that you often bite or chew at your lips, or tend to mess around with your lips whenever you are stressed, stop! Get rid of those unhealthy habits as soon as you can. You will be amazed at the difference!

How to Protect Your Lips In Winter Weather

2011-09-27T12:19:00.000-07:00

Winter is often the most dreaded time of year for many people. As the cold weather sets in, the danger of chapped lips does too. This is a cause of much anxiety for those who often get chapped lips in the colder months of the year. So the question is, how can we protect our lips in winter? Here are a few tips that can help your lips stay moist and kissable all winter long:

Always wear a protective emollient on your lips. No, not name brand chap sticks, as those are incredibly damaging to your lips and will only make your lips chap more. It's best to wear a natural emollient on your lips, such as lanolin, which allows more moisture in but keeps wind and cold from drying your lips out.

Make sure to drink plenty of water. Even though we often associate drinking more water in the summer time when it's hot, it's just as necessary to drink extra water in the colder months as well. This is because your body expends more energy trying to keep warm, and thus you lose more water. This will make it that much easier for your lips to dry out and crack. Always drink water! Don't forget, six to eight cups a day is the amount your body really needs to maintain optimal health.

It's also a good idea to have a humidifier in major areas of your home and possibly your workplace. Since the air is dryer in winter (in your home or otherwise), your lips and skin will likely constantly be lacking in moisture, which makes it incredibly easy to dry out.

One trick you can do is simply set a pot of water on the stove until the water starts to simmer. The evaporated water will not only help humidify your home, but because it's warm water it'll retain heat better and make the temperature in your home go up, which is a nice bit of comfort during winter (and a money saver as well!).

Winter doesn't have to be a dreaded time of year, once you know how to deal with it. With a little know-how, you can easily make your lips stand out in the winter time just as you can throughout the rest of the year. Hopefully you now have a few extra tools in your arsenal to help get rid of chapped lips this winter. Happy holidays!

Best Acne Skin Products

2011-09-27T11:16:00.000-07:00

his article will tell you what the best acne skin products are. Before that it is useful to understand what acne actually is. All humans have small holes in the skin known as pores and these pores connect to oil glands which sit under the skin. The pores are connected to these oil glands by follicles. These oil glands create a substance which is called sebum. Follicles are like hollow tubes where a thin hair grows and the sebum oil pushes any dead skin cells out through these tubes to the surface of the skin. This is the normal way of working for the human body.

Acne is a disease that affects these oil glands in a number of different ways. If a follicle gets blocked up, a pimple then forms on the skin. This can happen on various parts of the body, but is most frequent on the face, neck, chest and back.

These pimples take many forms and you will probably be familiar with most of them. They include:

Blackheads - you will see these on the surface of the skin and they have a brown/black appearance

Whiteheads - These pimples stay under the skin and may look like small bumps

Papules - Pink bumps

Pustules - These have a red color and are usually filled with pus on the top of them

Nodules - These are sore and quite large and deep-rooted in the skin

Cysts - These are the worst of all as they are very sore and they can leave scars.

Typically acne is linked to hormonal stimulation so is particularly present in teenagers and young adults. Pregnant women and those going through the change of life are also prone to acne. For some it is a heredity issue and others can get them if they use greasy makeup. Many myths surround what may give you acne, like eating greasy food or chocolate but there is no evidence to support such claims.

Basic Care for Acne Sufferers

For anyone who has trouble with acne there are a few simple things they can do for their skin that will really help. You should never scrub your skin in any way as that will only make things worse. Use a mild cleanser in the morning and evenings. After that try to avoid any unnecessary touching of your skin. If you start to squeeze pimples of any kind you are making a huge mistake. That practice is almost guaranteed to cause scarring.

Painful though it may be, try to avoid the sun. The rays from the sun are harmful to any unprotected skin and when you have acne this is even more serious.

For the ladies, avoid greasy types of make-up and those with any type of oil in them. Read the ingredients and choose based on that. Oil free cosmetics won't guarantee that you don't get acne but they will certainly go a long way to preventing it from happening. If you are prone to oily hair then use a shampoo specifically designed to treat that. Remember, every little helps.

For the men shaving is probably the single most difficult thing if you suffer from acne. It isn't always possible to do this but you should try to shave as little as you can. Electric razors are probably the best as with a wet shave the blade tends to take the tops of pimples, which causes them to spread, bleed and become sore. The pimples also don't get a chance to heal which is the complete opposite of what you want.

Best Acne Skin Products

There are many skin care products in the market place but it is important to look at those which have the best chance of dealing with an acne problem. The best way is to unclog the pores and cleansers are good for this. Anti-bacterial cleansers are even better as they can help not only unclog the pores, but heal any bacterium that resides within the pores. Antioxidants are good for the skin. Vitamins A and E are also excellent for the skin. Glycolic acid works well as this can help reduce the amount of sebum that is produced.

If you are going to buy products you should look for these ingredients. Like any disease you should consult with your doctor and also read the instructions of any medicines that you buy.

How to Make Homemade Sunscreen

2011-09-26T12:14:00.000-07:00

The other day my friend let me and my kinds borrow some of her sunscreen. When I asked her if I could borrow some; she handed me this little bottle that didn't look like it was purchased at a store. When I asked her where she got it she laughed and said she made it. I used it and it worked really well. So I asked her for the recipe and now I use it instead of buying sunscreen at the store. In this little article I am going to tell you exactly how to make it.

First go to the store and get a bottle of soybean or sunflower oil. I went to my local natural nutrition store but simply google these ingredients and you'll find what you need. You will need about eight ounces of either one of them to match the rest of the ingredients here in this recipe.

Then buy about one ounce of Emulsifying Wax. I couldn't find this in my local store so I had to buy it online. Emulsifying wax is a vegetable based oil from the natural occurring esters and fats that are processed into a flake like form.

Then I purchased one ounce of get zinc oxide for the help with the sun blocking power of your sunscreen. After all that just get yourself some kind of essential oil like sweet orange.

So after you get all those ingredients all you have to do is mix them together. I used a wooden spoon but my friend uses a mixer. The great thing about this sunscreen, is that it is natural and doesn't contain all the other chemicals that are found in the other sunscreen sold in the stores. And it was kind off fun to make with the kinds.

I like to try all kinds of natural ingredients for just about everything I make. Some times you need a fast solution for keeping the kids skin healthy in the sun. I know I have been heading out the door and ran all out but didn't have time to make a new batch of my home made sun block. If that happens to you go to the health food store or one of those all natural stores and pick up a tube of para-aminobenzoic acid and use it for sun block. It seems to work as a great option for keeping you skin safe in the sun.

Understand Your Hair Condition

2011-09-26T11:13:00.000-07:00

Different lengths need to be looked at in order to be able to work out what the hair's condition is. For example, many people can have dry ends (from chemical or heat damage) and oily roots, so depending on the length look at the roots as one diagnosis and the ends as another. If the client has very long hair, you can also consider the middle sections as they could also be different. Below is a list of different hair conditions and a guide to the giveaway signs for easy diagnosis.

Oily

Normally always at the root of the hair and very rarely at the ends. Oil through the lengths of the hair is eliminated by use of colour and heated appliances, which are both very common these days. Oily lengths can often look a little glossy, as oil makes hair look slick. Oil also makes hair limp, and you can struggle to get it to do anything. It is often thinner hair that has problems with oil - thicker hair trends to be more dry and brittle as not enough oil is created to make it supple.

Normal

This is what everyone wants. Shiny, glossy, bouncy hair, which feels silky, and shines constantly. Not oily, no dryness - just perfect.

Dry

There are two kinds of dryness, and many people confuse the two. One is dryness from lack of moisture, or oil, and the other type is hair that often feels dry from the damage that has been caused inside the hair's structure, normally called dry/damaged or sensitized hair. This sort of hair is also dry to the touch, but is often fragile, too, and breaks quite easily. These are tests which can identify this better.

