My Fitness and Health

Nutritional Vitamin Supplements - Buying Vitamin Nutritional Supplements Online

2009-01-13T07:24:00.001-08:00

Nutritional vitamin supplements and vitamin nutritional supplements are among the most important things you can do for the overall health of your mind and body. Taking quality broad-spectrum nutritional vitamin supplements on a regular basis can ensure that your body has enough of the nutrients needed to perform and function the way it's supposed to.

Since we are now living longer, we want the years to be active ones filled with energy and vitality and free from disease. Ideally, the source of vitamins, minerals and nutrients should be from your diet. However, poor food choices, processed foods, sodas and excess sweets have become the norm for millions. Besides, even with a well-balanced diet, studies find that food nutrient values have been declining for decades because of soil depletion.

Choosing one of the high-quality nutritional vitamin supplements helps fill the 'gaps' in nutrition that everyone has. The ingredients used in vitamin nutritional supplements can be one of two types, either natural or synthetic. Numerous studies have shown that the natural nutritional vitamin supplements have a higher potency than the synthetic ingredients. However, since the synthetic ingredients are cheaper, most manufacturers use synthetic ingredients. It's no wonder that studies done based on the cheap one-a-day vitamins show that little if any benefits will be obtained using these products.

The essential nutrients that the body requires are extensive and are much more than just vitamins and minerals. High quality daily nutritional vitamin supplements should include amino acids like L-Carnosine, alpha lipoic acid and acetyl L-Carnitine that provide proven benefits. Other anti-aging nutrients backed by studies that the body needs and will use are antioxidants such as quercetin, bioflavanoids, certain herbal extracts, enzymes to improve the vitamin nutritional supplements absorbability and so on. And these nutrients must be in the correct proportions to each other.

There ARE manufacturers that design and make supplements available online that provide the broad-spectrum nutritional vitamin supplements at reasonable prices. Instead of looking for the cheapest, look for the best value. There is one manufacturer in particular that uses pharmaceutical grade ingredients, many supported by clinical studies and at very reasonable prices. Ingredients are even linked to relevant clinical studies on their website. The 'delivery' system used is called 'enteric coating' which allows absorption to take place in the small intestines instead of the stomach since stomach acids destroy most of the nutrients.

Taking quality vitamin nutritional supplements should be about better health and energy, freedom from illness, improved sexual vigor and slowing the aging process. Learn as much as you can about ways you can help protect yourself from premature aging and the role that nutritional vitamin supplements will have in your health every day. Eat as healthy as you can, stay active, get sufficient quality sleep and keep taking the best nutritional supplements you can find.

Copyright 2005 InfoSearch Publishing

Nutritional Supplements And How They Help Your Health

2009-01-13T07:23:00.001-08:00

From ancient times people have been taking nutritional supplements. They started with natural herbs often home grown which were usually brewed into teas and tonics.

Now they have become more sophisticated and are available in all sorts of pills, capsules, liquids and of course teas of all sorts.

What are nutritional supplements? Nutritional supplements are used to add nutrients to our diets that are missing or not taken in large enough quantities. They are available in pills capsules, liquids and teas. They can be synthetic or from natural sources. They will contain one or more of the following ingredients:

• Vitamins
• Minerals
• Herbs
• Amino acids
• Saccharides

Why do we need nutritional supplements? These supplements are not intended to replace meals but enhance our diets. There are several reasons that we would be taking them:

• Environment: our environment has deteriorated over the years and we are now getting more toxins from the air, the water and even in the foods we eat, than ever before. Our bodies have to work more to protect and rid ourselves of these unwanted substances. Therefore it is wise for us to take nutritional supplements to help our bodies to do this.

• Stress: Stress will cause your body to function less efficiently. This will put your body at risk for a number of things, especially low resistance for disease. Supplements, especially Glyconutrients will help your bodies immune system get stronger and also help your body function better.

• Poor eating habits: Due to busy lifestyles, our ways of growing food and green harvests we are not getting the important nutrients our bodies need to keep us in good health. We often do not even stop to eat proper meals. This makes it necessary for us to take supplements to enhance our diets and add important nutrients to our diets.

• Athletic activities: when we take more exercise then normal our bodies need more nourishment. A professional athlete or even someone doing extra work outs needs more nutrition. Dietary supplements would include, Proteins, minerals, vitamins and saccharides (Glyconutrients).

• Part of a weight loss plan: when you go on a diet to lose weight you will be eating less and running the risk of not getting enough of the essential nutrients in your diet that your body needs. Therefore you would often be taking some nutritional supplements. Some of these substances even claim to help you to lose weight.

How do they improve your health? Different supplements will help you in different ways.

Glyconutrients: The latest nutritional supplements to come on the market are the saccharides. These are known as Glyconutrients. There are 8 of these essential nutrients:

• Mannose
• Glucose
• Galactose
• Xylose
• Fucose (not fructose)
• N-acetylglucosamine
• N-acetylneuramic acid
• N-acetylgalactosamine

These nutrients have only lately been researched with a technology known as Glycobiology. These nutrients have been shown to be vital to our health especially regarding our immune system and the ability of the body to heal itself.

Ambrotose: is a supplement made up of these Glyconutrients. Taking these supplements will help you to feel healthier and enjoy your life to the fullest.

Nutritional Supplements And A Balanced Diet

2009-01-13T07:21:00.000-08:00

If you are a person who is interested in eating a balanced diet in order to enjoy a healthy life, you may be contemplating the use of vitamins and nutritional supplements. There are some definite benefits that can be derived from the proper use of vitamin products and nutritional supplements. However, in order to make vitamins and nutritional supplements an effective and appropriate part of an overall health diet program, it is necessary to understand how these products fit within an overall healthy eating regimen.

In reality, before you embark on any diet plan that includes the use of supplements and vitamins it is important for you to obtain and seek medical advice. Each and every year people embark on a diet plan that includes the use of nutritional supplements without first consulting a health care or nutrition specialist. Some of these people end up suffering serious health problems due to a diet plan (which includes supplements) that they embark on without a professional consultation. Of course, in the end, you want to improve your health through the use of nutritional supplements as opposed to causing health problems through the use of such products.

Nutritional supplements (and vitamins) can be utilized as a means of supporting an otherwise healthy eating and exercise program. In simple terms, nutritional supplements can be used to better your overall balanced diet plan on two fronts:

1. Nutritional supplements can be used to fill in some minor nutritional gaps in your overall healthy diet.

2. Nutritional supplements can be used to assist in boosting the effectiveness of your overall healthy diet plan.

As an aside, nutritional supplements can also be utilized to make any companion workout routine more effective. By properly balancing your overall diet, your exercise routine and the proper utilization of nutritional supplements, you will be well on your way to establishing a complete plan for healthy living. Through such a regimented and appropriately crafted program you will enjoy better health and you may be able to add years to your life.

There are a number of different resources that you will want to consider when it comes to making decisions regarding incorporating nutritional supplements into your overall diet plan. You would be well versed in consulting these resources -- whether from the brick and mortar world or online -- in addition to seeking professional guidance from a doctor or nutrition specialist.

Nutritional Supplements: Adding To Your Health?

2009-01-13T07:19:00.000-08:00

Nutritional supplements refers to a wide range of products that are designed to enhance your health, improve athletic performance, or otherwise affect your physical or mental well being. These can include vitamins, sports supplements, weight loss products, teas, herbs, and anti-oxidants. Nutritional supplements can be found in almost all health food stores and many traditional stores as well.

Throughout history, nutritional supplements have been used to treat a wide range of ailments and to improve health. Many traditional medicines come from what may be considered supplements. Perhaps one of the most common forms of nutritional supplement is the vitamin. Many people take multi-vitamins, and doctors often recommend such use. Some vitamins can be risky if taken in excess, however, so an awareness of the safety of such vitamins is essential. An excess of Vitamin A, for example, can lead to liver damage and other unpleasant side effects. Consult with a doctor before taking anything vitamin supplements.

Other popular supplements are used in sports, where they are used to enhance performance and speed recovery. Many supplements used for these purposes cause debate as to effectiveness, and some have been pulled from the shelves. Ephedrine is one recent example. Used in many weight loss products, ephedrine caused serious heart problems for some users and is now a regulated substance. Creatine is another supplement of possible unknown side effects. Some people claim that it causes liver damage, while others say that it is safe when used appropriately.

One of the most important things to know about nutritional supplements is that they are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is why many product claims on packaging labels and advertising materials include the message, "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration" or something similar. Because supplements are not regulated, the manufacturing, processing, and packaging methods can vary a great deal from one product to another. When using supplements, be sure to research the company and choose a reputable supplier. The safety of supplements may also be unknown due to the lack of regulation. Again, careful shopping is necessary.

Many producers and users of supplements claim that they are safe because they are natural or made from "all natural" ingredients. While this may seem like a logical claim, consumers must use their best judgment when considering the use of supplements. Many substances found in nature are not safe, and are in fact toxic, poisonous, and even deadly. After all, poison ivy is "all natural," but you likely won't want to rub it all over your skin, even if a great sales pitch tried to convince you that it's the best moisturizer around.

Some nutritional supplements can be useful and aid your health. Just as with any consumable, careful shopping and research is essential to your good health. If a claim seems too good to be true, it likely is. Be aware of product pitches and use good judgment before purchasing and using any nutritional supplements. Buy supplements from a reputable company and manufacturer, and when in doubt, consult a physician before beginning a supplement routine.

Nutritional Benefits From Protein Sports Supplements

2009-01-13T07:16:00.000-08:00

One of the best ways that a person can benefit from a healthy diet and exercise routine is the addition of sports nutrition in the form of extra protein. Protein is found naturally in many of the foods we eat. But a person who exercises often should get one gram of protein per pound of their body weight. This presents a problem in our fast breakfast (or no breakfast) and fast food lunch lifestyles. We don't always get the protein our body needs to benefit from our daily workouts. This needed protein can be acquired safely from sport supplements promoting extra protein.

Protein nutritional sports drinks and mixes can provide many benefits other than increasing muscle mass and body tone. Proper protein sports supplements can help your body repair damaged cells, such as repairing muscles and bones that may get damaged during a workout. Like carbohydrates, protein can give you energy throughout the day, but unlike carbohydrates, protein offers a lower level of energy that last much longer, keeping the weight off that generally comes from a high carbohydrates diet. Getting the right amount of protein, even through sports nutrition supplements, can help the body make essential amino acids as well.

One type of protein sports nutritional supplement you may see is one called whey protein. Whey comes from milk and is one of the highest quality forms of protein with a rich amount of amino acids. And unlike other forms of protein (red meat for example) whey offers protein in a low fat and low cholesterol form. Whether you just run every other day or you are a professional athlete, protein sports supplements can help increase your body's energy and strength. Most athletes consume a protein shake of some kind before and immediately after exercise or an event to help repair and rebuild damaged muscles.

5 Easy Ways to be Healthy

2009-01-13T05:47:00.000-08:00

There are many ways to be healthy from the cheapest, even free, until the expensive one. This is 5 ways which can be done by everyone without take many cost.

1. Eat healthy and nutritious food
- don't eat to much. It's better to take little but more frequent
- breakfast is important
- don't eat to much at night
- eat more vegetables and fruits

2. Eat vitamin
- it's better to take multivitamin
- consume at proper dosage
- but if you have eat enough vegetable and fruit, you can consult to a doctor if you need more vitamin or not

3. Just move
- it's better to use escalator than lift
- do exercise at least 3 times/ week, 30 minutes each.
- you can do other exercise such as, washing a car, run with your pets or other activities you like.

4. Sleep enough
- don't sleep too night
- it's better to take 8 hours a day

5. Drink
- dehidration can cause many health problem
- depends on the situation, at least drink 2 liter / day
- this not include alcohol

It's easy right??

Best regards,

Deny Sutani

A Guide To Acne Skin Care

2009-01-09T22:03:00.000-08:00

Acne is a problem faced primarily by teenagers across the world. However, it is not uncommon to find acne in individuals aged between twenty to forty years. Acne is a skin problem characterized by blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and lumps. It generally occurs on the face, neck, upper arms, and shoulders.

