Tips to Reduce Anxiety

Posted on September 23, 2011 by Eva

Anxiety is a normal state of tension and unease.  It is considered a normal response to stress or uncertain situations. It is important to take into consideration that prolonged or intense periods of anxiety may suggest an anxiety disorder. The presence of alcohol, drug abuse and depression can complicate anxiety. Skin Care Product

Anxiety could be the result of an appropriate response under stressful circumstances. However there are some drugs that affect the nervous system and can cause anxiety, for example: caffeine, alcohol, nicotine and some herbal medications.  Biological factors and unresolved emotional conflicts can also result in anxiety. Skin Cream 

The psychological symptoms may include worry or dread, sense of imminent danger, fear or panic, restlessness, impatience, trouble concentrating. The physical symptoms may include rapid or irregular heartbeat, sweating (especially the palms), dry mouth, flushing or blushing, muscle tension and shortness of breath, difficulty sleeping, frequent urination, shaking, diarrhea, constipation, among others. Skin Moisturizer 

The following tips could help you deal effectively with this emotion:

Make lifestyle changes. It is important to get enough rest and sleep, reduce or eliminate caffeine, drink alcohol in moderation, reduce exposure to stressful environments and exercise regularly.  If you smoke, quit.

Breathing exercises. Close your eyes and focus only on your breathing and inhale slowly through your nose. It is important to feel the diaphragm move up into your ribcage and extend your belly outward as you inhale.  Then slowly push out your breathe as you exhale through your mouth.  Each breath should take 6 seconds to complete. Spend 3 seconds slowly inhaling through your nose and the other 3 seconds slowly exhaling through your mouth. Take 5-10 breaths like this and you may feel more relaxed.

Listen to music.  It is a good idea to listen to music and relax.  Play songs with a positive message.

Get a massage. A massage is relaxing and it promotes healthy blood circulation.

 Stretch. It is a good idea to take 5 minutes to stretch every night before going to bed. Stretching helps you relieve tension in your back and muscles, making you feel calmer and more relaxed.

Meditation.  Take a few minutes to meditate about all the gifts you have in life. Take the time to appreciate and show thanks for all the good things you have. This practice can start you off in a good mood for the day.

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Quitting Smoking

Posted on September 23, 2011 by Eva

We all know that tobacco is a killer. Smokers and other tobacco users are more likely to develop disease and die earlier. It may take more than one try to stop smoking, but it can be done.

Take that first step: Decide to quit smoking and set a stop date. It is important to take advantage of all the resources available to help you successfully quit smoking.

It is also essential to get support.  This support can come from family, friends, your doctor, a support group or a telephone quit line. Skin Care Face 

Make a list of high-risk places you’ll want to avoid when you start your quit-smoking plan. It is a good idea to think of other places to go where smoking isn’t allowed. For example shopping malls, museums or movie theaters. Skin Care for Women   

Remember that living smoke-free is an opportunity to live a healthier and probably longer life. By the end of your first year, your risk of heart attack decreases by half. By five years it’s almost the same as someone who never smoked.   

However, smokers often say stress is the main reason for relapsing.  It is important to learn new ways to cope with stress and anxiety. Relaxation techniques are a great way to help with stress management. Relaxation isn’t just about peace of mind or enjoying a hobby, it is a process that decreases the effects of stress on your mind and body. Relaxation techniques can help you cope with everyday stress. Skin Care Online 

After quitting smoking, sometimes it is common to gain weight.  This happens because smoking is an appetite suppressant and it might also increase your metabolism. When people stop smoking their appetite and metabolism return to normal. However, gaining weight is something that can be prevented.

To avoid gain weight include a physical activity in your daily routine. It is also essential that you make thoughtful food choices, including plenty of fruits and vegetables. Health experts recommend limiting sweets and alcohol. Make sure to choose healthy snacks.   When you are hungry between meals, you can eat snacks like fresh fruit or fat-free yogurt, among other healthy options. 

Remember that the health benefits of quitting smoking and living smoke-free, far exceed the problems associated with even moderate weight gain.