If the hair structure is damaged, the hair is weakened. This makes the hair look dry, but if you use a reconstructing treatment (which is for strengthening hair) the dryness will also disappear, even though reconstructs are often in liquid form where conditioners for dryness come in cream form.

To recap, dry hair is caused by lack of moisture and external damage, and dry sensitized hair is caused by internal damage.

Combination

Combination hair is a mixture of the above, e.g. oily roots and dry ends; dry hair with dry sensitized ends; normal roots with dry ends, etc.

The Top 4 Ways to Attach Human Hair Extensions

2011-09-25T12:12:00.000-07:00

Many women have seen the benefits of using human hair with their friends and family, however some may be confused on how extensions are actually used and attached. Here are the top 4 ways to attach real hair extensions.

Bonding

Bonding is one of the most inexpensive ways to attach hair extensions. Your hairdresser will use a small device that uses pressure and a bonding agent to bond each individual strand of the extension to your natural hair. This is a semi-permanent method for attaching human. To remove them a hairdresser will use a special oil and heat to remove the bond from each strand.

Weaving

The weaving method for attaching hair extensions is probably one of the most time consuming methods of attaching human hair and can often be the most costly. There are no special oils, glues or materials needed for using the weaving method. Your hairdresser will weave the individual strands of the extensions into your existing hair. This method is known for being one of the most natural looking ways to attach extensions, but also wears out quicker than other methods.

Clip-in

Clip-in Extensions have become very popular in recent years because they are the most versatile ways to attach human hair extensions. It is also one of the only ways to attach your own hair extensions without going to a stylist. The extension will come with a very small clip at the end of a number of strands and will fit comfortably into your existing hairline. The best part about clip-in extensions is that you can put them in and take them out yourself every day. This allows you to have a different hairstyle every day and also prevents the extension from wearing out as quickly since most users will not have the extension in while sleeping.

Pre-bonded

Pre-bonded extensions are one of the easier methods for attaching extensions. Although it is recommended that a professional stylist attach all semi-permanent hair extensions, Pre-bonded extensions can be easily attached and removed with a little bit of practice. The extensions will come with a bonding material already attached to the extension itself. You simply attach the extension to the strands of hair and use either pressure or heat to bond it to your hairline.

* Make sure to test your extension for potential heat damage. Even though human hair extensions are made from real hair, your extension may not react the same way to direct heat as your natural hair. Use your hair straightener on a small piece of the extension to make sure it does not damage it. This is also a very easy way to test an extension to make sure it truly is 100% real human hair as hair straighteners and curlers typically damage synthetic extensions.

Enhancing Your Eyes With These Ten Eye Makeup Tips

2011-09-25T11:09:00.000-07:00

Our eyes are our most magnetic feature, it's the first thing that people notice about us and we can really work to emphasize our most important feature, through the use of eye colors that come in a never ending selection of shades. From iridescent ant naturals to a seductively smoky evening look the options are endless when it comes to helping your eyes look their brightest and most captivating. The following article looks at some basic tips and techniques to working with eye shadow.

1. Its not always easy to know where to start with your makeup selection default, but as a general rule start by applying the lightest shade all over the entire lid to brighten the eyes and give the illusion of them appearing larger. Blend the medium shade on the middle of the lid adding contour and depth. The final shade should be applied closest to the lash line for definition. Make sure you blend all your layers together for a seamless finish.

2. Not all powder eye shadows are created equally and the cheaper loose powder can fall on to your cheek and look messy. Before purchasing eye shadow you need to ensure that they are well made test them on the back of your hand. If it is a high quality eye shadow it will glide effortlessly across the skin and create an even coat of color and it should feel smooth not grainy. Cheap rough textured formulas tend to contain more oil and will clump on your eyelids, gathering in creases.

3. To prevent stray specks of powder falling on your cheeks and ruining your makeup, tap the handle of your eye shadow brush sharply to remove any excess before you apply it on your eyes. Alternatively why not start with your eyeshadow application first; if you make any mistakes you can correct it after.

4. Choose your eye shadow to enhance the color of your eyes. This means opting for a shade that contrast with your eye color rather than choosing one that matches the true color of your iris, otherwise you tend to notice the eye shadow not the eyes. To highlight the natural beauty of blue eyes earthy warm colors work really well such as browns and taupe's. Green eyes suit cool colors such as lilac and plums. Brown eyes work really well with many colors of the spectrum and navy and grey looks good on brown eyes

5. Do you ever notice your eyeshadow starting to fade throughout the day then it's a good idea to prep your eyes first. Preparing the base with foundation or primer not only helps to diffuse the blue, red color of the veins that show through, but will also help to set your makeup for the day. Finish with a dusting of translucent powder across the eyes and lashes that will help to give your lashes thicker coverage when applying mascara.

6. Want to know how to make your eyes pop! Lining the inner rim of the eye with a white liner will make the eyes appear larger. Applying a dab of white or cream eye shadow on the center of the brow bone in a matte finish can really work to open the eyes. Finish with two coats of thickening or lengthening mascara on the top lashes to help make your eyes appear alluringly larger.

7. Your eye shadow is only ever going to be as good as the tools you use and choosing the right shadow brush will make a huge difference to your application. Shorter bristled versions give more control and accuracy so they are best for lining and defining. Longer bristled brushes are softer and less precise which makes them great for blending and applying a wash of color. Whatever the look you choose, always start with a small amount of shadow on your brush and slowly layer the color gradually.

8. Want to know how to make your lashes look more flattering, and then apply your eyeliner from underneath. Then line above the lash line, which will give the appearance of thicker lashes.

9. Your mascara can offset your look and will frame the eyes, a tip when applying mascara is to apply a coat of mascara before you begin your makeup routine and then apply a coat to finish. It helps to set the scene for your eyes so that everything else blends together effortlessly.

10. Curling your lashes will instantly make them look longer and help you achieve eye opening glamor. Always be sure to curl your lashes before you apply your mascara, working up from the base to the tips for that doe eyed youthful look.

Why Antioxidants Can Help You Stay Younger and Healthier

2011-09-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

Aging and antioxidants

Science has discovered the reason for the aging process. It is quite complex but there are two major contributing factors.

Firstly, the moment you are born your immune system produces oxidised cells. Oxidised cells are the "first response" to any bacteria, pathogens and free radicals in the body. I won't go into what each of these are, but suffice it to say, they are "foreign bodies" in our physiology (we also get them in our foods and in the air).

The oxidised cells play a big part of keeping us healthy. However, oxidation is the reason why we keep our foods in tins, bottles and plastic. You see, when food is exposed to air, the oxygen in the air, begins to oxidise the foods and they begin to rot. Oxidation is also the reason metal rusts. Any form of cell deterioration is a result of oxidation.

In the past, we used to eat foods that contained natural antioxidants (mainly berries) and these antioxidants prevented the oxidised cells from doing damage to the body. Oxidised cells are like renegade firemen. Once they put out a fire, they look for the next fire, and if there isn't one, they start one to carry out their "firemen duties". Since we are not getting sufficient antioxidants in our diets, we have to supplement with antioxidants. In other words, if you don't get sufficient antioxidants in the body, the body begins to oxidise (rot) and the cells in your body deteriorate.

The second process that is a major contributor to aging (cell deterioration) is the cell renewal process (apoptosis). Every cell has DNA. DNA is a molecule that carries the "blueprint" of our physiology, that makes all the cells in our bodies work harmoniously, so that our cells don't turn on each other (like a heart transplant or liver transplant patient). DNA creates the "match" or "mating" of other cells. I won't go into what and how important DNA is, but basically, when our cells renew, they should renew with the exact chromosomal structure as before. Chromosomes are like the "computer language" that determines our physiology.