Bacteria, excessive oil, dirt, make-up, and sweat are some of the factors that cause acne. Therefore, acne skin care must be targeted at keeping the skin clean and reducing its oiliness. Individuals with acne should wash their faces with warm water and soap or face wash that is specially manufactured for acne-prone skin. Products containing tea tree oil are supposed to be beneficial. While application of a sunscreen with SPF of 15 or higher is essential while going out during the day, night cream should be avoided. Astringent can be used to cleanse and tone the skin, followed by the application of a mild, water-based moisturizer.

Pimples should not be touched frequently or squeezed, as this often aggravates the problem and leaves behind stubborn marks. Tomato, mint, or cucumber juice can be applied on the face and the neck. They provide a blemish-free complexion. In addition, a weekly face mask made of almond powder, milk, and rosewater can prevent pimples and lead to glowing skin.

Oil-based make up should not be used on acne-prone skin. Although a variety of concealers are available in the market to hide skin blemishes, they offer only a temporary solution. In fact, some concealers add to acne problems. Apart from following a skin care regimen based on suitable products, diet needs to be controlled to prevent or cure acne. This is because acne also results from digestive disorders. Intake of fried food, sweets, tea, coffee, soft drinks, and alcohol should be cut down. Instead, fresh lime, tomato, or carrot juice can be taken in-between meals. These help to cleanse and hydrate the body internally, and only a healthy body can possess flawless, glowing skin. Therefore, a mix of internal and external care is required to combat acne.

A Brief Overview Of Baby Acne

2009-01-09T22:02:00.001-08:00

Small babies may develop acne because of the lingering maternal hormones after delivery, which may cause stimulation to the baby's sebaceous glands. Your baby receives these hormones from the placenta, after the delivery.

Don't worry if your baby has pimples. About 20% of the newborn babies are affected by baby acne, also known as acne-neonatorum.

Let’ know the various aspects of this peculiar type of acne. First things first, the treatment for infantile acne is not the same as that of acne treatment for any other age group.

Infantile acne is gender-biased. Male babies are more affected than their female counterparts. Normally babies have the acne attack at the age of 3 weeks. Some babies have it from the time of delivery. Generally the types of acne you find in infants are papules and pustules. Papules are red bumps and pustules are whiteheads. They have a collection of pus.

Some babies also have acne on the scalp. Acne in babies does not require treatment as such. The lesions will take care of themselves within a period of four months. But do take the normal care of the baby as you would take care of its other body parts.

Use mild baby soap and gently clean the face once in a day with water. Do not try harsher methods by using oil and other lotions which you think are good. They may at times, worsen the condition. Know for certain that infantile acne will disappear when it has to.

In your anxiety to photograph the baby, don't stuff his/her cheeks with cosmetics and if at all you need to have the touch-ups, do it in an imaginative way.

If you or your family doctor feel that the baby has severe acne, treat it with benzoyl peroxide, keratolytic agents or topical creams like retinoids.

The ways of acne are indeed mysterious. If you have a family history of acne, that doesn't mean that your baby will have acne. And just because the baby has acne, it doesn't mean that, it will suffer from the attack of acne, when it grows up. Acne has its own working style and attacking strategy.

Infantile acne, which normally appears after the age of three months in a baby, quietly disappears after the age of 12 months. No special efforts of treatment are required. In some babies, the condition may last up to three years. It is due to the genetic makeup of your baby. You have something to contribute to it, as the hereditary part.

You have nothing to do with the infantile acne, relating to the treatment part. Just observe its arrival and departure. Well, arrival with anxiety and departure with pleasure!

A Basic Guide on Medications for Acne

2009-01-09T22:00:00.000-08:00

Over the years acne has affected millions of people in their early teens and for many on into their adult life. Each year new acne treatments hit the market, each claiming to stop further acne breakouts. Yet no one medication for acne has been proven to do that.

If you're like so many acne sufferers, and have a medicine cabinet full of various acne medications that don't work, you need to stop and get back to the basics of acne care. Your first step is to become knowledgeable about what acne is and how it develops. Visit your doctor, or better yet consult with a dermatologist about your acne condition. Your dermatologist may recommend over-the-counter medications for acne or if your acne is severe, you may need perscription acne medication.

Much of the medications for acne available today consist of several products (systems for controlling acne), which includes an acne face wash, exfolliator or toner and some lotion. The combined use of these acne medications can have dramatic results in acne blemish control. Though they will likely not cure your acne, they will, when used properly, significantly lessen the number of acne breakouts.

These acne blemish control systems include:

Face wash or cleanser:
The face wash or cleanser is used to fight bacteria. Some are designed to combat bacteria, both on the surface and within the pores. At the same time many contain tiny granules to help exfoliate dead skin cells and impurities. The two most common ingredients of face washes is either benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Each of these ingredients approach acne control in different ways.

Benzoyl Peroxide:
Benzoyl peroxide used as an antiseptic to lessen the number of surface bacteria and skin yeasts. It is available as a gel, cream, lotion or face wash in varying concentrations.

Salicylic Acid:
Salicylic acid helps to slow down shedding skin cells inside the follicle, which in turn reducing clogging. It also helps breakdown, both blackheads and white heads. Salicylic acid is available in varying forms, like gels, lotions and medicated pads (Stridex) and in varying concentrations.

Exfolliator or toner:
The purpose of this gel or cream is to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores and remove excess oil. This one step is essential to acne blemish control. While not visible to the naked eye, clogging of the pores are a major contributor to acne breakouts. Again, depending on the manufacturer, either benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid or another medication for acne may be included in this step.

Lotion:
The final step is applying a lotion. These lotions are usually oil free and used to moisturerize, re-hydrate and reduce irritation of your skin. Some lotions may contain benzoyl peroxide to heal inflammation, which helps prevent future breakouts.

No matter which medication for acne you choose to use, following the acne treatment listed above will help to lessen your acne breakouts. Each step is an important step in active acne blemish control. The combined use of these medications can help to keep your skin clear and acne free. As with use of any medications, you should always consult with your doctor or dermatologists before starting any acne care treatment.

Copyright (c) 2006, by Paul E. Web This article may be freely distributed as long as the copyright, author's information and live link with anchored text is published with the article:

10 Easy and Natural Ways to Get Rid of Acne

2009-01-09T21:59:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for acne solutions that really work? The good news is, whether you're a teenager or an adult suffering from acne, you don't have to live with it. Here you can find 10 super easy and effective ways to get rid of acne.

1. Do not pick, press or rub your pimples. These actions actually increase the sebum production and rupture the membranes below your skin. The infection and sebum will spread underneath your skin and cause more pimples. Also, you risk increasing the chances of leaving scars on your face.

2. Wash your face twice a day using a mild soup. It is even better if you can buy sulfur-based soap especially for acne. If your skin is too oily, use a soap with benzoyl peroxide. Do not use rough sponges, brushes, or anything similar on your face. You shouldn't, however, over-wash your face because it will actually stimulate your sebaceous glands to produce more sebum which will increase your acne.

3. Check if it is because of the food. For many people, food allergy can cause very serious acne condition. You should avoid eating too much oily and spicy food. Recent studies have shown that acne can also be caused by milk which contains hormones as well as seafood with relatively high levels of iodine. If possible, cut down on those foods. Other foods you may consider avoiding are: sugar, dairy products, deep-fried food, meat, nut butters, etc. On the other hand, it is believed that green vegetables, vegetable fuices and foods rich in zinc can help alleviate acne condition.

4. Drink more water every day. "Eight glasses of water a day can keep acne away." says Jennifer Thoden, a respected acne expert. The reason is that water can carry waste material out of our body and it really helps heal and prevent acne flare-ups.

5. Do not wear makeup if possible. Makeup products can clog your pores, cause more blackheads and pimples. If you have to wear makeup, make sure it is water-based. Be sure to clean your makeup brushes regularly and cleanse your skin before you sleep.

6. Do not use oily products. Avoid products such as hair pomades, intense oil-based facial moisturizers, and oily cleansers.

7. Keep your face clean. Do not rest your chin on your hands or constantly touch your face. Regular shampoo your hair and keep it off your face, especially when you sleep.

8. Exercise moderately as it helps in blood circulation and eliminataion of toxins.

9. Stay stress-free. Studies have shown that stress not only worsens acne flare-up, it also worsens the overall skin condition. Talk to your friends, listen to your favorite music, or take a walk in the park. There are many things you can do to be stree free.

10. Get Sunshine and fresh air. Sunshine stimulates vitamin D in the body, an essential vitamin for healthy skin. Fresh air and sunshine can also reduce stress (tip #9) and increase oxygen to the skin. Don't get burnt in the sun though. Burnt and heavily tanned skin forms a layer on the skin that doesn't exfoliate quickly enough and can lead to blocked pores.

9 Steps To Cleaner And Healthier Skin

2009-01-09T21:57:00.000-08:00

According to Bestskinpeel, for cleaner, healthier and easier to manage skin just follow this list of nine items:

1) Lower your stress level through prayer and meditation. Stress creates hormones that actually age us as they destroy cells and create toxic biproducts and free radicals. Studies have shown that prayer and meditation can reduce our stress levels. Prayer and meditation have been proven to even alleviate some of the symptoms of cancer and other life threatening diseases.

2) Drink plenty of water. It is a fact that 90% of us do not drink enough water. For your skin cells to function properly and heal properly from cuts, etc... we need to drink 8-12 glasses of water every day. Our skin is one of our most important organs as it protects us from disease, cushions our falls, etc... It needs plenty of water.

3) Get proper sleep. Not getting the proper 8-10 hours of sleep per day will first show in your skin. Broken capillaries, puffiness, circles under the eyes.

4) Eat well. Get proper nutrition. Too many junk foods can cause or worsen skin problems like pimples and acne. A well balanced meal 3 times per day has been proven to help alleviate spikes in skin problems and help to average out the outbreaks in acne vulgaris.

5) Take vitamins to supplement your skin and body. We can't always make sure we get 100% of each vitamin and mineral with the foods we eat, but we can take a multivitamin once a day. They are cheap at Walmart and there is no excuse. People that take multivitamins once a day live longer. Its a proven fact just like persons that smoke take years off their lives.

6) Properly clean your skin. Harsh soaps can dry out your skin and even stimulate further sebum (oil) production which can worsen acne. Use a mild cleanser with 2% salicylic acid. This has been proven very effective in ridding excess oils while maintaining proper hydration and pH. The slight acidity will keep bacteria at bay.

7) Don't smoke. Smoking puts years on you. Literally, smoking can add 10 years to the aged look of your skin. Why would you want to do that? If you must have nicotine then get nicotine gum or the patch - they will cure your cravings and there is no evidence or statistics of anyone developing cancer, lung disease, etc... from these.

8) Wear sunscreen. The skin does have keratonin to protect against the suns rays, but it is no match for UV rays, etc... that we expose ourselves to. Melanoma has several forms and all are deadly. If you don't think you will get skin cancer or think you are invulnerable, just go to your local dermatologist and ask to see pictures of clients with skin cancer, better yet go to the oncology center at your local hospital. You won't think that way ever again. Wear sunscreen.

9) Treat yourself to a spa treatment atleast once a year. Skin peels, TCA peels, deep tissue massage, complete relaxation, aromatherapy, etc... will all energize and heal your skin. TCA peels will actual improve your skins ability to regenerate itself and improve collagen levels.

Remember, follow these nine steps to enjoy healthier skin.

