Friday, December 14, 2007

Why Doctors are Idiots: 150 Years of Disastrous Advice on Children's Health (satire)

I love Mike Adams & his site NewsTarget.com

Read on to see why, and then follow the links to his site, he has hundreds like this. Truly amazing work;-)

Mel

NewsTarget.com printable article

Originally published December 15 2007

Why Doctors are Idiots: 150 Years of Disastrous Advice on Children's Health (satire)

by Mike Adams

(NewsTarget Satire) With mandatory vaccines suddenly being forced onto parents by doctors and so-called "health authorities" in places like Maryland, New Jersey and Texas, you might think that doctors being full of sh^t is a new phenomenon. But no, it's nothing new. Doctors have been full of sh*t for more than a hundred years! What follows is a short timeline of the nonsense, junk science, negligence and harmful advice peddled by medical doctors over the last 150 years or so:

1850's

Ignaz Semmelweis, an Austrian-Hungarian obstetrician working in a clinic that delivers babies, is labeled "insane" by his fellow doctors for having the audacity to suggest that doctors should wash their hands between delivering babies. He's fired from his job, ostracized by the medical community and later dies in an insane asylum and is only vindicated long after his death when it is realized that, indeed, infections are spread from one patient to another by physicians who are too lazy, stubborn or egoistic to simply wash their hands. (A lack of hand washing continues to be the primary reason why MRSA and other superbugs are spread in hospitals today...)

1920's

Don't breastfeed your babies! Use infant formula instead. It's more "high-tech." Cow's milk is obviously healthier for your babies than mother's milk, right? That's what the doc says... Result: Tens of millions of mothers stopped breastfeeding their babies, resulting in widespread nutritional deficiencies that impacted those children for life. The pushing of infant formula onto mothers continues today in hospitals across the country which are paid by infant formula manufacturers to give free samples of infant formula to new mothers, hoping they will stop breastfeeding and start buying formula. (Saving grace: A few courageous pediatricians now speak out forcefully about the importance of breastfeeding...)

1930's

Smoking while pregnant? No problem. Doctors recommend Camels more than any other cigarette! Result: Massive chemical toxicity of the bodies of newborns. Increased cancer risk, reduced brain development and a lifetime of immune system disorders. (Cigarette ads routinely appeared in the Journal of the American Medical Association for well over a decade.)

1940's

Need a new pair of shoes for your kid? Go size 'em up with the fluoroscope X-ray machine at your local shoe store! Never mind the radiation exposure of 20 - 75 rems per minute! See wikipedia article here. Result: Massive increase in cancer among parents and children who visited the shoe stores. Doctors remained silent on this significant health risk for decades while millions were harmed -- even after strong evidence pointed to the fact that X-ray radiation caused cancer.

1950's

Hey pregnant women, take thalidomide for your cancer! Don't worry about your unborn children. This chemical is perfectly safe! Result: 10,000 children born with physical deformities. Doctors continued to use infants and pregnant women in pharmaceutical experiments for the next fifty years. See Vaccines and Medical Experiments on Children, Minorities, Woman and Inmates (1845 - 2007).

1960's

Feed your children processed foods! White bread is good for them, don't you know? And monosodium glutamate is perfectly healthy for children, which is why food companies add it to baby food! So is saccharin, hydrogenated oils and sodium nitrite in processed meat. Result: Massive malnutrition, liver damage, and the beginnings of the diabetes and obesity epidemics that would sweep the nation over the next generation.

1970's

Place mercury into the mouths of your little children by having their cavities filled with "silver" fillings (made with 40% mercury, a potent neurotoxin). Result: Widespread mercury toxicity in children, resulting in a sharp increase in neurological conditions, including behavioral disorders, infertility and autism. Ignorant, obstinate dentists continue to use mercury fillings today, and the American Dental Association remains in full support of this extremely dangerous heavy metal that results in the mass poisoning of children.

Your kid have a cold? It's probably because their tonsils need to be removed! Tonsils have no biological function anyway, doctors claimed. Result: Over the last several decades, surgeons have removed tens of millions of tonsils, maiming children with a medically useless procedure that has now been proven virtually worthless. But it sure did raise funds to pay for the luxury German sedans driven by those surgeons!

1980's

Microwave all the food you feed children. It's quick, convenient and perfectly healthy! Result: A massive increase in the consumption of processed, artificially modified and dead foods. The introduction of the microwave correlates nearly perfectly with the explosion of obesity and diabetes in western nations. Most doctors still have nothing negative to say about the use of the microwave.

Does your child have an ear infection? Hammer them with antibiotics. Don't worry about the fact that antibiotics are useless against ear infections, or that they wipe out your child's friendly intestinal flora and cause nutritional deficiencies. It's doctor-recommended, so it must be good, right? Result: Billions of doses of useless antibiotics helped breed a new generation of superbug viruses that have now escaped the hospitals and are infecting the public at large. Antibiotics are useless to stop them, and doctors still have not figured out that you can kill superbugs with colloidal silver or garlic. (A fact that ancient human civilizations knew thousands of years ago...)

1990's

Coat your children with sunscreen. The sun is dangerous and has no health benefits whatsoever, didn't you know? And besides, all those chemicals in sunscreen are perfectly safe. Result: Children are now living with severe vitamin D deficiencies (even rickets!) that greatly increase rates of breast cancer, prostate cancer, osteoporosis, depression, obesity and diabetes. Doctors still don't recognize the important role of vitamin D in children's health, and they prescribe drugs to treat the symptoms of disease rather than recommending vitamin D (which would correct the underlying problems and eliminate the need for pharmaceuticals).

Does your baby have a cough? Feed 'em sugared-up, chemically-contaminated cough syrup made by pharmaceutical companies. Don't worry that it's never been tested on infants or approved by the FDA. It works, right? It's doctor-recommended! Result: Over a billion doses of useless, "quack" cough medicine swallowed by infants. The cough syrup hoax was finally blown wide open in 2007 when a few courageous pediatric physicians finally admitted the products have absolutely no medicinal effects and might, in fact, be dangerous for infants and children. The FDA continues to allow their sale, however, since they're still quite profitable to Big Pharma (even though they don't work).

Is little Johnny a bit too jazzed up for your comfort level? Don't worry, psychiatrists have a solution: Street drugs for children! Illegal amphetamines are now legal thanks to the Big Pharma / FDA partnership, and your friendly psych doctor is ready to prescribe Ritalin and antidepressant drugs to your "hyperactive" kids. Result: Widespread school shootings in America. Tens of millions of children suffer stunted physical and mental development -- a dangerous side effects that doesn't emerge until 2007. See http://www.newstarget.com/021944.html

2000's

Too posh to push? Don't worry, your obstetrician will schedule a C-section childbirth appointment and deliver the baby on YOUR schedule instead of Mother Nature's. It's more convenient for him, too, because then he can still make his golf game. Don't worry about the baby: There's no benefit to vaginal childbirth anyway, right? What better way to welcome your child to the world than with a scalpel! Result: Millions of women subject their children to non-natural child birthing that results in an increased risk of lung disease afflictions as well as psychological birthing trauma lasting a lifetime.

Worried about your child getting an infectious disease? Inject your children with multiple vaccines. It will protect them from infectious disease and may, in fact, protect them from oral sex! (At least that's what Merck claims.) Besides, there's nothing wrong with a little mercury, right? Result: Unknown. It's a great medical experiment now being conducted on the children of America. It's backed by idiot doctors and gun-toting law enforcement personnel who are ready to arrest parents who resist the vaccination mandates.

Need some food for your baby? Buy Similac (or any other baby formula powder). It's made with 42.6% corn syrup solids and 10.1% sugar, making it over 50% refined sugars! Marketed with a cuddly teddy bear on the front label and sporting the claim, "Balanced nutrition for older babies," Similac and other infant formula products are little more than sugar water for babies. Doctors and pediatricians remain silent. There is no outcry. No national scandal. No action by the FDA to protect babies. Some doctors even recommend this stuff! (And stupid parents keep buying it!)

2007

A survey of 1,600 practicing physicians published in the Annals of Internal Medicine reveals that reveals that nearly half of all doctors failed to report an incompetent colleague who posed a risk to the health or safety of a patient. The same survey also revealed that a majority of doctors would send their patients to get expensive imaging work done at an imaging facility in which they held a financial interest, but only 24 percent of doctors said they would reveal that conflict of interest to patients.

Result: Yet more incompetent, dishonest doctors continue to scam customers and harm patients. The scourge of modern medicine continues as corrupt, ignorant and downright incompetent doctors continue to harm millions of expectant mothers, infants, babies and children with their deadly Big Pharma chemicals and disastrous health advice. The reputation of doctors plummets in the minds of the American public, and most patients now turn to the Internet to find answers that their doctors either don't know or refuse to tell them. The mass exodus of patients away from conventional medicine is now well underway...

Why doctors are still idiots

When it comes to medical idiocy, these examples are just the tip of the iceberg. The same hopelessly outdated medical system that has given us cigarette-promoting doctors, breastfeeding-censoring doctors and superbug-breeding doctors is now claiming your children need yet more chemicals in their bodies in the form of vaccinations!

And, by the way, these doctors are the only people in the world who are right. They'll tell you so themselves! They are the sole source of all knowledge on anything related to health and medicine, and they've now garnered enough political power that they've managed to criminalize parents who disagree with their medical dogma.

You know what the difference is between God and doctors?

God doesn't think he's a doctor.

These days, instead of doctors simply being full of sh+t, they are suddenly a very real danger to your personal freedom. Before, they were just peddling health nonsense. Now they hold the keys to your freedom and the custody of your children. Refuse to go along with new mandatory vaccination programs in New Jersey, for example, and you can be arrested, imprisoned, charged with a crime and have your children kidnapped by Child Protective Services. How dare you disagree with the High Priests of medical dogma!

Personally, I don't necessarily mind doctors being full of sh*t. It's amusing to watch, and hilarious to document. But I do mind doctors being full of sh^t while invoking law enforcement authorities to pull out a Glock, slap a 10-round magazine in the grip, point the barrel to the head of a mother of three children and demand, "Take OUR medicine, or you'll be arrested." Which is, of course, essentially what's happening in New Jersey and Maryland right now. It's called Gunpoint Medicine, and if you don't believe me, move to New Jersey, and refuse to have your children vaccinated. It won't be long before armed men show up at your front door with Child Protective Services standing behind them, ready to grab your kid, toss him into an unmarked van, and have you arrested for "resisting vaccination." This is not fiction. I couldn't make this stuff up if I tried. It takes truly evil people to dream up this kind of medical terrorism -- the very people who work for Big Pharma and the FDA.

Or maybe I'm wrong about all this. Maybe doctors and health authorities have been full of sh!t for a hundred years, and now all of a sudden in 2007, they're instantly right! Maybe they've been visited by supernatural, omniscient beings who gave them perfect knowledge (along with a new Merck vaccine) and all they're doing is running around the country saving little children's lives for the good of humanity.

Perhaps 2007 is the new Golden Age of children's health, to be initiated with a mass injection of kiddies with a dozen new toxic mercury injections to "protect" these kids from things that will probably never happen to them. Maybe now, in 2007, organized medicine has reversed all its years of bullsh*t and finally found the light! And that light, we're told, comes in the form of a pill... or a vaccine... or chemotherapy... or whatever they tell you to take next.

Yes, indeed! We've been saved by Big Pharma and a brigade of doctors! Hail the FDA! Praise the pharmaceutical giants! Give thanks for mandatory injections! Listen to the doctors and we'll all be saved!

Quick Note: This satire piece does not mean to imply that ALL doctors are complete idiots when it comes to health. There are exceptions. Many of the outstanding people I know in natural health started as conventional medical doctors (M.D.s). The difference between complete idiot doctors and intelligent doctors is that idiots are not willing to abandon their existing dogmatic beliefs when faced with new, contradictory evidence. Intelligent people, on the other hand, adapt and evolve their ideas when faced with new information or evidence.

Conventional medicine, for the most part, does not want to learn anything new that might challenge its existing status quo dominance over the lives of parents and children. "Innovation is the enemy of the status quo," and genuine health enhancement (and disease prevention) is the enemy of the entrenched medical industrial complex. Most doctors are complete idiots because they follow a dogmatic, religious-like belief in blatantly outdated junk medical science, even when real world observations and evidence demands the embracing of ideas that overthrow previously protected beliefs and career egos.

Until doctors can abandon their egos and admit they don't know everything, they will continue to be full of sh#t.


Sunday, December 9, 2007

The Natural Answer to Stress and Anxiety

By Keith Woolley

Rhodiola or Rhodiola Rosea root, is a native of arctic Siberia. Historically it has been used by European and Asian peoples to aid physical endurance, work fatigue, extending longevity, giving resistance to altitude sickness, and helping to treat fatigue, depression, anemia, impotence, gastrointestinal ailments, infections, and nervous system disorders.

The first recorded applications of rodia riza (the former name of Rhodiola Rosea) was made by the Greek physician, Dioscorides in 'De Materia Medica'. Rhodiola Rosea has also been included in official Russian medicine since 1969.

Despite its long history, the Western world has only recently become aware of the health benefits of Rhodiola Rosea. It has come to the attention of many natural health practitioners because of studies which tested its affects on combating anxiety and stress.

Rhodiola is known to be an adaptogen. This demonstrates how it has an overall stabilizing effect on the body functions without disrupting other activities. It is this ability to normalize hormones that is effective for treating depression and anxiety.

Studies of Rhodiola Rosea show that it stimulates neurotransmitters and enhances their effects on the brain. This includes the ability for the brain to process serotonin which helps the body to adapt to stress.

As adaptogens are known to improve the body's overall ability to handle stress, Rhodiola has now been studied to identify it's effects on biological, chemical and physical stress.

A study was performed to test the effects of Rhodiola Rosea when stress is caused by mental work (such as exam study). These tests showed that students using Rhodiola Rosea could improve the amount and quality of their work, increasing both mental clarity and reducing the effects of mental fatigue.

The effects of Rhodiola Rosea have also been tested on stress and anxiety from both physical and emotional sources. A report by the American Botanical Council states that "Most users find that it improves their mood, energy level, and mental clarity." They also report on a study that indicated Rhodiola Rosea could increase stress tolerance while at the same time protecting the brain and heart from the physical affects of stress.

This report included details of studies which highlight the overall health benefits of Rhodiola Rosea.

The generally recommended dose is 200-600mg/day. The active properties should be a minimum 0.8 percent salidroside and 3 percent rosavin.

It is important for consumers to know that Rhodiola may be sold using other species that do not share the properties of Rhodiola Rosea, or at ineffective strengths for treatment. Anyone with depression or anxiety should also check with a health professional when treating these symptoms.

The more informative and reliable information you know about Rhodiola you know, the more likely people are to consider you a Rhodiola expert. Read www.rhodiola.co.uk on for even more Rhodiola facts that you can share. That's the latest from the Rhodiola authorities. Once you're familiar with these ideas, you'll be ready to move to the next level.