Cells have a communication system that communicates to other cells. That is how the body responds to foreign bodies. This communication takes place through glycoforms. They are like little "masts" (similar to the cellular telephone towers scattered around). They receive and transmit cell signals to each other through electro-magnetc cell signalling. As long as the glycoforms remain healthy and intact, the body's communication system stays healthy. However, if the glycoforms deteriorate, this can contribute to wrong messages to the body for cell renewal. The body then reproduces cells that that are not the same, contributing further to cell degeneration. The glycoforms are made up of 8 sacchirides (sugars). Only 2 are commonly fond in the diets of many individuals (glucose and fructose and often in unhealthy large quantities), particularly if they don't follow a healthy nutritional regimen.

If the process of oxidation continues and is not stemmed by antioxidants, cells in the body degenerate. (Our cells renew approximately every 7 years). Now the problem is, if they are degenerating, the body produces exactly the same cell. In other words, the body begins to reproduce degenerative cells. Over time, the cells in our body, begin to deteriorate, and this produces the aging process.

It is quite simple, and the understanding of this is what made me formulate Glyco-Boost. Glyco-Boost contains some of the most powerful antioxidants you will find. Why do I have more than one? The reason is because different antioxidants stimulate different responses in our systems. Some are water soluble, and act in our blood plasma, and others stimulate lipids and protect the membrane surrounding each cell. The bottom line is to fight and neautralize pesky free radicals (oxidised cells), you need both types of antioxidants from as many sources as possible. When taken together, the efficacy of water- and lipid soluble antioxidants is enhanced even more.

Furthermore, Glyco-Boost contains the 6 saccharides that one doesn't commonly get from your diet. These fortify the glycoforms surrounding the cell membrane and assist in healthy cell-to-cell communication.

Glyco-Boost doesn't make you younger, necessarily, but it assists in these 2 vital area's, viz. oxidation and cell renewal.

I have not been sick for 7 years now. I have not seen a doctor or dentist for 7 years. Why? Because I look after the cells in my body. If I get the symptoms of an illness, I double up on my dosage of Glyco-Boost and the symptoms are gone within 24 hours.

Glyco-Boost doesn't contain everything that the body needs for stemming degeneration, so I personally include, a regular dosage of whey protein, asparagus, turmeric (that contains curcumin), vitamin C and vitamin K2.

Whey protein when made with unpasteurised milk, anti oxidises intracellular oxidation, i.e. inside the cell (and this is important because pasteurisation destroys many of the amino acids that do the work). You see, the cell membrane can be attacked by free radicals externally, but when cells are attacked inside the cell, like cancer cells, there is only one thing (as far as we know) that can act as an antioxidant, and that is gluthothione. Gluthothione is synthesised (converted for use) from 4 amino acids, that are readily available from many foods in our diet but more readily available in whey protein.

Asparagus and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties, but particularly, for inside cells and are known in many clinical trials to reduce or remove tumours. Science doesn't fully understand this yet, but the fact of the matter is any kind of tumour, can be treated with these 2. However, the active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, that is found in small quantities in turmeric. So it is better, if you don't get a regular dosage of turmeric (the powder used in rice to give it the yellow colour) to buy a curcumin supplement. (I use turmeric often. It does not have a strong flavour and can be added to just about any meat dish).

You can use canned asparagus. It is very cheap. You should use a blender to shred it and take a tablespoonful every day.

Vitamin C is a powerful anti-histamine (and antioxidant, but not as strong as the antioxidants in Glyco-Boost). The body produces histamine in response to the body's changes in temperature. It is part of the body's immune responses. It manifests in the nose and throat as mucous. However, when exposed to air, mucous oxidises and becomes inflamed (the oxidisation process). This causes the common cold, sore throat, blocked nose etc.(wouldn't you have liked to have known this a long time ago. The reason it has not been widely publicised is the BIG PHARMA companies would loose a lot of business if people knew). I don't take vitamin C daily. However, when I have a runny nose, blocked sinuses or sore throat, I double up the Glyco-Boost dosage (2 capsules morning and evening) and vitamin C (2000 Mg morning and 3000 Mg evening) and within 24 hours, symptoms are gone.

Vitamin K2 and only vitamin K2 (the other vitamin K1 is not as effective). Most people have never heard of vitamin K2. Vitamin K2 contains astaxanthin (I Like the thin part). Vitamin K2 is what can be called the super-antioxidant and is the most powerful anti-aging product you will find.

It stops the skin from wrinkling, sagging, and keeps it healthy (as does Glyco-Boost).

There is something you should know about energy levels as well. The body uses about 60% of the energy it receives doing 2 things, viz. digesting the food you eat and fighting oxidation.

This sets many people up into a vicious circle. They eat a lot of unhealthy food, that uses up 60% of their energy just to digest and fight the oxidisation that those foods create (like drinking soda drinks filled with oxidating ingredients that create more oxidation, not less).

So once they have eaten, they soon feel hungry because the body is using 60% per cent of what they have eaten just to process what they have eaten, so they need to eat (i.e. hunger manifests). Taking antioxidants frees up as much as about 30% of the energy that you consume, thus reducing the need to consume more food. That is why Glyco-Boost assists in reducing weight. Plus 4 of the ingredients have proven in clinical trials to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol, i.e. aloe vera, pine bark extract, fucoidan [brown seaweed] and gum ghatti. Also, arabinogalactin and fucoidan encourage the development of micro flora in the gut that organically "digests" food. So my system is "freeing up" a lot of energy when you take Glyco-Boost.

Even eating too much fruit, without balance can create too much fructose in the body. The body then has to fight (expend energy) because they generate free radicals (oxidised cells). People don't know this but protein is more important than carbohydrates, so all the vegans out there, unless they are getting sufficient protein substitutes, are escalating their demise. If you eat fruit, eat bananas. They help balance the sodium [our diets are sodium loaded], potassium levels, but eat real banana's not the pre-packed genetically modified ones) Eat as many berries as you can find (particularly blueberries and strawberries [again avoid the GMO ones]. The darker the better. The colour is produced by olygomeric proanthocyanidins (OPC) that are the active antioxidants required by the body. Many GMO foods have lost their dark colouring and they are for sure ineffective as antioxidants.

The start of any anti-aging (and staying healthy) begins with those 2 principle, viz. antioxidation and reliable cell renewal (apoptosis). If you fully understand this you can be healthy, reduce the effects of aging, and live an energetic life. Some avoid the toxins and fun foods they should be enjoying in order to stay healthy without understanding the processes that cause aging and a reduction in energy.

For instance, one of the most necessary foods, and least understood facts is, that red wine is very healthy. Science calls this the "French Phenomena". The French have the lowest heart attack rate in the world. Red wine is filled with OPC's, the active ingredient in pine bark extract, (one of the ingredients of Glyco-Boost). Often humans avoid that which is most healthy for them.

Chocolate is also packed with OPC as long as it is not over-processed. The darker the better.

Glyco-Boost also includes glucosamine for fortifying cartilage and ligament and is recommended (together with Omega 3 - krill oil or cod liver oil) to fortify joints and avoid arthritis.

The 17 ingredients in Glyco-Boost work harmoniously to ensure our immune systems stays healthy and can deal with the large quantities of free radicals in our system. It does this in many ways, and one of the most important is by keeping the body's cells healthy. Healthy cells result in healthy tissue, and healthy tissue results in healthy organs.

The individual ingredients of Glyco-Boost have undergone literally hundreds of clinical trials, and their voracity and health benefits are conclusive. One ingredient alone, Pine Bark Extract, has undergone over 256 clinical trials.

Glyco-Boost can help prevent and support recovery from a large number of ailments. Oxidative stress is responsible for about 80% of degenerative and auto-immune diseases. By keeping cells healthy, the immune system is able to more effectively ward of and reduce the effects of bacteria and germs.