9 Acne Treatments That Definitely do Not Work

2009-01-09T07:55:00.000-08:00

Given that acne is by far the most common disease in the world, I’m constantly surprised at the amount of misinformation there is about acne treatments. There are so many commonly held believes regarding treatments, which have no scientific or medical validity, but continue to be passed on from individual to individual. More worrying is the possible consequences of trying some of these options. Here are list of common acne treatments that categorically do not work:

1.Household cleaning products, even when diluted, should not be used to treat acne. There can be severe adverse reactions including chemical burns from pursuing this route

2.Similarly cleaning powders are ineffective for acne

3.Washing up liquid does not work for acne

4.Home facial saunas will do nothing for your acne, but will certainly aggravate, already sensitive skin

5.Sticky tape left on the skin overnight and removed in the morning will certainly remove dead skin cells and excess oil, but is likely to damage the sensitive skin, and may cause an allergy to the glue

6.Prolonged exposure to the sun or using a sun bed will not help your acne, and can be dangerous if you are also taking oral medication of certain types. For example taking certain antibiotics in tablet form, will make your skin highly sensitive to sun light

7.Sudocrem is an excellent treatment for nappy rash, but highly ineffective for acne, primarily because it contains a mixture of greases and oils which are bad for acne

8.Taking high doses of vitamin A or B will not directly help your acne, and may cause other side-effects

9.Squeezing your spots is universally not recommended in combating acne. Doing so will prolong and spread the acne to other parts of the affected area

There are many other ‘not recommended’ acne treatment regimes, many of which will worsen an already difficult condition. Avoid these shortcuts and stick with a programme overseen by your medical professional, or one which is based on solid scientific and medical evidence. If you do this, you'll succeed in overcoming your acne condition.

Peter Vine is a successful online publisher of Acne-Treatment-Expert.com
He provides practical advice and the latest information on all aspects of adult acne treatments, which you can readily research on his website.

8 Tips for a Healthy and shining Skin

2009-01-09T07:53:00.000-08:00

Tip 1: Drink Water

Water has long been considered as the most efficient natural treatment or an almost free treatment for any skin condition because of its being alkaline, with pH 7.3. It prevents dehydration which is capable of producing sebum or oil from the sebaceous glands. Your skin needs water in order for it to function best, thus doctors and nutritionists suggest that a daily intake of between 6 to 8 glasses of water per day is highly needed.

Tip 2: Watch Your Diet

Nutrition plays a vital role in skin health too. Specific foods such as those acidic foods and dairy products are said to be effective in causing an allergic reaction in some people. Also, one of the widely debated topics in the area of nutrition today is chocolates. Some say that chocolate does affect the condition of the skin, while others say it doesn’t. Whatever the result may be, the best advice is just to follow a nutritious diet that has a number of fresh fruits and green-leafy veggies, as well as fiber.

Tip 3: Consider Exfoliants

Many experts say that exfoliating your skin is another great way to attain a beautiful skin. So, try to invest in a good body exfoliant or “loofah”, as it is commonly called, as it is capable of eliminating the dead skin cells from your body. Accordingly, this should be done once or twice a week so to free the skin to breathe. What’s more, exfoliants help to put off ingrown hair from developing.

However, it is essential to avoid using any body exfoliant on the skin on the face. The main reason for this precaution is that the facial tissue is more sensitive and finer than those tissues of the body.

Tip 4: Consider a Healthy Routine for Facial Care

When it comes to facial skin care, getting into a healthy beauty routine is not bad. Most of the doctors today greatly suggest that you cleanse, moisturize and tone your skin twice every day. When cleaning, never fail to remember cleaning the area on the neck, including your face. Apply a moisturizer or neck cream after.

Before going to bed at night, always bear in mind to remove all make up. Clean your skin before you sleep, no matter how tired you may feel. It was found out that during the night, the skin goes through a process of elimination and cannot breathe properly if it is clogged with make up. And, you may also find out that sleeping with your make up on will cause your skin to “break out” with spots on it.

When it comes to shaving for men, some men may experience shaving rashes. For many, these rashes lower their self-esteem, but this is actually not a big problem to think about. There are a lot ways to avoid rashes. Perhaps one of the best is to make sure that when shaving, the razor strokes are following the direction of hair growth. That’s simply it!

Tip 5: Heal Your Feet

When it comes to skin care, the feet are often neglected. So, if care you found no time for a professional pedicure, try to fill a football or basin with warm water and add your favorite essential oil. Soak your feet for about fifteen minutes. Then, dry them and apply a rough skin remover onto them. Rinse this off and dry you feet well. And, if you consider pedicure, simply add some body cream to your feet for an easy and quick fix pedicure.

Tip 6: Avoid Too Much Exposure to the Sun

One of the most common precautions when it comes to skin care is avoiding too much exposure to the sun. As you may know, over exposure to sunlight causes sunburn. So, while current sun blocks only block out the UVB rays and still let in harmful UVA rays, it is still wise to cover up before venturing into the hands of Apollo. If possible, use a wide brimmed hat while tending your garden to keep the sun from your face.

Tip 7: Exercise

Aside from considering a healthy diet, exercising your body also helps keep your skin healthy. Note that a proper exercise does not only keep the body fit by regulating the oxygen; it also improves the glow of the skin as well.

Tip 8: Take Enough Rest

One common problem that face people is stress; the one which is not normal. It was found out that when a person is stressed, the adrenal cortex converts adrenal androgens to the hormone testosterone in male and female, which in turn results in overactive sebaceous glands. These adrenal androgens are released causing a double amount of testosterone, causing the face to be oily, while other areas of the body are still dry from dehydration. So, taking proper rest that includes 6 to 8 hours of undisturbed sleep daily is the best way to rejuvenate the skin.

7 Ways To Conquer Acne

2009-01-09T07:50:00.000-08:00

The most effective methods to combat acne include a combination of prevention and better skincare.

Here are some of the ways you can use to prevent and treat acne:
1. Exercise

Regular exercise can help fight acne by fighting off negative stress levels that can come from negative self-esteem and depression. But avoid wearing tight lycra and nylon exercise outfits. These synthetic fabrics that tend to trap body moisture and heat, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. Stick to loose clothing made of cotton or natural blends, and keep your sports gear and equipment clean.
2. Safe Cosmetics

To avoid pore-clogging and skin irritations that can contribute to acne, use products labeled "noncomedogenic" or "oil-free." Opt for "hypo-allergenic" perfumes and cosmetics to avoid allergic reactions and skin irritation. Coal tar derivatives, carmine and heavy cream in blushes can cause reactions.

Shimmering facial colors can contain a flaky mineral called mica that can cause skin irritations and clog pores. Use a lip gloss with a matte finish for less pore-clogging. The more the shine, the more then comedogenic content and the more your pores can clog.
3. Healthy Diet

Studies show that diet does not play a role in either the cause or the treatment of acne. However, what is best for your body is best for your skin. So make sure you get enough vitamins, minerals and supplements that have been known and recommended to prevent and help conquer acne breakouts. These include

* Vitamin A or Retinol (High doses are toxic)
* Vitamin B Complex
* Vitamin C
* Vitamin E
* L-Carnitine
* Zinc

A good quality brand name multivitamin will probably have the recommended vitamins and minerals that you need to help with acne prevention. Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day and making good, healthy dietary food choices.
3. Hormonal Treatment

Hormones (or a lack of them) during later years - especially for women - can play a role in acne flare-ups and prevention. One recent study showed that about 50 percent of women have acne, referred to as hormonal acne, problems during the week before their menstruation.

Treatment options include topical retinoids, oral antibiotics and Benzoyl Peroxide for teen years. For adults oral contraceptives or hormonal birth control pills and hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) may be helpful for women, combined with systemic or topical treatments, prescription or over-the-counter products and medications.
4. Healthy Skin Regimen

Avoid harsh scrubbing or over-washing, because this can cause possible skin irritation or possible over production of oil to replace what's washed off, clogging pores in the process. Use products with gentle exfoliation ingredients and skip products that contain alcohol.
5. Acne Products

Some of the more popular products on the market that can prevent acne include:

* Benzoyl Peroxide
* Proactiv® Solution
* Salicylic Acid
* Retinoids
* Antibiotics
* Oral Contraceptives
* Anti-Androgens
* Isotretinoin (Accutane)

6. Shaving

Shaving is actually an excellent way of exfoliating or removing dead skin to help with the prevention and spreading of acne instead of leaving the remains to clog pores. And for some light acne cases already in process, shaving can help rid whiteheads and blackheads from the face. Do not shave areas taht are sore or infected. Use a shaving cream for sensitive skin.

Shave with a sharp blade. Use gentle swipes instead of heavy pressure and go with the flow or "grain." A single-edged blade is better than a twin-blade razor. Electric razors may not shave as close to the skin, but they help with the prevention of acne and other skin breakouts and flare-ups better.
7. Stress

Stress includes external and internal stressors. External Stressors are those that compromise your skin's ability to heal, like oily make-up and too much sun. Internal stressors like anxiety, fear, low self-esteem, depression and a variety of other internalized emotions, can trigger chemical reactions inside your body that can result in acne flare-ups and other skin irritations.

To combat internal stressors and prevent acne problems, get plenty of rest and sleep. Try to maintain regular hours. Keep a check list of "Things that Calm You" handy for stressful times, like reading a book, resting, listening to music, taking a walk, going out for an ice cream cone, etc.

7 Little Known Acne Skin Care Secrets

2009-01-09T07:35:00.000-08:00

An acne problem is not a problem, so long as you know wise acne skin care tips. One does need much money to get that healthy glowing skin, with the natural acne skin care methods, acne shouldn't be treated like monsters under your bed. Here are some acne skin care methods we can practice.

The power of water. Oil, they say is thicker than water. But water is the plainest, most natural substance we can use for acne skin care. In washing your face, do it gently. Rubbing and scrubbing your face does not clean the skin gently. For best acne skin care effects, using a mild cleanser or toner once in the morning, noon and evening, and after doing a heavy work out, will help you achieve a clear skin.

Pick that zit. People who prick pimples and blemishes as if pricking a bubble only aggravates the risk of skin inflammation and acne scars. Avoid hand contact with your face for better acne skin care results.

Shave with care. Choose the best electric shavers and safety razors you can trust for years. They'll be more comfortable to use. Men need not use a super sharp blade to get rid of that beard. A regular shaver used with soap and water, or shaving cream will help you get that smooth finish. Doctors advised men to shave lightly, and shave only when necessary for acne skin care maintenance .

Sun of the beach! If you love sun tanning or just want the sight of that sophisticated sunburnt look - forget it. This is an acne skin care no-no. The sun’s harmful ultra violet rays redden the skin, making the skin drier. It can make one’s blemishes visible, speed up aging and bring serious damage to the human skin. Also, excessive exposure to the sun can cause skin cancer. You don't want to ruin that great acne skin care you've been starting on with.

Cosmic Cosmetics. Eye shadows, blush on, moisturizer, and other cosmetics we use should be free from oily substances to permit healthy acne skin care maintenance. Even hairstyling products in forms of gels or aerosols that come in close contact with the skin may destroy a healthy acne skin care practice. Choose hairstyling products, which are commercially labeled as non-comedogenic are products which do not provoke the formation and growth of blemishes and other related skin
disorders.

Buttered Face. An African beauty secret reveals the power of shea butter which originated from the Karite Nut Tree (or Mangifolia tree). Hmmm... juicy acne skin care tip! Karite Nut Tree was discovered in the semi-arid savannahs of West Africa and Central Africa. People in Africa, women in particular - rely in shea butter as a vital tool for acne skin care treatment for over centuries now.

Spare me that SPA! You need not visit the most expensive spa parlors to get that destressing facial treatment to aid you in your acne skin care endeavor. Create a home made magical elixir right at the comforts of your own home by purchasing simple spa tools found in beauty stores.

Get only the best and the FRESH. Increase intake of fresh fruit and vegetables. These acne skin care tools are free of toxins which decreases the speed of blood circulation. A salad or a fruit a day will keep an acne away!

There is no perfect cure, medication, treatment or acne skin care methods for acne problems. Thus, as the sole proprietor of our own skin, we must take full charge of what lies to be our first armor against diseases and bodily injuries.

6 Steps To Clearer Skin

2009-01-09T07:31:00.000-08:00

Well, I’m writing this because I know there are millions of people out there with an acne problem that seems to not go away. Yes, if you’re like me you have tried all of the popular products. But, what if I told you that in order to have clear skin you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars every month. Actually, you may not have to spend any money.

So, with all that said here is my simple 6 Steps To Clearer Skin (Yes, this is what I am doing to help my skin clear):

1. Drink lots of purified water. Look, many of us with acne problems continue to drinks all of these sodas that have a lot of acid, colors, etc. Soda can really mess up the face. Leave all sodas and other drinks on the market alone and stick to only purified water. Try these waters - Poland Springs, Volvic, Penta (expensive), Smart Water, or Dasani. Water does wonders to the body!