About the Author:

Saturday, December 8, 2007

A Look Into Natural Cure for Hemorrhoids

By Sandy Rowde

When it comes to hemorrhoids treatment, a lot of people are more comfortable using natural treatments rather than medical or surgical. Based on the testimonials of these people, one can truly say that they have succeeded in using the natural procedures because they had really sought relief from hemorrhoids through it.

It is still best, however, to consult first your doctor before taking into application a natural cure for hemorrhoids or also known as the natural remedies. In this manner, there will be no drug interactions and that pre-cautionary measures will be observed.

Natural cure for hemorrhoids can come in the form of dietary supplements and herbal medicines. Its certain effects include strengthening of hemorrhoids tissues, making it to withstand all the pressures that directs towards it. Herbs such as horse chestnut, bromelain, grape seeds extract, butcher's broom, and flavonoids can help ease pain from hemorrhoids. Drinking pure aloe juice is also said to be effective in easing pain and itchiness.

Another form of natural treatment is also the application of creams and solutions with natural ingredients in it. Cream or ointments that have natural solution such as aloe vera, honey and cranesbill can be dab on the affected area to minimize burning sensation.

Another natural cure for hemorrhoids is by taking tub baths several times a day. Sitting on lukewarm water for ten to twenty minutes can help relieve pain and irritation. The "hotness" of water can also help elevate chances of the hemorrhoids to shrink. The water should as hot as you can stand it. After taking tub baths, affected area should be pat dry to avoid moisture sticking in to the swollen tissue. A hemorrhoid cream can be applied after. Drinking cups of strong chamomile tea can also be a good remedy for the hemorrhoids.

Developing and maintaining a fibrous diet is also one way of curing hemorrhoids naturally. Fibrous diet includes eating green leafy vegetables, rice, cereals, fruits, dried peas and whole grains. Fibers are said to be good aids for digestion. It ensures clean and soft bowels, which are just being needed for a smooth and easy bowel movement. A person who has hemorrhoids cannot afford to undergo the pain of constipation. Constipation is brought by large and dry bowel resulting to intense pushing (or straining) during defecation. The intense pressure in constipation might result to rupture and bleeding of hemorrhoids.

To prevent your hemorrhoids from worsening, drinking the right amount of water everyday can also help. Regardless of an individual having suffered hemorrhoids or not, still it is very ideal to drink at least eight (8) glasses of water daily. Water is a very important element in the body. Aside from making blood circulation normal, it also help in cleaning the walls of the intestines and making bowel movement smooth and easy.

Avoid cleaning the rectum often. People have this perception that in order for hemorrhoids to heal faster, the anal canal or rectum should be cleansed all the time. Excessive rubbing of the hemorrhoids might lead to further irritation and less chances of rapid healing. It is ideal to just gently clean the rectum twice a day with hemorrhoids cream mixed with witch hazel. Petroleum jelly and other lubricants can also help the hemorrhoid to heal itself.

About the Author:

High Cholesterol And It's Risks

By Don Ray

Cholesterol is a waxy type, fat-like substance made in the liver and found incertain foods, such as food from animals, like dairy products (whole milk),eggs and meat. Cholesterol is carried by two types of proteins. Cholesterol is regularly produced by your liver and helps transport fat to areas of your body that require it for energy and repairs.

Heart

Too much cholesterol in the body can lead to serious problems like heart disease. When atherosclerosis affects the coronary arteries (the blood vessels that supply the muscles of the heart), the condition is called coronary artery disease, which puts a person at risk for having a heart attack.

You can't alter your genetics but there are things you can do now to lessen your risk for cardiac problems later. Although not all the things that promote heart disease and high cholesterol can be managed , many can.

Stay away from foods that are high in saturated fat,trans fat,and cholesterol, all of which raise bad cholesterol levels and your risk of developing heart disease. Reducing your cholesterol level lessens your chance for having a plaque explode and cause cardiac arrest.

For these people the fight against cholesterol is never-ending because they are are at risk for heart disease. In fact, lifestyle modifications may have a greater impact on lessening the risk of stroke and heart disease than does medication alone.

High cholesterol is only one of many risk factors for heart attack and stroke. Although high cholesterol is a strong risk factor for heart disease, it can be managed.

About the Author:

Chiropractor Marketing? What Chiropractor Marketing?

By Dr Tony AP Joseph

The importance of chiropractor marketing cannot be ignored as it helps to create a unique brand awareness to your clinic.

Customers do not come automatically. You need to embark on some form of marketing to generate awareness.

If possible, start the marketing before you actually open, this will be beneficial.

You will need to stimulate referrals every week, and you will need to implement a system that will get you new customers.

The system can be a special deal package.

Such system will certainly help you increase your patients.

Continue getting new patients every week until you have a comfortable number of loyal customers.

Make time to plan out your logistics and timing. This is important as more and more customers will be visiting your for treatment.

The more customers you have, the better your business will be. With good chiropractor marketing, you will soon realize that these people are the potential for even more customers.

Increase your profile with some research-based patient education program.

This will help to give better information to your patients.

Such a program will help with better business.

Another important chiropractor marketing strategy is to try to get your patients to pay willingly with cash, as this keeps the money up-to-date.

This will make it easier for you to handle your cash flow and remove unwanted additional charges from the credit cards.

Always have cash payment if possible since the insurance companies take awhile to release the payment.

Do not handle all this by yourself. Outsource it to someone else. But note that your primary purpose in the marketing campaign.

About the Author:

Stop Dry Skin now and look younger!

NOTE: I posted this article because it does have some very good points. The only thing I would have to disagree on is the baby oil. Most baby oils contain mineral oil, which you want to stay away from, as it is NOT good for you, internally OR externally. Keep that in mind while searching for products!
Mel


By dry skin

If you have a dry skin problem and not too keen on having it look like a withered apple, then your only way out is to jump headlong into a dry skin care regimen. The dry skin is basically a dehydrated skin, very sensitive to the weather elements. So the dry skin care regimen is all about nourishing the skin and keeping it protected from external ravages.

Dry skin care involves getting to the roots of the problem. Apart from the intrinsically dry skin type, dryness can also be the result of taking drugs like diuretics, antispasmodics, and antihistamines. Dry skin can also result from medical conditions like hypothyroidism, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, seborrhea and diabetes. Excessive exposure to harsh weather elements like snow, sun and winds and the use of chemicals on the skin, Vitamin A and B deficiencies can lead to dryness too.

The essentially dry skin has a very dull look about it especially around the mouth and the eyes and it feels taut and uncomfortable right after washing. Chapping and cracking are its severest symptoms.

Dry skin care primarily involves nourishing it with baby oil, gentle moisturizing creams and preferably, a non-detergent based, neutral-pH product to clean it. Dry skin needs an out-and-out cleaning but not with a commercial soap. After washing, always use a moisturizer to keep the skin looking and feeling soft and supple. It's good if you apply the moisturizer when skin is damp.

You can also use oil for hydrating your dry skin, however while massaging, take care not to stretch your skin; pat dry. Apply oil profusely around the eyes, because this is the area most prone to wrinkles and crows feet.

Dry skin care demands the application of only very gentle and preferably natural skin products. Thus when you retire for the night, massage yourself with a homemade nourishing cream. Or you can use a natural beauty mask consisting egg, honey, olive oil and rose water to provide your skin with all the nourishments.

A warm milk bath with a few drops of almond oil added to it will soften and hydrate your skin like nothing else. Dry, cracked lips respond well to a little milk cream mixed with rose water and lime juice, while style divas swear by the raw-beetroot-application-before-the-lipstick routine. Just a dab of Vaseline afterwards ensures that your lips remain pink and pretty.

Dry skin care also involves knowing what to stay away from. Overheated rooms, beauty care treatments that use steam and sudden changes of temperatures wreck havoc on a dry skin problem. While stepping out in the cold, liberally douse yourself with some kind of moisturizer, and pile on the sunscreen when you go out in the sun.

Your diet too plays an important role in containing the reverses of a dry skin. While smoking and fatty, oily foods are a definite no-no, fresh fruits and vegetables, along with copious quantities of water daily, improve the quality of your skin and they have also been proven to contain anti-ageing properties. Thus with such foods in your diet, you not only remain healthy, but look healthy also good.

There are many herbs that can be directly applied to the skin or consumed to help your condition of dryness. Thus chamomile, lavender, calendula, comfrey, tea tree oil, aloe vera and peppermint used in herbal facials are good for dry skin and borage, fennel, coltsfoot or calendula tea can be used daily for a youthful looking skin.

Dry skin care actually means pampering your skin, for you have to always keep in mind that you are dealing with something very fragile.

About the Author:

Seafood - A Healthy and Delicious Diet

By Isabel Da Silva

Fish and other seafood are identified as good source of protein and does not comprise of high saturated fats. Comparatively to other fatty meats even the calories level is low in fish and seafood.

The above given fact proves that fish is a valuable addition to any body's diet. In fact you can view great advantage of fish. By consuming fist at least two time a week can be an excellent source for your body, as it one of the richest natural sources of Omega 3 essential fatty acids. Fatty fish like mackerel, salmon, trout, and sardines comprise high levels of Omega 3 fatty acids.

Many studies have shown that Omega 3 fatty acids provide protection against cardiovascular disease by lowering the levels of bad cholesterol and blood pressure. Other studies have also shown many health benefits ranging from prevention of asthma in children to reduced risk of prostate cancer.

Widely speaking Omega 3 prevents the arrival of diseases such as macular degeneration, which is one of the most widespread causes of blindness related to aging. Increase in Omega 3 fatty is favorable for people with diabetics as it maintain good amount of control of blood sugar level and has been proved to delay the appearance of dementia and as well Alzheimer's disease.

Other of late research and studies have concentrated on its effect on the body's nervous system, which was proven beneficial for brain function and most effective for fighting against depression.

Omega 3 fatty acids do not occur naturally in cells of the body and must therefore be obtained through one's diet. Clearly Omega 3 fatty acids have many health benefits but do they have to come from fish and seafood?

You can come across three different types of Omega 3 fatty acids such as ALA - alpha-linolenic acid, EPA - eicosapentaenoic acid and DHA - docosahexaenoic acid

ALA is found in tofu, soybeans, canola, walnuts and flaxseed and oils derived from these products. However, alpha-linolenic acid needs to be converted in the body before it can be absorbed. The body is not very efficient at making this conversion and evidence that this conversion actually takes place is rather tenuous.

Therefore EPA and DHA has become truly significant dietary source of Omega 3 fatty acids and this is the place where fish place the role of its individuality. They are one of the richest sources of DHA and EPA.

In nature, too much consumption of anything could certainly have effects that are negative, at the same time fish is no exception. One of the major risks of consuming excess fish is the subsidiary and inadvertent eating of contaminants that the fish picks up from waterways. As there are an array of built-up contaminants, which concerns the primary trouble is mercury.

As the food source differs, even the mercury level in fish differs depending up on whether the fish is farmed or caught in the wild. Conversely higher up in food chain have a larger accumulation of contaminants containing mercury. In the usual conditions the level of mercury in majority of fish are not probably to cause any major worry to overall health of adults unless consumed excess.

However, infants, children and pregnant women may be more susceptible to harm at lower levels of mercury. It is therefore important to limit the intake of fish by persons in these categories. Mercury could damage the growing nervous systems of young children or the developing fetus and may increase the risk of miscarriage in pregnant women.

The predominance of proof on the other hand falls exactly in favor of fish consumption. The health benefits derivative from Omega 3 far prevails over the potential risks obtaining from contaminants. If consumed in self-control there is little doubt that fish could be tremendously beneficial.

About the Author:

Five Top Tips to Find the Right Sleep Disorder Remedy

By Veronika Namesse

Compared to a few years back, now, people don't have to suffer quietly with any sleep disorder. A good sleep disorder remedy can work wonders for thousands of people who suffer from sleep problems. Not all remedies however are the same and you may want to look at these tips to find the proper sleep disorder remedy.

Identify Your Disorder

For proper treatment, identify your sleeping disorder first. The most common sleep disorders are insomnia, sleep apnea and narcolepsy to name just a few. Insomnia is characterized by a generally feeling of tiredness in the morning, poor task performance and difficult staying or falling asleep at night. Sleep apnea is a condition where a person suffers from frequent episodes of breathing cessation while asleep. Narcolepsy is a state where a person inexplicably falls asleep without warning.

Misdiagnosis of a sleeping disorder may result to the wrong treatment. Using an insomnia sleep disorder remedy for example on a person with obstructive sleep apnea may do more damage by inhibiting proper brain reaction to the lack of breath. You also do not want to undergo surgery for obstructive sleep apnea if all you really have is insomnia.

Determine the Causes

Once you know which disorder you have, you should also trace the causes to find the right sleep disorder remedy. Sleep apnea for example comes in two main types. People with obstructive sleep apnea may be treated with surgery or may be helped with a sleep machine that helps keep the air passage open. Central sleep apnea however may be a more complicated condition involving the nervous system which needs more intensive medical attention.

The cause of your sleep disorder can also lead you to its effective treatment. You may simply be suffering from insomnia because you are often tired from work. In such a case, you may go for a simple sleep disorder remedy like a massage or a relaxing night out with your friends. On the other hand, you may also be experiencing insomnia because of a critical medical or psychological condition. Cancer and severe depression are examples of conditions that may cause insomnia. Treating these main causes is the best way to get rid of insomnia.

Look at Your Age and Condition

Your sleep disorder remedy can also be based on your age and health condition. Obese individuals for example have a higher risk of having obstructive sleep apnea than other individuals. Women 30-50 years old may also be undergoing uncomfortable menopausal symptoms that may be the cause of frequent wakefulness at night. Pregnant women also undergo some discomfort during pregnancy that may lead to insomnia.

Use Your Common Sense

Sometimes all you really need to do is to use your common sense as a sleep disorder remedy. Common sense would tell you that drinking too much coffee, sleeping at irregular hours, frequent partying and bringing work home may be basic reasons why you have insomnia.

Use Less Invasive Procedures

Some people may resort to medication or surgery as the only solution to a chronic sleep disorder. As a general rule though, it is always safest to look for less invasive methods first. Some people with insomnia for example may do well with a glass of warm milk and a book instead of taking sleeping pills and medication that may cause side effects. You may also want to try a natural remedy for insomnia if you are concerned about pumping your body with chemicals. Ask your doctor to give you the best natural options before considering medication or surgery.

About the Author:

Thoughtful Grandparenting At Christmas

By J Gardener

As much as we all look forward to the Christmas season, with its parties and lights and songs and fellowship, we all know that the holidays are best celebrated with children, without whose innocent wonder Santa Claus wouldn't even exist. Everything about the season is richer, when we can see it all through our children's' eyes.

One of the most common annual rituals, during the Christmas season, is the family party, at which extended families come together from near and far, to renew their relationships and love, and to get to know the newest, youngest members of the clan. As families grow and divide and move around the country, though, the family Christmas party becomes more and more difficult, each year.