5 Tips You Should Know To Avoid Skin Diseases

2011-09-23T12:23:00.000-07:00

The increase in the occurrence of skin diseases has caused concern in recent times. There has been a surge in the number of skin cancer and other skin disease cases that are resistant to treatments. All this has led to the development of preventive methods against all types of skin problems. Medical professionals agree on many methods that can be used for minimizing the risk of developing any skin conditions or diseases that can lead to surgery and associated operating room protocols. Here are five tips to help you prevent skin complications in the future.

1. Regularly Wash Your Hands

This is one of the most recommended actions to prevent catching or spreading of any type of skin disease. You are constantly coming in contact with different skin disease causing agents that can make you ill. You never know that the things you touch could be harboring bacterium or viruses. You must be careful about touching the surfaces as they may be contaminated with germs that may get transferred to your hands. Washing your hands regularly ensures that all the bacteria get washed away thus minimizing your chances of getting infected.

2. Avoid Sharing Towels or Other Clothes

Skin diseases commonly get transferred through towels and clothes. Avoid sharing your gym towel with a friend. You would not be doing any favor to your friends by sharing it. On the other hand you would be sharing dangerous bacteria with them. The towel can act as a medium for transferring germs from you to your friends and from your friends to you.

3. Wear Clean Clothes

Avoid wearing damp clothes or clothes that contain your perspiration. Clothes with perspiration harbor germs that are waiting on to move to a host. Do not wear clothes for a long time without washing them. The dead skin accumulating on the clothes will act as the breeding ground for fungus and germs. When combined with perspiration, the damp environment helps the fungus to thrive. The more the duration, for which you wear damp clothes, the more time the bacteria will get to enter your body through the pores.

4. Immediately Treat your Wounds

The skin has a wide range of harmful viruses and bacteria. They are harmless unless they are able to find an entry into the body. However, a wound or a cut is just enough for these microscopic entities to enter your body. If you allow them to enter your body, they are going to cause a lot of problems. The moment you get a cut, it should be washed using water and soap and sealed using any antibiotic ointment.

5. Take Showers

Do not wash off the soap right after applying it on your body. Make sure that sufficient time is given to the soap to stay on your body and kill the germs. You should wait for at least 30 seconds before you go under the shower to rinse off the soap.

Anti Aging Skin Care and Cellular Water: A Basic Guide

2011-09-23T12:07:00.000-07:00

When it's time to start considering an anti aging skin treatment product, then it's also time to start understanding what it is that makes skin begin to show the signs of aging. It doesn't matter what skin care products you use, if you select them without understanding what they're supposed to do to help you look younger, then you'll certainly end up only finding the right product by blind luck! However, there's a great deal of skin care advice out there in the world that explains what you should and shouldn't be looking for in an anti aging cream or product. The most important piece of advice that we can give you is to understand the concept of cellular water.

When you are young, your skin cells (and all of your cells for that matter) are stronger. After all, everything about us is stronger when we are younger. When your cells are strong (and young) they can hold water and nutrients in. This causes your skin to look healthy and, more importantly for anti aging considerations, firm.

However, like everything else on our bodies, your cells begin to weaken as you age. When that happens, their ability to retain water (and nutrients) lessens. When that happens, your skin begins to show the signs of aging. As water is no longer held in, you skin loses firmness and begins to drop - this can be visible on your face, neck or even in the appearance of cellulite as skin becomes looser around fatty areas. Also, obviously, your skin begins to become more dry. When that happens, fine lines and wrinkles become more evident.

How can you combat the inevitable aging of your cells? By using the right anti aging skin products and by ensuring that you supplement additional hydration and nutrition to replace what your body and your cells can't as easily retain any longer.

What will you ultimately want to look for in an anti aging skin treatment or cream? You'll want to look for something that helps to hydrate skin deeply to replace the water that your body is no longer retaining on a cellular level. You'll also want to find something that hydrates using the most natural ingredients possible, because your body will respond to natural ingredients more, well, naturally. Finally, look for anti aging products that have been clinically tested and where you can research the results. The anti aging skin care industry is a multi-million dollar industry, but those who truly care and who can provide quality products will have been reviewed by dermatologists and estheticians alike, and will have clinical results online for you to see!

Light Therapy For Acne - Can It Really Work?

2011-09-23T12:04:00.000-07:00

If acne is a problem for you then you probably just want a solution that will work quickly and effectively. Light therapy for acne is not a new solution, in the years before we wised up about the damage that sunlight can do to the skin many doctors would advise acne sufferers to let the sun dry up their acne problem. Of course that is not a sensible solution as it could potentially replaces the acne with much more serious and even life threatening conditions.

Fortunately modern acne light therapy lamps have solved that problem by providing light that is strong enough to treat acne but is not damaging to the skin. Acne light therapy lamps can offer a very real alternative to the creams and lotions that can be messy to apply and over time can lose their effectiveness.

How does Light therapy work on acne? The most effective treatments use a combination of blue and red light. Each particular wavelength works in its own way and together they can effectively clear up acne and make sure it does not come back.

Blue light kills the bacteria that can lead to skin inflammation and the redness that is a classic symptom of acne. We naturally carry bacteria over the whole surface of the skin. Most of the time this causes no problems at all. But if the bacteria increase in levels the skin can become irritated and start to become inflamed. Blue light kills bacteria and is a useful tool for keeping it under control.

Red light encourages your body to generate new skin cells. This means that skin damaged by spots heals more quickly. Red light can even improve the appearance of skin damaged by acne scarring.

Once of the great things about using acne light therapy is the ease of treatment. Lotions can be very messy, they can stain clothing and sometimes skin can be irritated by the very treatments that are supposed to heal.

Using an acne lamp means simply exposing the affected skin to light for around 15 minute sessions. The light can be directed onto small areas to intensively treat outbreaks, or you can use the light to treat a wider area. Light therapy is a particularly effective treatment for back acne where a thorough cleansing routine is more difficult.

The biggest obstacle to using light therapy to treat acne is the initial cost. An acne lamp can cost from $100 - $200. But you need to remember that once you have made the purchase that is the end of your outlay. There is no need for additional lotions and the lamp will treat your acne for many years. Over time the acne lamp could be a more cost affective treatment.

If you have tried to control acne and not had a great deal of success with traditional medication then light therapy for acne is something you may wish to consider. You will not get instant results but if you use the light regularly you should notice an improvement in a fairly short time, significant results have been reported in clinical tests after four weeks of daily treatment. Once your acne is under control you will probably need to treat with light 3 times each week to maintain healthy, clear skin.

How To Get Rid Of Pimples Quickly - Natural And Rapid Acne Remedies

2011-09-23T12:02:00.001-07:00

On this page you are going to learn how to get rid of pimples quickly. We all know of various acne treatments that work, but often the imperative thing is that they work quickly. After all, what is the point in getting your skin clear after that big date this weekend? You want your skin to be looking its best the day of, not the day after! That's why you need to keep reading to learn how to get rid of pimples quickly and easily using some of the most effective natural and holistic acne treatment methods available.

* Increase your daily water consumption. The human body is around 70% water, so if you aren't getting enough of the cool, clear
liquid then you are going to be in pretty major trouble. Make sure you are drinking at least a couple of liters of water every day (that is about half a gallon, for you Imperial measurement fans out there) However, if you are active or live in a warm climate then you could do with drinking up to four liters/1 gallon a day. Be careful not to overdo your water consumption, however, as this post demonstrates.

* Get some sunshine on your skin. Since you were a little kid you have probably been told that sunlight is just about the most evil thing out there. However, it is actually very good for the health of your skin, provided you get just the right amount of sunshine. Avoid getting so much sun that you burn; but 10-20 minutes a day will provide you with a lot of Vitamin D, and will have the effect of reducing the symptoms of acne quite markedly. UV light can have quite a profound impact on the health of your skin.