2. Drink lots of Green Tea (at least 1 to 2 times a day). Green Tea has many antioxidants that will help in decreasing your acne problems. Try purchasing the Celestial Seasonings Green Tea.

3. Eliminate any and all fried foods or greasy foods from your diet. Yes, I know many dermatologists will disagree with this. What I have found is that when I stopped eating fried or greasy foods my face automatically started clearing and improving to the point where I was receiving compliments almost everyday. Fried food carries too much grease that can cause big pimples to form in your face. Also many fast food places use old grease over and over again. Old or reused grease is one big block in your way if you’re trying to get clear skin. Not Good!

4. Eat a lot of vegetables (raw organic baby spinach is wonderful) and fruits everyday. Yeah I know you heard this before, but some of you are still not doing it. Vegetables and fruits alone. Many vegetables and fruits have antioxidants and vitamins that can help in healing and clearing the skin.

5. Use pure vitamin E oil (use the Nature’s Gate Brand) for your face. I am telling you, it will make your look good in about two to three months. Vitamin E oil has all the healing and antioxidant properties to help in clearing your skin. Apply to your face every night before going to bed.

6. Eliminate all stress. I know for some, stress can result in many breakouts on the face. Some individuals are not good at dealing with stress. You know what, let the stress go!

Enjoy these steps and take your time. Give yourself 3 to 6 months to see actual improvements in your skin. For these steps to work properly, please add each step to your daily routine. Each step must be performed on a daily basis. Consult your local dermatologist if you have any worries.

6 Lifestyle Tips for Reducing Acne

2009-01-09T07:24:00.001-08:00

Would you like to find out what those-in-the-know have to say about Acne? The information in the article below comes straight from well-informed experts with special knowledge about Acne.

Here are some tips that have helped hundreds of people suffering from acne. Hopefully, these will help you too:

1. Water is Best

Water is by far the most effective treatment for acne. The main support for this claim is the fact that water is alkaline (pH 7.3) and can be considered as a natural treatment or an almost free acne treatment. Thus, it is best that you drink at least eight glasses of water per day (10 to 12 is better). This will help your body in getting rid of oil, waste and toxins, and water even helps to moisten your skin as it keeps your pores from clogging. Perhaps what is most important is that, water helps to relieve stress and relax your body in the end, so you can have a better sleep. Note that water and sleep are factors that help reduce stress. Along with this, try to lessen your coffees, sodas, teas and alcohols intake as much as possible. The reason behind this is that they are partial diuretics that they drive more water out of the cells of the body than they put in.

2. Avoid Astringents

If your goal is to have a beautiful skin, then you should try to avoid astringent natural soaps and any astringent agents that shrink your skin's pores, such as oatmeal, witch hazel, very cold water and rubbing alcohol. It was found out actually that when your skin pores shrink, more oils are clogged in the pores of the skin, causing the onset of acne.

3. Avoid Stimulants

Coffee, tea, cigarettes, as well as excessive sugar from sweets and soda should be avoided. It is often said that anything potential for affecting the entire body, brain and nervous system can easily stimulate the sebaceous glands to release more oil. This oil has to leave the body through the pores, worsening your acne in the end. Stimulants even trigger stress.

4. Watch Your Diet

Note that diet affects acne. So be careful with what you eat. As much as possible, try to eat foods that are low in fat, as fats produce more oils in the body that are capable of producing acne.

5. Avoid Alcohol

A number of people think that alcohol is one of the best ways to relax and relieve stress. Well, alcohol may do this, but studies have found out that alcohol causes the formation of acne. It is considered capable for producing acne knowing that it is an astringent, thus it shrinks the skin pores, making them more prone to clogging. Aside from that, alcohol inhibits sleep, therefore causing more fatigue and stress, leading to worse acne.

6. Hot and Very Cold Count

When considering baths, you should avoid hot and very cold water on areas of the skin affected by acne. Use warm water instead; perhaps well below 98.5 degrees on your skin.

5 Tips Which Will Guarantee You Get the Best From Your Doctor in Relation to Your Acne Treatment

2009-01-09T07:23:00.001-08:00

Doctors are extremely busy people that are often overworked, underpaid and sometimes harassed by patients that have little to complain about. However I believe they genuinely want to help their patients, and will take your acne condition seriously. There are a number of simple steps you can take to ensure you maximise the chance of getting the right help from your doctor in treating your acne

1. A key skill in getting the best out of any situation is clear communication. Your doctor can only act on the information you give him about your condition. Not providing the ‘full story’ is the primary reason for misdiagnosis or a lack of urgent attention. Make sure you tell your doctor, how long you’ve had the acne, what treatments you’ve tried, where does the acne occur and is it worsened by reaction to stress of sunlight.

2. Ask questions about any aspect of your acne that you want to clarify. A good tip is to write down the questions you want to ask, before you speak to your doctor, to ensure you cover everything. Don't feel embarrassed by asking certain questions, remember there are 'no dumb questions'

3. Understand that there are no miracle cures for acne, and that you may have to try a number of different treatments before you find one, which is effective, against your particular type.

4. Make sure you mention the emotional side of how your acne makes you feel, if this is of particular concern to you. This is a vital area that is often overlooked, and is clearly important particularly if your acne is resulting in depression, or resulting in a reduction in your social interactions with others.

5. If your doctor prescribes any medication, make sure you fully understand

1) how to apply the treatment,

2)how long will it be before you see any improvement,

3)any side-effects that you may experience,

4)when do you need to return for a follow up, and

5)how long the treatment will last. These key questions will ensure you are fully informed about the treatment programme you are embarking on.

Remember your doctor is there to help you overcome both the physical and emotional side of acne. If you don’t feel you can easily approach your doctor, find an alternative medical professional, such as a dermatologist. What ever you decide to do, ensure you seek help, and don’t let acne get the better of you.

5 Tips To Cure Your Acne

2009-01-09T07:21:00.000-08:00

Here are 5 tips to help with acne prevention and treatment and skin maintenance. They are listed in no particular order of importance.

1. Get plenty of fresh air and sunshine for vitamin D, ingredients for healthy skin. Not only will your skin appreciate the vitamin D, your body and mind will enjoy the oxygen and stress reducer of a daily jaunt outdoors. But don't overdo it and get a sunburn! Remember to use sun protection / tanning lotions if you'll be out long. You don't want to get caught up in that cycle of burned, dead skin cells blocking pores, resulting in acne scenario.

2. Remember, even "good" stress can trigger internal chemical responses that result in acne, too. So plan ahead to deal with extra stress when planning a wedding, graduation, a move, a new job, a job transfer, a new baby, etc. Journal a little extra, focusing on the upcoming issue or issues and plan in some extra rest (use relaxation or meditation tools - cassettes, workshops, etc.) Get help around the house, take time off, exercise (yoga and T'ai Chi are highly recommended), have fun or whatever you need to do.

3. Drink an adequate amount of water daily. Many recommend three to four tall glasses and mineral or filtered water. Too little water can lead to dehydration, which can lead to dead skin cells not naturally falling off or sloughing properly; the end result can be blocked pores, acne.

4. Acne has nothing to do with dirt. Period. So don't over-wash or over-scrub your face or the rest of your body. Keep in mind that too much can result in dry skin. And dry skin means your body will jump in and create more oil. Then what? Extra oil + extra dead skin cells = blocked pores, triggering acne flare-ups. Same old story.

5. - Add more fruits, veggies, seeds and nuts to your regular diet. (Note that deficiencies if selenium and zinc, found in Brazil nuts and pumpkin seeds, have been associated with acne.) So add salads, dried fruit and nut snacks, juices and other healthy treats to your daily planning.

This report includes information based upon research about acne. It strives to help clear up myths from facts and present an overview of the issues surrounding acne along with possible solutions available to help with the prevention and treatment of acne, all based upon the most recent studies, reports, articles and findings available, so that you can learn more acne health care.

5 Tips on Getting Rid of Acne

2009-01-09T07:19:00.000-08:00

There are many different causes for acne. The complication is not in knowing why acne occurs, it is identifying the ultimate cause for each person that has it and then figuring out the appropriate treatment for the condition. There is some good news in light of all of this. That is that there are some basic acne treatments that everyone can experiment with when it comes to getting rid of acne. Here, I will share with you the most common 5 tips on getting rid of acne.

1.
One of the first ways that you can be successful in getting rid of acne is to engage in a diet that benefits the skin, as well as your health in general. Organic foods have recently started to gain in popularity and for a very good reason. These particular foods are not processed. Furthermore, when these foods are cultivated, harmful chemicals that can prove to be toxic to your overall health, as well as the health of your skin are not used.

Examples of these toxins include herbicides, pesticides, and similar items. If you want to recover from acne, you should ensure to eat plenty of foods that are labeled Organic. Naturally, consuming a lot of foods that are green and leafy in the vegetable category is appropriate. Furthermore, fruits and nuts are also beneficial. It is also important to consume items that contain a fair amount of water.

2.
The second way that you can get rid of acne is by ensuring that you consume ten to twelve glasses of water a day. Each of these glasses should be at least eight ounces. I know this seems like quite a bit of water, but it is a key element when it comes to purifying the body on the whole. The more water that moves through your body, the more clean and pure the inside of the body will be.

When this happens, that purification will actually spread to the outside, or the skin. This means that when impurities invade the pores of the skin, it is highly likely that the water that you have consumed will play a vital role in quickly eliminating this obstruction. As a result, you will experience fewer blemishes.

3.
Did you know that by increasing the amount of vitamins that you ingest, you can reduce the possibility of an acne outbreak? This is the next way that you can work on getting rid of acne. All you have to do is focus on eating foods that have high levels of vitamins A, B12, B, E, B5, & B6. If you find that it is difficult sorting through the ingredients on everything that you eat or drink in order to maximize your exposure to these vitamins, you can purchase supplements.

Many elect to simply take a multivitamin every single day. Then, there are some that purchase each of these vitamins and then rotate days on taking them. However, you decide to do it, it is important to just do it! You are sure to see immediate results when it comes to how clean and healthy your skin is!

4.
When it comes to getting rid of acne, many individuals are turning towards natural herbs. There are a number of herbs that have been found to assist in acne complications. Red Clover is an especially popular herb because of the fact that it works to purify the blood and remove toxins from the body. Then, you have other herbal remedies such as Dandelion Root, and Alfalfa. There are even Chinese Herbs like Yang Ming and Lung Heat that can prove to be beneficial.

5.
If you have a severe case of acne, and nothing else that you have tried is successful when getting rid of it, you should consider setting up an appointment with a dermatologist. These professionals will work closely with you to determine your triggers, skin type, and what will be the best treatment option for you as an individual.

Conclusion

Acne is a complex skin condition that has plagued millions and millions of people all throughout history. There are many different ways that you can approach this situation. While not all are successful for everyone, there are a few out there that can help you optimize the health of your skin. Here, you have been introduced to 5 tips on getting rid of acne give them a try!

5 Tips For Getting Rid of Acne

2009-01-09T07:18:00.001-08:00

By now, almost everybody has seen the late night and early morning acne infomercials with Jessica Simpson and Sean "Diddy" Combs. I guess they figure, if a celebrity trusts something, then so should you. The promises made for the product sound surreal, and yet for many people it may be just the cure they're looking for. Even so, it may not be for everybody.

One of my daughters who had acquired a bad case of acne in recent years, tried the infomercial solution, and it didn't work on her at all. Being a young teenager, she was beset by acne breakouts and needed a solution fast. But unable to find a quick solution, we ended up going to the local dermatologist for acne information and answers. The doctor gave her a prescription for a cream and an oral medication. After following his instructions for a couple weeks, her acne had virtually departed. This was the right solution for her, but it may not be for you - because we're all different.

Here are some general tips that I've discovered over the years:

If you have oily skin - it's best to take a medicated acne product or one in gel form.

If you have dry skin - you'll probably do better with the acne cream form and medicated products with benzoyl peroxide or salycic acid.

