Healthy Living

10 smart eating habits

2010-07-21T11:17:00.000-07:00

Most of us have a busy work schedules and a dozen other commitments to look into.

But, to do justice to all these various aspects of your life, you MUST pay attention to your diet and health.

How you eat your food is as important as what you eat. So, the next time you sit down to eat, enjoy your meal by keeping these pointers in mind.

i. Eat slowly; chew your food well

It takes 20 minutes before your stomach sends a clear message to your brain that you're full.

If you take the time to chew your food well, you will find you end up eating less. Ideally, you should have smaller, frequent meals as opposed to larger, infrequent ones.

ii. Eat more

If you want to lose weight, starving yourself does not help -- you need to eat well.

Surprised?

Here's the explanation: When your body doesn't receive the required nutrients, your metabolism slows down. Metabolism is the rate at which you burn calories while resting. So, if you don't eat enough, fewer calories will be burnt and there will be less fat loss. You should eat small meals at regular intervals to keep your energy levels high. Eat till you are satiated (at the same time, don't forget what we suggested in Tip No 1).

iii. Eat less red meat

Red meats are high in saturated fat and should be avoided by people with high cholesterol.

Chicken and fish are the best meats to consume.

Fish is better than chicken because it has antioxidants. Antioxidants are organic substances that include vitamins C, E, A and carotenoids; carotenoids add pigment to some fruits and vegetables. For instance, carrots wouldn't be orange without them. Beta-carotenoid is the most popular of carotenoids. Antioxidants help prevent cancer, heart disease and stroke.

These meats can be baked, grilled or roasted. Frying will add unnecessary fat.

iv. Prevent constipation

Add fibre to your diet; this adds bulk to your food and prevents constipation. Whole grain foods like oatmeal, bran, wheat germ, brown rice, fruits (especially with their skin), prunes (dried plums), etc, are all good sources of fibre. Home remedies for constipation including the following:

~ Have guavas with the seeds.

~ Have honey in a glass of milk twice a day.

~ Have one tablespoon of corn syrup in a glass of water. Corn syrup is actually corn starch, which is primarily glucose. It is used in making candies, jams and jellies because it does not crystallise like sugar. Corn syrup is available in any well-stocked supermarket.

v. Have onion and garlic

Onion decreases blood pressure and garlic decreases cholesterol. Any amount and form of onion and garlic will give you the benefits of their properties, but a raw garlic clove taken on an empty stomach in the morning is the best.

vi. Use less salt in your cooking

Use minimum amount of salt for cooking if you have high blood pressure. Salt also causes water retention. This means your body will retain water if it is not receiving enough.

After all, it still has to carry on the normal functioning of the organs and, if you are not drinking enough H2O, then the body starts keeping it.

Water being taken in other forms, such as, soups, dals, drinks, etc, is retained for later use. Bloating and puffiness are all signs of water retention.

vii. Have calcium-rich foods

Use skimmed or double-toned milk and milk products as these contain less fat. Double-toned milk has lesser fat than toned or full cream milk.

In the non-packaged variety, cow's milk is just as good as skimmed milk; it is definitely better than buffaloes' milk as the latter contains large amounts of fat. You should have between one and two glasses of milk a day.

Other sources of calcium and protein can be taken instead of milk, if one is allergic to it. Calcium rich foods include almonds, figs, red kidney beans (rajma), mustard greens (sarson ka saag), etc. Proteins can be found in meats, sprouts, soya, dals, etc.

viii. Switch from maida to whole grains

Replace maida products with whole grains, whole wheat, soya breads, etc, as these have a good amount of fibre; fibre helps in binding cholesterol, which helps in less production of bad cholesterol. Whole grain foods like oatmeal, bran, wheat germ and brown rice, fruits, especially with skins, prunes, etc, are all good sources of fibre.

Too much fibre may cause loose stools, so you have to monitor your individual intake accordingly. Medically, approximately 25 gm of fibre a day is enough to help maintain your digestive system.

A good indicator: four slices of brown bread contains five grams of fibre; so does one large banana or orange.

ix. Have foods that contain iron

These include red meats, especially liver, fruits like watermelon and pomegranate, vegetables like spinach, beans, beets and broccoli, whole grains, dried fruits, especially prunes, sunflower seeds, etc.

x. Relish the flavours

You may have heard some of these before. But the best good food habit, which we all seem to overlook, is to actually taste and enjoy the flavour of the food with your emotions instead of just your tongue.

Exercise for Healthy Back.

2010-05-13T19:34:00.000-07:00

Most of us sit in a single position for the whole day in the office, and in the morning / evening drive all the way to our places. As a result at night, while going to bed, many of us experience a slight pain in the back. This may lead to many further diseases and disabilities as well.
Don't panic, just do the following exercise for min 10 mins every morning and shoot off the back pain.

CLEAN YOUR KIDNEYS

2010-05-13T19:32:00.001-07:00

Years pass by and our kidneys are filtering the blood by removing salt, poison and any unwanted entering our body. With time, the salt accumulates and this needs to undergo cleaning treatments and how are we going to overcome this?

It is very easy, first take a bunch of parsley (DHANIYA) and wash it clean

Then cut it in small pieces and put it in a pot and pour clean water and boil it for ten minutes and let it cool down and then filter it and pour in a clean bottle and keep it inside refrigerator to cool.

Drink one glass daily and you will notice all salt and other accumulated poison coming out of your kidney by urination also you will be able to notice the difference which you never felt before.

Parsley is known as best cleaning treatment for kidneys and it is natural!

Medicinal Importance of Pine Apple

2010-05-13T19:29:00.000-07:00

Pine apple which is commonly known as Bromelain is a known edible fruit with unknown useful features.This article is to reveal the medicinal importance of pine apple and how it is beneficial to our health especially for loosing our body fat.