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Foods for your Heart

Posted on September 23, 2011 by Eva

To prevent heart disease it is important to exercise regularly, stop smoking, maintain a healthy weight, control blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Paraben Free

The following foods could also have an important role in preventing heart disease:

Yogurt. According to researchers, left unchecked gum disease can increase the risk for heart disease.  Yogurt could protect you against gum disease. Recent studies have shown that the people who had the healthiest gums, consumed high levels of dairy products, especially yogurt and yogurt type drinks. Apparently, probiotics has a lot to do with it.  This “friendly bacteria” can inhibit the disease-causing bacteria in the mouth. Skin Care  

Raisins. Studies show that the antioxidants in raisins can fight the growth of a type of bacteria that can cause inflammation and gum disease. 

Whole Grains. They contain antioxidants, phytoestrogens and phytosterols that are famous for protecting the heart against coronary disease. Skin Care Cream 

Beans. According to researchers having just ½ of cooked pinto beans every day can reduce your cholesterol levels. This happens because beans contain soluble fiber.  Beans also contain heart-protective chemicals, including flavonoids, compounds, which are also found in wine, berries and chocolate. Flavonoids inhibit the adhesion of platelets in the blood, lowering the risk for heart attack and strokes.

Tomatoes. They are rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, potassium and fiber. They  contain lycopene, which can help prevent diseases. Tomatoes have a mix of nutrients that can help in the prevention of heart disease.

Nuts.  They have a lot of vitamins, monounsaturated fasts and low levels of saturated fats. Researchers have found that people who eat nuts two or more days a week have a lower risk of heart disease than those who don’t.

Apples. According to recent studies, apple eaters have a lower risk of suffering strokes when compared to people who don’t eat apples.  Apples contain strong antioxidant flavonoid compounds that prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries as well as inhibiting inflammation. Apples also contain pectin and Vitamin C. Pectin is a soluble fiber and Vitamin C is an antioxidant. 

Bananas. They contain high levels of potassium. Potassium is good for the heart because it helps maintain a normal heart function. Potassium also helps the kidneys eliminate excess sodium.  Other sources of potassium are sweet potatoes, nonfat yogurt and spinach.

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Cellulite: Myths and Truths

Posted on September 22, 2011 by Eva

Cellulite is an illness. No, it is not. Cellulite is just an alteration of skin appearance, which happens because small projections of fat cells protrude into the dermis. The subcutaneous fat is uneven and irregular and that is why this fat gives the skin the bumpy look that we hate so much. Alpha Lipoic Acid 

Only women have cellulite.  Men have thicker epidermis and dermis tissue layers in the thighs and buttocks, therefore we see less cellulite in men. Their subcutaneous tissue is different. However men who are born with a deficiency in male hormones will have a subcutaneous fat appearance similar to women. Anti Aging Serum    

Massages help reduce cellulite.  A massage does not remove cellulite, but it could have a temporary effect and reduce its appearance. Usually oils like peppermint and lavender are used with the massage.  These oils aid in the stimulation of fat cells. However, it is important to take into consideration that the efficacy of massage treatments has not been proven yet. Anti Aging Skin Care    

Cellulite is part of aging. According to health experts and nutritionists that is not true. The dermis reaches its maximal thickness by the age of 30. Then the dermis area starts to get saggy.  This happens because the collagen and the elastic fibers are in an aging process.  This could be controlled with exercise and a healthy and balanced diet. 

Fasting will eliminate cellulite. That won’t happen. According to experts cellulite is fat trapped within fibers, therefore it is not going to disappear like that.  