If you have both oily AND dry skin (combined type) - you will probably need a combination of oily skin gels and dry skin acne creams to apply to different parts of your fact according to the skin condition there.

If you have sensitive skin - you will more than likely need less intense concentrations of either dry, oily, or combined-type treatments.

If you have skin pain because of acne - you should get personal attention from a dermatologist.

So many people struggle with skin afflictions on a regular basis. With the advances in science, you'd think that the acne problem would have been solved long ago and that acne would be a pale memory. Unfortunately the age-old confidence destroyer is still around and going strong.

Today, reaching middle age, I find myself in a new situation when it comes to unsightly blemishes. Now I find that my skin tends to be a bit oily and I have acne breakouts after moisturizing my face. One of the few things I look forward to as I get older is the absence of acne.

5 Things You Should Know About Acne Treatment Product

2009-01-09T07:15:00.001-08:00

1 Know What You Buy

When it comes to acne treatment product most people just simply buying based on advertising they watch. Each people is different as well as skin, so before you buy acne treatment product make sure you know anything about your skin.

2. Acne Demand Great Deal of Patience

“You want to get rid from acne right away? Then buy this ABC product.” Saw something familiar? How many times you’d been enticed by those kind of ads, and I can guarantee 100% only disappointment you’ve get so far.

3. Never Pop Pimples!

When you get acne and see your face in front of mirror, did you hear those little sound screaming to you “Pop The Pimples!” Don’t hear that no matter how tempting it might be.

By doing so you just put yourself in long-term adversities. It will leave you scar and remove scar leaving by your “pop the pimples” act could literally consume a lot of time and money.

4. Be Careful with The Side Effect of Acne Treatment Product

Be informed about your skin type and acne treatment product you use. Easiest way to do so is just visiting your doctor and ask him/her about possibility of acne treatment product you use could occur some side effect.

A few side effects that may occur are:

- allergic reaction
- respiratory tract irritation
- flaking of the skin
- redness
- inflammation of the skin

To avoid this you could natural acne treatment product that use herb as their main material. One ingredient you will consistently find in natural
acne treatment products is tea tree oil, because tea tree oil kills bacteria.

the point here is before you use anything do some research first

5. Want to Remove Your Acne Scar and Do it Quickly and Efficiently?

Then you should consider trying acne laser scar treatment. I’m not a doctor, so don’t ask me the procedure, you can just phone the free line number of close medical center and ask for more information.

What you should consider to use this option is because it is fast, no side effect (ask your physician for confirmation) and not much pain involved.

5 Natural and Non-Natural Acne Treatments

2009-01-09T07:14:00.001-08:00

At one point all of us have been trying to find ways on how to be completely acne-free. Here are some natural and not so natural acne treatments that are proven to be effective.

1. Witch Hazel Astringent

This astringent comes from the plant with the same name. It is widely spread from Nova Scotia in Canada down to Texas and Florida. Simply steam the twigs of this plant and voila! The extract you get from it serves as your astringent. Remember to cool it though. What’s good about this is that it occurs naturally and even the process it has undergone is all natural. You can be assured it is less harsh compared with commercially-produced astringents.

2. Commercially Produced Astringents

There is no doubt that astringents we can buy over-the-counter are also effective. There are lots of variants to choose from with additional ingredients that promote better skin. The only downside is it can be a little harsh because of the chemicals added to produce this formula. Use them with extra care as they can dry the skin.

3. All-Natural Treatments

Kitchen and acne are two enemies we may not be aware of. Scout your kitchen for stuff like oranges and lemons, fresh garlic and raw potatoes.

- Oranges and lemons just need to be squeezed on cotton balls. Apply the extract on affected areas and wash it after about 20 minutes.

- Fresh garlic is used much easier. Just remove its peeling and rub it on your face.

- As for raw potatoes, peel them and rub its flat surface on your face.

The natural extracts from these fruits and vegetables can help minimize the redness at the same time can clean the skin.

4. Oral Antibiotics

For severe cases, antibiotics are prescribed. These medications are orally taken to reduce the amount of bacteria inside and around skin follicles. They also decrease the exasperating chemicals that the white blood cells produce. Lastly, antibiotics diminish the concentration of the free fatty acids found in sebum, also creating an anti-inflammatory action. Consult your dermatologist for the right antibiotic and dosage.

Tetracycline is still the most commonly prescribed antibiotic for acne treatment. Most of this antibiotic should be taken on an empty stomach. Also, this shouldn’t be used by pregnant women and children under 9. Usually, the starting dose is initially 500 milligrams twice daily and is continuously taken until prescribed, or until a considerable dropping off of lesions is visible.

Erythromycin comes close second and can be prescribed to pregnant women. However, it can cause nausea and even upset stomach. Compared to tetracycline, which can only kill bacteria, Erythromycin has both anti-inflammatory and bacteria-killing properties. Also, this antibiotic needs to be taken in a food-filled tummy. You may discuss other possible antibiotics with your doctors regarding the effects and side-effects of each.

5. Topical Treatments
Externally applied creams are also proven effective for acne treatment. However, it results to drying and flaking but it is said to be the most effective treatment for severe acne. Benzoyl peroxide is one very common and effective topical acne treatment.

5 Easy Tips For Treating Acne

2009-01-09T07:13:00.001-08:00

If you have even a passing interest in the topic of acne, then you should take a look at the following information. This enlightening article presents some of the latest news on the subject of acne.

1. Avoid Scrubbing and Abrasives

Scrubbing and abrasives should be avoided. Experts have said that they irritate the skin, which should be left intact as a natural barrier against the acne-causing bacteria.

2. Sun for Beautiful Skin

As you may know, sun does kill bacteria, but it doesn't mean that it won't harm the skin. Note that the sun also acts as an astringent that dries, tightens and clogs the skin pores. Thus, you should just spend limited time under the sun. At least 15 minutes to the face and arms daily is enough.

3. Avoid Extremely Cold Weather

If extreme heat causes clogging of the pores, extremely cold weather causes it as well. So, avoid extremely cold weather so you don't freeze and clog pores. It is ideal that you moisturize your face and body, and stay in temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. Swimming Does Help

Exercise for stress reduction by swimming in a properly treated indoor swimming pool. But, use the Ozone purified pool if possible. It is interesting to know that the swimming pool water is typically 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, which is well below the normal temperature of 98.6 degrees of your body. Therefore, the swimming water cools your whole body, including the acne affected areas, while providing excellent exercise to the rest of you. This even reduces stress as well as physical attention.

5. Think Clean

Change linens, wash cloths and body towels after each use. It is for the fact that they are great places for acne-causing bacteria to grow and be reapplied to the skin later. Also, wash white facial cloths, pillow covers, as well as personal undergarments daily with Vinegar, tea tree oil or essential oils of Lime, lemon or orange so to lessen the acne-related bacterial development. It is also often suggested that you apply a natural detergent for washing.

Indeed, there are a lot of ways to control and fight acne, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle is so far the best one to consider. It is important to note that healthy lifestyles will lead you to attaining a healthier skin and a healthier body. Changing your unfavorable habits will reward you with better general health, more energy, and clearer skin to show the world.

If you were once afraid to make changes, please don't be. Of course, the initial affects may be hard to grasp at first, but as you go on, you will find out that you can quickly learn to adapt with them.

This article is Copyright © 2006, Heather Colman. Permission is granted to reprint this article as long as no changes are made, and the entire resource box is included.

5 Acne Treatment Tips You Can Use Today

2009-01-09T07:12:00.001-08:00

Luckily, there are a number of things you can do everyday to make sure your skin is less prone to flare ups. Here are five tips for taking control of your acne starting today.

1. Exercise - Keeping in shape can help fight acne by fighting off negative stress levels that can come from negative self-esteem and depression. However, some safeguards need to be in place to ward off acne that can result from your workout routines. Watch what you put on your body with regards to clothing, sports gear and equipment.

For example, tight lycra and nylon exercise outfits might look great in the movies and on magazine models, but if you are susceptible to acne problems, avoid these synthetic fabrics that tend to trap in body moisture and heat resulting in a bacteria frenzy. Instead, choose loose clothing made of cotton or natural blends to allow more air to get to your skin.

And when you are finished with your workout, get out of clothing wet from perspiration or water sports. Shower and change into dry, clean clothing. And keep your sports gear and equipment clean, too. Dirty headgear, for instance, can irritate forehead areas prone to acne problems. So toss headbands into the washing machine after workout sessions.

2. Cosmetics - To avoid pore-clogging and skin irritations that are similar to acne and that can contribute to acne, use products labeled noncomedogenic or oil-free. Shimmering facial colors can contain a flaky mineral called mica that can cause skin irritations and clog pores. Other additives in coloring that can cause similar reactions are coal tar derivatives, carmine and heavy cream in blushes.

More preventative measures include using a lip gloss that promotes a matte finish instead of a high gloss for less pore-clogging; note the more the shine, the more then comedogenic content and the more the pores can clog. Beware that eye creams can contain heavier concentrations of moisturizers than regular creams and lotions, meaning they have greater potential to clog pores in the surrounding facial areas.

3. Diet - Studies show that diet does not play a role in either the cause or the treatment of acne. However, what is recommended for acne preventative care is this: what is best for your body is best for your skin, especially since your skin is the largest organ of your body. So remember to watch your diet and consume healthy vitamins, minerals and other supplements. This will help to prevent and help conquer acne breakout.

4. Hygiene - A healthy skin regimen should include no harsh scrubbing or over-washing, because this can cause possible skin irritation or possible over production of oil to replace what has washed off, clogging pores in the process. Products with gentle exfoliation ingredients are OK to use; i.e. not scratchy nut or fruit shell pieces that can tear skin. And skip alcohol products when possible; these can take off the top layer of your skin and cause your glands to product more oil, clogging pores in the process.

If you do spot acne-troubled areas, do NOT mess with them. Remember that these are already weeks in the making, and squeezing or picking blemishes can force the infected area to regress back inside, further troubling the region and possibly leave a scar. If necessary, seek help from a dermatologist for alternative treatments.

5. Shaving - Shaving for both genders is actually an excellent way of exfoliating or removing dead skin to help with the prevention and spreading of acne instead of leaving the remains to clog pores. And for some light acne cases already in process, shaving can help rid whiteheads and blackheads from the face. A word of caution: for areas with infection or high inflammatory activity (redness, sensitive, open acne, sores, etc.), do not shave. Or at the very least, use a shaving cream for sensitive skin!

3 Top Acne Skin Care Tips For A Healthier Skin

2009-01-09T07:09:00.000-08:00

When dealing with acne skin care, most of the medical professionals commonly suggest that people affected with acne must practice certain acne skin care methods that will help improve the condition of their skin.

Acne, as you may already know, is a very severe skin disorder that affects thousands of people from all over the world. It not only affects the surface of the skin but also the inner layers of the skin. Acne usually occurs on the face, neck, chest and back, and it starts during the adolescence period.

During the past several years, a good number of acne experts and skin care professionals have conducted many studies on how to prevent the formation of acne. And fortunately, these skin care specialists have come out with certain acne skin care tips that can be of great help for fighting acne. I have selected the three simpler yet most powerful acne skin care tips that you can follow in order to have a healthier skin. These are mentioned below:

Acne Skin Care Tip # 1: You Should Always Clean Your Skin Very Gently

First of all, personal hygiene is very necessary for fighting acne. So as what most experts usually suggest, you should gently clean your skin with a mild cleanser at least twice a day. This simple acne skin care step is deemed important for fighting acne since washing your face or the other affected areas will wipe away the acne-causing bacteria found on the skin. Also note that although you are sometimes told to scrub your face, scrubbing is not a good acne skin care move since it will just trigger the development of acne, worsening the condition. In addition to this acne skin care step, it is worth noting that astringents are not always suggested unless the skin is very oily. And, they must only be applied on the oily spots.

Acne Skin Care # 2: You Should Refrain from Frequently Holding Your Skin

Another helpful acne skin care tip is to avoid frequently handling of the skin. Don’t pinch, pick or squeeze your pimple since it will only worsen the condition. Many of the people have considered this acne skin care step as one of the most important acne skin care pointers knowing that it may only cause infection and scars formation. As this acne skin care tip holds, you should avoid rubbing and touching your skin lesions if possible.