* Make use of the healing power of salt water. If you live by a beach, this is easy. If not, you are going to have to buy some sea salt and make your own saltwater concoction (please don't use iodized table salt, as that is going to dry your skin out very rapidly) Bathe your skin in saltwater at least twice a week- the healing power of salt water truly is amazing. You will notice that spots dry out very quickly, and your complexion will improve markedly. If you are prone to oily and flaky skin, this will improve a lot as well.

* Natural saltwater from the ocean is the best for this. I am not sure why (perhaps it has something to do with sand particles acting as a gentle exfoliant - please leave a comment if you know the answer!) but sea salt mixed with some warm water will have a similar effect.

* Use lemon juice topically. One of the most effective ways to get rid of pimples quickly is by using a natural astringent. Lemon juice is one such astringent. You may even have a lemon tree in your back garden, in which case all you need to do is pop out to the backyard, grab one, and juice it up. Use a cotton bud or something similar to carefully apply lemon juice directly to the spot itself. Do this twice a day, morning and night, until the spot has disappeared. You can then combat any potential scarring by using lemon juice again (I told you it's a brilliant natural remedy, as it treats both the pimples and any resulting scars)

* Cut down on stress. By taking time to relax and avoiding stressing yourself out, you will notice a marked improvement in the condition of your skin. This might sound stupid, but it actually works very effectively. Stressing out will lead to hormone spikes, and this is only going to result in more spots and worse skin. You need to consciously focus on relaxing, with techniques such as slow breathing exercises, in order to reduce stress in your body.

* Avoiding picking or squeezing pimples. We have all been guilty of doing this at some point or another, but picking and squeezing your pimples is not going to do much good for your skin. If you want to get rid of spots rapidly then you need to avoid squeezing them. Why? Because squeezing leads to inflammation of the skin, and in turn this is going to cause a worsening of your acne symptoms. Also, squeezing a whitehead can result in infection of the surrounding area, which will in turn lead to further pimples.

* Increasing your intake of Vitamin A. This important vitamin (and its relation Beta-Carotene) are noticeably absent from many peoples' diets. The easiest way to boost your Vitamin A/Beta-Carotene intake is to start eating carrots. Even better, you can make fresh carrot juice which concentrates the skin-healing power of carrots and will deliver a huge kick to your skin. After a few days of drinking fresh carrot juice you will notice a major improvement in your skin, and your pimples and spots will start to fade.

* Use a concealment product. Okay, this is cheating somewhat, by using a good concealer will allow you to get rid of unsightly pimples and spots in the shortest amount of time possible. This is a bit more difficult for guys, as wearing makeup is still taboo for most men. However, you can also employ the services of clothing or accessories that will help hide the offending pimples. Just remember to keep it natural- don't make it look as if you are deliberately trying to hide something.

* Use a holistic acne treatment system. One of the fastest and most effective ways to get rid of spots is to use holistic treatment. By healing your body and acne from the inside out you will get beautiful skin in the fastest way possible.

Lemon - A Miracle for Beautiful Hair and Skin

2011-08-23T13:04:00.000-07:00

Even though we go out in the market to get the most appropriate beauty products for ourselves, sometimes we just have to look in our own homes for a better solution. To our very own surprise we may find it too in our own backyard. We are talking about the tiny lemon.

For ages this lemon has been used as one of the foremost and most useful beauty product we can imagine. With its rich content of nutrients it helps you with your skin as well as your hair. Lemon by itself or with any other ingredient makes a very good amalgamation for skin or hair care.

It is so common that anyone or everyone can use it. One cannot say that only the rich and famous were able to make good use of it. It has good amount of Vitamin C which makes things easier if you want to have lovely and ravishing skin.

It is a very good cleanser as the nutrients does wonder internally as well as externally. Due to the good work done for our digestive system it helps in giving a very clean and clear skin. If you mix lemon in a glass of warm water and drink it everyday, it will help in clearing the toxins from your body.

By cutting a lemon and rubbing it on your skin and keeping it for nearly an hour would help in removing the sun tan. It will also help in reducing your chances of wrinkles and treating the ever growing blemishes. It would work even better if you happen to rub olive oil before rinsing. It acts as a bleaching agent so avoid using this mixture before going in the sun.

Lemon is a good for your hair too, as it helps in removing dandruff. Rubbing or massaging lemon juice on your hair regulates the blood in your head helping in hair growth. The glands are regulated too which help in producing oil to have a beautiful and shiny hair.

As it helps in stimulation lemon has been used in many of the aromatherapy soaps and oil to rejuvenate you in every aspect. If you have brittle nails rubbing sliced lemon everyday would help you with a much stronger and sturdier nails. You can try one of the common treatments for the nails by soaking them in lemon juice for 10 minutes and then brushing them with equal parts of vinegar and warm for good shape.

It is also used to remove blackheads. If you rub lemon juice over blackheads, keep it overnight and rinse it in the morning it will help you tremendously. Continue doing this every night till the blackheads are gone. It can also be used as a breath mint. Squirt some lemon juice in your mouth and swirl it in your mouth for sometime and then drink it. This method would help in getting rid of your bad breath.

Lemon is acidic; one should use it in proper proportions. It acts as an astringent which may not be good in excess quantity. Before trying any of these remedies please see to it that you are not allergic to it.

Makeup Tips for Natural Beauty

2011-08-23T13:03:00.000-07:00

Staying beautiful and attractive takes work, for sure, but being healthy is one of the simplest ways to ensure great skin and that youthful glow. In addition to proper nutrition and exercise, ridding the skin of deep impurities and maintaining excellent exfoliation is essential for great skin. It is also very important to wash your face both morning and night so that your pores stay cleansed and stimulated, again, another tip for a beautiful complexion.

Radiant skin is a sign of youthfulness, health and beauty. When the face appears flawless, everything else sparkles. Even if you've had some challenges with your complexion, you can still achieve a luminous glow by using the products-for your skin type-in the right places. I recommend Couleur Caramel: this all-natural French makeup and skin care line contains vegetal and mineral ingredients that actually restore and rejuvenate the skin. With products ranging from foundation to powders to colorful eye shadows and liners, Couleur Caramel's most beneficial quality is the micronisation- an exclusive technological process that allows the product to spread perfectly, leaving a soft and silky texture.

Next, the ideal product for touch-ups throughout the day that controls shine and unifies any complexion is the Cosmetic Powder which comes in seven neutral shades. And it's the "IT" product for 2010!

More Tips... Kissable Cheeks!

Matching the cheeks to the lips is a great, new makeup trend! After finding the perfect blushing color for you cheeks, choose a gloss with the same shade. And you're sure to love Couleur Caramel's Transparent Lip Balm & Pearly Beige Gloss!

Look into my Eyes

For the eyes, the magic is in the application, and here's the breakdown...

1- Highlight eyes by applying a pencil to the eye contour choose 3 shades of eye shadow

2- Apply lightest shade to the inner corner of the eye the darkest shade to the outer while blending the medium shade in between.

3- Illuminate eyes by applying one of Couleur Caramel's Pearl Touch powders. It enlightens any look, creating luminous points on the face.

4- Intensify eyes by applying eyeliner to the eye contour and mascara to lashes.

Bonus: Because of the incredible micronisation found in Couleur Caramel, it allows you to achieve the perfect shading.

What Couleur?

For brown eyes, use blue eye shadow, liner or mascara.

For blue eyes, use the opposite: brown or black eye highlighters.

For green eyes, use deep purple to make eyes stand out.