The following are some tips that can reduce and eliminate cellulite:

  • Aerobic exercise, 3 to 5 times a week, at least 25 to 60 minutes.  It is important to choose an exercise that you enjoy, which could be walking, aerobic dance, cycling, swimming, stair stepping, among others.  Variety is important so try to alternate the activities.
  • A resistance exercise program can improve your physical appearance. Remember that the subcutaneous fat is on top of the muscle, therefore the bumpy appearance increases if the muscle is weak and flaccid.
  • Avoid junk food. Don’t fry your food, it is better to grill it or boil it. Use oils that are low in saturated fats.  
  • Stay away from preservatives, artificial colors, and sugar. 
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Eating a balanced diet is always important to get rid of cellulite in a healthy way.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Important Anti-Aging Habits

Posted on September 22, 2011 by Eva

A balanced diet.  A healthy balanced diet is going to help you keep a healthy body composition and weight.  It will also give your body the nutrients it needs to function well.  The body needs both complex and simple carbohydrates, whole-grain products, protein and fats.  It is essential to get the correct amount of each in order to be healthy. Vitamin C  

Cut down fat intake. Dietary fat is converted to body fat. Health experts recommend limiting any food choices that are higher than 30 percent fat content.  All this should be avoided: lard, oils, animal shortening, margarine, whole-milk solids, fried foods (which are saturated in fat and oil calories), creams, and processed foods.  Remember that saturated fats are the ones that raise blood cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart attack. Vitamin E

However, health experts say that some fatty acids are also necessary for good health, because they give us energy.  Monounsaturated fats are considered healthier, and you can find them in nuts, vegetable oils, seeds, and soft margarine products. Acai 

Reducing salt and sugar.  Controlling your salt intake is important to reduce the risk of developing hypertension and adult-onset diabetes.  Instead you can use salt-free spices like basil, oregano or pepper.  In the case of sugar, health experts recommend choosing products with a sugar content of less than 10 percent of the total carbohydrate content.  It is also important to control your intake of no-fat or low-fat products. These products may taste good because they usually have a lot of sugar.

Avoid caffeine. Caffeine has a powerful effect on the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system and digestive system. A high caffeine intake can make you nervous and stressed.  Moderation is always the key, so nutrition experts recommend drinking no more than one or two small cups a day.

Avoid alcohol. Alcohol may cause high blood pressure, breast cancer and it also damages the liver. It is low in fat content, but it is high in empty calories. It is important to know that when drinking alcohol, an enzyme that takes up fat from the bloodstream and stores it in fat cells is activated.  The consequence of this is that any food you eat in combination with alcohol will probably end up in fat-storage deposit areas. Yes… that is in your hips, thighs, and abs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Good Habits to Look and Feel Good

Posted on September 22, 2011 by Eva

Aging is an unavoidable. The way we feel and look could be the result of what we do.  It is important to take care of our skin, to exercise and eat right.  Genetics sometimes has something to do in it, but how we age depends on our lifestyle, mental attitude and diet. Top Rated Skin Care Products
The following are a few habits that will keep us looking and feeling good: 

  • Vitamin C is famous for its antioxidant properties.  It also has a key role in preventing the damage caused by the free radicals which contribute to aging and age-related conditions. Vitamin C is essential to repair tissues in the body and it helps in the generation of collagen. Collagen is responsible for the mechanical strength of the skin as it stretches and contracts again. Over the years the skin loses the elasticity and that is why saggy skin is developed. The best form of vitamin C is ascorbic acid from natural sources. Vitamin A  

 

  • Researchers have found that Vitamin E could delay the aging process.  Vitamin E extends the useful life of the cells, maintaining the function of the organs.  As we all know, the skin is an organ and this vitamin has been used to help wounds heal and reduce the formation of scars. Natural vegetable oils, like cottonseed, corn, soybean, safflower, and wheat germ are rich in Vitamin E. Vitamin B    

 

  • Every cell of our body has Coenzyme Q10.  According to recent studies Q10 could be an antioxidant. It has been used topically to treat and prevent fine lines and wrinkles. You can find Q10 in several foods but especially in spinach, sardines, peanuts and beef heart.  
    • It is important to remember that water is a vital nutrient that sometimes is overlooked. Water is required in order to keep a healthy body and a vibrant complexion.  The skin must be moisturized from the inside.  Also remember that a lack of water can lead to dehydration, which happens when you don’t have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions. Even mild dehydration can reduce your energy and make you tired.  Health experts recommend as a general rule to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.
    • One of the most important things to prevent a fast aging process is to exercise. Exercise will improve circulation and therefore make your skin look and feel healthier.
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Foods to Fight Arthritis