Acne Skin Care # 3: Always Choose Cosmetics Carefully

This last acne skin care tip holds that people who are being treated for acne must change some of the cosmetics they use. Note that in order to avoid the onset or the development of acne, the cosmetics you plan on using like the foundation, blush, moisturizers, and eye shadow should be oil free. Aside from that, this acne skin care tip also holds that you must avoid oily hair products for they may cause closed comedones. Therefore, those products that are labeled as noncomedogenic should be applied.

It is a fact that many of us are very conscious of our skin condition. And as such, we are always wanting to have a fresh, good-looking skin as much as possible. Unfortunately, many of us also fail to come to the conclusion that simple steps are the best ways to accomplish this goal. We often are blind enough that we don’t see what’s really right or wrong for our skin. We often fall in so much frustration and desperation that make us go buy any high-priced beauty products that in the end just turn out to be a waste of time and money, and even worsen our acne. Hopefully, the above mentioned acne skin care tips will be a good start to help you enhance your skin condition.

NO2 - Nitric Oxide Supplements for Bodybuilding

2009-01-07T01:24:00.001-08:00

Nitric Oxide, a key molecule manufacturered by the body, causes vasodilation (an expansion of the internal diameter of blood vessels), which in turn leads to increased blood flow, oxygen transport, delivery of nutrients to skeletal muscle and a reduction in blood pressure. An amino acid compound called arginine alpha-ketoglutarate (A-AKG) and arginine-ketoisocaproate (A-KIC) can boost short term Nitric Oxide levels. Increased strength and markedly improved stamina can also be expected. In fact, the results may be classified into three categories: 1) the promotion of an extended pump; 2) signaling muscle growth and speeding recovery; 3) increasing strength and stamina.

NO2 contains A-AKG and A-KIC, natural myodilators that may help boost nitric oxide levels in your body, thereby increasing blood flow, oxygen transport, and delivery of nutrients to skeletal muscle.

• NO2 contains A-AKG and A-KIC which may help your muscles experience an extended pump.
• NO2 contains A-AKG and A-KIC which may help your body signal muscle growth and speed recovery.
• NO2 contains A-AKG and A-KIC which may help improve your strength and stamina.
• NO2 utilizes the A-DS Advanced Delivery System which enhances absorption of the active compounds to insure uptake and help sustain powerful effects around the clock.

Who needs it and what are some symptoms of deficiency?
Everyone needs nitric oxide to carry out key physiological processes within the body. From a bodybuilder's perspective, nitric oxide supplementation may prove useful in increasing growth due to increases in blood flow to certain areas of the body. Further, men suffering from erectile dysfunction may also find supplementing with nitric oxide helpful.

Signs of deficiency include the inability to achieve and sustain erections, physical weakness and extreme fatigue. Most "nitric oxide" supplements contain the amino acid Arginine-alpha-keto-glutarate.

What are the side effects?
With any amino acid containing product, overdose is a possibility. Dosing with too much arginine can lead to diarrhea, weakness and nausea. Clear dosing guidelines have not been established, so it is best to do what is known as "tolerance mapping". Take a small dosage for one week, note the benefits and the side effects, and increase the dosage until the benefits are maximized and the side effects minimized. Over time the two will converge and you will hit the optimal dose.

Benefits
• improves strength and stamina
• increased muscle growth and recovery
• increases muscle pump

New Effort To Verify Supplement Labels

2009-01-07T01:22:00.001-08:00

There's news that may make concerns about the safety of dietary supplements easier to swallow. While millions take them each year, many consumers don't realize that supplements, which include vitamins, minerals and other nutritional products, are not regulated by the government as stringently as medications.

Fortunately, steps are being taken to make sure that what's stated on the label is what's actually contained in the product.

To help consumers make good purchasing decisions, United States Pharmacopeia (USP), a leading organization that verifies dietary supplements, has created a program to help inform consumers who use dietary supplements.

The verification program evaluates and verifies dietary supplements according to stringent requirements for purity, accuracy of ingredient labeling and proper and sanitary manufacturing practices. Once supplements meet these requirements, USP allows manufacturers to prominently display the verified mark on the label.

The program assures consumers that a product:

• Contains the ingredients stated on the label;

• Has the declared amount of strength of ingredients;

• Will dissolve to release the contents of the dietary supplement for absorption into the body;

• Was tested for harmful contaminants, such as heavy metals, E-coli and pesticides; and

• Has been manufactured using safe, sanitary and well-controlled procedures.

Many believe USP is uniquely suited to verify dietary supplements since its public health mission is to create standards that help ensure the quality of prescription and over-the-counter medicines, dietary supplements and other health care technologies.

Once a product has been certified, the program will periodically conduct random tests on verified supplements to ensure that the products continue to meet the standards on an ongoing basis.

Dietary supplement products bearing the USP verification mark have appeared on retailer and pharmacy shelves since December 2002.

Natural Wonders May Help Save America Costly Medical Bills

2009-01-07T01:19:00.000-08:00

In 2004, America spent $170 billion in prescription drugs alone. In fact, the United States spends nearly $5,000 per person on health care. That's more than twice the amount of some other industrialized countries.

Noting this upward spiral in health care costs, many are turning to the obvious need for improved prevention efforts. How do we prevent heart disease, osteoarthritis, the flu and the common cold? How do we improve the overall health of Americans?

While America witnesses almost daily announcements of expensive medical miracles being wrought, other forces are hiking the trails of Borneo, braving the deserts of the Kalahari and searching through the Himalayas to find those hidden natural wonders that may offer the keys to a healthier America at less of a cost.

Drawing upon every corner of society and the world, these forces are seeking out natural and man-made methods to provide America with what it needs to prevent disease, thus minimizing its reliance on cures.

A relative newcomer to this nature-focused group are the pioneers of Mosaic Nutraceuticals. Pulling together expertise from all over the world, the company is developing low-cost, nature-based alternatives that may help prevent some of the many ailments of today. Starting small, Mosaic is offering effective osteoarthritis relief in its Joint-2-Life candy chews and its 24/7 Instant Relief ointment.

"Mosaic Nutraceuticals was founded on the concept that nature will provide many of the answers to our health questions," said Charles Townsend, chief executive officer of the Dallas-based company. "We have to be smart enough to find those answers and apply them."

Mosaic's approach stems from one simple idea: Everybody likes candy. So the company developed its supplements in the form of tasty candy chews that are easy to take and convenient for people on the go.

Natural Vitamin Sources

2009-01-07T01:18:00.000-08:00

There are a lot of people who do not have enough natural vitamin sources in their diet and therefore suffer from a deficiency of one or more vitamins. Obviously, it is possible to buy vitamin supplements to help overcome any deficiencies but for the majority of people it should be possible for them to obtain the majority of their recommended daily allowance of vitamins from natural vitamin sources. The key to gaining the correct amount of vitamins from natural vitamin sources is to eat a healthy and balanced diet.

There are certain diets, such as vegetarian, that provide a limited number of natural vitamin supplements and therefore a supplement may be necessary. Also, the intake required of these natural vitamin sources at certain periods may need to be increased and a supplement may be the best option. It is important to be aware of each of the different types of vitamins and their best natural vitamin sources so that a person can incorporate as many of these as possible into their regular diet. Water soluble vitamins cannot be stored in the body and need to be replenished on a daily basis so it is natural vitamin sources for these vitamins that are the most essential to know.

• Natural vitamin B1 sources are brewer’s yeast, whole grains, blackstrap molasses, brown rice, organ meats, egg yolk

• Natural vitamin B2 sources are brewer’s yeast, whole grains, legumes, nuts, organ meats, blackstrap molasses

• Natural vitamin B3 sources are lean meats, poultry & fish, brewer’s yeast, peanuts, milk, rice bran, potatoes

• Natural vitamin B4 sources are egg yolks, organ meats, brewer’s yeast, wheat germ, soybeans, fish, legumes

• Natural vitamin B5 sources are organ meats, egg yolks, legumes, whole grains, wheat germ, salmon, brewer’s yeast

• Natural vitamin B6 sources are meats, whole grains, organ meats brewer’s yeast, blackstrap molasses, wheat germ

• Natural vitamin B7 sources are egg yolks, liver, unpolished rice, brewer’s yeast, sardines, legumes, whole grains

• Natural vitamin B8 sources are who1e grains, citrus fruits, molasses, meat, milk, nuts, vegetables, brewer’s yeast

• Natural vitamin B9 sources are dark-green leafy vegetables, organ meats, root vegetables, oysters, salmon, milk

• Natural vitamin B12 sources are organ meats, fish, pork, eggs, cheese, milk, lamb, bananas, kelp, peanuts

• Natural vitamin B13 sources are root vegetables, liquid whey

• Natural vitamin B15 sources are brewer’s yeast, rare steaks, brown rice, sunflower, pumpkin & sesame seeds

• Natural vitamin B17 sources are whole kernels of apricots, apples, cherries, peaches, plums

• Natural vitamin C sources are citrus, cabbage family, chilli peppers, berries, melons, asparagus, rose hips.

Your health and nutrition center - Vitamins Diary.

Natural Testosterone Supplements

2009-01-07T01:17:00.000-08:00

Testosterone Support Supplements (or Testosterone Aids) are meant to enhance your performance, increase muscle gains and make you bigger. Testosterone is the master male hormone. Testosterone supplementation can increase male sex drive, strengthen bones, muscles, decrease body fat, improve thinking ability, boost energy levels and guard against the onset of depression and heart disease.

Testosterone
Testosteroneis a powerful anabolic hormone that stimulates and controls the development of muscle, bone, skin, sex organs, and most other masculine, physical features. Recently, scientists have discovered that testosterone also aids mental function, enhancing both visual and perceptual skills. Male testosterone is produced in the testes by a group of cells known as the Leydig cells. These cells begin secreting high doses of testosterone during puberty to trigger increased lean muscle mass, sex organ development, bone formation and higher energy levels. Testosterone levels peak during a man's early to mid twenties.

Testosterone in Elderly Men
As a man ages, the amount of testosterone produced by the cells decreases. By the age of sixty, the average man will have lost nearly 50% of his testosterone supply. In addition, other factors (such as stress, lack of sleep, physical inactivity, the use of prescription medication and drinking) can cause testosterone levels to drastically decline. Although there is a growing awareness of the vital role testosterone plays in a man's overall health, the vast majority of men still don't recognize the key symptoms of testosterone deficiency.

Testosterone Deficiency & Symptoms Of
Testosterone deficiency symptoms include depression, fatigue, low sex drive, irritability, loss of facial/body hair, thinning and/or wrinkling of skin, weight gain, and the weakening of both bone and muscle tissue. Eventually, imbalances of testosterone can set the stage for the development of more serious disease. Low testosterone levels can also disrupt the body's blood sugar metabolism, leading to obesity and diabetes. Chronic deficiencies may also promote the early onset of osteoporosis and heart disease.

Benefits of Testosterone Support Supplementation
• testosterone supplements can increase your sex drive
• testosterone supplements increase muscle while decreasing fat
• testosterone supplements improve energy levels

Natural Supplements for Women’s Health from nutraOrigin: PMS

2009-01-07T01:10:00.000-08:00

Once dismissed as something that was just in our heads, premenstrual syndrome is finally acknowledged as a real disorder. PMS affects women in different ways – making us edgy, emotional, crampy or bloated. Other symptoms include breast tenderness, headaches, backaches, impaired concentration and focus, and food cravings. Most women figure they just have to live with it. But the truth is that taking all-natural supplements can help you feel loads better. nutraOrigin, makers of high quality vitamins for women, shares the secrets of natural PMS relief.

Who Gets PMS?

Up to 80 percent of women of childbearing age suffer from PMS. It usually strikes women in their mid-20s and tends to get worse as they get older, until they finally stop menstruating altogether.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, also called premenstrual disorder, is a more severe form of PMS that affects 5 percent of women in their reproductive years. Women with PDD are so negatively impacted by mood changes such as anger and depression that they have difficulty functioning.