No matter how far apart from each other families may live, today, young parents can be sure that there's one custom that will never change-the insistence by grandparents that they have to see their grandkids at Christmas. It's a custom that every grandparent seems to engage in, every holiday season.

Even the most intelligent and aware and considerate grandparents seem to ignore the fact that air travel, these days, is more difficult than ever, for everyone. And it's not easy for two-career couples to find the time to travel to grandma's house, together, with the kids.

As much as grandparents might want to see their children and grandchildren at Christmas, the spirit of the holiday season will be diminished, if a family gathering is fueled by guilt. And for young couples trying to please everyone, the choice between which grandparents to visit can often lead to the kind of conflict that will dampen someone's Christmas.

Rather than applying the kind of guilt that only they can apply, and making Christmas difficult for their children's' families, grandparents should consider making the holidays as easy as possible for everyone concerned. A couple without children can travel for less money and with less hassle than their children, with their own young children, can. Grandma and Grandpa can stay in a motel, too, near their grandchildren, without making anyone lose their own bedroom.

Many grandparents find that it's easier to visit their children and grandchildren a few days prior to Christmas, when it's easier and cheaper to travel, and when the families being visited aren't as rushed as they are on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Then, many older couples find, they can schedule their own holiday time, at a resort or hotel, in a quiet destination, when great prices can be found. This way, everyone gets to enjoy a peaceful and guilt-free Christmas.

About the Author:

Getting Your Bedroom Orgazined with Feng Shui Strategies

By Aazdak Alisimo

Feng Shui may be new to you, but it has a massive historical significance as the dominant theory in China for thousands of years. On a personal level, you can use it to make your bedroom a more restful and intimate room.

Feng shui is about being in harmony with your surrounding environment. This occurs trough the placement of items in a space in such a manner as to make sure the flow of energy is unimpeded and, for lack of a better word, smooth.

The first step to giving your bedroom a tuneup has to do with indoor pollution. It is unhealthy to let air become stale and cluttered with dust, dirt and germs. Open the windows and get the circulation going to immediately feel better.

The focus of your bedroom should be on the bed. It should be the sole purpose of being in the room. Many peoples have a television in their bedrooms. Don't. It kills the energy flow, so take it out. If you want to watch TV, do it in the appropriate room.

The second phenomena of clutter in the bedroom is the exercise equipment. Whether you end up using it as a clothes hanger or actually use it for exercise, the bedroom is not the place to have it. It interferes with the flow of energy so move it out.

As mentioned, intimacy and rest are the two items that should be the focus of the bedroom. One aspect of Feng Shui can be called atmosphere and, in this case, the lighting of the bedroom should always be soft which can be achieved using dimmers.

In concert with the lighting are the colors used in the bedroom. Neon or aggressive colors are a bad idea. Soothing, tranquil colors should be used with a soft blending pattern. Try to use organic skin colors ranging from off white to darker brown.

Now we get to the focal point of the bedroom. Yes, the bed. Placement is important. Never place it on the wall that has the door. Always put it in the middle of the wall so it can be approached from three sides.

If you find your love life or sleep to be lacking, Feng Shui strategies can really make a difference in the bedroom. The idea of creating energy flows and harmony has been around for thousands of years, so give it a try.

About the Author:

Friday, December 7, 2007

The Benefits Of Hypnosis

By Donald B.

Hypnosis is a great tool for building positive motivation and intention. Hypnosis is can used in conjunction with other forms of treatment. The movies have made hypnosis out to be something it is not.

Control

Physicians use hypnosis to help patients in many ways: to control pain, prepare for surgery, quit smoking, stick to a particular food program, and accomplish all the amazing feats described by the authors of the chapters that follow. Because hypnosis allows people to use more of their potential, learning self-hypnosis is the ultimate act of self-control.

The mental health area uses it for self-esteem/ego strengthening, memory/concentration improvement, sexual problems, alcoholism, anxiety, phobias, smoking control, speech disorders, weight control, chronic pain, age regression therapy, and forensic work. In medicine, it uses include obstetrics/gynecology, dermatology and habit control, burn therapy, pain control, anesthesia and surgery, control of bleeding, .

Because hypnosis and self-hypnosis allow people to use more of their potential, they gain more self-control (it is a myth that people loose control during hypnosis). Hypnosis can give accesss to unconsciously controlled physical and mental functions usually not accessible consciously.

Right brain activity (dreaming, daydreaming,creativity,art, imagining, remembering, hypnosis) takes your attention elsewhere than just the body and present tense reality and controls pain. With hypnosis, you are in control of your own experience at all times.

Hypnosis has also been described as a way to use a person's inherent healing capabilities that usually remain inaccessible to him and outside of his control. When hypnotized, you are not unconscious, but within an altered state of consciousness in other words, you are not out of control.

Hypnosis is a scientifically verified technique that can promote accelerated human change. Hypnosis is for real, but it's not what most people think it is. Hypnosis is an easy-to-administer procedure which has no deep or long-lasting side effects, yet most doctors ignore its effectiveness in lieu of more traditional methods.

About the Author:

O2, Cellfood and Nutrition Therapy

By Samuel Gardner

Does oxygen seem important to you and a healthy body? Experts declare that less oxygen in cells and muscular tissue is connected to a huge list of chronic health problems. Experts prove that supplementing with therapies such as oxygen has impacting physiological benefits.

Therapies: Oxygen and its role.

Oxygen therapy is any supplemental process that safely increases the available dissolved oxygen content in the body. Therapies may also include processes that enhance the body's ability to use or promote oxygen absorption. Most treatments are generally expensive and should be administered or supervised by a licensed medical professional.

Cell food is a safe form of oxygen therapy that does not require a professional to use, but still includes bio-available O2 at the cellular level. This technology is advanced and now available to the average Joe. There are many benefits of this practical therapy including:

1. Feel amazingly better- increased levels of oxygen.

2. Energized -increase your energy levels.

3. Less Sickness-Strengthens your immune system.

5. Mental cleansing- High levels of concentration and comprehension.

5. Emotionally stabilized- Calmer nervous system.

6. Natural Antibiotic - Kills infectious bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, without harming beneficial microorganisms needed for your body.

8. Supplement companion- oxygen absorbs minerals, proteins, vitamins and amino acids into the body more efficiently.

9. Detox- Oxygen eliminates and oxidizes poisons and built-up toxins.

9. Faster recovery - From injury, stress or strenuous exercise.

10. Quality breathing- Treats asthma, sinus infections and respiratory conditions.

Cell food is a safe and tested option in alleviating multiple, chronic ailments and illnesses.

About the Author:

Plantar Fasciitis - The Agony Of De-Feet

By Tammy Foster

Your first steps out of the bed result in almost unbearable pain in your foot it feels like a hot poker has just been inserted into your foot with every step; and this is now happening every morning without exception.

Most people notice that with the first step out of bed in the morning, they experience a searing pain through the bottom of the foot, much like a hot poker is being shoved into your heel again and again. It most often gets better the longer you are moving around, but can quickly rear back up again after you've been sitting awhile. Relief is only temporary and you must take decisive action to get long term help.

If this describes what you are going through with your foot, chances are you are suffering from plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is the tissue along the bottom of the foot that essentially connects your heel to the toes. Under stress and strain this tissue can become inflamed or even tear. When this happens the classic symptoms are the severe pain with the first steps in the morning or after having been off your feet for a while.

Ill fitting shoe are a common culprit for placing undue stress and strain on your feet. You must wear shoes that fit, shoes that are not too tight, shoes that have a roomy toebox and shoes that are capable of supporting your feet. The wrong shoes can put too much pressure on the arches of your feet and that stress can leave you with this irritating and painful foot condition. So get off the glamor train and wear the shoes that provide the most support. K

Plantar fasciitis pain is most severe in the morning or after you've been off your feet for awhile and then it lessens somewhat as your foot warms up. So it would seem that the problem happens some time while you are asleep or off your feet for awhile. If you think about it, this makes sense. As you are sleeping or sitting, the plantar fascia will begin to cool and contract. This leaves you with a foot that is not ready to get out of bed when you are. It is not ready to bear the brunt of your weight since the fascia cooled and contracted while you were off your feet.

To help avoid that early morning pain, stretch before you ever get out of bed. You've got to warm your foot up before you take that first step. Simple stretching exercises that stretch the Achilles tendon area will also get at the plantar fascia and provide relief. So, sleepy head, keep a towel or a belt or even an exercise strap by your bed so that when you wake up before you step down on your foot, use one and put it underneath your toes and gently pull the ball of your foot toward you and hold for a few seconds to get the tissue stretched after a night of sleep. Give it time, stretch slowly and hold the stretch gently, no bouncing allowed. Your doctor may suggest that you purchase a night splint. This device attaches to your calf and foot that helps keep your Achilles and plantar fascia in a lengthened or stretched position as you sleep. This will help keep it from contracting and cooling, making that first step out of bed less painful. Another option for pain relief is to purchase orthotics (semi rigid inserts that go in your shoe). You can find over the counter orthotics at many sports stores or you can work with a podiatrist and purchase custom orthotics.

Remember keep stretching throughout the day as much as possible.

You might also find that using cold or warm therapy feels pretty good on your aching feet. Think about plantar fascitis must like a sports related injury and use alternating cold and warm therapies the same way you would for a sports injury.

Using cold therapy at the end of the day is best since it is likely that you will have some swelling from your general daily activities. Try applying an ice pack for twenty minutes, then take it off for twenty minutes followed by another twenty minutes of a warm soak or a heating pad. Repeat this process with at least three cold treatments with two warm treatments sandwiched between. Always begin and end with the cold.

Known as a contrast bath, this method is very effective at treating inflammation and the resulting foot pain it causes. Although more time consuming it is the best treatment that you have readily available to you.

If in spite of your dedicated effort to self care and self treat your plantar fascitis you should set an appointment with your doctor. Be sure to advise your doctor of all the details that you have been doing to combat your pain, so they don't merely send you home with a similar program. Your doctor may agree that it may be time for a referral to a podiatrist.

About the Author:

Thursday, December 6, 2007

TOP TIPS FOR FANTASTIC SKIN

By SKINTIPS

When you meet people, what do they see? Your face, your skin, that's what. Your skin condition can say a lot about your health and your lifestyle. Did you know that your skin is the largest organ of your body? An adult human skin weighs around 5kg (11lbs) and has a surface area of 2 sq. metres (22 sq. feet), which is approximately the size of a double bed. Even with your clothes on that's a lot of target for damage from the outside - injury, sunlight, cigarette smoke, environmental pollution. So your skin can be damaged by what it is exposed to, and at the same time, it reflects internal emotions (e.g. when you sweat or blush) and conditions (especially the health of your digestive system). The condition of your skin is closely dependent on what you eat.

Your Skin and Nutrition

Nutrition is fundamentally involved at every stage of your skin development. Collagen makes up 70% of your skin and depends on vitamin C. Dry, rough skin (caused by the build up the protein keratin on the outer layers) can be prevented by Vitamin A. The membranes of skin cells are made from essential fats. Dry skin can be caused by a lack of these fats. The flexibility of your skin is reduced as you get older mainly because of oxidation damage caused by free radicals - from pollution, cigarette smoke, fried and burnt foods, sunlight. This damage can be limited by nutrients such as vitamins A, C, E and selenium. Lack of zinc can lead to stretch marks and slow wound healing, and is associated with a wide variety of skin problems from acne to eczema.

Foods that Keep You Young and Beautiful

Foods that can enhance your appearance need to feature as many of the following as possible: antioxidants, antibacterials, fiber to clear toxins, essential fats to support skin and reduced levels of saturated fat and sugar.

The sorts of foods where you'll get this kind of combination are: fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, fish, pulses, nuts and seeds.

So, to improve your skin, try to include the following in your diet:

Apricots, cantaloupe melon, carrots, eggs, liver, pumpkin, red peppers, watercress - contain Vitamin A and beta carotene. Black currants, broccoli, citrus fruits, kiwi fruit, papaya, peppers, potatoes, tomatoes, sweet potatoes and sprouted seeds - contain Vitamin C. Almonds, avocado, eggs, hazelnuts, olive oil, Sunflower seeds, walnuts - contain Vitamin E. Brazil nuts, cabbage, chicken, eggs, liver, molasses, mushrooms, onions, seafood, tuna - contain Selenium. Almonds, chicken, cauliflower, carrots, cucumber, eggs, oats, potatoes, sardines, tuna - contain Zinc.

And reduce your intake of these foods:

Alcohol Coffee/tea (no more than 2 cups per day) Sugar Saturated fat (found in all meat and dairy products). And think about these other factors:

Avoid strong sunlight and use a sun block (sunlight causes oxidative damage and speeds the aging process of your skin).

Wash your skin with a gentle oil-based cleanser, not regular soap, and consider what is in your skin products such as your moisturizer (many cosmetics contains strong petroleum/alcohol based substances - remember these are absorbed through the skin).

Start a regular exercise routine (it stimulates blood flow, which will enhance delivery of oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells).

Drink plenty of water (6-8 glasses per day (1- 1 liters) to hydrate the skin. Too little water can be a MAJOR factor in dry skin.

Consider taking some nutritional supplements: a good quality multivitamin and mineral supplement; vitamin C; an antioxidant blend (containing at least vitamins A, C, E, zinc and selenium); and an essential fatty acid supplement (linseed oil, fish oil or evening primrose oil or oil blend). Remember supplements should be considered as an addition to a good diet and healthy lifestyle, not a replacement for one.

Use a skin brush for your body (upward strokes working from feet to torso) and an exfoliation cream for your face. Exfoliation helps to clear blocked pores and smooth away dead and dry skin.

If that sounds a lot to think about, don't let it put you off. You can have the skin you deserve, the skin that reflects a healthier you. Just take it step by step. First introduce apricots, cantaloupe melon etc (the Vitamin A foods). Then when you've worked through introducing the healthier range of foods, start reducing the alcohol and sugar consumption. In no time at all you'll be on the road to better health and better skin

About the Author:

TOP 10 SKIN CARE TIPS

By skincaretips

We all dream of getting a miracle in a bottle. And so much ad copy leads us to believe it exists: An instant face lift. Zero pores. Paper smoothness. But our obsession with being flawless is absurd. Wrinkles happen -- adding character and depth to the face. Other changes occur as well -- features can become more pronounced and bone structure can become more angular over time. We get scars. We get freckles. And other dings and dents. But, are these catastrophes? Or merely a map of our lives? Certain products can help to offset all this, but aging is a natural (and beautiful) process that happens to all of us. And acceptance, not denial, looks better on everyone.

A lot of product lines have gotten way too complicated -- aside from being costly, they usually take up too much time. You can keep it simple, and just as effective. Many of us overindulge our skin anyway -- if we're dry, we tend to over-moisturize; if we're oily, we tend to over-strip.

Here, my top 10 skin tips: Protect yourself from the sun -- use sunscreen and avoid direct sunlight between the hours of 10am and 2pm.