Posted on September 21, 2011 by Eva

Some foods may ease your aching joints and help you keep a balanced diet.  The following are a few foods that could help:

Fatty fish or foods with omega-3 fatty acids.  Salmon, herring sardines, walnuts, soy beans, flax seeds, canola oil and pumpkin seeds are rich in omega-3s. When omega-3s are part of the diet the production of chemicals that spread inflammation is decreased.  Health experts recommend eating at least one gram of omega-3s a day. Skin Care Product    

Extra-virgin olive oil.  Olive oil helps because it contains oleocanthal which can block enzymes that are associated with inflammation.  Health professionals recommend eating one tablespoon a day on salads, bread or vegetables. Skin Cream  

Sweet peppers, citrus fruits and other vitamin C-rich foods.  Vitamin C is known for protecting collagen, which is a very important component of cartilage.  However moderation is important since researchers have also found that high doses of vitamin C can worsen osteoarthritis. Health experts recommend an intake of 200-500 milligrams a day. For example one orange and a cup of broccoli are about 200 milligrams. It is important to focus on foods that are high in vitamin C, not supplements. Skin Moisturizer   

Brazil nuts.  They contain enormous amounts of selenium.  According to health experts this mineral helps antioxidants eliminate cell-damaging free radicals, aids the regulation of the thyroid gland and may prevent cancer.  The recommended intake is 55-200 micrograms a day.

Onions and leeks.  They contain quercetin, an antioxidant that may inhibit inflammatory chemicals.  Other foods that contain quercetin are kale, cherry tomatoes and apples.  Health experts recommend eating one-half cup of a high-quercetin food every day.

Tart cherries. Researchers have found that tart cherries can cut inflammation. The pigment that gives cherries, grapes, black raspberries and eggplants their color is called anthocyanin and it seems to be the key ingredient. Experts recommend eating half-cup of tart cherries or 8 ounces of juice.

Green tea. It has antioxidant compounds that are helpful in reducing the incidence and severity of arthritis. However experts suggest skipping the decaffeinated version because it robs the tea some important nutrients.  Drinking 3-4 cups a day is fine, but remember that green tea won’t take away all the pain.

There are also foods that experts consider you should avoid if you suffer from arthritis.  For example shellfish, red meat, sunflower, safflower, corn, soybean oils and sugar.

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Eating Myths

Posted on September 21, 2011 by Eva

Calories at night are fattier.  The truth is that calories are calories no matter when you eat them. Skin Care Face

Carbohydrates make you fat.  The truth is that people get fat when they eat too many calories.   Refined carbs like white bread, pasta and doughnuts may increase your risk of heart disease and diabetes.  But there are good carbohydrates like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and vegetables that should be part of a balanced diet. Skin Care for Women   

Eating several mini meals is better than eating fewer larger meals. The truth is that the caloric difference is small.  It is a good idea to snack between meals not to get excessively hungry. 

Sugar is always bad.  The truth is that sometimes sugar is important in the kitchen.  Remember that other natural sweeteners like honey, are also refined sugar and the body metabolizes them in the same way.  A little sugar in your life is not bad. Many health experts recommend a sugar supply of no more than 10 percent of the total calories you take in. This would be about 200 in a 2,000-calorie diet. Skin Care Online 

Eating increases cholesterol levels. The truth is that the dietary cholesterol found in eggs has little to do with the amount of cholesterol in the body.

Skipping meals helps you lose weight. The body is an efficient machine therefore it expects fuel at established intervals.  Not doing this will force your body to adapt and protect itself.  Skipping meals will cut many calories and the body will try to conserve them instead of burning them, therefore you may put on some weight.  Another consequence of this is that you will probably try to make up for the calorie deficiency and overeat when you have proper meals.

You have a powerful desire to eat some foods because you’re deficient in the nutrients they provide. The truth is that when your diet is restricted and not balanced the tendency is to crave for foods that are fatty and high in calories.