Community Programs Take Aim at Prescription Drug Abuse

2011-07-13T05:10:00.000-07:00

Without question the biggest challenge those in the addiction treatment field currently face is prescription drug addiction. Prescription drugs account for the majority of drugs of abuse (8 out of 14) at the moment and are destroying our country's young people. Many states are currently taking steps to combat the problem while claiming the top spot for prescription drug abuse among teenagers.

Treatment admissions for opiates increased over all 6% in the last year, prescription drugs accounted for 1/3 of the opioid addicts admitted. States like Tennessee and Maine are implementing programs to help curtail the mounting problems and skyrocketing prescription abuse treatment admissions. Sources say the main source for prescription drugs amongst teenagers is family and friends. States like Maine are rightfully targeting doctors.

Aroostook Substance Abuse Prevention (ASAP) Coalition in Aroostook County Maine began a county-wide program for combating prescription drug abuse. The coalition works within the county and community areas to target doctors an excessive amount of prescriptions for opiate painkillers. Alerting local physicians and other healthcare providers of drug offenders was a very successful action in alleviating the problem.

The residents of Tennessee spend more on prescription drugs per capita and many health care and addiction treatment providers are rightfully alarmed. Being responsible for killing approximately 20,000 people each year drugs like Oxycontin, Hydrocodone, Vicodin, Percocet and Lortab are the primary culprits. Medicare and prescription fraud play a big part in the addiction problem.

Healthcare professionals in Tennessee are making known the problem and calling on colleagues to be more aware of any possible addiction issues prior to submitting to the pharmacy or suggesting the drugs. ASAP's in Maine have resulted in a 24 percent decrease in prescription treatment admissions, although numbers are still relatively high at 40 percent progress is being made.

More public awareness most certainly should happen, and those that we count on for our well-being should be held accountable for adverse effects caused by non-disclosure of the dangerous side effects of drugs prescribed. More addicts and people struggling with addiction are coming out of doctors office.

Billons of dollars are being spent fighting the drug war, drug cartels in Mexico and gangs here within our urban and now rural areas, while most people are getting hooked on doctor prescribed drugs and moving onto illicit street drugs. More drug awaremess campaigns and removing direct to consumer advertising would help alleviate the problem tremendously.

5 Suggestions to Reduce Deaths Related to Alcohol and Drugs

2011-07-13T05:05:00.000-07:00

Drinking and driving causes over 25,000 deaths a year.

Overall 100,000 deaths occur each year due to the effects of alcohol. According to the NHTSA web site there were 43,443 alcohol related traffic deaths in 2005 in the U.S.. As a comparison, AIDS claimed 18,000 lives in 2003.

So, what can be done to help reduce the number of overall deaths each year related to alcohol or other drug for both adults and adolescents?

Take an Alcohol Awareness Class or Minor in Possession Class Online

Here are the top 5 reasons this is a good idea:

1. Alcohol Awareness classes and drug education courses can be taken online vs. a classroom setting. This allows for ease of access and convenience. Quality online programs offered by licensed providers are also effective for those who may need to take a class for a legal requirement in addiction to simply prevention education

2. Online classes are available 24 hours a day and can be taken from any location in the country. Unlike an in person class, online courses are give the flexibility to study when you want. There is no reason to miss time away from work or school, the courses can be taken anytime.

3. Online programs are about 1/2 the cost of an in person class and teach essentially the same material. For some, a online class could be more helpful for comprehending the concepts and understanding the materials presented.

4. Any good program should come with a certificate of completion that can be both mailed and downloaded instantly. The certificate is a way for one's work, court, probation, school or family to know the course was successfully completed.

5. Online quality online classes will offer level 1, level 2 and level 3 programs in formats of 8, 16, and 24 hours. These online classes will be available for both Minor in Possession courses as well as standard alcohol awareness class education programs. Alcohol awareness classes and drug education is simply the only way to begin on the road to prevention. Many people have a misconception about what alcohol really does to the mind and body. Get the facts and start today. Lack of awareness leads to issues related to safety. When we have unsafe situations that transpire related to alcohol or other drugs this can lead to tragic or even fatal situations. Awareness is the key to change.

Men Seeking Out Plastic Surgery

2011-07-13T04:42:00.001-07:00

More and more men are seeking out plastic surgery and seem to have no qualms about going under the knife. Women still account for more plastic surgeries annually, but it seems like the men are catching up! Men want to eliminate their droopy necks, droopy eyes, protruding bellies and excess body fat. Plastic surgery is not covered by insurance most of the time. Yet, men seem to want to achieve one objective and that is to look attractive. They want to make themselves more acceptable looking in society and correct features that are embarrassing to them.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recently released statistics which show that plastic surgery in men is up by 2% compared to statistics from 2009. Many males have opted for a one time surgical procedure to correct any embarrassing features. Men prefer to stick to one operation instead of returning time and time again to the plastic surgeons office like women do. Facelifts for men increased in 2010 by 14% and liposuction by 7%. ASPS statistics show that in 2010 men went under the knife in nearly 1.1 million cosmetic procedures, both surgical and minimally invasive. It seems like men are more interested in cosmetic procedures compared to minimally invasive treatment which was popular several years ago.

Phillip Haeck, President of ASPS, said that the increase in cosmetic surgery for men is an indication that the baby boomers are ready to go under the knife. Soft tissue fillers and Botox are minimally invasive procedures and these only work to a certain point. With age and gravity, however, cosmetic surgery becomes necessary to lift the skin area that is sagging if men want to show major improvements to their self appearance. Cosmetic surgery has made huge gains in techniques, where patients are not required to spend time at the hospital recovering. Recovery is done on an outpatient basis. This appeals to men greatly who hate the idea of a procedure taking too much of their time away from other things such as work and family.

Men frequently opt for minimally invasive treatment for this very reason. Soft tissue fillers and Botox injections can be done during a quick visit to the plastic surgeon and is only intended to erase a few wrinkles here and there. Women have long considered appearance as their number one priority, it looks like men are following suit. Men in the modern age seek surgical procedures for a variety of reasons. Some men just after a divorce and right back in the dating game want to look their best; others want to maintain an edge of youthfulness in an environment dominated by youth.

Even teens and younger men are opting for surgical procedures that will give them an edgy and rough masculine appearance. Statistics show that from 18,000 male participants who underwent male breast reduction, nearly 75% of them were between 13 and 19 years of age. Plastic surgeons are happy that there is an increase of men willing to undergo cosmetic surgery. This is especially uplifting news during the bleak economy since 2008.

Only a well-informed person is able to make smart choices and it is the choices that we make, each and every day, that determine how happy and successful we are in life.

To help you make the correct choices, we at Advisory Journal are committed to giving you the most up-to-date and reliable information available.

Getting the Most Out of Plastic Surgery

2011-07-13T04:41:00.001-07:00

Your plastic surgery experience should be a wonderful, life changing adventure. Yes, you will be undergoing surgical procedures, however, there is much more to the experience than the surgery itself.

There are many different aspects to making the decision to have a plastic or cosmetic surgery procedure performed, and it is extremely important that you do your part when deciding which procedure, as well as with surgeon, will be best suited to your needs and what you are looking to have done.

Many prospective patients start this process by doing some research. Whether you peruse the internet for different surgeons, see a billboard, hear a commercial on the radio or view an ad on television, it is best to find out as much information as possible before narrowing your search. Patient referrals is sometimes one of the best sources, however, websites can prove to be just as informative.

Many websites showcase extensive before and after photo galleries as well as patient testimonials, surgeon biographies and credentials, as well as valuable information on the procedures offered. Once you have narrowed your search, the next step is to schedule a consultation, where you can meet with the surgeon and have an in depth discuss as to what you are looking for you what he can do for you.

Your consultation is key to the information gathering process. Not only does this give you a chance to meet with the doctor directly, but it is your time to ask whatever questions you may have and address your concerns. Many patients make a checklist of things that they would like to discuss with the physician, and he or she will also be sure to go over other information as well.