Don't smoke. Your skin is a very large organ and it needs a lot of circulation. Smoking impairs that dramatically. That's why smokers' skin looks dull and gray. Instead of having oxy-generated blood delivered to the surface of the skin, they're getting poisons and oxidants.

Get adequate rest and great nutrition.

Protect yourself from stress -- both emotional and environmental stress.

Wash your face twice a day and put on the proper treatment product. I'm amazed when women tell me they don't wash their face in the morning. A lot of icky stuff collects overnight -- dead skin cells, dirt, and dust!-Remember every night when you don't wash your face it adds 5 days to the aging process!!!

Don't neglect certain areas of the skin. Elbows, heels, neck, and décolletage need moisturizing. Also, your scalp and the tops of your feet need sun protection.

Touch your face less and wash your hands more! Don't get too surgical on yourself. It's very tempting to pick, poke, squeeze, and scratch in front of the mirror. But the more you traumatize the skin, the greater your risk of scarring. Apply treatment products and let them work.

Keep your makeup clean. Replace the sponges in your compact on a regular basis. Now and then, toss the whole works and start fresh -- the average shelf life for cosmetics is 6 to 12 months.

Exercise moderation. More is not always better. Moisturizer, for example, is the most overused product in America. We've been bamboozled by cosmetic companies into thinking every square inch of our body has to be slathered. And it's simply not true. Exfoliators are another thing to be careful with. Used too often, they over-acidify and irritate your skin.

Beware of counter girls. If it were up to them, you'd be in the bathroom for two and a half hours each morning -- putting 80 layers on your face. Keep your regimen simple. And when you do add a new product, do it gradually so your skin has some time to adjust. Each skincare or makeup product has an average of 20 to 40 ingredients -- you're introducing 20 to 40 potential allergens to your face every time you try something new.

Fluoride Dangers

By Mel Possehl

We come in contact with it everyday. But what is fluoride and why are there so many people against it?

There are two types of fluoride. Sodium fluoride, the first type, is a chemical by-product of many industries; chemical and manufacturing to name a few.

According to Phillip Day in his book Health Wars, President Lyndon Johnson's Science Advisory Committee had named fluoride compounds "one of America's four leading pollutants". Pretty scary stuff. However, after fluoridation went into effect, hardly a thing was heard any longer against it.

The other type of fluoride is calcium fluoride. This is the form found in nature and it is less toxic than its calcium counterpart. It is also more soluble in water.

Fluoridation was first proposed by the aluminum industry to rid themselves of the toxic chemical by-product they no longer had room to dispose of anymore. (Day, 2001) After cleaning it up, they wanted to pass it on to consumers in the water supply. Harmless trick and everyone's happy right? Wrong.

Consider the Liucin Township. Eighteen of twenty two villages there had serious side effects from the fluoride in the water: hardened brown teeth, bowed backs, shrunken limbs, and early death. Over 80% of the people were severely affected. And no, this wasn't 60 years ago. This was in 1981. (Seybolt 13)

As far today, critics say that the decay rates of children's teeth are no different in fluoridated cities than in those non-fluoridated. If anything, the overconsumption of sugar and poor dental hygiene is being masked in these areas.

Fluoride has been shown to be harmful at certain levels in the body. The scary part is, research has shown that it may accumulate in the body over time.

Research has also shown that in fluoridated cities there is an increased risk of heart disease and cancer. Fluoride has been shown to cause genetic damage in lab tests, even turning healthy cells into cancer cells.

I believe I am going to jump on the bandwagon for this one, along with France, Sweden, and the Netherlands, and say no more fluoride! Even some US locales have banned it. For my household, it will be only filtered water to drink, thank you!

About the Author:

Carbohydrates For Health

By Mel Possehl

What exactly are carbohydrates? We know there are many diets out there saying to restrict them...but our bodies need them.

Carbohydrates are our body's primary energy source and they can be found in a variety of food sources. These sources can range from fruits to breads, vegetables to pasta, and dairy to grains.

Carbohydrates are composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They are made up of one or more molecules of simple sugar.

The types of sugars in carbohydrates are:

~ Monosaccharides, which are 1 molecule sugars that are glucose (blood sugar), galactose (found mainly in milk), and the fruit sugar fructose

~ Disaccharides are 2 monosaccharides linked together as in table sugar (sucrose), milk sugar (lactose), and malt sugar (maltose)

~ Polysaccharides: Complex Carbohydrates, which are simple sugars linked together in different ways

The last one, complex carbohydrates, are the ones that your body breaks down slowly for energy. They are a vital part of a healthy diet. They assimilate slowly, have a lower effect on blood sugar, are less processed than other carbs and provide a variety of other nutrients.

In order to provide your body with the complex carbohydrates it needs to give you energy, there are a few key points to remember:

~ Buy organic whenever possible

~ Whole grains, not refined. This strips essential nutrients.

~ Keep the skin on whenever possible on your vegetables & fruits

~ Have a no to low intake of refined sugars such as cakes & cookies

~ Avoid refined complex carbs such as chips and white bread

Complex carbohydrates provide you with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Your body needs them! Stock up and begin a healthier lifestyle with fruits, veggies, legumes and whole grains!

About the Author:

The Secret To Youthful Skin At Any Age

By Darren Craddock

Do you ever feel icky, crampy and lethargic or just feel heavy all over? Perhaps you are suffering from toxic buildup in your colon and liver. Your skins appearance is often the first sign of toxic accumulation. Even if you apply gallons of expensive creams and lotions, your skin can look prematurely old because it is releasing waster through your skin.

As you age your body has to work harder to eliminate toxins and waste products. Drinking at least eight glasses of clean filtered water can help keep your skin hydrated and looking younger. Because your skin is the largest organ you have, it is is also one of the biggest ways to eliminate toxins and waster from your system. Literally your skin isa reflection of what you put into your body rather than what you put on it.

It's not what you put on your skin that makes young and vital it's what you eat. Many people suffer from premature aging as a result of smoking, alcohol consumption and a poor diet. Dehydration is another common ailment in modern society. Even with numerous beverage choices, we ironically drink less pure water than we need. After years of pushing our internal systems to the max, the skin will start to show the effects.

You could spend thousands of dollars on topical lotions and potions. No lotion can prevent your skin from looking old and leathery if you do not get adequate nutrition on a regular basis. This means that years of nutritional abuse usually shows up on the surface of your skin well before you notice your colon or liver.

Healthy skin is more than skin deep. Healthy skin starts with a healthy body.

In today's world nearly everyone is exposed to a large number of toxins and poisons. In fact there are chemicals in everything we touch, wear and eat. Your skin absorbs chemicals as well as eliminates them. As you age these chemicals build up in your fatty cells, joints and organs. The liver and colon work hard to expel these toxic wastes but over time these poisons simply build up. The symptoms of this toxicity are poor skin tone, dry or oily patches and unhealthy skin color.

Getting the proper nutrition can help you have younger looking skin almost immediately. Besides plenty of water, the quickest way get healthier skin is to make sure you are getting an abundant supply of bio available vitamins and minerals each day. This is the real key. Bio available means that your body must be able to quickly and efficiently absorb and use the nutrients you take. Not all supplements provide this. Try using a super green food. These super foods are packed with a large amount of nutrition that gets absorbed fast.

Our diets are often lacking in whole grain fiber and the volumes of fresh and uncooked vegetables that it takes to clean out the gunk. Highly processed foods like white flour and sugar turn into a sticky goo once inside your belly. Most of this foodstuff is only waste since there is little nutrition to digest. Literally, every time your colon gets overloaded trying to process too much waste it has no other choice but to reabsorb the toxins into your fatty cells or try to eliminate them through your skin.

Your colon is designed to take excess waster from the food we eat and the things we touch and move it out of our body, quickly and efficiently. When this system works right, it s a beautiful thing. As your body fights to restore balance it must reabsorb these wastes. If your body does not have enough water then these toxins harden and start to slow down the process even more. This cycle of re absorption and hardening makes it harder for the muscles around the colon to squeeze out the waste.

People with young looking skin often have a healthier lifestyle. Your lifestyle shows on your face, not just from laugh lines, but the quality of skin tone and color. Skin tone and resiliency is a sign of abundant water consumption and a healthy diet. Regular exercise keeps the colon and other organs working properly and good nutrition helps all organs including your skin, well fed and healthy.

Great skin without drugs or surgery

You can have healthier, prettier skin by making a few changes in the way you eat. Make sure you start each day with a large glass of water. Before coffee or tea, drink at least eight ounces of filtered water. Continue to stay hydrated all day long by substituting one beverage for water at each meal. Include a super green each day for optimum nutrition, without the fat or cholesterol.

Have you had your leafy greens today? If not, make sure you get them each and every day. These vegetables are great for cleaning out your colon and providing nutrition and micro nutrients. Your skin needs a healthier colon and the minerals that greens give you, besides that they taste good too! Try adding broccoli, romaine, celery or spinach to your diet. Add a glass of filtered water to each meal too. Your skin will start to glow as a result.

You Must drink fresh clean water every say to stay healthy and have great looking youthful skin. It's easy to take this for granted but water really is the drink of life.

About the Author:

Meditation And Its Potential Health Benefits

By Kelvin Gilberte

Meditation has been practiced for thousands of years in the eastern cultures and many of their healers believe that it has significant benefits to your health and wellbeing. There are many different types and forms of meditation and it can get quite complicated. Perhaps it is best at the start to stick with a simple approach as there are many very easy exercises you can do almost anywhere and anytime.

So what is meditation and what is its ultimate purpose? Well, the simplest definition may be that it is the pursuit of a quiet mind. Many people believe that a silent mind is also the least stressful and also may have great health benefits. Each day more people discover meditation and report great health benefits as far as a greater sense of wellbeing however there are few official scientific studies done to verify the effectiveness of meditation.

In fact, many scientists are just beginning to research the correlation between meditation and improved health. There are however many peer reviewed articles that have been published on the relationship between meditation and reducing stress or decreased symptoms of disease.

So it does require some faith on your part to at least try some meditative practices and experience the benefits for yourself before you decide that it does not work just because there are not many 'official' scientific studies done on it yet. The Chinese and other eastern cultures have been quietly reaping the potentially huge benefits of meditation for thousands of years and the west is only just beginning to catch up.

A simple meditation exercise involves concentration on your breathing. Simply turn your mental focus to your breath as you inhale and then exhale normally. The key is to only think about the breath and nothing else. The idea is to develop a silent mind that is focused on something neutral like the breath. If you like you can instead focus on the tip of a pen or anything that is neutral and does not incur great emotions. You can do this for around ten minutes or so each day or whenever you feel you need to get rid of some stress.

You will find that at the start there will be many other distracting thoughts entering your mind. When this happens just return your focus back on the breath or whatever neutral item you chose. The more you do this the easier it becomes to get that state of a silent mind. You will find that this state of a quiet mind is very relaxing. It is a fantastic way to reduce stress and as we all know, stress can have significant negative effects on your health so this is perhaps one the greatest benefits of meditation.

A few studies have been done at several universities on the effects that transcendental meditation can have on your physiology, psychology and sociology. It is actually one of the most studied forms of meditation. Some of their findings show that this kind of meditation can improve your mental abilities such as increasing intelligence, creativity and learning ability.

Other documented benefits of transcendental meditation include reduced stress, less incidence of disease, improved cardiovascular health and increased longevity. Some sociological benefits include better self confidence, less anxiety and improved job performance.

There are many books written on this type of meditation and how to perform it so it could be a good idea to learn more about this type of meditation as it seems to offer many health benefits. Other kinds of meditation include zen meditation and chakra meditation. Practice meditation regularly as part of an overall program that includes proper diet and exercise habits so you can be and stay healthy.

About the Author:

Is Kava Kava Really Effective?

By Paulina Jenkins

Kava kava is a plant commonly found on the South Pacific islands. It belongs to the same family as pepper. The South Pacific Islanders have used kava kava as an alternative medicine for over 3000 years. Today it still serves as a ceremonial drink during many of their tribal rituals.

The active ingredients called "kavalactones from the root of kava kava has a calming effect both mentally and physically. It is a natural antidepressant that may be used in place of prescription drugs like benzodiazepines or diazepam. The added benefit is that kava kava has no side effects like the drugs. When you are feeling stressed out and overwhelmed taking kava kava could help.

Kava kava is a valuable antiseptic and diuretic. Very often it is used with pumpkin seeds to treat an irritable bladder. It is effective against inflammation and chronic pain associated with gout, arthritis, bronchitis, rheumatism, stomach ache, urinary infections, asthma and backaches.

Kava kava is a natural relaxant that has a sedative effect. It can give relief to those suffering from insomnia and muscle tension. In Europe kava kava is promoted as a mild sedative for the aged. Kava kava is an effective natural remedy for anxiety. It does not cause any drowsiness and many other side effects with taking prescription drugs.

Kava kava when taken in moderation is safe and has little side effects. However, how it will effect you depends on a number of factors. It can cause skin disorders in some people. If kava kava is taken excessively, you will become intoxicated and dazed.

Anyone with lung or heart problems must not take any kava kava. It is also not recommended for pregnant or nursing women. When taken together with barbiturates, alcohol or any drugs for anxiety, insomnia and depression, it could be dangerous.

In North America kava kava is a top selling herbal supplement. You can buy it at all health food and pharmacy stores as capsules, powder or tincture. There are more and more doctors in both Europe and the United States using kava kava to treat anxiety, stress and other mental complaints. Kava kava is a popular treatment for anxiety in Germany. It is a safe remedy for long term use and also non-addictive. Many practitioners of herbal medicines agree that that kava kava is the alternative medicine to fight mental health problems.

About the Author:

Holiday Air Travel With Children

By J Gardener

Christmas is, for most families, the most joyful time of the year. Parents of small children, especially, look forward to watching the wonder of Christmas morning in their kids' eyes, when the results of Santa Claus's visit are finally revealed. Parents who get to live these moments with their children, at home, can't wait for the next holiday season to arrive. Parents who have to travel with young children, at Christmastime, by air, might feel completely different about the holiday season.

The whole process of airline traveling has become much more difficult for everyone in the last few years, with flight delays, missing luggage, and cramped quarters inside the planes themselves. Adding the pressure of trying to keep young children in tow and intact through all of it, is enough to eliminate any parent's Christmas spirit.

There are a few things parents can do to make a Christmastime plane trip a tad easier:

When traveling to see relatives for Christmas, families shouldn't try to carry presents on board a plane, or pack them in their suitcases. With the current strict requirements for both carry-on and checked luggage, and the high rate of lost luggage these days, it makes much more sense, despite the extra cost, to send presents-and absolute necessities-by mail or a package delivery service.

The main way to avoid as many airports as possible is to book non-stop flights, whenever they're available. More travelers than ever before are missing connections these days, a problem that's worse during the high-travel days of the holiday season. Missing a connection, then being stuck in an airport in a strange town, with young kids, while waiting for another flight, could ruin any parent's holiday.