Medicinal values

Bromelain has proved for its fat burning property. Pine apples contain a proteolytic enzyme, which breaks down proteins. It is often used as a supplement for people with inflammation. It is also very effective for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and ulcers because it aids digestion to avoid upset stomachs and excess stomach acids.

It relieves sore throat and acute sinusitis. It accelerates the healing of wounds. Pine apples contain micronutrients that experts believe protect protects against cancer and also break up blood clots and are beneficial to heart Ripen pine apple has diurectic properties. Pine apple juice also kills intestinal worms. It relieves intestinal disorders and soothes the bile. Pine apple juice stimulates the kidneys and aids in removing toxic elements in the body. It has been also proposed for the treatment of hemorrohoids, menstrual pain, auto immune disorders and ulcerative colitis.

What does your sleep position reveal about your personality?

2010-05-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

These imply says, "I am happy to be single and spending five to seven hours sprawled out in the center of my bed alone."

At other points, my tightly squeezed eyes and curled-up body would have screamed, "I know the baby will wake up/someone will start snoring/the alarm will begin blaring as soon as I finally, finally, finally get to sleep."

Years and years ago, the corpse-looking college student still in her clothes would have mumbled something like, "Finals. Boys. Beer."

Our lives, the amount of sleep we get, and how well we actually rest during those nighttime hours may change drastically over time. However, one sleep researcher says that our body position in bed could say something about who we are, not just what else is happening in our lives.

Professor Chris Idzikowski, director of the Sleep Assessment and Advisory Service, says that a study of 1,000 Brits revealed that the six most common sleeping positions are indicative of personality types.

If this sounds ridiculous (and honestly, I'd love to see information on this study and the analysis fleshed out further than any of the reports I could find), consider that Idzikowski says it comes down to body language.

"We are all aware of our body language when we are awake but this is the first time we have been able to see what our subconscious posture says about us," Idzikowski said. "What's interesting is that the profile behind the posture is often very different from what we would expect."

The research also links certain sleeping positions with health risks. Some aid digestion while others spur on snoring and restlessness.

Here are the six common sleeping positions and correlated personality traits and health implications, according to this study.

[graphic via BBC.com]

Fetus position - A whopping 41% of participants sleep in this curled-up manner. Women are twice as likely to rest like this and it is listed as the most common position. These sleepers are said to have a tough exterior but are still sensitive and may appear to be shy but warm up quickly.

Log position - If you sleep on your side with both arms down, you are a social, easy-going person who is trusting, sometimes to the point of being gullible. The study showed 15% of people sleep like a log.

Yearner position - A close third is the side-lying position with both arms out in front of the body, with 13% of partipants sleeping like this. Yearners are noted to be open-minded and still cynical, suspicious, and stubborn about sticking to decisions once they are made.

Soldier position - These sleepers lie on their backs with arms down and kept close to the body. This 8% study is said to be reserved, quiet, without fuss, and hold themselves and others to a high standard. Soldier sleepers have a higher likelihood for snoring due to the flat-back position, which may not cause them to wake up often but may result in a less restful night's sleep.

Freefall position - Those people who lie on their bellies with arms under or wrapped around a pillow with head turned to the side, make up 7% of the population studied. Freefallers are brash, outgoing, and are very uncomfortable with criticism.

Starfish position - Sleepers who lie on their backs with arms up near their head or the pillow account for 5% of participants. These people are good listeners, helpful, and are uncomfortable being the center of attention. People who sleep in starfish position are more likely to snore and to suffer from a poor night's sleep more often.

If you think you are one of those people who move through all of these positions, that's not likely to really be the case. Idzikowski said the research reveals most people stay in the same position all night and only 5% lay differently night by night. Also interesting is that the study showed only one in ten people cover their bodies entirely with a blanket, with most people exposing an arm, leg, or both feet.

Make A Successful Weight Loss Just By Drinking Water - Maybe The Easiest Weight Loss Method

2010-03-22T20:30:00.000-07:00

Make A Successful Weight Loss Just By Drinking Water - Maybe The Easiest Weight Loss Method

Well, you may have heard it before - you can lose weight just by drinking pure plain water. Do you think it is like that? Yes, it is, you can lose weight just by drinking water. I will explain why it is so.
There are studies that show that just by drinking water your metabolism will increase with up to 30 percentages. That is quite impressive, isn't it? To make your weight loss possible you need to drink eight glasses of water every day, and if you have lots of overweight you need to drink a few glasses more. If you live in a warm climate or if you exercise very intensive you need to drink more than the eight glasses. You maybe think that eight glasses is much water to drink, but you shouldn't drink it at the same time; instead you need to spread it out throughout the day.

Drinking water is not only great for your weight loss. Just by drinking lots of water you will look better because and your skin will become more glowing. Your muscles will work more effective when you exercise which will lead to a better shaped body.
A few tips about how you should act when you decide to lose weight just by drinking water:

Start every morning with a glass of water.
Drink a glass of water before every meal.
Drink lukewarm water, it may be easier to drink lots of water when it isn't cold.
Add a slice of lemon if you don't like the taste of the water.
Avoid drinking just before you go to bed.

Drinking water is a cheap and very effective way to lose weight, but often you need to add some diet and exercise to make your weight loss effective.

Dark Circles : Why Do I Get Them?

2010-02-14T04:20:00.001-08:00

There are a number of causes of dark circles under the eyes. Some are well known and documented but many are rarely discussed.

The important thing to remember is that you can do something about these dark circles. You may be able to change something in your life that will see them go completely. You may be able to treat them on a regular basis and keep them at bay. At worst, you will certainly be able to conceal the marks.

So, let's take a good look at the common -- and not so common -- causes of dark circles under the eyes and how to prevent them.