Some things he should discuss with you are your medical history; this includes any previous surgeries you may have, any medications you may be on as well as any allergies you may have to any medications and other issues in your background. He or she will also go over the procedure itself as well as the expected recovery time. There are certain restrictions following the procedure, that we will go over with you, as well as certain pre surgery guidelines that we want you to follow so that you will have the best possible result.

You will also go over plastic surgery expectations, goals, as well as possible risks of the surgery. From there, a consultant, or patient coordinator, will meet with you to go over the finite details, such as fees and scheduling. If you are looking to finance a procedure or if you are wondering if something will be covered by insurance, the consultant will also be able to help you with these issues.

It is important to set aside some time, not only for your procedure day, but for an additional week or so where you can take some time from work and relax. The physician will see you for a follow up visit a few days after surgery, and then tailor a follow up program to each individual patient so that he may monitor your progress and healing. These appointments are very important and should not be missed. If you find that you have to reschedule a follow up appointment at any time, then be sure to call the office ahead of time. Many patients come from all over the world to have their surgeries performed in some of the more respected plastic surgery locations.

Drug Use Statistics

2011-07-12T05:10:00.000-07:00

Drug use has increased every year for the past ten years. Also increasing are the number of individuals addicted to prescription medications, as well as the number of teenage and pre-teen drug abusers. But what truly are some of the statistics relating to drug use and/or abuse in the United States?

In two thousand and one United States citizens agreed to take part in a survey relating to drug abuse in the U.S. The findings were unbelievable in that over five million people in the United States were recorded to have a drug abuse problem, but were afraid or unwilling to attend a rehab program. Over one hundred thousand of these particular individuals stated that they tried to take part in a rehab program but were unable to.

Some doctors and researchers claim that there is a certain amount of denial or avoidance that takes place when drug users come to terms with needing rehabilitation. Director of the National Drug Control Policy, John Walter stated, "We have a large and growing denial gap when it comes to drug abuse and dependency in this country".

After a household survey was taken, it was shown that young adults ages eighteen to twenty-four had the most amount of increase in drug use over just one year. Also increasing their own abuse bracket is the age range of twelve to seventeen. These young adults and teens have increased their drug and alcohol abuse levels by ten percent in only the past two years.

With respects to particular drug use, here are some of the current facts that came from the home surveys conducted as well as other research:

* The number of individuals who chose to experiment with Ecstasy (MDMA) increased over two percent within one year. In two thousand and one there were over seven hundred and fifty thousand users of Ecstasy in the United States alone.

* Marijuana use has increased by over one million in the past three years. This in part due to the Americans that stated they first began using and/or abusing marijuana in 2000, and state that they don't choose to cease in the future.

* In two thousand and one, it was reported that over twenty five million persons drive or had driven under the influence of alcohol. Over ten million alcohol abusers in two thousand and one were between the ages of twelve and nineteen.

* In only 2000 it was reported that close to one million United States citizens used and abuse Oxycontin without a valid or necessary medical prescription. Currently it is estimated that over two million Americans now abuse Oxycontin in the United States alone.

It is safe to say that drug abuse has increased over only the past ten years. If you or someone you know is suffering from drug abuse, contact a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center.

Silent Inflammation: Knock It Out With Fish Oil

2011-07-12T05:03:00.001-07:00

If It Is Silent, How Do I Know I Am Being Hurt

Silent Inflammation will hurt you. It will also increase the rate at which you age and put you at risk for a plethora of diseases. Heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and Alzheimer's are just a few of the conditions hastened by silent inflammation. Dr. Barry Sears, who wrote "The Anti-Inflammation Zone," outlines how to use omega-3 fatty acids (and fish oil) to reduce the effects of this quiet killer.

His story tells a very clear picture and gives some very important details. Details about how omega-3 fatty acids provide a great defense against inflammation in the body. It also tells about the role of omega-6 fats (a nutrient that is the predominant fat in most diets) which have the opposite effect on the body causing inflammation almost at will. Dr. Sears tells us that our diets should have a ratio 2 omega-6 fats to 1 omega-3 fat but the normal diet consists of a ratio of approximately 10:1. This crazy ratio is due mainly to the highly processed nature of the modern diet. This glut of omega-6 fatty acids leads to the production of arachidonic acid (AA) which is primarily responsible for inflammation in the body.

OK, Now That I Know It Is Really There, What Do I Do

There are three key nutrients in omega-3 fatty acids. They are EPA, DHA, and ALA. When it comes to controlling the inflammatory processes in the body EPA is probably the main character. It works by inhibiting the build up and production of AA in the body. A side note is that an over production of insulin can increase the amount of inflammation in the body. The level of insulin in the body needs is controlled by maintaining proper levels of omega-3 nutrients in the body and not taking in too many carbohydrates from simple sugar sources.

Fish oil supplementation from high quality sources will provide your diet with the nutrients needed to protect your body from the inflammatory foods that are prevalent in a western diet. There are a number of things to take to heart when discussing supplementation of this type:

High doses of fish oil containing at least 1 gram of EPA daily and a balance between the protein and carbohydrate levels in your diet are essential for reducing the incidence of inflammation in the body. Eating correctly and keeping insulin levels at proper levels. The more the insulin levels fluctuate in your body the more you need fish oil to counteract the effects. (Adele Puhn has done wonder work in this area and is worth reading) Monitor the types and amounts of food in your diet. Everything you put into your body has an effect. Make sure to get the desired effect by being careful with your diet. Supplement your diet with a quality fish oil supplement and cut out the high levels of omega-6 fatty acids in your diet.

According to Dr. Oz and Dr Sears our bodies need at least 1 to 3 grams of DHA + EPA daily to counteract the affects of environment and diet. If you must take very high doses of fish oil please see a physician, as there are side effects to high doses of fish oil. Prolonged bleeding time is one of the worst. Obesity, chronic pain, and depression while all can be helped with the addition of fish oil, they also require professional medical intervention to manage properly. Take the time to learn all you can about the miracle we know as fish oil, but also take the time to use all the resources around you to get back to optimum health.

Omega-3 Fatty Acid Foods: What to Pick and What It Helps

2011-07-12T05:02:00.001-07:00

Numerous studies have proven the good effects of a diet that consists of foods with a high content of omega-3 fatty acids. The reduction of cholesterol, blood pressure, lowered incidence of heart disease, and increased joint health are just a few of the benefits that have been noted by researchers. New moms suffering from postpartum depression as well as people who are suffering from other forms of depression find relief from supplementing their diets with omega-3 foods and fish oil capsules. Making these essential fatty acids a part of your daily diet is easy when you know where to look.

The best food choices are cold water fish such as anchovies, salmon, herring, cod, striped sea bass, mackerel, sardines, and lake trout. For vegetarians looking to increase their intake of essential fatty acids (EFA) sunflower seeds, avocados, olive oil, canola oil and flax seed are the best choices. There are a few rules for using these foods that you should follow:

Use foods that are processed as little as possible.

Use only lemon and herbs to season them.

Steer clear of fried foods. The omega-6 fatty acids used to fry food competes with the omega-3 fatty acids and cancels out the benefits.

For many people, making diet changes to the degree needed to see the benefits of EFAs is not possible. This is where supplementation becomes important. Omega-3 supplements are all over the stores and the Internet. Each one claiming to be the best ever produced. When you choose a supplement it should normally be in a liquid gel type capsule and should be kept in the refrigerator to maintain the freshness. The product should be from a reputable manufacturer that will guarantee the product is free from contamination. There should also be at least 600 - 1000 mg of DHA and EPA. These are the levels that show the most effective results.