Parents need to make sure that they have plenty of food and liquid for their young children. While they wait in line, and while on board the plane, the last thing a parent- and the rest of the passengers-want to deal with is a hungry, thirsty child. Food can be packed in see-through plastic in carry-on luggage, and sipping cups can be filled, once a family has passed through the security checkpoint.

Every parent's worst traveling fear has to be the thought of rushing through a crowded airport, with carry-on luggage and toddlers in tow. The best way to avoid that nightmare is to be sure to arrive at the airport well before boarding time. Even if parents have to bring along toys or DVD players to keep children occupied in the gate area before boarding, it's worth the effort and the extra time.

No one has a good time traveling on commercial airlines, anymore. Traveling during the holiday season is especially challenging for everyone. Parents of young children have perhaps the hardest job of anyone at Christmastime-keeping Christmas spirit alive for children who don't understand why everything adults come up with has to be so hard.

About the Author:

Do You Know What Is Offered At A Day Spa?

By Betty P Davis

The most important fact to understand about day spas is that they are all different. This means the delightful experience you had at one may not be the case when you go to another business. It also means that one failed trip to the day spa shouldn't mean you ban them all for life. To help ensure all of your day spa experiences are wonderful, you need to do some research on your own.

For example, some people are horrified when they go to a day spa for a massage. They are in a room with just a sheet draped over them when someone of the opposite sex walks in to do the procedure. Knowing what will be taking place in advance can help you to offset such feelings.

You really need to find out all you can about the procedures that will be offered at any given day spa. Some of them offer everything under the sun that you can imagine including the newest forms of treatment. Others are limited and only offer a couple of different things. However, if those are the types of procedures that interest you it can still work out to your benefit. You also want to find out how the procedures take place.

You want to find out what types of ingredients are used in the day spa treatments. They may be all natural products that are great for your skin. Other day spas also use various oils that have therapeutic values. They should only have licensed staff performing the procedures that are very qualified in these areas. If you don't see their licenses displayed then ask about that information.

You want a day spa that is flexible enough to allow you to get the procedures done that you want. While many do offer package deals, you don't want to get stuck with procedures that don't interest you. Make sure you take notice of the cleanliness of the day spa facility too. By law, they have to be following the guidelines in place by the local health department.

Once you have decided the types of procedures that you are interested in, inquire about how they are done. There are many different types of procedures that fit a certain category so don't assume. You also want to find out how long that particular procedure is going to take to complete. That way you can determine for yourself if it is a good value for the price.

Some day spas are specifically for women and others are for both women and men. If you have a preference then be sure you ask. At some day spas the procedures take place while you are completely naked. Others allow you to wear a bathing suit so that you will be more comfortable. This is also something that you need to talk about so you are ready for what is going to take place at the day spa.

Finding out what is offered at a day spa will help your trip be more worthwhile. This is an opportunity for you to spend some quality time on yourself. You want it to be a very good experience. Many day spas have online tours so you can see how everything is set up. You can also contact them for a personal tour as well. Most day spas are very responsive to comments and suggestions from customers so let them know what they can do for you.

About the Author:

Wednesday, December 5, 2007

Don't Let Go Of Christmas Spirit

By J Gardener

For most families, the holiday season is the busiest time of year. But it's also the most joyful, filled with all kinds of parties, foods, colors, presents, and music. The months between Halloween and the New Year can be incredibly hectic, especially those days just before the most special holiday, Christmas. By the time Santa's come and gone, many families need a few days or weeks, just to recover from the whirlwind.

But after a few weeks without the parties and colors and music, many of us start to miss the holidays. Winter sets in, with its cold, dark days, and the whole world seems to slow down, as we realize that it's a long wait for the next Christmas season with all of its wonder and fun.

Just because Santa needs a vacation doesn't mean that the feelings generated by the holidays need be tucked away for an entire year. There are many ways that families can revive and relive the joy and fulfillment that permeate December, to make sure that the spirit of Christmas lives on, well into the new year.

It's wonderful that many families donate clothes and toys to their favorite charities before Christmas, to help others who may be less fortunate. But donations drop off in January, as the holiday season ends. It's the perfect time for a family to gather last year's gently-used toys and drop them off at a donation center.

Kids grow out of their clothing so fast that most families have boxes full of gently-worn clothes, which are perfect for donation. The preparation and delivery of donated goods can be an all-day family project, capped by a movie or a trip to the pizza parlor, to celebrate making someone else's days a bit more special.

Just because the holidays have ended, families need not let the holiday spirit they felt in December fall away in January. Most of the activities that families engage in together during the holiday season can be relived throughout the rest of the year. Christmas spirit should always survive Christmas. If families work at making generosity a habit, then they'll always have the spirit of the holiday season.

About the Author:

Natural Ingredients Helpful for Acne Breakouts

By Dee Cohen

Although there are some good home remedies for acne and curing pimples, keep in mind that just because it's food or natural, doesn't mean everything is appropriate for your skin. Many with acne skin actually need to be careful due to sensitivities.

Lemon juice has been used for many generations as a home remedy for acne. Please don't use this if you've scratched or picked at your skin due to the acidic nature of lemons. However by squeezing a lemon and diluting it a bit in water you can help your skin heal by applying the liquid.

A mask made from an egg is also recommended to help acne skin heal. First you need to beat the egg and then after it's mixed, apply to your skin. Let it dry fully. You will need to use warm water to wash the egg off after it dries. There is a lot of protein in an egg.

A cucumber mask is useful to refine and tone the skin. Some mix it with yogurt or other ingredients, but you can use it alone after you chop and grate it up. The cucumber has healing and refreshing properties. After placing this on your skin , get in bed for 20 minutes and then rinse it off your skin. Feel the tightening and toning it's accomplished.

Many swear by the oatmeal mask as a nice aid for acne skin. You mix this with water and let it become a paste. After that, apply directly on the skin and feel it tighten and draw out the impurities. Rinse it off and look at your new refreshed skin.

Be careful of a few things such as if your bangs are on your forehead and you have oily skin. This can cause breakouts of pimples. Also wash your pillow case and don't keep your hand propping up your face when you sit at a desk at school or work. There is oil in your hands.

Jarvis writes about apple cider vinegar for many health issues and acne is one problem discussed. It is antibacterial and can be used both internally and externally. To use it externally use one part to seven parts of water and then apply to skin with cotton. When you take it internally (also dilute it with water) you will help to raise the ph of your body.

Our culture focuses a lot on the external, so it's easy to feel discouraged when your skin isn't flawless. Learn about your skin and when it tends to break out. Continue to use antibacterial products to help control the problem. You are really the person inside and showing others your generosity, good listening skills and inner talents is what really matters.

About the Author:

Carbohydrates: Explained

Carbohydrates

We have all heard of the low carb diet rage. But, what exactly are carbohydrates and what do they do for your body?

In essence, carbohydrates are our body’s energy source. They are found in many foods including breads, pastas, cakes,, grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

Carbohydrates are composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They are made up of one or more molecules of simple sugar.

The types of sugars in carbohydrates are:

~ Monosaccharides: 1 Molecule sugars found in glucose (blood sugar), fructose (fruit sugar), and galactose (mainly in milk)
~ Disaccharides: 2 monosaccharides linked together as in sucrose (table sugar), lactose (milk sugar), and maltose (malt sugar)
~ Polysaccharides: Complex Carbohydrates, which are simple sugars linked together in different ways

The last one, complex carbohydrates, are the ones that your body breaks down slowly for energy. They are a vital part of a healthy diet. They assimilate slowly, have a lower effect on blood sugar, are less processed than other carbs and provide a variety of other nutrients.

In order to provide your body with the complex carbohydrates it needs to give you energy, there are a few key points to remember:

~ Buy organic whenever possible

~ Eat whole grains as much as possible

~ Leave the nutritious skin on your fruits and vegetables

~ Avoid refined, simple sugars such as cakes, cookies, etc

~ Avoid refined complex carbs such as chips and white bread

Keep in mind your body needs these. They provide essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber. So stock up on your fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, limit your dairy intake, and start eating your way to a healthier life!


Protein Combining Theory - A Healthy Acrostic

Protein Acrostic

PVT TIM HALL can guide you to

Remember the acids of twenty-two

Occurring together to make it complete

The ones they call ‘high quality’

Enjoy your meats, fish, & poultry

Include even a little dairy

No worry if not all in one meal

Cause together, they seal the deal

Only meat products…no way!

Many others can save the day

Balance with grains for vitamin B

Include your nuts & your seeds

Not to forget the soy protein

It’s the highest but be keen

Never use for your only source

Go with the variety of course!

Think of processed & beware

High consumption will cause a scare

Enjoy your meats, but keep them lean

Or there will be dis-ease seen

Realize what goes in comes out

Your body shows it without a doubt!

Carbohydrates - A Health Acrostic

Carbohydrate Acrostic

Carbon, hydrogen, & oxygen; chemically

Are our primary sources of energy

Refined are bad, so steer clear

Buy organic; and have no fear

Only complex for a healthy life

Hypoglycemia causes strife

You raise high, then crash low

Dangerous levels of insulin show

Raw fruits & veggies are the best

Always leave the skin on with the rest

Take care to only steam & bake

Eat this way for your health’s sake!


REMEDY FOR OILY HAIR

By OILY HAIR REMEDIES

Oily hair can be a pain and is a common complaint among persons who have acne problems. Oily hair is difficult to manage, can be limp, and hard to style. A common misconception about oily hair is that it is caused by an oily scalp. The exact opposite is usually true. A dry scalp causes the oil glands in the scalp to produce more oil, and once on the scalp, this excess oil transfers to the hair itself. Therefore, to treat oily hair, one of the best things to do is focus on the dry scalp. Some people produce a lot more oil than others. There is nothing you can do about it other than frequent and regular shampooing with a mild shampoo. The best time to shampoo your hair is first thing in the morning. This way your hair is fresh all day. Many persons mistakenly think that hair shampoo is to wash the hair and not the scalp. Actually, shampoo is designed to clean the scalp and beautify the hair. Thus, the first recommendation is to shampoo the scalp. Women with long hair should apply the shampoo to the scalp without piling the hair on top, and use their fingers to massage the scalp.

Natural hair oil can change your hair's appearance and behavior. The key to controlling oily hair is to remove the sebum adequately from the scalp. Shampoo selection is another important consideration. There are many remedies for oily hair to manage oily hair. Do not wash your hair everyday. Use a cleaning shampoo to wash your hair and to scrub off the oil build up. Use a mild shampoo and scrub lightly. While applying conditioner, do not apply to the roots only apply in the middle or to the ends. Reduce the oil intake in your diet. Avoid oily food. Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid drugs, alcohol and oils. Use a mild shampoo, shampoo for oily hair, shampoo for dry scalp, or a baby shampoo. Wash oily hair daily, but concentrate the shampoo on the hair away from the scalp to remove the excess oil from the hair. One teaspoon of apple cider kitchen vinegar added to a pint of water makes an excellent finishing rinse that adds shine and luster to your hair while removing soap residue that can weigh down oily hair.

Oily hair can be due to a hormonal imbalance; a diet too hygiene fatty foods; washing too often; or sometimes because the scalp has larger oil glands than normal. Take some dry soap nuts (reetha) and soak them in water overnight. Mash them in the morning and strain the soapy solution. Add a teaspoon of shikakai powder and wash your hair. Use a hot oil treatment directly on the scalp itself, gently massaging the oil into the scalp and then rinsing the oily hair thoroughly afterward. If hair is very oily, do not use any conditioner, or use conditioner only on the tips or ends of the hair. Oily hair is likely shiny enough, so avoid using hair gloss gel or shine hair care products on oily hair. Another good home remedy is to mix a tablespoon of malt vinegar in a glass of water and add a pinch of salt. Then put two tablespoons on your scalp and massage it with your fingertips. Do not use detergent shampoos. Do not use oils unless the cleansing routine leaves your hair extremely dry. Regularly massage your scalp. Boil two handful of mint leaves in one and a half glass of water for 20 minutes. Strain the solution and mix in a 300ml bottle of shampoo.

Oily Hair Remedies Tips

1. Use a cleaning shampoo to wash your hair and to scrub off all the oil build up.

2. Applying astringent to the scalp will absorb the excess oil from the hair.

3. Mix one teaspoon of Aloe Vera gel and one tablespoon of lemon juice with one-fourth shampoo and use the mixture to rinse the hair regularly.

4. Boil two tablespoons of mint in one and a half glass of water for 20 minutes. Strain the mixture and mix it with the regular used shampoo. Using this mixture on alternative days will absorb the excess oils from the scalp.

5. Oily hair is likely shiny enough, so avoid using hair gloss gel or shine hair care products on oily hair.

6. Use a puree of carrots for 15 minutes and rinse the hair.

7. Wash oily hair everyday, but concentrate the shampoo on the hair away from the scalp to remove the excess oil from the hair.

8. Drinking plenty of water and eating plenty of raw fruits and vegetables is probably the best way to achieve healthy hair.

9. Do not use detergent shampoos.

10. Do not use oils unless the cleansing routine leaves your hair extremely dry.

Words To 12 Days Of Christmas Song Revealed

By Kerry Beck

People often think of "The Twelve Days of Christmas" as as twelve days before Christmas. Actually, Epiphany comes after Christmas as the season of the Christian Year from December 25 until January 6. The church celebrates Christ as the Light of the world and celebrates the journey of the three magi.

Beginning December 25 to January 6, each day, was a part of the Christmas celebration. As a time to show mercy and compassion, each day was spent by doing selfless acts of giving and loving generosity. Other cultures show that gift giving was not entirely done on a single day, but in fact, as the carol goes, spread throughout the entire Christmas season.

From 1558 until 1829 the Church in England was not allowed to practice their faith openly. During that era 'The Twelve Days of Christmas' song was written as a catechism that could be sung in public without the risk of persecution. The words to the 12 Days of Christmas song are, in essence, an allegory. The words to the song have two levels of interpretation: the surface meaning and the meaning known only to members of the Church.

Each element in the carol is a word for a religious reality. The 'true love' represents God and 'me' is the group called to receive these gifts as a Christian. On the first day, the partridge in a pear tree is symbolic of Jesus Christ coming to earth to save men.

See if you can discover the rest of the religious meaning as you read the words to the song, 12 Days of Christmas.

On the first day of Christmas, my true love sent to me A partridge in a pear tree.

On the second day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the third day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the fifth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the eighth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the ninth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the tenth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Ten lords a-leaping, Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

About the Author:

Give These Natural Acne Remedies A Try

By Kerris Samson

Although the skin problem known as acne is often something that teenagers suffer from, today there are many adults as well who are suffering from this particular skin condition. But rather than using more traditional western treatments for helping to improve the condition of their skin and remove the acne more and more people are choosing to try natural acne remedies instead.