Causes of Dark Circles Under The Eyes

* Thinning skin
The skin under the eyes is thin and delicate to begin with. As we age, skin and the fat pad under the eyes becomes thinner, causing blood vessels to become noticeable. This gives the appearance of dark circles. Sun damage can make it worse because it weakens skin.

* Allergies and Hayfever
Dark circles under the eyes can be the result of allergies to airborne substances, such as pollen, dust, and pet dander, because people rub their itchy eyes. People with hayfever may notice them at the height of the season. Food allergies or sensitivities can also contribute to dark circles.

* Genetics
Dark circles under the eyes runs in families. They tend to be more noticeable in people with fair skin or deep-set eyes.

* Fluid Retention
Blood vessels under the eyes can become dilated and engorged, which can contribute to dark circles. Excess dietary salt and smoking are common causes. Conditions that cause fluid retention (e.g. heart, thyroid, kidney, liver diseases) or medications that cause blood vessel dilation may be a factor. Your doctor should be aware of any symptoms you're experiencing.

* Lack of sleep
A lack of sleep can make skin appear more pale, which allows blood vessels to be more visible through the skin, giving the appearance of bluish or dark circles.

* Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia may cause a bluish tinge below the eyes.

* Dehydration
Dark circles under the eyes can be a sign of dehydration.

Remedies for Dark Circles Under the Eyes

1. Drink at least ten glasses of water everyday.

2. Wear sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 under the eyes to prevent skin weakening caused by sun damage.

3. Massage dark circles with any cold cream before going to bed at least for 15 minutes. Yoga can also help you to get rid of dark circles. Do pranayam for at least 5 minutes everyday.

4. Apply plain cool teabags over closed eyes. Don’t use herbal teabags, because most aren't as effective.

5. Apply cool cucumber slices over closed eyes for 15 minutes.

6. Be careful not to consume too much dietary salt. Start by learning about sources of sodium in the diet.

7. Apply vitamin K cream. Although studies haven't looked at the use of topical vitamin K for dark circles under the eyes, preliminary studies have found that vitamin K may help with bruising.

8. Vitamin C helps to strengthen blood vessel walls.

9. The dietary supplements grape seed extract and pycnogenol contain antioxidant pigments that may help to strengthen blood vessels. They should be used under medical supervision by people on "blood-thinning" drugs such as Coumadin (warfarin) and aspirin.

Certain foods, such as cranberries, blueberries, bilberries, tea (green and black), black currant, onions, legumes, and parsley also contain these antioxidant pigments.

10. Eat kidney-balancing foods. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, a bluish cast under the eyes are due to an imbalance in kidney energy. Learn more about kidney yang deficiency and foods to eat.

11.Apply a paste of turmeric powder with pineapple juice. Dip cotton balls in rose water or chilled water and keep it over the darker areas for 5-10 minutes.

12.Cut the fresh figs into half and place them under the eye. Keep them for 15-30 minutes and rinse it with warm water.

13.Apply a paste of powdered almonds and milk under the eyes. Slurp this juice to get rid of those tainted circles.

14.Almond oil is the excellent skin food. Massage under and around the eyes with almond oil daily for 2 weeks.

few home remedies for curing & prevention of dark circles permanently (for those who doesn't use cosmetics)

*Dip a cotton swab into freshly extracted mint juice, rosewater or cold milk. Lie down with your feet raised higher than your head, and then place the wet pads on your closed eyes. Stay that way for 10 minutes. Do this everyday and you will start seeing results before long.

*Gently massage saffron or almond oil on the dark area before going to bed.

*Lie down and place a slice of cucumber or potato on each eyelid for about fifteen minutes.

*Applying equal parts of lime juice and tomato mixture for half an hour after washing your face in the morning reduces dark circles.

*Applying peeled and grated potato overnight for a minimal period of three times a week will help in treating dark circles.

*Pressing the index finger of your palm is recommended for eyesight to remove dark circles.

*Dark circles can be totally eliminated by doing pranayam for minimum five minutes daily.

*Follow a diet rich in iron, vitamins and proteins. Deficiencies immediately show up as circles under the eyes.

*You can also use a mixture of almond oil or cucumber juice with lemon juice to lighten dark circles.

*Drink lots of water and get plenty of rest.

*Also do some regular exercises.

22 Herbal Tips for Skin Care

2010-01-28T10:14:00.001-08:00

1) Drink at least 8 glasses of water every day.

2) Cut some beet root into small pieces and grind them. Squeeze juice from beet root and massage to your face for 5 minutes. Shower after 10 minutes with mild soap or gram flour.

3) Mix sandalwood powder with rose water and add 4 to 5 drops of milk in it and apply on to your face and body. Shower after 15 minutes with warm water.

4) Mix honey in water and drink daily in the morning to keep your skin shiny and smooth.

5) Warm honey and mix with lemon juice and apply on to face. Wash after it dry.

6) Mix Turmeric, sandal powder and olive oil and apply to body. Shower after 10 minutes.

7) Massage your skin with milk. Milk has moisturizer, it will keep your skin smooth.

8) Use humidifiers and keep room temperature moderate to keep your skin away from dryness.

9) Hot water blushes your skin and you don't feel fresh unless you have bath with little cold water. If you have shower for a longtime, dead skin will be automatically be removed. Do not rub with towel, be gentle on your skin.

10) Take food which contains more A and C vitamin.

11) Grate carrot and boil. Massage that mixture to body to get fair and smooth skin.

12) For natural bleaching: - mix milk and lemon juice. The milk will break as soon as you mix the lemon juice in it. Use that mixture to massage on your body. It works as natural bleaching.

13) Mix turmeric and cream on the top of milk, massage that mixture to body.

14) If you go into sun your skin will lost the fair ness. To get your skin color to normal take equal quantities of cucumber juice and tomato juice and apply on to skin. Shower after 10 minutes.

15) Massage mustard oil to your skin for 5 minutes and have shower with gram flour or mild soap.