Along with helping with the ailments listed above, fish oil can help bring back younger looking skin and increase your brain power. The EFAs contained in fish oil are vital to the function of the brain and the skin. Fatty acids cannot be made by the body and so the only source of these is from our diet or supplementation. Since they help the cellular integrity of our skin and maintain higher functions in our nervous systems omega-3 foods and supplements are best known for their anti-aging properties.

Saturated fats tend to be solid at room and body temperature while omega-3 fats tend to be liquid. This property alone makes them easier for the body to use. The EFAs in these foods help to build neural pathways in the brain giving you a greater mental acuity than without them. The skin is able to use the fatty acids to replenish and give elasticity to the largest organ in the human body.

Sadly, the American diet is lacking much of the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids because our diets are so high in saturated fats otherwise known as omega-6 fats. Most Americans have to use a high quality supplement in order to see the benefits of fish oil. Even those who eat a lot of fish may find that they raise the levels of heavy metal contaminates in their body due to the high levels of contamination that is prevalent in the fishing waters off the coast of many countries.

The effects of DHA, EPA, and ALA are well known. These nutrients are like a magic pill for your skin, your brain and your overall health. Go ahead and step lively into your future by adding fish oil to your diet either through food or supplements. Just make sure you get it everyday.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6399749

Neck Cream the Answer to Combat Sagging Neck Skin

2011-07-12T05:01:00.000-07:00

Turkey Neck is what they call it. The unsightly sagging neck skin under your chin that develops for some women and men as they age. The skin becomes littered with wrinkles and fine lines as it sags and the majority of us become quite self conscious.

For the longest time the only option was a surgical procedure that was both risky and expensive. The majority of people would rather cope with sagging neck skin then go under a knife.

Today there are a variety of topical Neck Creams formulated with break through ingredients that target sagging skin, stimulate new collagen production and produce a tightening affect that will reduce the appearance of sagging neck skin without the risk.

How Do They Work?

While not every neck cream works the same, the concepts behind most of them are similar. Active ingredients absorbed by your skin after the neck firming cream is applied begin to work at tightening and toning your skin, plumping it to reduce appearance of wrinkles and some but not all will jump start your natural collagen production.

Each step further smooths the skin and reduces the saggy to a point where you can maintain your neck skin the way you want to with only a once daily application.

Potential Results

Because anti aging neck creams are topical treatments and not medical they don't work for everyone. Depending on the degree of sagging skin you have on your neck will determine just how effective the cream can be.

Generally speaking more then half the people who try these products will achieve visible results inside a two month period if they use the product consistently and as directed. The active ingredients inside anti aging products are only effective when applied consistently so the results can build up.

Side Effects?

One of the best things about neck creams is there really are no side effects. While there may be some people with sensitive skin who cannot use one product or another due to a rash or itchiness, there is really no serious adverse health affects that can originate from using at topical treatment like this.

Of course it's always a good idea to check with your family doctor and dermatologist if you have any concerns.

Rosacea Treatment With A Laser - Is It Right For Me?

2011-07-12T00:50:00.003-07:00

Rosacea treatment runs the gamut from laser treatments to creams and beyond. Which treatment is right for you? The answer depends on a few factors. Let's first take a quick look at what Rosacea is, and how it develops.

If you don't have Rosacea yourself, you may know someone that does and have seen the symptoms of this chronic disease of the skin. People with Rosacea tend to blush easily, and as the disease progresses over time, the skin may become permanently red and may harden somewhat. One common symptom in men is the enlarging, hardening and redness of the nose. The exact cause of this disease is still not known, but the symptoms are caused by the swelling of the blood vessels near the surface of the skin.

The first course of treatment prescribed by a dermatologist is usually a medicated cream designed to reduce the effects of Rosacea. This coupled with a change in diet many times will yield favorable results. If however these treatments don't seem to help at all, laser therapy is the next option to try.

Laser Rosacea treatment consists of exposing the swollen blood vessels that cause the disease to a specific wavelength of laser light that will not harm the skin between the laser and the blood vessels. Effectively the laser light will eliminate the swollen vessels and eliminate the Rosacea. This is how it would happen in a perfect world. In truth, laser therapy is not foolproof. In fact Rosacea laser therapy is not a cure, and you probably will be looking at a lifetime of follow up treatments.

The side effects can be a bit disheartening. As with any laser treatments, these can be a bit harsh. You can expect bruising that may last one to two weeks following therapy, and redness and swelling are very common. For those who are successful with this type of treatment though, the results can be magical.

Expect to pay approximately three hundred to six hundred dollars per session, and the treatments will most likely not be covered by insurance due to the cosmetic nature of the procedure.

If you find that home remedies and creams don't give you the relief you seek from Rosacea, laser therapy is a good next step. As with other skin conditions, Rosacea treatment utilizing a laser can be a miracle. Just make sure to research any potential therapists thoroughly to make sure you get the results you desire.

Xanthelasma - What It Is and What You Can Do

2011-07-12T00:50:00.001-07:00

Xanthelasma is a collection of yellow cholesterol particles that gather underneath the top layer of skin, usually around the eyes or on the eyelids. They are not particularly painful, although they may be embarrassing especially to women.

The deposit is not dangerous, although it may be a symptom of high cholesterol, which increases one's risk of heart disease. The condition may be hereditary. So, it is not always a symptom of high cholesterol. They are common in people from Asia and the Mediterranean area.

What to Do About the Problem

The conventional treatments include acid peels, surgery, lasers and cryotherapy (freezing). The treatments can result in scarring and permanent changes in skin color. They are also quite painful.

There is an alternative approach, which may also address other health problems. The alternative approach includes dietary changes, nutritional supplements and the use of a nourishing eye contour serum.

Why the Alternative Approach May Work

If the Xanthelasma is actually a symptom of high or unhealthy cholesterol, dietary changes are recommended to reduce your risk of heart disease. The risk is that the cholesterol deposits may form inside of the arteries, just as they have formed under the skin.

The deposits in the arteries can lead to blockage and inflammation or swelling, which reduces blood flow and raises blood pressure. Those things could lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Smoking and alcohol consumption can raise your cholesterol levels just as much as eating the wrong foods. Foods that are particularly high in cholesterol include shrimp and eggs, although recent studies indicate that people who eat eggs on a regular basis do not have significant blood cholesterol problems.

The medications recommended for reducing blood cholesterol are called statins. They inhibit the production of cholesterol within your body, but in doing so they also interfere with the production of coenzyme Q10. COQ10 is essential for normal muscle function. A lack of the antioxidant can lead to muscle death. If you do take statins, you should also take a COQ10 supplement.

The most effective solutions for reducing cholesterol in your bloodstream are the following nutritional supplements

• Policosanol, works by reducing the production of LDL cholesterol, but does not interfere with COQ10 production

• Theaflavins, antioxidants found in tea leaves, proven to be beneficial for reducing LDL (bad cholesterol) and increasing HDL, good cholesterol levels

• Lecithin, increases the production of bile salts, which break down cholesterol

• Rice bran oil, inhibits the absorption of cholesterol from foods

• Phytosterols, further reduces the absorption of cholesterol within the gastrointestinal tract

• D-limonene, a compound found in the rind of citrus fruit, it is a natural solvent that breaks down and dissolves cholesterol deposits. Thus it may help to gradually reduce the size of Xanthelasma.

A product called Cholest-Natural contains all of those ingredients.

What Are the Benefits of the Eye Serum?

While the nutritional supplements work slowly to reduce cholesterol in your bloodstream and improve your overall health, the eye serum will work to improve the health of your skin.

If you do decide to have the Xanthelasma removed, the eye serum will help speed healing and reduce the risk of scarring. It stimulates the cell turnover rate, which basically de-ages the skin around the eyes.

Xanthelasma are sometimes associated with the aging process. But, they are not inevitable. There are effective anti-aging products of all kinds. You will find many of them in the resource box below.