Below we provide a number of different remedies that you may want to try in place of those that you can buy over the counter at your local drugstore. One of the biggest benefits to be gained from using such treatments is that they do not cause side effects. Plus rather than just treating the main problem of acne which appears on the skins surface these natural remedies will treat the underlying causes also.

Treatment 1 - Aloe Vera - You can either use this in gel or juice form and the reason why it is so effective is that it contains antibiotic properties. Along with actually treating the infection it can help to prevent the scarring caused by this skin problem. It is most effective when used twice each day (once in the morning and once in the evening). It should be used until such time as you see an improvement in the condition of your skin in some cases it can take as long as 6 months.

Treatment 2 - Apple Cider Vinegar - This is extremely effective at helping to clean your skin. All you need to do is put some on a cotton ball and then wipe over your face. This helps not only to clean out the pores and helps to remove the dirt and bacteria which results in the acne forming. But it also helps to remove any excess oil and helps to re-balance the skin's pH, which leaves your skin looking great. This is properly one of the natural remedies that actually works really quickly in treating the condition.

Treatment 3 - Cucumber - Yes an ideal natural way of treating acne. You have the choice of either liquefying a cucumber, which has been peeled before applying to the acne. Or you can drink the juice four of five times a day for one week. It helps to treat the acne by purifying your blood along with improving the functioning of your lymphatic system, which in turn results in you having much clearer skin.

Treatment 4 - Extract of Grapefruit Seed - This is an extremely effective natural remedy for acne as it contains anti-microbial properties as well as disinfectant ones. The best way to use this particular remedy is to combine between four and forty drops of the extract with 4 fl oz of water. Make sure that it is well mixed and then apply this directly on to the affected area using either a cotton ball or Q-tip two or three times each day.

Treatment 5 - Tea Tree Oil - This has been used for many centuries now because it contains good antiseptic properties and so is perfect for helping to remove dirt and bacteria from the skin. But what strength of oil you use will depend upon how severe your acne is. Plus yes this treatment can take some time before you begin to see any results, but unlike over the counter treatments it does not cause further damage to your skin as it helps it retain moisture.

Along with the natural acne remedies we have mentioned above there are plenty of others that you may want to consider trying. There are some which require you to make changes in your lifestyle and diet, but these will then help to make sure that once gone the acne will find it much more difficult to return in the future.

About the Author:

HAIR REGROWTH

By growinghair

When it comes to hair growth, we've all been guilty of anxiously peering in the mirror every single day to see if we have made any progress, only to become frustrated with the fact that it takes a long time to regrow hair. Added to that is the frustration that comes along with not being able to style your hair during this stage. That is why many refer to hair regrowth as an "awkward stage."

While hair growth is a slow process (locks normally grow about " per month), there are several things that you can do to make your transition to longer tresses smoother. No matter whether you want to add a few more inches or you are trying to grow your hair down your back, hair growth can be frustration free if you go about doing it in the right way.

The first thing that you need to know is if you are trying to regrow hair is that hair regrowth is a process, and in that process you will likely have to adapt to several different styles before you reach your ultimate hair growth goal. This means you will likely be spending more time at the salon during the hair growth process rather than away from it.

Since hair growth after different circumstances needs to be approached a bit differently, we're going to take a little time to look at how to regrow hair after a few of the main incidents that people normally want to promote quick hair regrowth.

We've all had those horrible experiences at the salon where we asked for a particular cut that was just inches shorter than what we started with, only to come out of the salon with a much shorter do than what we bargained for. And you can bet that if the stylist didn't give you the cut you wanted, the cut you have is probably in poor shape itself.

Hair growth after times like these needs to come in steps. While you may not want to, the first thing you need to do after getting a bad hair cut is to go and get it cut again. The reason why is that you need to get a style that you can work with, one that is evenly cut, and a style that is poised to regrow hair. Doing this will eliminate a lot of the frustration that you feel during the growth process and will give you a style that you can be proud of in the meantime.

The first visit after a bad hair cut is critical to your hair growth success. Together, you and your stylist can examine the style that you would eventually like to achieve, and discuss the hair regrowth process and how to cut your hair throughout the duration. The right cuts will ensure that you remain stylish and stress free during the hair growth process.

If you have lost all of your hair due to chemotherapy or another illness, you no doubt want to regrow hair quickly. While hair regrowth can begin within days of stopping treatments, the hair growth process after an illness can be very drawn out.

The first thing you will notice once your hair starts to grow back in, is that it can be sparse in places and that it may have changed in texture. While it may be tempting to encourage any amount of hair growth after losing all of your hair, you need to give your locks some time to recover, thicken up and fill in before you start to regrow hair.

This part of the hair growth process can take lots of visits to the salon before your stylist gives you the go ahead on growing your hair out. During this time, your stylist will likely recommend short layered hair cuts, which will be easy to style and make your hair appear thicker until hair growth is evident on all parts of your scalp.

Once you begin the hair growth process, you can proceed just like anyone else trying to promote hair regrowth. Choose cuts that are both stylish and that will grow into a longer style without much hassle.

As you can see, hair growth does not have to be a lesson in patience. If done properly, you can avoid all of the frustration and have stylish, adorable locks even while you are trying to grow out your hair.

About the Author:

Practical Massage Therapy Business Card Tips

By Janette Lindz

Most excited first time businessmen would probably have a massage therapy business card printed first. You should remember though that a massage therapy business card is around for a purpose.

Why You Need It

There are a couple of reasons why people have business cards. The most obvious reason for a massage therapy business card is to use it as a marketing tool. Aside from your ads, banners and targeted media marketing, your massage therapy business card can be a little tool that can go places. Let's get this straight though, not everyone agrees to using a business card as a marketing tool. For some a business card is simply a professional statement that they are reputable therapists and businessmen. In this day and age, a business card adds to the image of a business.

Why It's Useless Sometimes

Sometimes, a massage therapy business card is a waste of good money. You give your cards away only to be left forgotten in a drawer by a potential client. Most people these days receive a whole lot of cards from other businesses so your card will probably not receive special treatment and be carried around. Your card will end up useless whether you are using it as a marketing tool or an image builder.

Card Tips

If you want your massage therapy business card to serve its purpose of drawing in clients, then you will have to add more than just your name, business name and contact information. Here are some basic tips on how you can improve your card:

- If you are using a massage therapy business card as a marketing tool then you need to motivate your clients to make a call for an appointment. One classic way of doing that is to tell your clients why their life is so miserable with all that body pain and why they need you. Something simple like, "Is that muscle pain keeping you away from work and family? We'll help drive the pain away," might do the trick.

- A marketing tool also needs to push a client to immediate action. One way to do that is to give a bold FREE offer on your card that they can't resist. You can offer a free service, a free online newsletter subscription or free oils or other items. Make sure you tell them that the offer is limited and not forever so that they'll scramble in line.

- One way to make a massage therapy business card unforgettable is to make it a little personal. You can put a lovely photo of yourself or a handwritten signature just to let people know that you are a real person and not just the name of a clinic. Some people respond better when they see evidence of personality and character.

- There is now an open debate on whether it matters if you have full colored glossy cards or a simple black and white one. A glossy well colored card would definitely tell people that you have a lot of class but others argue that a simple card can be redeemed by how well the card giver communicates. Just make sure though that you at least use good quality card paper and something more than just laser printer ink.

About the Author:

The Right Sleep Apnea Mask For You

By Veronika Namesse

A sleep apnea mask is an essential part of a CPAP machine. Unfortunately though, there is no one size fits all sleep apnea mask. You may have to look for a sleep apnea mask that will especially fit you.

Common Issues

Sleep apnea masks are cumbersome to wear. Most of us can probably imagine how uncomfortable it would be to go through the entire night with a cold foreign object strapped to the face and attached to a six feet hose that could tangle all over. Aside from the hose tangling discomfort a sleep apnea mask may also cause facial irritation and strap marks. Your mask may also restrict your movement and may even loosen a bit causing air leaks.

Fit is Important

One crucial aspect about choosing your mask is the fit. The fit will depend on both your facial features and preferences. There are three major kinds of sleep apnea masks. You can pick a nasal mask which will only cover your nose, an oro-nasal mask which will cover both your nose and mouth and an oral mask which will push air only through your mouth.

To prevent air leaks, make sure that the mask fits snugly over the contours and lines of your face such as the nose bridge. Make sure too that the straps can be put on securely.

Buying Online

Most people would want to purchase a sleep apnea mask and machine online for security and privacy reasons. Buying online however may result in having a mask that will not fit you properly. An incorrect mask will most certainly result in even worse sleeplessness due to discomfort or air leaks.

When buying sleep apnea masks online, make sure you have the right specifications first. Ask your doctor for some advice or go scout around in shops and look at different models. Jot down your specifications and check if an online mask will fit your needs.

Special Features

The key is to look for the right online site that has a wide variety of designs and sizes. Some sites may offer personally molded masks that can be molded to the shape of both the nose and the nostrils. A personally molded mask will also allow you to fit the mask according to your mouth and cheek shapes and features.

Aside from personally molded mask, you can also choose a sleep apnea mask that has added features. Masks with padded straps and headgear will limit the discomfort and the marks that straps may leave on your face. There are now straps that will also provide a user with a 360 degree freedom of movement. Detachable parts also come in handy for easy storage and cleaning.

Check for Compatibility

Different machine manufacturers may have different compatibility with different masks. You can easily check for compatibility if you are buying in a store. If you want to buy your mask online, make sure to check for compatibility. Manufacturers will almost always make masks that are compatible only with the kind of machine that they are selling.

About the Author:

Tuesday, December 4, 2007

Natural Acne Treatments To Help You Stop Acne Fast

By Phyllise Phelps

There are numerous ways to treat acne and sometimes coming to a decision as to what will work best for you can be tough. Acne is a difficult problem to deal with and it has many negative consequences. Each day more acne sufferers are turning to natural approaches to get rid of their acne instead of the harsh creams or dangerous drugs that can have negative side effects.

Natural acne treatments can also come in many different types and systems. You can find many programs online that offer to heal your acne naturally or holistically. Holistic acne treatments are simply those that look at all aspects of your life and the impact they can have on your acne. These programs look at the effect your diet, exercise, stress and skin cleansing habits are having on your acne.

Diet:

What you eat can have a significant impact on your acne. Many people have reported that by simply eliminating certain foods they have noticed a significant reduction in their acne. Reducing your consumption of fatty foods or junk foods can have a positive effect in reducing your acne. There is no need to become an all out vegetarian or completely eliminate processed foods but do make an effort to reduce the quantities.

Eat more fruits and vegetables as these types of foods are very rich in water content and have many health benefits including the potential to reduce acne. Many people believe that acne is caused by excessive toxins building up in your body. Fruits and vegetables have a cleansing effect on your body and help to reduce toxins.

Carrot juice is a great thing to add to your diet as many have seen good results by adding this to their diet. Consider purchasing a juicer at some point as it could be one of the best investments you make. Regularly drinking fresh juices made from fruits and vegetables can do wonders for your acne as well as give your body a great surge of nutrients.

Exercise:

Physical activity is very important to help to keep you healthy and can indeed also help in reducing acne. Make sure that you live an active lifestyle. This does not mean that you have to run a marathon everyday but at least spend some time, thirty to sixty minutes walking or doing a light jog. Even taking up a sport like golf or tennis can be excellent. Also consider doing some weight training one to four times a month to keep your muscles strong and healthy.

Stress:

Many people believe that stress can have a significant impact at making acne worse. It is important to try to reduce stress as much as possible from your life. Doing exercise as mentioned above can be a great way to reduce stress. Also consider taking up yoga or learning meditation as that can have positive stress reduction effects.

Listening to your favorite music can also help to reduce stress. Also deep breathing exercises can help to reduce stress. All you need to do is take a deep breath in and then out. Do not stress yourself in any way while you do the breathing. Take 5 to 10 breaths once a day or whenever you feel you need to relieve some tension and stress.

Skin Cleansing:

Keeping the skin clean is important in your efforts to get rid of acne. However this does not mean that you need to wash your face every hour. Twice a day is often enough, once in the morning and once in the night. Consider using a natural skin cleanser like glycerin soap which you can get at most health food stores. Also applying a natural moisturizer like almond oil to your face can be a great way to give your skin the nutrients it needs, you can get this at most health food stores also. Follow some of these strategies to help you get the clear skin you deserve.

About the Author:

Feed Your Body with Good Filtered Water Using Home Water Filters

By Kevin Mason

Drinking water filter system is a home water filter which filter and purify the water from water contaminants in your tap water. A whole house drinking water filter system eliminates water contaminants and enhances the taste of your drinking water.

Your body contain over 70% water. You can see how important what kind of water you drink will have huge impact on your health. When you drink enough water on daily basis, that will provide water for your essential organs like liver and kidneys and help them to filter toxics from our blood stream system constantly.

However, if you drink water that has chlorine or other organic and inorganic compounds, you force your liver and kidneys to act as a filter for these contaminants. That will constantly add burden to liver and kidney. Sooner or later, these essential organs will fail to do what they are able to do, then you will be sick from subclinical stage to clinical stage. The most important thing to remember is that even the best tap water still contains lot of water contaminants which may include chlorine, lead and harmful bacteria or by-products of chemicals.

The healthiest option is to drink water free of harmful contaminants but containing traces of natural minerals like magnesium, calcium and potassium. Every parent wants to give her children every opportunity possible to succeed; taking a few minutes to provide clean, healthy water to drink is one of the best and easiest ways to accomplish this goal.

But the million dollar question is that why there is need for drinking water filter when there is enough source of water. In California, it is illegal to sell any water filtration device that claim for the reduction of anything other than chlorine, taste and odor unless that water filter has been tested by the state of California to reduce said contaminant.

You may have realized that a lot of water filter systems are available in the market and also online for purchase. There are numerous kinds of home water filter available in the market like countertop water filter, under sink water filter, refrigerator water filter, pitcher filter, faucet-mounted water filter, shower water filter, whole house water filter and garden water filter, etc. We will talk about few home water filter systems below.

Whole house water filters do just what the name implies, they filter water for the entire houses simultaneously without having to be installed at each individual water faucet. Under sink water filters are among the more expensive options to take in this field, and they provide excellent filtered water. For years, the corner filter has been the least expensive and most used type of salt water fish tank filtration systems. However, counter top water filters can be very convenient and effective if you choose right water filters for your family. Generally they are more expensive than under sink water filters. But Some of them have beautiful design.

Carbon is the primary substance used in water filtration methods because carbon has the potential to absorb many of the chemicals found in water. Although reverse osmosis does extract several contaminants from drinking water, its removal capabilities are not ideally suited to the challenges of municipally treated water. In spite of this shortcoming, reverse osmosis water is becoming very popular amongst Americans, because people focus on the benefits, not its drawbacks. Personally I don't recommend reverse osmosis water filter.

It is also very vital to begin, or continue using, a home water filtration system. Therefore home water filter systems have become very popular among many homeowners as a means of improving their home. Either you install a portable, fixed, or even refrigerator unit. Some of them even install whole house filter systems.