16) Mix cream on the top of milk and all-purpose flour and apply that paste on to your skin avoid eyes, eyebrows and lips. Shower after 5 minutes. This will make skin smooth.

17) Mix curds (yogurt) with wheat flour and apply to your skin and take shower after 5 minutes.

18) Grind rose petals and mix with cream on the top of milk and apply to your body. Shower after 10 minutes.

19) Scaly skin is a result of fluorine deficiency. Fluorine is the anti-resistant element of the human body, the absence of which creates problems in the blood and spleen. Since cooking and heating foods destroys fluorine, it is better to eat uncooked raw fruits and vegetables. Other foods rich in fluorine are goat milk and cheese, rye flour, avocados, sea plants and cabbage, cream whey and cottage cheese.

20) Wrinkle skin is a result of Sodium deficiency and makes skin sticky. Cucumbers are ideal for combating and preventing sodium deficiency because they are not only high in sodium, but also help in keeping the body cool, a great summer's treat.

21) Skin rashes are the result of silicon deficiency. To avoid pus and rashes, eat plenty of sprouts, alfalfa, barley, tomatoes, spinach, strawberries and figs.

22) Skin eruptions are the result of Chlorophyll. And are found in wheat grass and other green leafy vegetables

Characteristics of Healthy Hair and Hair Care....

2010-01-27T08:16:00.001-08:00

Characteristics of Healthy Hair

You hair is healthy if your hair is-
• Thick and dense.
• Fine and silky, which means not too oily or rough.

• Lustrous, shiny and glossy.
• Pliable, capable of setting and styling.
• Full-bodied and not limp or lank.

Normally there are three kinds of hair types.
Normal hair is shiny, not greasy and easy to manage.
Oily hair feels greasy even a short while after shampooing and tends to look flat sometimes. Usually who have oily skin have oily hair.

Dry hair looks thin and rough it is susceptible to tangles and damage( many times the ends are dry and split). It has a non-slippery feel and does not slide through your fingers.

How to care different types of hair?
Oily hair. A hair care regime for oily hair would aim at removing excess oil and exfoliating the skin cells. The emphasis is on cleansing and toning. Cleansing involves washing and rinsing the hair. It is also essential to rinse the shampoo off thoroughly with cold water after washing with warm water.

Dry hair. The main cause of dry hair is lack of sebum in the scalp, which makes the hair coarse and brittle and susceptible to damage. Poor nutrition, exposure to sun and over use of heated appliances can also rob the hair of valuable moisture. The aim of a hair care regime for dry hair is to replenish oil and moisture in the hair. So, the emphasis is on conditioning.

Frequent shampooing should be avoided. A generous oil application the night before washing your hair is recommended, as it will condition the hair scalp.

If your hair is very dry and damaged, apply a hydrating mask once a week. Avoid vigorous drying with a towel after washing your hair. Instead gently squeeze excess water from the hair and blot dry with a towel.

What Your Nails Say about Your Health ??

2010-01-27T08:14:00.001-08:00

Nails and Health: Read the Signs
Did you know your nails can reveal clues to your overall health? A touch of white here, a rosy tinge there, or some rippling or bumps may be a sign of disease in the body. Problems in the liver, lungs, and heart can show up in your nails. Keep reading to learn what secrets your nails might reveal.

Pale Nails
Very pale nails are sometimes linked to aging. But they can also be a sign of serious illness, such as:
• Anemia
• Congestive heart failure
• Diabetes
• Liver disease
• Malnutrition

White Nails
If the nails are mostly white with darker rims, this can indicate liver problems, such as hepatitis. In this image, you can see the fingers are also jaundiced, another sign of liver trouble.

Yellow Nails
One of the most common causes of yellow nails is a fungal infection. As the infection worsens, the nail bed may retract, and nails may thicken and crumble. In rare cases, yellow nails can indicate a more serious condition such as severe thyroid disease or psoriasis.

Bluish Nails
Nails with a bluish tint can mean the body isn’t getting enough oxygen. This could indicate an infection in the lungs, such as pneumonia.

Rippled Nails
If the nail surface is rippled or pitted, this may be an early sign of psoriasis or inflammatory arthritis. Psoriasis is a skin condition that starts in the nails 10% of the time.

Cracked or Split Nails
Dry, brittle nails that frequently crack or split have been linked to thyroid disease. Cracking or splitting combined with a yellowish hue is more likely due to a fungal infection.

Puffy Nail Fold
If the skin around the nail appears red and puffy, this is known as inflammation of the nail fold. It may be the result of lupus or another connective tissue disorder.

Dark Lines Beneath the Nail
Dark lines beneath the nail should be investigated as soon as possible. They are sometimes caused by melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer.

Gnawed Nails
Biting your nails may be nothing more than an old habit, but in some cases it’s a sign of persistent anxiety that could benefit from treatment. Nail biting or picking has also been linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder. If you can’t stop, it’s worth discussing with your doctor.

Nails Are Only Part of the Puzzle
Though nail changes accompany many conditions, these changes are rarely the first sign. And many nail abnormalities are harmless -- not everyone with white nails has hepatitis. If you’re concerned about the appearance of your nails, see a dermatologist.

Simple Steps to Reduce Hair Loss

2010-01-27T08:12:00.001-08:00

If you are experiencing hair loss it is important you act now and not wait until it becomes noticeable and start to affect the way you look and feel about yourself. Whether you are a male or female, few things will affect confidence and esteem like a noticeably balding head.
Going bald will make you look, feel and actually act older. Your personality and attitude will change to reflect your dampened ego. You will become less outgoing and less apt to approach members of the opposite sex. Your going bald can dictate the way you are seen and treated by others and yourself.
I know, for at the tender age of 21 I started rapidly loosing my hair and all those negative changes started to happen in my life. It was sheer determination and the dread of looking like my old grand dad this early that turned things around for me.
If you are experiencing hair loss, here are some things I learned that helped me with my battle to stop from going bald and retake control of my life.