PMS Prevention

The good news is that there are 100% natural products that help ease PMS symptoms. nutraOrigin, makers of high quality vitamins for women, developed a PMS remedy called PMS Balance, which combines both Western and Eastern approaches to treating the disorder. PMS Balance contains the following ingredients:

Magnesium: It’s been documented that women with PMS are often deficient in this muscle-relaxing mineral, which could account for some of their symptoms.

Vitamin B6: A large body of clinical research shows that vitamin B6 helps relieve premenstrual symptoms. In fact, a review trial found that B6 is twice as likely as placebo to provide PMS relief.

Vitamin C: If you experience heavy bleeding during your menstrual cycle, fragile blood vessels could be to blame. Vitamin C helps strengthen blood vessels, making them less likely to leak.

Choline & Taurine: Both of these nutrients play an important role in the health of the nervous system, which can be negatively affected by PMS.

Rambling Powder: This traditional Chinese herbal formula, consisting of bupleurum root, peony root, dong quai root, and licorice root, has been used for nearly 1,000 years to ease premenstrual discomfort. Chinese herbalists believe it works by relieving “stagnant liver chi,” allowing life energy to flow and the spirit to ramble.

Together, the ingredients in this PMS product provide PMS cramp relief, support a positive mood, and ease muscle tension, irritability, bloating and breast tenderness – without any harmful side effects.

A Synergistic Approach

Any woman who suffers from PMS should also be sure to take a daily multivitamin, such as nutraOrigin’s Nutra Multi. Not only does Nutra Multi cover a woman’s vitamin needs, it also provides 500 mg of calcium – one of the best natural remedies for premenstrual distress. Another product to consider is nutraOrigin’s Omega-3 Essentials, which provides essential fatty acids the body needs but can’t manufacture. EFAs have been studied for their role in alleviating PMS symptoms.

The experts at nutraOrigin recommend taking all three formulas together for maximum synergistic effect.

Natural Supplements for Women’s Health from nutraOrigin: Menopause

2009-01-07T01:08:00.000-08:00

Menopause can go one of two ways. It can be a miserable experience characterized by aggravating menopause symptoms. Or, it can be a pain-free transition that’s barely noticeable. In fact, choosing the right menopause supplement can make all the difference. nutraOrigin, makers of high quality vitamins for women, shares the secrets of natural treatment for menopause.

Menopause symptoms: Common but avoidable

Every woman experiences her own unique set of menopausal symptoms, which can include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, heart palpitations, vaginal and urinary changes, and decreased memory and concentration. Most experts agree these symptoms are caused by low or fluctuating estrogen levels, which throw everything off kilter. But that doesn’t mean a difficult menopause is unavoidable.

Between 75-85% of American women going through “the change of life” report experiencing menopausal hot flashes. Yet only about 10% of Japanese women do. Why the discrepancy? It’s all in the diet. Japanese women eat several servings of soy a day, which naturally contain anti-hot-flash substances called isoflavones. American women don’t.

Natural Hot Flash Remedies and Menopause Treatments from nutraOrigin

MenoBalance Supplement

Isoflavones help you get control of hot flashes – but they also provide relief for a whole range of symptoms. How? These phyto-nutrients have the remarkable ability to imitate the biological activities of female hormones. That means that even if your own natural levels of estrogen are plummeting, isoflavones can trick your body into thinking it has enough.

Soy is well-known for its natural content of isoflavones, but most of the research studying isoflavones for menopause relief has been performed on red clover. nutraOrigin formulated MenoBalance with a high-potency blend of isoflavones from red clover and kudzu. The formula additionally protects cardiovascular health, with patented Actifolate folic acid and resveratrol; supports bone integrity, due to the synergistic activity of isoflavones and vitamin D; and provides protection to hormone-sensitive tissues, with rosemary and turmeric.

Black Cohosh Essentials Supplement

Scientists have conducted numerous studies demonstrating the efficacy of black cohosh for relieving the discomforts of menopause, with minimal or no side effects. In fact, one double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found the herb was 47% more effective than conjugated estrogen at beating menopause hot flashes! Cohosh has also been shown to help alleviate headaches, heart palpitations, and nervousness and irritability associated with menopause. The evidence is so strong that the German Commission E (similar to our FDA) has approved black cohosh as a treatment for menopause.

nutraOrigin’s Black Cohosh Essentials features 80 mg of standardized black cohosh – four times the amount seen in weaker extracts – for maximum effect. It also includes lemon balm and motherwort, which help reduce stress and anxiety.

Nutra Multi Iron-Free Multivitamin

Studies show older women are more likely to be deficient in key vitamins like B1, B2, B5, folic acid and D than younger women. That’s why a multivitamin like nutraOrigin’s Nutra Multi Iron-Free is so important. It delivers all the necessary vitamins and minerals needed to create a foundation of health – including 500 mg of calcium – but leaves out the iron, since too much can be harmful to menopausal women.

The experts at nutraOrigin recommend taking all three formulas together for maximum synergistic effect.

Natural Supplements for Women's Health: PMS

2009-01-07T01:07:00.000-08:00

Once dismissed as something that was just in our heads, premenstrual syndrome is finally acknowledged as a real disorder. PMS affects women in different ways – making us edgy, emotional, crampy or bloated. Other symptoms include breast tenderness, headaches, backaches, impaired concentration and focus, and food cravings. Most women figure they just have to live with it. But the truth is that taking all-natural supplements can help you feel loads better. nutraOrigin, makers of high quality vitamins for women, shares the secrets of natural PMS relief.

Who Gets PMS?
Up to 80 percent of women of childbearing age suffer from PMS. It usually strikes women in their mid-20s and tends to get worse as they get older, until they finally stop menstruating altogether.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, also called premenstrual disorder, is a more severe form of PMS that affects 5 percent of women in their reproductive years. Women with PDD are so negatively impacted by mood changes such as anger and depression that they have difficulty functioning.

PMS Prevention
The good news is that there are 100% natural products that help ease PMS symptoms. nutraOrigin, makers of high quality vitamins for women, developed a PMS remedy called PMS Balance, which combines both Western and Eastern approaches to treating the disorder. PMS Balance contains the following ingredients:

Magnesium: It’s been documented that women with PMS are often deficient in this muscle-relaxing mineral, which could account for some of their symptoms.
Vitamin B6: A large body of clinical research shows that vitamin B6 helps relieve premenstrual symptoms. In fact, a review trial found that B6 is twice as likely as placebo to provide PMS relief.
Vitamin C: If you experience heavy bleeding during your menstrual cycle, fragile blood vessels could be to blame. Vitamin C helps strengthen blood vessels, making them less likely to leak.
Choline & Taurine: Both of these nutrients play an important role in the health of the nervous system, which can be negatively affected by PMS.
Rambling Powder: This traditional Chinese herbal formula, consisting of bupleurum root, peony root, dong quai root, and licorice root, has been used for nearly 1,000 years to ease premenstrual discomfort. Chinese herbalists believe it works by relieving “stagnant liver chi,” allowing life energy to flow and the spirit to ramble.

Together, the ingredients in this PMS product provide PMS cramp relief, support a positive mood, and ease muscle tension, irritability, bloating and breast tenderness – without any harmful side effects.

A Synergistic Approach
Any woman who suffers from PMS should also be sure to take a daily multivitamin, such as nutraOrigin’s Nutra Multi. Not only does Nutra Multi cover a woman’s vitamin needs, it also provides 500 mg of calcium – one of the best natural remedies for premenstrual distress. Another product to consider is nutraOrigin’s Omega-3 Essentials, which provides essential fatty acids the body needs but can’t manufacture. EFAs have been studied for their role in alleviating PMS symptoms.

The experts at nutraOrigin recommend taking all three formulas together for maximum synergistic effect.

Natural Supplements for Women's Health: Metabolism

2009-01-07T01:06:00.001-08:00

Here’s a test: define metabolism. Go ahead, what is it? If you said it’s how fast you burn calories, you’re partially right. Your metabolic rate does determine the number of calories your body burns. But your metabolism governs more than just your metabolic rate. It also keeps everything in balance – like your blood sugar, cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure. nutraOrigin, makers of high quality vitamins for women, shares the secrets of supporting a healthy metabolism.

When metabolism goes wrong

In ideal circumstances, your metabolism works like a well-oiled machine. You eat energy in the form of food. The body breaks the food down into sugar. The sugar is transported out of the blood and into the cells by the hormone insulin. Simple.

But most of us don’t lead ideal lives. We tend to eat diets high in simple carbohydrates (like bread, rice, and pastries), which cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. In response, the pancreas secretes loads of insulin. That’s okay occasionally, but when we consistently eat simple carbs, so much insulin is flooded into the system that we can eventually become resistant to it. In fact, one in five Americans suffers from insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes and metabolic syndrome – both of which increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. That’s why it’s important to learn how to lower blood sugar.

Balance your blood sugar

There are a number of things you can do to support normal blood sugar levels. Exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet top the list. But natural supplements, such as nutraOrigin’s Glycemic Balance, can also help. Glycemic Balance addresses all three critical aspects of blood sugar balance. First, it increases your body’s sensitivity to insulin, with chromium, cinnamon, and ECGC from green tea. Second, it imitates the effects of insulin with the mineral vanadium. And third, it ignites glucose metabolism, with a high-potency dose of biotin.

When you balance your blood sugar, you’re investing in your long-term health. But you also get short-term benefits, like higher energy levels and an easier time losing weight.

Love your heart

If you’re resistant to insulin, chances are it’s putting a strain on your heart. That’s why any program aimed at supporting optimal metabolism will also address cardiovascular health.

nutraOrigin’s CardioBalance supplement supports your metabolism in keeping your cholesterol levels healthy. It features policosanol, a 100% natural ingredient derived from sugar cane wax, which is backed by multiple scientific studies. Policosanol also protects your heart, veins and arteries, and supports a regular heart rhythm.

Give yourself a good foundation

Your body can survive even the most nutritionally deficient diet. But for your metabolism to really thrive, it needs a multitude of vitamins and minerals – in just the right quantities. Unfortunately, those are hard to get from diet alone. nutraOrigin developed Nutra Multi, a high-quality multivitamin and mineral, to cover your nutritional bases, keep your metabolism humming, and protect your heart with double-strength folic acid.

The experts at nutraOrigin recommend taking all three formulas together for maximum synergistic effect.

Natural Supplements for Women's Health: Cardiovascular Health

2009-01-07T01:04:00.000-08:00

More women fear breast cancer than any other disease. Yet cardiovascular disease (CVD) claims over ten times as many women’s lives as breast cancer. In fact, CVD is the nation’s leading cause of death for both men and women. That’s the bad news. The good news is that CVD is almost entirely preventable. nutraOrigin, makers of high quality vitamins for women, shares the secrets of cardiovascular wellness.

What influences cardiovascular health?

One way to support cardiovascular health is to play by the numbers. All five of the following measurements tell you something about the state of your heart.

Cholesterol: excess cholesterol gets deposited in, and narrows, the artery walls
Triglycerides: elevated triglycerides are associated with a higher risk of coronary artery disease
Blood pressure: high blood pressure puts stress on the artery walls and increases the heart’s workload
Homocysteine: too much homocysteine degrades the structural integrity of the arteries
C-reactive protein: elevated C-reactive protein is associated with a higher risk for hypertension and CVD
Risk Factor Desirable Borderline Undesirable
Total cholesterol Below 200 200-239 240 and above
Triglycerides Below 150 150-199 Above 200
Blood pressure Below 120/80 120/80-140/90 Above 140/90
Homocysteine Below 10 mmol/L 10-18 mmol/L Above 18 mmol/L
c-reactive protein (CRP) Below 1.0 1.0-3.0 Above 3.0

Supplement secrets for heart health

Everyone knows that eating a healthy, whole foods diet and getting regular exercise are important for cardiovascular wellness. But did you know that select nutritional supplements can also make a big difference? Here are three to consider.

CardioBalance
Developed by nutraOrigin, Cardio Balance features 10 mg of high quality policosanol. Multiple studies indicate that natural policosanol provides a worry-free way to support healthy cholesterol levels. Cardio Balance features policosanol from sugar cane – not the rice or wheat used in lower-quality products – which is the only form of policosanol proven to deliver cholesterol benefits. This policosanol supplement is produced using a proprietary, all-natural extraction process that delivers the highest quality finished product.