About the Author:

The Holiday Epiphany

By Kerry Beck

Most people are too distracted thinking about Christmas sales and promos, they tend to forget the celebration of Epiphany. Epiphany is the time after Christmas when the 3 Magi visited the Child Jesus. Back then, the Epiphany celebration had the twelve days Christ's birth when the church celebrates Christ being shown as the Light of the world and remembers the journey of the three wise men.

Families in countries different from the US start the Epiphany celebration by remembering others on St. Stephens Day. St. Stephen's Day is on December 26 and commemorates Stephen, Christian faith's first martyr. Family Bible reading on the 26th of December might include his life story in Acts 6, 7, & 8.

Stephen was killed because of his convictions about the revelation of Christ in the world. According to the Book of Acts, he was the very first martyr of the Christian faith. For centuries, Christians have remembered his faithfulness on the day after Christmas, December 26. It is a day for selfless care for the needy, the despised, and the unloved.

With your family, you might go out and help a needy family or join a local charity group to render services on the day after Christmas. During this time most families are out shopping and going after Christmas sales. You can make a difference in your community by bringing food boxes or presents to a family in need.

In countries like Britain and Canada, December 26th is known as Boxing Day and considered an official holiday there. When my kids first heard of it, they were thinking of celebrating boxing as a sport. They never thought that Boxing day was about the service of love.

During this day, boxes of food are given to people in need. Back then food and necessities were given to servants from their masters. The Wenceslaus' spirit is shown so that the people may celebrate with great happiness the manifestation of the Good News of Jesus' coming to the world.

Often churches organize the day to particularly serve the physical and spiritual needs of their neighbors and thus demonstrate that God's Word requires good deeds to others nearby. Boxing Day is one of those very visible ways to show the true gospel.

About the Author:

How you can Stop Drinking Alcohol

By Ed Philips

Alcohol drinking is injurious to your physical and mental health. It may ruin your life, family and social relationships, and employment prospects. There are numerous ways to stop drinking alcohol.

The initial step that needs to be addressed is the real reasons why you feel the time has come to stop drinking. Quite a lot of the reasons will be general ones but the one you will really have to think about hard are the ones that concern you. This task will be made easier through the assistance of a close friend.

Never go to far away from this vital list as it is a lifeline to your commitment for giving up drinking alcohol. I would suggest making a few copies and leaving them in all important places such as the fridge door and the bathroom mirror as well as keeping a copy on you, for example in your wallet.

Normally the more hardened or chronic drinkers can stop drinking completely from one day to the next, although an easier alternative is to reduce quantity on a gradual basis. A laid out day by day plan showing daily reductions will help to get to the final goal of quitting completely.

Keep evaluating your progress on regular basis, say, for at least thirty days to make your new behavior a habit. Keep a record of the benefits you are experiencing. There may be lapses as well. Make them as stepping stones to your progress. Share your plan and experiences with others to seek their helpful suggestions.

On occasions these self-help programs just don't work out, but don't loose heart. Remember that alcoholism is a disease and could have made serious roots into organism provoking certain chemical alterations in your biological system.

It may have affected your vital organs such as liver, pancreas, heart, kidney, digestive system and so on. Quite often, therefore, it needs expert medical assistance for its treatment. There are certain medications that may help you overcome your alcoholism. Remember, it is safer to withdraw from this nefarious habit under the medical supervision.

You can be sure to find many things on the way which will impede eventual success. Don't think twice about changing old friends for new ones or changing your route to work as long as you avoid any possible contact with alcohol. One really good change to get you on the right track is to substitute alcohol for healthy fruit juices and always have a piece of gum close at hand.

There are a number of rehab centers including AA and AVERT which are internationally renowned for helping alcoholics. The members include many x-alcoholics who give valuable support and tips based on their own experiences. These people are really understanding and are always there if you get into deep trouble.

They even keep your identity anonymous. You may log on to internet to find more such self help groups who are only too willing and happy to extend their cooperation. They will help you to stop drinking alcohol by customizing plans to suit your needs.

The old friends and associates at drinking clubs or pubs may insist on your company with renewed persuasion and reasons. Persist in your refusal of their invitations with polite yet firm Nos. You should learn to stay active by creating hobbies and other recreational pursuits to spend the alcohol drinking hour with your spouse, kids and friends. Visiting a music concert, reading an interesting book or playing your favorite game on your computer can divert your attention from drinking alcohol. Reward yourself by finding ways to stop drinking alcohol.

About the Author:

Monday, December 3, 2007

Green Up Your Holiday Gifts

By Lyn Davis

On Black Friday, news cameras watched as shoppers waited outside of stores, anxious to spend their money or swipe their plastic credit cards to purchase the most sought after toys, electronic gadgets, and much more. For those shoppers who missed out on Black Friday bargains, they were able to shop online for bargains on Cyber Monday.

Giving gifts is fun and of course we want to choose these gifts wisely so that our gift is appreciated by the recipient. We need to be conscious of the impact this gift will have on the environment.

It is so easy to go into a store and make a purchase without giving a thought to the packaging the item is in. The United States Environmental Protection Agency reports that household garbage increases by 25 percent in the days between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. That places an enormous burden on our landfills.

No matter what holidays you Celebrate, Christmas, Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, Kwanzaa, New Years, enjoy your holiday season. We can celebrate the holidays and still be kind to the environment. We all need to do our part to reduce the impact the holiday season.

Here are a few tips to consider:

Keep in mind that even a greeting card or gift tag can be recycled. It may seem like a small item, but it still needs to be given consideration.

Look for the Energy Star logo when buy appliances. These appliances are more energy efficient.

If you mail greeting cards, consider sending a postcard instead of a larger greeting card. Better yet, send a cyber-greeting to friends with computers.

Recycle your holiday greeting cards and use them the following year as gift tags.

You do not always have to purchase a new item for it to be the perfect holiday gift. Shopping at a thrift store can turn up a unique and cherished gift. Jewelry is an item that can be found at thrift stores and makes a perfect gift.

I am sure you have a collection of some sort. Avid collectors will usually obtain duplicates at some point. These duplicates make perfect gifts for the new collector.

Consider preparing food as a gift item, either baked goods, or even simple recipes that prepared with love. These make perfect gifts for elderly or those on a fixed income.

You have knowledge that no one else has. Share these talents as a gift to someone wanting to learn about your hobby or specialty. An hour or two of your time makes a perfect gift.

Planting a tree is a great way to honor someone.

Give a donation to a charitable organization.

Gift certificate for services are always a welcomed gift.

We can all take steps to improve the environment Choosing appropriate holiday gifts is one action you can take.

About the Author:

Is Olive Leaf Really Effective?

By Paulina Jenkins

Olive leaf is extracted from the leaves of the Olive tree in the Mediterranean. It was first used as medicine in Ancient Egypt. For centuries olive leaf was both a food and a home remedy used in many Mediterranean countries. Since the 1800s olive leaf has been a subject of different researches.

Olive leaf is an antioxidant filled with vitamin C, zinc, iron, beta carotene and selenium. It is able to boost energy levels and increase blood flow. Olive leaf can greatly help sufferers of chronic fatigue syndrome and also those with arthritis.

Olive leaf can cause the viruses to become inactive and thus prevent them from spreading. It is used with great results to restrain the flu viruses, the HIV virus and herpes viruses. Olive leaf is an effective natural antibiotic with the ability to wipe out bacteria, fungi, viruses and yeasts. Very often it is used for the treatment of Candida and psoriasis skin infections.

Olive leaf has been used for hundreds of years as a home remedy to reduce fevers. Studies have shown the olive leaf tea to be a more effective treatment for malaria than quinine. Olive leaf is also a great natural treatment for shingles. Poultices made with olive leaves are effective treatment for skin infections.

In addition olive leaf is a natural remedy to treat hyperglycemia, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. In the Mediterranean it is often used to give relief to rheumatism, arthritis, gout and fever.

Olive leaf is one natural remedy that is shown to be effective against bacteria that are immune to antibiotics. It is a non-invasive and non toxic means to rid the body of illnesses causing bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, flukes, yeasts, worms and parasites.

Olive leaf is available in the form of tincture, capsules and leaves. If you are to take the olive leaf tea it should be taken with food. An expectant woman or a nursing woman should refrain from taking olive leaf. Anyone on a course of prescribed antibiotic must stop taking olive leaf until the prescription is finished as it can interfere with the medication. .

About the Author:

All About Poisonous Foods for Cats

By Angie Allen

Cats can be just like our buddies. It may be all right to share some couch space or even your bed with your cat. You are not being a good friend however if you start sharing your food with her. It is definitely tempting to let your cat share your table food both to show your affection and to save a bit on expensive cat food. Some food items however may poison and cause death to your cat.

Chocolate

Caffeine and the component theobromine found in chocolates are fatal to your cat. It is obvious that chemical stimulants affect the nervous system and cause increased heart rates and cardiac problems that may lead to coma or death. Keep your kitty away not just from chocolate bars but also from cups, spoons and utensils that you may have used to for a chocolate drink.

Onions and Garlic

Onions are usually considered more toxic than garlic. Both however contain N-propyl-disulphide in different amounts. This substance can ruin your cat's red blood cells which will lead to a form of cat anemia. Other than obvious dishes that may contain bits and pieces of onion and garlic, make sure that you also keep your cat away from sauces like gravy and spaghetti sauce which may contain powdered onion and garlic.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are lycopene-rich fruits that can keep humans free of bad body toxins. To cats however, the bitter alkaloid Glycoalkaloid solanine in tomatoes can be dangerous. Your cat could suffer form gastrointestinal problems if they ingest tomatoes.

Milk

Milk is not a toxic substance for cats at all but it can cause gastrointestinal discomfort since a lot of adult cats cannot tolerate lactose. You may wonder at this especially since we often stereotypically imagine cats enjoying saucers filled with milk. Milk may eventually cause gas build up and stomach cramps and upsets in your cat. The key is to keep your milk loving pet at bay with very occasional treats of cream. You can also opt to buy lactose free milk products in the market that have been especially formulated for cats.

Dog Food

Your cat is not your dog. This means that they also have different nutritional requirements. Feeding your cat dog food can lead to malnutrition, heart ailments and other serious diseases.

Raw Fish

It's not surprising to find your cat ravishing his share of fish. Raw fish however is not good for cats if this is the only thing they eat and they eat this regularly. Cats can suffer from thiamine deficiency by eating raw fish. This could lead to seizures and loss of appetite.

Spoiled Food

Spoiled human food is dangerous for humans and it is equally so for cats. Cats however may not just get poisoned by chewing on a suspicious meatloaf but also by foraging through an open and accessible trash bin. It is best to keep your garbage cans covered with tight lids and stored under the kitchen sink.

About the Author:

Identifying Cat Toxic Plants

By Angie Allen

Plants always seem to bring a more comfortable, warm and natural feeling to a home. In some cases however, the plants in your indoor pots and the ones in your garden could be the cause of illness or death in your pet cat. There are points therefore that you should remember to help prevent your cat from getting poisoned by plants.

Plants Toxic to Cats

Several sites online have listings of over a hundred cat-toxic plants. Others estimate however, that the list of toxic plants could go well over 700. What is important is that you are able to easily identify a potential plant hazard. When ingested, cats will often become groggy, agitated and may vomit or have diarrhea. In severe cases, cats could die of plant poisoning.

Common houseplants that could be toxic to your cat include lilies, mistletoe, poinsettia, poison ivy, aloe vera, eucalyptus, ferns, chrysanthemum, daffodil, holly, jonquil and tulip. Certain plants may not be toxic by nature but they can be harmful to your cat if they have been sprayed with pesticide.

Why Cats Play with These Plants

Since cats are naturally curious, they may consider a big potted plant as a new item to explore. Cats also love to play with grass. If you keep your cat all day indoors, he may start to think of your plant as replacement grass. In some cases, cats may even use the soft inviting soil as a litter spot.

It's not surprising to find that your cat may have chewed on and swallowed on a piece of toxic leaf.

Redecorating Ideas

You may have a problem removing and redecorating your home to makes sure that your cat is kept safe from poisonous plants. This is especially true if you have to cat-proof your garden too.

Keep sprinklers on timer to keep your cats from too much exploration on harmful plants. You may also want to consider putting up a fence around dangerous plants.

To keep your cats safe from indoor plants, provide a screened area for these plants. Sprinkling some cayenne powder also seems to be an effective deterrent for cats.

Other entertainment

Your cats are not little toddlers. It would therefore be harder for you to explain why they absolutely cannot have a bite of that fern. It is suggested that you offer your cat other activities to carefully divert his attention. You can offer him a grass patch or a scratching post. Make sure too that he has a variety of toys and regular outdoor playtime. In the long run however, the best solution to keep your cat safe from toxic plants is to monitor him.

Immediate Response

Act immediately once you notice the symptoms of plant poisoning in your cat. Carefully inspect your cat's mouth and remove plant leaves that may still be inside. As much as possible, do not attempt to come up with a solution on your own. The vet will know best what to do in poisoning situations.

About the Author:

Improve By Reflecting On Other's Experiences

By Aazdak Alisimo

Life is inevitably a strange thing. We learn through experience, but often only gain that experience after much of our life has been lived. It is a catch-22 of a classical sort. To improve yourself quicker, you might consider the thoughts of these famous individuals.

You are never given a dream without also being given the power to make it true. You may have to work for it, however. - Richard Bach

Success is a state of mind. If you want success, start thinking of yourself as a success. - Dr. Joyce Brothers

I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish that He didn't trust me so much. - Mother Teresa

The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a person's determination. - Tommy Lasorda

Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do. - John Wooden

Whether you think you can or think you can't - you are right. - Henry Ford

It's a sign of mediocrity when you demonstrate gratitude with moderation. - Roberto Benigni

Thought is action in rehearsal. - Sigmund Freud

Human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes. - Norman Vincent Peale

It is impossible to win the race unless you venture to run, impossible to win the victory unless you dare to battle. - Richard M. DeVos

The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes of mind. - William James

Do or do not. There is no try! - Yoda

It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare; it is because we do not dare that they are difficult. There are risks and costs to a programme of action, but they are far less than the long-range risks and costs of comfortable inaction. - John F. Kennedy

There is a magnet in your heart that will attract true friends. That magnet is unselfishness; thinking of others first. When you learn to live for others, they will live for you. - Paramahansa Yogananda

If I accept you as you are, I will make you worse; however if I treat you as though you are what you are capable of becoming, I help you become that. - Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

About the Author:

Sunday, December 2, 2007

Acupuncture School Comparisons

By Tammy Foster

Going to school to study acupuncture is an exciting decision but before you select your school of study you need to understand the differences in between the two main varieties of school. You will need to understand where the school is located, the various topics of study, exactly how long it will take to complete the course of study, exactly how much the courses will cost, and if course, if financial aid is available to help you pay for school. But the most important thing to look for is a school which follows your philosophy of acupuncture and holistic medicine overall.