1. Check with your doctor.Sometimes hair loss can be a symptom of disease. Thyroid disease, Lupus and Diabetes are two examples of illnesses known to case balding. Check with your doctor and be sure there is not a more serious matter at hand.

2. Watch your diet.Eating correctly will affect not only the overall health of your body, it will also affect the health of your hair and scalp. Maintaining a proper diet is critical for keeping healthy locks.

3. Check your stress levels.Anxiety and stress are common causes of hair loss. Regardless of how hectic life may get, you should take every necessary step to reduce tension and limit its affect on your body. If you must, use yoga, meditation or some other form of stress reduction technique.

4. Careful what you use on your head.Many of todays' hair care products contain chemicals that are harsh and can actually be damaging. Check the ingredients of your shampoos, dyes, perms and conditioners. Choose products that substitute chemicals with natural substances that are milder and which stimulate the scalp and encourage growth.

These few tips will go far in avoiding further hair loss and may even reverse the process. Do your research and take all necessary steps. Going bald can be painful but there are many products on the market that will help. Just know that the issue can be successfully addressed and the earlier you act the better.

Don't wait until it's too far gone. There are products that can immediately stop hair loss and quickly re grow your hair.

correct way of eating fruits............

2010-01-26T09:53:00.001-08:00

Your Eye Brows Says A lot...

2010-01-26T09:13:00.000-08:00

Arched Brow
The brow of beauty. You're born to the good things in life. Indicates harmony in relationships.

Upswept Brow
A positive, optimistic brow. The sign of an activist brow.

Downswept Brow
Seductive. But could signal weakness to others.

Short Brow
Gives the appearance of youth..and can be an asset. Shows independence and ambition.

Level Brow
The brow of a career woman who also enjoys sports and the outdoor.

Angular Brow
Indicates a dramatic personality. .. creative, brilliant in financial matters.

Rounded Brow
The brow of a businesswoman or perhaps an entertainer.

Foods and Vitamins to Beautify Your Skin

2010-01-26T08:55:00.000-08:00

When it comes to caring for your skin, vitamins and good nutrition can be just as beneficial as a good skin care treatment. Vitamins are important in keeping your skin looking and feeling healthy. They can also help prevent and treat any problem areas and skin disorders. This article discusses:

* What are the vitamins that keep your skin healthy?
* Which food products/items contain vitamins for a healthy skin?
* Learn more on supplements that helps your skin to stay healthy

When it comes to caring for your skin, vitamins and good nutrition can be just as beneficial as a good skin care treatment. Vitamins are important in keeping your skin looking and feeling healthy. They can also help prevent and treat any problem areas and skin disorders. A bad diet that is lacking in vitamins can make your skin blotchy and lifeless. When looking at your overall skin care, pay attention to your diet and ensure it includes the right vitamins good for skin care.
Vitamins and Minerals
Here are some of the best minerals and vitamins for healthy skin. Including these skin rejuvenating vitamins in your diet will help keep your skin looking healthy and free from problems.
VITAMIN A
Vitamin A is a very good vitamin for healthy skin. It helps strengthen the skin and repair tissues. It can be taken in foods, as a supplement or as a topical cream. Vitamin A can help prevent dry skin and acne. It can also be used to treat wrinkles.
VITAMIN E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help prevent free radical damage to the skin. Vitamin E is a good vitamin to take when your skin is suffering some damage from the sun or other factors.
VITAMIN C
Vitamin C helps with healing wounds and other damage to the skin. There is some evidence to suggest it may rejuvenate the skin. Vitamin C will also help the immune system fight off illnesses.
VITAMIN D
Vitamin D is an antioxidant that may play a role in skin pigmentation.
VITAMIN B
Vitamin B helps keep your skin tone healthy. It is also a good vitamin for relieving stress, and so it may prevent some of the skin problems (like eczema) that can be caused by stress. There are a number of different vitamins in the vitamin B group.

* Vitamin B1 is an antioxidant that helps rid the body of toxins. It can also assist circulation.
* Vitamin B2 helps keep the skin healthy. It can also help prevent acne.
* Vitamin B3 improves circulation.
* Vitamin B5 helps reduce stress.
* Vitamin B6 helps keep the immune system healthy.

ZINC
Zinc helps the skin's natural healing process. It is good in preventing the over-production of sebum, which will also help clear up acne. Zinc also helps the immune system.

Foods to Eat for Clear Skin
Skin vitamins can be taken as nutritional supplements or they can be incorporated into your diet. Here are some foods good for your skin.
VITAMIN A
Vitamin A can be found in the following foods:

* Eggs
* Whole milk
* Liver
* Carrots
* Mango
* Spinach
* Breakfast cereal

VITAMIN B
Vitamin B can be found in the following foods:

* Wheat germ
* Oatmeal
* Whole wheat
* Bran
* Whole brown rice
* Dairy products
* Milk
* Liver
* Kidney
* Fish
* Eggs

VITAMIN E
Vitamin E can be found in the following foods:

* Almonds
* Sunflower seeds
* Peanut butter
* Hazelnuts
* Safflower oil
* Spinach
* Broccoli
* Mango

VITAMIN C
Vitamin C can be found in the following foods:

* Oranges
* Grapefruit
* Mandarins
* Lettuce
* Spinach
* Green peppers
* Strawberries
* Tomatoes
* Cabbage

VITAMIN D
Vitamin D can be found in the following foods.

* Milk
* Fortified rice
* Fortified margarine
* Salmon
* Tuna
* Liver
* Cheese

Sunlight can also provide the body with vitamin D.
ZINC
Zinc can be found in the following foods.