Fasting cleanses toxins from the body.  The body already has a very complex and well designed system for removing toxins: the liver, the kidneys and spleen.  They do their job well and there is no scientific evidence that not eating for long periods of time makes them do their duties any better.

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Diabetes and Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted on September 21, 2011 by Eva

According to recent studies diabetes appears to increase a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia later in life. Paraben Free   

There are still several questions about the connection between diabetes and dementia.  Apparently there is a link but scientists are not sure why. Skin Care  

Insulin resistance causes high blood sugar and it may interfere with the body’s ability to break down a protein (amyloid) that forms brain plaques that have been linked to Alzheimer’s. High blood sugar (glucose) also produces certain oxygen-containing molecules that can damage cells. Skin Care Cream   

It is important to know that high blood sugar and high cholesterol harden and narrow arteries.  This condition is known as atherosclerosis and can lead to vascular dementia.  Vascular dementia is produced because artery blockages kill brain tissue.

There are other studies underway that may answer the questions that doctors still have.  In the meantime scientists strongly recommend watching blood sugar levels as people get older.

Diabetes affects millions of people around the world and some don’t know they have it.  The best way to know if you have diabetes is with a blood sugar test, however if you have these symptoms, see your doctor.

Excessive thirst and increased urination.  The kidneys work harder to eliminate the extra glucose in the blood. The thirst simply means that the body needs to replenish those fluids.

Weight loss. This happens because the insulin hormone isn’t getting glucose into the cells, where it can be used as energy. Therefore the body thinks it’s starving and due to this it starts breaking down protein from the muscles as an alternate source of fuel.

Hunger. The hunger comes from sharp peaks and lows in blood sugar levels.

Skin problems. Itchy skin could be the result of poor circulation, which could be a warning sign of diabetes.

Yeast infections.  Fungi and bacteria both develop in sugar-rich environments.

Fatigue and irritability.  People with high blood sugar levels sometimes get used to not feeling well.  That makes them feel tired and irritable most of the time.
Blurry vision.  This is reversible if the blood sugar level goes back to normal or near normal. If the blood sugar goes unchecked for a long period of time this could lead to a permanent damage and blindness.

Numbness or tingling.  This is a sign that the nerves are being damaged by the diabetes.

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How to Increase the Effectiveness of your Beauty Products

Posted on September 20, 2011 by Eva

Exfoliate. Dead cells have to be removed in order to free pores.  If dirt and oil is removed then the absorption is better and the products can get in.  Many professionals recommend using an acid-based cleaner, or a grainy scrub with small, smooth particles.  Buffing tools like a skin brush or a resurfacing stick can also be used.  The skin brush can be used daily and the resurfacing stick can be used one to three times a week. It is important to use products that are designed for the face only. Those meant for the rest of your body may be too harsh and irritating for your face. Organic Skin Care

Apply the products in the right order. For example, if you want to use a blemish controller, a toner and a moisturizer, the blemish controller should be applied first.  If you apply the toner and the moisturizer first, they will form a barrier, not letting the blemish controller work.   If you need to use two products to work on two different problems, it is a good idea to use one in the morning and the other one at night. Organic Skin Cream

Wash your skin. Most beauty products are quickly absorbed when the skin is damp (not wet).

Use warm water.  Washing you face with moderately warm water is better because the pores dilate, therefore the area for absorption is bigger. The ingredients of the beauty products interact faster in warm skin.  

Massage.  Your body moisturizer can be more effective if you massage it onto damp skin, immediately after you shower.  The moisture can be sealed better if the body lotion is applied this way. Paraben Free  

Eye Cream.  Simply put a bead of eye cream on your ring finger, then stroke once under your eye, from about an inch away from the outer corner of your eye moving toward your nose, and once over your eyelid, from the inner corner outward. Blend in using the same motions until the cream disappears. Repeat around the other eye.

Retinoids at night.  Retinoids work better at night because they degrade and lose their strength in the sun.  At night skin temperature rises causing blood vessels to dilate, therefore the penetration is better. Anything you apply on your skin will be absorbed better at night.

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