Currently there are two distinct philosophies in the world of acupuncture study. It is very important for any prospective acupuncturist to understand the differences between these philosophies before you make a commitment to any one school. You want to select a school whose philosophy matches as closely to your own as possible. So let's take a look at the two different philosophies of acupuncture study. First of all there is the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)/ Eight Elements School and then there is the Five Element School.

The TCM/Five Element School takes a classic approach to the practice of acupuncture. In this type of school the philosophy emphasizes not just the practice of acupuncture but it also includes individual patient counseling. Currently the Five Element School is the less popular of the two philosophies. This type of school is found less often throughout the US that the Eight Element School.

Moving right along, the TCM/Eight Elements School is based on a form of diagnosis that has become standardized and has been in wide use in China ever since the start of communism. This is built on the basis of what are referred to as the "Eight Principles."

The Eight Principles schools focus on herbal therapies along with the traditional practice of acupuncture. The biggest difference between the types of schools is primarily philosophical; however, it is a big difference and one that must be considered thoroughly before you apply to any one school. Many purist argue that the Eight Element Schools are totally devoid of the spiritual element that is the foundation of the Five Element Schools.

Both have their good and bad points and when taken together they both have important philosophies to teach students interested in learning about acupuncture.

The good news is that there are some schools across the US that embrace both philosophies and so you get a bit of the best of both worlds. For example, Yo San University located in Marina Del Rey, CA specializes in Taoist Classical Medicine, which combines both the approaches of TCM/Eight Elements as well as the Five Elements School. This makes it one of schools that embraces both forms of learning. This school also includes the Energetic Systems of Chinese medicine in their teachings. This form of study is based on the I-Ching as well as the "Yellow Emperor's Classic." It makes it a favorite of acupuncture students.

The co-founder of this university, Maoshing Ni, believes that this method of study makes it possible for future acupuncturists and healers to have a complete and integrated view since there is a complete connection of all of the elements. This allows students to understand not only the spiritual approach but the healing energies that surround us, as well as the physical application of this ancient practice of Chinese medicine.

It is so important to take the time to study both of these philosophies as you begin your acupuncture training. Philosophies may not seem that vital as you begin your training but the importance of them will become apparent the further along the road you get to becoming a trained and fully qualified acupuncturist.

About the Author:

Keeping The Christmas Budget

By J Gardener

It's so easy to get caught up in the excitement of the Christmas season. When the carols begin to play, we know that there are parties and events to attend, family to visit, and decorations to put up. It's also the time when Santa Claus makes his annual sleigh-ride, with his bag full of goodies for children everywhere.

All parents who act as Santa's helpers want Christmas to be the most special time of the year, for their kids. There's nothing more heartwarming for a mom or dad on Christmas morning than to see the look in a child's eye, as the bounty of Santa's midnight visit is finally revealed under the tree. But many parents find themselves, in January, wishing they'd shopped just a little less in December.

Parents could save themselves a lot, each year, if they'd do their homework before shopping. Once they know exactly what their children want for Christmas-something most parents are well aware of by Halloween-a little bit of price comparison might reveal some real deals, available. Reading the shopping inserts in the Sunday paper are a great way to study prices.

Parents might find the best deals online for the most sought-after toys, especially early in the shopping season. Often the retailers who have stores in the mall also have extensive internet presence, and sporadic deals which are only found on their web pages. The cost of shipping is an added expense with online shopping, but sales tax is usually nonexistent.

When shopping for their kids, parents should never leave the house without a list, even if they know exactly what they're going to purchase. As they shop, then, parents should keep a written account of exactly how much they're spending. Being able to see the numbers, in black and white, can curb the temptation to buy too much extra stuff.

One of the most important ways parents can avoid overspending at Christmas is to avoid the temptation of the last-minute shopping run, to pick up a few more little things or stocking-stuffers. When all of the major gifts have been bought, there's really no need to buy kids little extras. They'll probably just wind up under the bed or in the garbage, before January.

We all want the best for our kids at Christmas. Overdoing and overspending will only create financial tension, later on, and leave parents with less-than-perfect memories of Christmas.

About the Author:

Your Child's First Family Christmas Party

By J Gardener

The Christmas season is full of wonderful events that don't occur during the rest of the year. Besides all of the religious services and school pageants and civic events, most extended families have at least one large gathering, where a feast is prepared and presents are exchanged. It can be a wonderful time to renew relationships and reacquaint with family members from near and far.

As wonderful as these family events can be, many parents face them with at least a twinge of trepidation. There are usually family present, who haven't seen each other in years, sometimes since they were all kids, themselves. For parents of small children, these parties are often the first chance they've had to introduce their kids to the rest of their relations. It can be a daunting task, for some moms and dads.

Many parents worry that their child and their child's behavior will be judged closely by relatives at these parties. Any problems with either, some moms and dads feel, will reflect negatively on their own skills at parenting. As well, parents often worry that their children may react negatively to being in the midst of such a large gathering of what might be, essentially, strangers to the kids.

Much of this anxiety, while probably natural, is overblown by parents. They forget, sometimes, that in any situation their children really do want to appear to be good and well-behaved. Most of the time, kids really do want to please their parents. Sometimes, though, a six-year-old can't help acting like a six-year-old. It's not something that a parent should fret about.

On the other hand, it can be helpful for parents to prepare their children a bit for large family Christmas gatherings. Discussing, ahead of time, the kind of behavior that's expected can provide a child with a blueprint for the party. Also, making sure that children are well-rested and well-fed, beforehand, can make a big difference in a child's mood at the party.

Moms and dads can ready themselves for a family Christmas gathering, as well, by reminding themselves that even the best kids have their less-than-perfect moments. No matter how nice it might be for every single relative to think that your kid is the best ever, most of your adult relatives have been through parenthood, too. They know, as you do, that the best thing you can do when raising your children, is to let them know how much you love them. That way, every Christmas, and every Christmas party with your children, will be as special as it can be.

About the Author:

Saturday, December 1, 2007

About Easy Vegetarian Recipes

By Diana Pells

Despite the health benefits of being one, most people quit being vegetarians because easy vegetarian recipes are sometimes hard to come by. In some cases, the need to find an easy vegetarian recipe is motivated not just by the need to really find one but to satisfy curiosity as well. Is there really such a thing as an easy vegetarian recipe?

The Value of Cooking at Home

Some new vegetarians may be tempted to easily buy take outs at vegetarian restaurants. Most of us know however that there are great advantages to cooking meals at home. Home cooked meals are almost always cheaper to prepare and have the additional benefit of binding members of a family in a comfortable atmosphere. One other major plus factor for you as a vegetarian is that you are 100% sure of the cleanliness of your vegetables and what exactly goes into a dish.

Knowing What Type You Belong To

To find the best easy vegetarian recipe is to identify first what kind of vegetarian you are as well as the other vegetarians you are planning to cook a meal for. The most common type of vegetarian is the lacto-ovo-vegetarians who eat vegetables, fruits, eggs and dairy products. A lacto vegetarian eats the same kinds of food except for the eggs.

Strict vegetarians are called vegans and do not eat anything that comes from an animal or any animal based foods. There are other kinds of vegetarians but these are the most common. Once you know where you, your family and your friends belong to, finding an easy vegetarian recipe will be easier.

The Recipe Myth

A common misconception with vegetarian recipes is that they are complicated to prepare. Since most vegetarians also lead busy lives, this may seem discouraging. There is however no truth to this common belief. In fact, some vegetarian recipes are the easiest to prepare.

Vegetables and fruits can be simply pureed and blended to keep the freshness and nutrients intact. Less strict vegetarians however also have a variety of choices. For lacto-ovo-vegetarians for example the only thing that needs to be omitted are meat products and meat based products. This means that you can basically saute or steam anything you like as long as there isn't any meat in it. For a truly substantial, tasty and healthy easy vegetarian recipe, you can substitute meat with tofu, beans, legumes and nuts.

Stocking

Stocking of a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains and dairy products at home is the key to being a vegetarian. Aside from the usual fruits and vegetables, you can also stock up on spices, seeds, olive oil, pasta, rice, cereal and noodles. Just imagine what you can cook up even with just these basic ingredients. An easy vegetarian recipe can be as convenient as sautéing some vegetables, spices, beans, tomato sauce and topping it on rice.

Washing

Always remember to properly wash and clean all fruits and vegetables with inedible peelings. Most of these food items have changed hands so often before reaching you that they're bound to carry some dirt or bacteria. Wash your food with running water and use a brush for fruits and vegetables with dimpled, corrugated or hard skins.

About the Author:

Weight Loss Tips To Help You Get Rid Of Fat Fast

By Kelvin Gilberte

Losing weight can be a significant challenge for those that suffer from obesity. It is important to develop a sense of commitment and patience as sometimes it can take a bit of time to see real results. It is a good idea to stay away from programs that promise you will lose weight overnight with no effort as they generally tend to not work or they can even be dangerous and harmful to your health.

Remember that people that have a healthy body weight do things very similarly as far as diet and exercise habits are concerned so sometimes all you need to do is pick one of these people's brains to find out how they do it. Here are some tips to help you in your efforts to lose weight.

Write Your Goals Down On Paper

It is important to know exactly what you are trying to accomplish before you start. This is why writing down your goals can be very effective as it helps to keep you on target. All you need to do is decide what weight you would like to be at 1 month, 3 months and then 6 months from now and be sure to be reasonable and shoot for something around a 10 pound loss per month until your ideal weight is reached.

It is also important to know why you are trying to lose weight in the first place. Remember that it will take effort and commitment on your part but it can become much easier if you are strongly driven to pursue your weight goals. Maybe you want to fit into that nice bikini for summer. Maybe you are just tired of being ashamed and embarrassed about your weight. You need to search within yourself to find the real answers and then be sure to write them down too.

Once you have written both your goals and the reasons then all you need to do is check in on these at least once a day. This will help you to stay on track so make sure you do it. It should only take a few minutes at most, even a glance can be effective but do it daily.

Proper Exercise And Diet

You cannot ignore the effects diet and exercise can have to your weight loss goals. When it comes to your diet try to consume less food more often. You want to eat the right amount that fills you up but does not leave you feeling stuffed. Eat once every 3 to 4 hours, sometimes all you may want to eat is a fruit before waiting another few hours for a full meal.

Also make sure you are getting the right kinds of foods in your diet like more fruits and vegetables. It is not necessary to entirely eliminate some of your favorite foods but you do need to keep an eye on portion sizes.

Exercise is also very important in achieving permanent weight loss. You need to do aerobic exercise to help burn calories regularly. Do aerobics for 3 to 5 times a week for 30 to 60 minutes each day. Even just going for a walk outside for an hour can be effective provided the weather is good. You can also join a gym and use their aerobic equipment or buy your own as there are many effective pieces of aerobic equipment, the key is to find one you like and then to actually use it regularly.

Weight training is also very important as it will help to build and maintain muscle mass. Muscle burns calories continuously so it helps to increase your metabolism and will make weight loss much easier and faster. You do not need to weight train everyday, sometimes just one to four sessions a month can be effective. Use some of these weight loss tips to help you get to your ideal weight.

About the Author:

The Incredible Benefits of Soy

By Healthy Herbal Guy

There are only a couple of foods that are allowed by the FDA to include health claims on the label. Soy is among the few that are. You may have even read some of the claims lately stating that diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol that include twenty-five grams of soy protein every day can lower the chance of heart disease. Soy has a lot of good properties, and some of them are listed below.

Soy aids an assortment of ailments from cardiovascular disease to prostate cancer to menopause symptoms. Even with these benefits a lot of people simply don't eat soy because they're not acquainted with it. The soybean is a legume and is made into an assortment of foods like soy milk, tofu, miso, and tempeh. Many of these you can purchase in your local grocery store.

Soy helps cardiovascular disease by lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol up to 4% to 5%. Even greater decreases of LDL can be achieved when soy is substituted for red meat or other sources of saturated fats. Current theories suggest soy has such a beneficial effect because it increases the activity of receptors that "trap" LDL.

Soy is full of isoflavones. These chemicals are very similar to estrogen and have some of the same effects, but they are not as strong as estrogen. Also called phytoestrogens, isoflavones help arteries relax and dilate which improves blood circulation and lowers blood pressure. Some studies have shown decreases up to 15 points. More blood flow to the body and its organs is always a good thing.

Men will be happy to know the learn that studies have shown that cancer patients who consumed soy isoflavones for six months showed a leveling off of prostate-specific antigen, a key indicator in prostate cancer. Additionally, consuming isoflavones is thought to inhibit enzymes that fuel and feed tumor growth.

Menopausal women also acquire large benefits from soy since the phytoestrogens in soy are metabolized in the body as equol. A few women who have experienced 5 or more hot flashes on a daily basis have discovered that soy can help lower hot flash frequency up to 40%. Soy has also proven helpful in decreasing vaginal dryness in some menopausal women.

Lastly soy has been shown to aid those with kidney disease. Glomerular filtration rate is a measure of kidney stress that is decreased when soy proteins are used in place of animal proteins. This decrease in kidney stress may help retard kidney damage.

With its incredible health benefits for men and women of all ages, and its ability to provide a good source of high protein, low fat calories, soy is likely to continue to be a popular, and healthy choice for dieters everywhere. So start incorporating soy based foods into your diet today, and harness all the benefits soy has to offer.

About the Author:

Get Rid of Stubborn Body Fat With Interval Training

By Rusty Moore

Losing body fat is tough at times, but it doesn't have to be. The widely popular steady state cardio typically only works for a short while, then people get stuck at a certain body fat percentage. If you want to burn off as much stubborn body fat as desired, then interval training is the answer.

Interval Training Burns Calories Long After The Workout is Finished

Interval Training is tough work which burns more total calories than traditional cardio. A very basic approach to losing weight is to burn more calories than what you consume in a day. An intense session of Interval Training will raise your metabolism for a few hours after the workout. The total calories burned will be much greater than if a more moderate form of cardio was used.

Here is an interval training workout that works very well. I have used several variations of this workout for 6 years and it keeps me at 6 to 8 percent body fat year round.

1) Find a solid treadmill, elliptical machine, or exercise bike

2) Walk at the typical "target heart rate" pace for one and a half minutes

3) Speed up the machine so you are up to a slow jog

4) After your 30 seconds of harder effort is up, back it down to the exact intensity level you began at and repeat for 1.5 minutes

5) Jog or peddle fast for 30 seconds (higher speed/resistance than the first time)

6) You are going to repeat this cycle of intense and moderate for at least 20 minutes

Some things to look for...you will want to make sure that you are a bit short of breath and sweating when the workout is done. If you are breathing normal or aren't sweating, then you won't get the full benefits of interval training. You can't make up for a lack of intensity by training longer, you really need to tough it out for this to work well. Interval training isn't the easiest way to workout, but it is the most effective for getting rid of stubborn body fat.

About the Author:

Visit the Webring for More Great Sites!

Powered by WebRing.

Just Women's Issues