* Dairy products
* Beans and lentils
* Yeast
* Nuts
* Seeds
* Cereals
* Pumpkin seeds

All of these foods contain good skin vitamins. Foods to eat for clear skin include anything from the list of foods for vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E. Vitamin C foods are good foods to tighten skin.
Supplements
Sometimes our diet does not contain all the vitamins and nutrients we need to keep our skin looking healthy. The following dietary supplements can help prevent and treat problems, based on skin type.

* Dry skin. Good supplements for people with dry skin include evening primrose oil, vitamin A, beta carotene, vitamin B-complex, vitamin B12, vitamin E, zinc and selenium.
* Oily skin.
Rate this Article
Excellent

Good

Average

Bad

Terrible

rate

Current Rating
Good supplements for people with oily skin include evening primrose oil, vitamin A, beta carotene, vitamin B complex, vitamin B12, vitamin E, zinc and flaxseed oil.
* Combination skin and Normal skin. Good supplements for people with combination skin and normal skin include evening primrose oil, vitamin A, beta carotene, vitamin B complex, vitamin B12, vitamin E and zinc.

Conclusion
Eating vitamins good for skin, along with the right skin care treatment, can help keep your skin looking its very best, as well as reducing and preventing problem areas. The skin vitamins mentioned here are beneficial for everyone who wants healthy, problem-free skin

6 Most Unhealthy Foods

2010-01-26T08:27:00.000-08:00

The 6 Most Unhealthy Foods You Should Avoid at All Costs
Some people swear by the mantra "everything in moderation," but the truth is, some foods, no matter how good they taste, are better off left alone.

If you need a little motivation to stay away from these most unhealthy foods, consider that four of the 10 leading causes of death in the United States are related to diet (diabetes, heart disease, cancer and stroke). And if you're looking to improve yours, cutting back on these six foods is a great place to start.

1. Soda.

An average can of soda has 10 teaspoons of sugar, 150 calories, 30 to 55 mg of caffeine, artificial food colors and sulphites. Diet sodas have the even-more-unhealthy artificial sweeteners. A major part of the problem is that sodas have become a staple in many people's diets. A study in the journal Pediatrics found that 56 percent to 85 percent of children consume at least one soft drink a day, and 20 percent of adolescent males drink four or more sodas a day.

"Parents and health officials need to recognize soft drinks for what they are -- liquid candy -- and do everything they can to return those beverages to their former role as an occasional treat," says the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), a U.S. consumer group. In fact, CSPI has recently petitioned the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) calling for cigarette-style warnings on soft drinks to warn people of their potential health risks (weight gain, diabetes, tooth decay and more).

You knew it was coming ... French fries contain at least two types of cancer-causing compounds.

2. Potato chips and French fries.

These popular snack foods contain acrylamide, a known carcinogen and neurotoxin that is formed when foods are baked or fried at high temperatures. "I estimate that acrylamide causes several thousand cancers per year in Americans," said Clark University research professor Dale Hattis.

When CSPI conducted tests on some popular brands of French fries and chips, they found that the acrylamide in a large order of fast food fries was at least 300 times the amount allowed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in a glass of water.

"There has long been reason for Americans to eat less greasy French fries and snack chips," said CSPI executive director Michael F. Jacobson. "Acrylamide is yet another reason to eat less of those foods."

An Up-and-Coming Absolute Worst Food ... Don't Try This at Home

This one wasn't popular enough to make the top-six list yet, but it's growing in popularity ... and growing fast. The deep-fried Twinkie, first invented in a Brooklyn restaurant by brothers Clint and Rocky Mullen, is making its rounds to country fairs and carnivals around the country.

Here's how they're made:

• Twinkies are chilled, rolled in flour, dipped in tempura batter and fried for a minute or two.

• The frying process melts the cream center, which becomes infused throughout the cake, giving it a pudding-like texture.

• For the finale, they're sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with chocolate or berry sauce.

If you're not into Twinkies, don't despair. The Mullen brothers also sell deep-fried candy bars--Snickers, 3 Musketeers and Milky Way--to suit even the most discerning tastes.

But that's not all. These foods also contain trans fats, the artery-clogging fat that's been linked to raising bad cholesterol (and lowering the good kind), and increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke and cancer.

Doughnuts: A somehow tasty concoction of refined sugar, flour, trans fats and artificial flavors with zero nutritional value.

3. Doughnuts.

Tasty, yes. But break a doughnut down and you'll find nothing more than refined sugar and flour, artificial flavors and partially hydrogenated oil that's loaded with trans fats. They have no redeeming qualities whatsoever.

"When it comes to health, the only thing good about them is the hole," said Carla Wolper, nutritionist at the New York Obesity Research Center.

4. Coffee Cake and Other Baked Goods.

This category actually includes all varieties of baked goods, including packaged cake and biscuit mixes. What makes these foods so bad is that they almost always contain high amounts of trans fats and a host of other unsavory additives including corn syrup, preservatives and artificial flavors and colors. In fact, commercial baked goods typically contain more trans fats than any other food because not only are they often made with hydrogenated oils, they're fried in them too.

If you're not ready to give up your morning treat just yet, opt for baked goods from your local bakery (which is less likely to use hydrogenated oil for a long shelf-life and is likely to use butter instead of margarine, which typically contains trans fat) or make them yourself.

A hot dog now and then can be reasonably healthy if you seek out a nitrite/nitrate-free variety.

5. Luncheon Meats/Hot Dogs.

Processed meats like these (and others including sausages, bacon, pepperoni and other processed meats) contain a carcinogenic precursor ingredient known as sodium nitrite (sodium nitrate is closely related).

"Sodium nitrite is a dangerous, cancer-causing ingredient that has no place in the human food supply," says nutritionist Mike Adams, author of the Grocery Warning Manual.

And, according to a University of Hawaii study that followed nearly 200,000 people for seven years, people who consumed the most processed meats (hot dogs and sausage) showed a 67 percent increased risk of pancreatic cancer over those who consumed little or no meat products.

Here's some good news: you can find various varieties of nitrite/nitrate-free meats in any health food store.

6. Canned Soup.

Here we're talking about the traditional, canned soups you find in your grocery store. This may come as a surprise, but most canned (and packaged) soups have high levels of trans fats, sodium and artificial preservatives like MSG. Just one cup of canned soup can have almost 1,000 milligrams of salt (and most people eat more than one cup), which is tons considering dietary guidelines recommend consuming no more than 2,400 milligrams for the entire day.

There are healthy options out there, particularly natural, organic brands, but be sure to read the label. The alternative is, of course, to make your own homemade variety.

Weak People Can Try On There Own Risk..

Top 10 Essential Health Tips

2010-01-26T08:20:00.000-08:00

1. Move More
Make it a daily challenge to find ways to move your body. Climb stairs if given a choice between that and escalators or elevators.
Walk your dog; chase your kids; toss balls with friends, mow the lawn. Anything that moves your limbs is not only a fitness tool, it's a stress buster. Think 'move' in small increments of time. It doesn't have to be an hour in the gym or a 45-minute aerobic dance class or tai chi or kickboxing. But that's great when you're up to it. Meanwhile, move more.

2. Cut Fat
Avoid the obvious such as fried foods, burgers and other fatty meats (i.e. pork, bacon, ham, salami, ribs and sausage). Dairy products such as cheese, cottage cheese, milk and cream should be eaten in low fat versions. Nuts and sandwich meats, mayonnaise, margarine, butter and sauces should be eaten in limited amounts. Most are available in lower fat versions such as substitute butter, fat free cheeses and mayonnaise.

3. Quit Smoking
The jury is definitely in on this verdict. Ever since 1960 when the Surgeon General announced that smoking was harmful to your health, Americans have been reducing their use of tobacco products that kill. Just recently, we've seen a surge in smoking in adolescents and teens. Could it be the Hollywood influence? It seems the stars in every movie of late smoke cigarettes. Beware. Warn your children of the false romance or 'tough guy' stance of Hollywood smokers. Also, the trend to quit smoking has been slow to follow in France.

4. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water is still one of the healthiest things we can do. Water is essential for virtually every function of the body. The average person needs eight 8-ounce glasses a day. Drink with meals, as well as before, during and after exercise. During exercise, cold water is more readily absorbed.

5. Reduce Stress
Easier said than done, stress busters come in many forms. Some techniques recommended by experts are to think positive thoughts. Spend 30 minutes a day doing something you like. (i.e., Soak in a hot tub; walk on the beach or in a park; read a good book; visit a friend; play with your dog; listen to soothing music; watch a funny movie. Get a massage, a facial or a haircut. Meditate. Count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Avoid difficult people when possible.

6. Avoid Excessive Alcohol Consumption
While recent studies show a glass of wine or one drink a day can help protect against heart disease, drinking more than that can cause health problems such as liver and kidney disease as well as cancer.

7. Keep a Positive Mental Outlook
There's a definitive connection between living well and healthfully and having a cheerful outlook on life. Remember, you can't be unhappy when you're smiling!

8. Protect Yourself from Pollution
If you can't live in a smog-free environment, at least avoid smoke-filled rooms, high traffic areas, breathing in highway fumes and exercising near busy thoroughfares. Exercise outside when the smog rating is low. Exercise indoors in air conditioning when the air quality is good. Plant lots of shrubbery in your yard. It's a good pollution and dirt deterrent.

9. Floss Your Teeth
Recent studies make a direct connection between longevity and teeth flossing. Nobody knows exactly why. Perhaps it's because people who floss tend to be more health conscious than people who don't?

10. Choose Your Parents Well
The link between genetics and health is a powerful one. But just because one or both of your parents died young in ill health doesn't mean you cannot counteract the genetic pool handed you. Follow these ten basic tips for healthy living and you can better control your own destiny

Types of Yoga Mudra

2010-01-24T11:35:00.000-08:00

Hakini Mudra
This is a very interesting and significant Mudra that can be practised anywhere, at any time. Unwittingly, this Mudra is quite popular, since it is good for the brain.

People should sit down in contemplation with both hands in front and the fingers touching at the tips as though in deep thought.

The fingertips of both hands should be placed together.

The eyes should be directed upward with the tip of the tongue placed on the gums while inhaling.

Make the tongue fall again while exhaling and then take a deep breath. This helps memory.

Bronchial & Asthma Mudra
These Mudras are very good for respiratory problems and can be done with both hands. The Bronchial and the Asthma Madras can be done for a few minutes one after the other until the breathing calms down. For prolonged treatment these two Mudras can be done five times every day for five minutes.

Place the little finger at the base of the thumb, the ring finger on the upper thumb joint and the middle finger or the top soft portion of the thumb. The index finger should be extended. This can be done for a few minutes everyday.

It can be done along with the Asthma Mudra, which is also done with both hands. Press together the fingernails of the middle fingers while keeping the other fingers extended. This is effective for asthma attacks.

Pran Mudra
The Pran Mudra activates the root chakra and increases vitality. This can be done up to half an hour a day or three times a day for fifteen minutes.

Get the tips of the thumb, ring finger and little finger together while the index finger and the middle finger remain extended.

This Mudra can be done with both hands.

Linga Mudra
This Mudra boosts the body`s immune system and loosens the mucous that has been collected in the lungs and it is believed to make the body more resistant to colds and chest infections. Those who habitually suffer from bad colds and incurable chest infections are advised to practise the Linga Mudra. This Mudra is helpful in weight reduction also. However, because of the heat it generates, the Mudra can be taxing and can result in a feeling of lethargy. Weight-watchers who practise it must ensure that they consume `cooling` foods like fruits or drink as much water as they can - at least eight glasses a day.

Place both palms together and clasp your fingers.

One thumb remains upright and encircled by the thumb and index finger of the other hand. Keep both hands in front of the chest.

This Mudra can be practising three times a day for fifteen minutes.

Apan Mudra
This is called the energy Mudra. This Mudra helps remove the toxins from the body. This Mudra also has a balancing effect on the mind and helps develop inner balance and confidence.

Place the thumb, middle finger and ring finger are together but the index ginger and little finger are extended.

This can be done for forty-five minutes or three times a day for fifteen minutes.

Shankh Mudra
This Mudra is common Hindu temples. This Mudra is very good for problems of the throat. Mudras are practised all over the world these days and have been incorporated in various schools of self-development and growth. The conch shell is blown during all rituals. In this Mudra, the positioning and clasping of the fingers simulate a conch shell.

Encircle the thumb with the four fingers of the right hand.

Touch the right thumb to the extended middle finger to the extended middle ringer of the left hand.

Now, together, the two hands resemble a conch shell.

Hold the hands in front of your sternum and chant Om with it. This can be done three times every day for fifteen minutes.

Surabhi Mudra
This Mudra seems a bit complicated and almost looks like a puppet player`s fingers in action. This Mudra can be done three times a day for fifteen minutes. It is supposed to be an effective tool against rheumatism.

The little finger of the left hand should touch the ring finger of the right hand and the little finger of the right hand should touch the ring finger of the left hand.

The middle fingers of both hands should touch the index fingers of the other keeping the thumbs extended.

Vayu Mudra
Vayu means wind and this Mudra is specifically aimed at eliminating flatulence. It is believed to be working immediately. But after the problem is overcome, the Mudra should be discontinued. If the condition is chronic, the Mudra should be done thrice daily for fifteen minutes.

Bend the index finger of each hand till its tip touches the ball of the thumb.

Then press the thumb lightly onto the index finger. The other three fingers should be extended and relaxed.

Shunya Mudra
This Mudra is especially good for ear and hearing problems and can be done three times daily for fifteen minutes.

The middle finger should be bent until it touches the ball of the thumb.

Then with the thumb lightly press down on the middle finger. The other fingers remain relaxed and extended.

This should be done with both hands.

Prithvi Mudra
This Mudra activates the root chakra, which houses our vital energy or elemental force. A good vital energy optimizes the physical potential in a person who is then in a position to actualize both his physical and metaphysical goals. It is essential for a life of fulfillment to ward off energy deficits and the Prithvi Mudra is an ideal tool.

The tip of the thumb should be placed on top of the ring finger with a little pressure.

The other three fingers should be relaxed and extended.

This can be done with both hands three times for about fifteen minutes a day.

Varuna Mudra
This Mudra is very good to get rid of the excess mucous that collects in the stomach or lungs. A mucous overload is normally associated with over-stimulated nerves and by people who are too conscious of their responsibility. In their perception, they believe that they are saddled with every responsibility and it works on their bodies in the form of mucous accumulation.

Bend the little finger of your right hand until the tip touches the ball of the right thumb.

Then place the thumb of the right hand on it.

With the left thumb press the little finger and thumb lightly while the left hand gently encircles the right hand from below, covering the back of the right palm.

Bhudi Mudra

The Bhudi Mudra helps maintain the fluid balance in the body.

The tip of the thumb should be placed on the little finger while the other fingers remain relaxed and extended.

Do this with each hand. This can be done three times a day for fifteen minutes.

Apan Vayu Mudra
This is called the Lifesaver and is the first aid for heart attacks. Every conceivable problem has a Mudra, which enables a cure. A person who has developed heart trouble can check it by reducing the vayu tatva and apan vayu of his body. He can do this with the Vayu and Apan Mudras. This Mudra is supposed to have immediate effect in an emergency. It can also be used over a period of time to strengthen the heart. However, the Mudras are NOT a substitute for medication.

Bring the index finger is brought down on the mound of the thumb, and the tips of the third and fourth finger join the thumb.

The little finger should be relaxed and extended. This can be done with each hand.

This Mudra can be done three times a day for fifteen minutes or until the effect is felt.

Back Mudra
This is an excellent Mudra for backache. There are many reasons for backache. Stress is one of the prime causes. This Mudra is done with both hands.

The thumb, middle finger and little finger of the right hand should touch and the index finger and ring finger are relaxed and extended.

In the left place the thumb joint on the nail of the index finger.

This can be done four times a day for four minutes.

Kubera Mudra
This Mudra is quite remarkable as it is dedicated to the god of wealth. In this you use three fingers, which represent Mars, Jupiter and Saturn. Mars stands for forcefulness, Jupiter for resplendence and Saturn for its fixation on the essential. They are the thumb, middle finger and index finger respectively. This Mudra is not just for money, but can be used even for several specific goals. When these three fingers close and is accompanied by intensity of thought, there is added strength. The Kubera Mudra decongests the frontal sinuses.

You should press the fingers together when you do this. Here, the tips of the thumb, index finger and middle finger are placed together.

The other two fingers are bent and rest in the middle of the hand. You can continue with both the hands.

Kundalini Mudra
Good sex is essential for personal well-being and a sexual orgasm with a compatible partner is the closest an earthly act can take us to the inner sanctum of unadulterated joy. The Kundalini Mudra is associated with the sexual force that needs to be awakened. It is about the unification of the masculine and the feminine. Several schools of yoga and even the martial arts have recognized the immense power of the fountain of human sexual energy. It is the receptacle of regeneration and creativity.

Here, both the hands should form a loose fist.

Then, extend the left index finger into the right fist from below and place it on the pad of the right thumb.

The other fingers of the right hand cover the finger from above. It is like a loose and comfortable fleshy glove for the left index finger.

Hold this Mudra as low as possible in front of the abdomen.

Do this Mudra three times a day for fifteen minutes.