Omega-3 Essentials
Chances are you’ve heard about Omega 3 fatty acids, because they’re good for so many things. At nutraOrigin, we believe supplementing with Omega 3 fish oil, or Omega 3 for short, is one of the best things you can do for your heart. Here are just some Omega 3 benefits:

• Helps maintain healthy levels of triglycerides and C-reactive protein
• Promotes a desirable blood pressure
• Supports a regular heart rhythm

You can buy these essential fats as liquid Omega 3 oil, but most people prefer the convenience of Omega 3 pills. Whichever Omega 3 supplement you choose, just keep in mind that quality differs tremendously among different brands. nutraOrigin’s Omega 3 pills are highly concentrated, purity-certified, readily absorbed, and stabilized with antioxidants.

Nutra Multi Iron-Free
Because so many vitamins and minerals are essential for heart health, taking a comprehensive multivitamin like nutraOrigin’s Nutra Multi Iron-Free is a great way to take care of your heart. This one multiple contains: 1. a plethora of antioxidants, which protect against free radical damage, 2. the trio of B vitamins known to support healthy homocysteine levels, and 3. magnesium, essential for the integrity of the heart muscle.

The experts at nutraOrigin recommend taking all three formulas together for maximum synergistic effect.

Natural Supplements - Help Your Body

2009-01-07T01:02:00.000-08:00

Vitamins and mineral supplements are a good way to supply your body with nutrients that you might not be getting from your diet. Go down any vitamin aisle in a drugstore, market, or health food store. The first thing you will see is all the 'natural' supplements and vitamin complex tablets that all claim to provide all kinds of benefits. There are supplements that claim to help you lose weight without exercise. Does it sound too good to be true? It is. You have to burn more calories than you consume and exercise will help you accomplish that but I digress. If you are considering adding supplements to your diet have a discussion with your doctor will help to determine whether or not adding supplements would be beneficial for you or not.

Are vitamins necessary for optimum health? Most people, if they eat a healthy diet, do not need them. Most vitamins are fine and are not harmful. If someone does not eat a healthy diet or because of illness has a limited diet a vitamin supplement could be very helpful. Fruits and vegetables have important vitamins in them and should not be eliminated from a diet unless a doctor orders it. In this case a supplement would almost be necessary. Your body needs vitamins to keep it functioning.

Most people think that vitamins are a source of energy that is not the case. Vitamins help regulate the body's metabolism. Vitamins also help the food we eat to release its energy. It's the food that when absorbed and broken down into the nutrients the body can use that provides our body with energy. The body more easily absorbs calcium if you are also taking Vitamin D. Most calcium supplements are already fortified with vitamin D. There are thirteen vitamins that are all important to achieve optimum health. Vitamins E & C contain antioxidants. Antioxidants help to release free radicals, which are high-energy particles. These high-energy particles damage healthy blood cells. Studies are now coming out that indicate that the consumption of vitamins and supplements may aid in fighting cancer and preventing other chronic diseases. The research is by no means conclusive in this regard. Studies continue to be conducted in an effort to provide us with the ultimate health.

There is such a thing as too much of a good thing. An excess amount of vitamins in your system could cause bleeding, negative interactions with some prescription medications.

Listed below are some vitamins and how overdoses can affect you.
Vitamin A - Too much vitamin A can cause neurological problems
Vitamin D - Too much vitamin D disrupts the balance of calcium in the body that can lead to calcium deposits in the soft tissues of the body.
Vitamin C - Too much vitamin C can lessen the effectiveness of other medications.
Vitamin E - Too much vitamin E can cause blood not to clot and can cause other bleeding issues.

Vitamins are just one tool among many that are available to us to help us get healthy and remain healthy. Vitamins alone will not do this. A healthy diet, exercise, and regular health checkups will do this.

No one knows better than I do how important it is to eat properly and take care of my body. Also, like many others I have a tendency to be drawn to the junk food much to my own detriment. You don't have to be an Olympic athlete to get some exercise in. I also take vitamins and other supplements to help my body work better.

There are a variety of opinions about vitamins, supplements, and healthy eating. Vitamins are generally ok unless they are fortified with iron. The effectiveness of vitamins with iron is often hotly debated. Too much iron can cause iron overload and it doesn't get 'washed' out of the blood as efficiently if at all. There is a disease called Hemochromatosis, which is fatal, as it attacks liver function. It can be controlled and there must be liver function tests done among other things. The controversy continues to reign.

You have complete control in this area. Do your research; there are a great number of websites that provides information on supplements and how they work. You should sit down with your physician and discuss your options. S/he may suggest you meet with a nutrition specialist as well. Get smart and be healthy. A little knowledge is a very good thing and in the case of vitamins the more you know how they work and how they could be harmful, the safer and healthier you will be. Trust your instincts, know your body, and get help if you need it. Good eating, good exercise plenty of water and common sense will help you to meet your goal of good health.

Natural Sexual Stimulant Ingredients

2009-01-07T01:01:00.000-08:00

Sexual stimulants claim to arouse or increase sexual desire, or libido. A broader definition includes products that improve sexual performance. Aphrodisiacs, named after Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of sexual love and beauty, the list of supposed sexual stimulants includes anchovies and adrenaline, licorice and lard, scallops and Spanish fly, and hundreds of other items. Here is a very partial list of some herbal ingredients commonly found in sexual enhancers/stimulants:

Avena Sative (Wild Oats)
Avena sativa, or oats, have long been used by breeders to help male animals "sow their oats" or boost their fertility. Avena Sativa is one of the best remedies to feed the nervous system when under stress and strengthen it to handle the situation. It works to calm down performance anxiety.

Brazilian Catuba Bark
Brazil's most famous and highly regarded libido booster. It is considered a central nervous system stimulant and used for sexual weakness and lowered libido in both men and women.

Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium)
This Chinese herb is also known as Goat Sex Herb. It has been used for centuries to help improve sexual functions. It has androgen-like effects. Androgens are involved in sexual desire in both men and women. Horny Goat Weed may help improve circulation and kidney function.

Longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali)
A popular Malaysian tree, it is proper for it's aphrodisiac properties for both men and women. The researched focus is towards improved desire and sexual initiation.

Maca
Grown high in the mountains of Peru, Maca root tends to significantly boost libido and sex drive in men and women by enhancing the endocrine function. The endocrine system includes all of the glands, and the hormones they secrete, that exist in the body and that control such conditions as fertility, sexual function, digestion, brain and nervous system physiology, and energy levels.

Mucana Pruriens Extract
A rare and powerful Ayurvedic herb that has unusally high levels of naturally occuring L-Dopa. L-Dopa is an amino acid that has been the subject of over 25 years of extensive scientific and medical research. It may help with improving sexual dysfunction, loss of libido, stimulating arousal, and increasing intensity and frequency of orgasms for both men and women.

Muira Puama
Found in the Amazon, this extraction is very potent and has an impressive research history of helping restore libido and has been used to help prevent erectile dysfunction.

Tribulus Terrestris
Also known as Puncture Vine and Gokshura, may help to increase seminal fluid, not by volume but sperm count, and at the same time may increase sexual desire, arousal and performance in men and women. Tribulus may help to increase the duration of erection and assist in acheiving orgasm in those previously unable.

Yohimbe
A tree that grows throughout the African nations of Cameroon, Gabon and Zaire. (A similar plant in South America is called Quebracho). The bark has been smoked as a hallucinogen and has been used in traditional medicine to treat angina and hypertension. The herb is a sensual stimulant for healthy men and women.

Natural Mood Enhancer Supplements

2009-01-07T01:00:00.001-08:00

5 HTP, GABA and St. Johns Wort Mood Enhancers
What is 5 HTP Mood Enhancer? The Griffonia Extract is rich in 5-HydroxyTryptophan (5-HTP), which comes from an African vegetable, the Griffonia simplicifolia seed, and contains 30% 5–HTP. 5-HTP is an amino acid that is a direct precursor of serotonin, an important neurotransmitter having pain soothing and relaxing effects. 5-HTP is not present in significant amounts in a typical diet. The human body manufactures 5-HTP from L-tryptophan, a natural amino acid found in most dietary proteins. However, eating food that contains L-tryptophan does not significantly increase 5-HTP levels.

5-HTP mood enhancer is the precursor to serotonin. It improves mood, anxiety and is beneficial in weight loss. 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an amino acid that is the intermediate step between tryptophan and the important brain chemical serotonin. There is a massive amount of evidence that suggests that low serotonin levels are a common consequence of modern living. The lifestyle and dietary practices of many people living in this stress-filled era results in lowered levels of serotonin within the brain. Read more about 5 HTP Mood Enhancer supplements, click here.
What is GABA? A non-essential amino acid found mainly in the human brain and eyes. It is considered an inhibitory neurotransmitter, which means it regulates brain and nerve cell activity by inhibiting the number of neurons firing in the brain. GABA is referred to as the "brain's natural calming agent". By inhibiting over-stimulation of the brain, GABA may help promote relaxation and ease nervous tension.

GABA or gamma-aminobutyric acid, discovered in 1950, is the most important and widespread inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. Excitation in the brain must be balanced with inhibition. Too much excitation can lead to restlessness, irritability, insomnia, and even seizures. GABA is able to induce relaxation, analgesia, and sleep. Barbiturates and benzodiazepines are known to stimulate GABA receptors, and hence induce relaxation. Several neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, sleep disorders, and Parkinson’s disease are affected by this neurotransmitter.
What is St Johns Wort Mood Enhancer? Extracts of Hypericum perforatum L. (St John's wort) are now successfully competing for status as a standard antidepressant therapy. Because of this, great effort has been devoted to identifying the active antidepressant compounds in the extract. From a phytochemical point of view, St John's wort is one of the best-investigated medicinal plants. Researchers in Europe have studied St John's Wort for decades. They discovered a combination of elements in the plant, foremost of which is "hypericin", react with specific chemicals in the brain to temper emotional discomfort, lift depression, and calm the nerves. Working very much like the common synthetic prescription antidepressants (maprotiline hydrochloride and imipramine), natural extracts from St. John's Wort have shown to relax and soothe the psyche with minimal side effects.

Natural Health Supplements for Mental, Physical and Social Health

2009-01-07T00:57:00.000-08:00

No matter your physical condition or what stage of life you may be in, health supplements can go far to improve your overall well being. People use health supplements for one of three factors – they want to improve their mental, physical or social health.

The key to finding high quality health supplements is to search for ones which support your entire system. The “right” health supplements will be herbal/plant based. Supplements made from herbs/plants contain all of the life-affirming nutrients that the human body needs to fight disease and illness. They also work to bring greater vitality to your life because a healthy body improves self-esteem and happiness.

Proxacine is a good example of a health supplement that supports and improves mental, physical and social health. Proxacine works as 1) anti-agent 2) pain reducer 3) immune system booster 4) energy booster. Its combination of natural, powerful ingredients works to increase libido, improve memory and learning, maintain glutathione levels, detoxify the body, digest protein, and above all it work to bind positive and negative ions in the body. Proxacine is a powerful, natural anti-oxidant and is a great scavenger of free-radicals. It has a wide range of medicinal properties and it enhances mental well-being.

There are a wide variety of health supplements in the marketplace today. Some work to improve energy, while others work to boost the immune system, promote sexual health, and fight cancer and more. Many of today’s mysterious illness (such as chronic fatigue syndrome, leaky gut) are being treated with health supplements. Once the system is rebalanced through health supplements, energy improves and the immune system is boosted and capable of fighting off disease and other infirmities.

It is interesting to note that health supplements are not just for the ill. Health supplements can greatly benefit the healthy, too. When health supplements are incorporated into a healthy individual’s diet, they can go far to enhance energy, libido, self-esteem, as well as keeping any hereditary diseases dormant and inactive. Feeling that your sex drive or energy levels are waning? Start taking a natural health supplement and you will see an increase in your libido and energy – which will in turn improve your mental health and social life.

When searching for health supplements, look for those that are natural and made up of plants/herbs. Remember that natural health supplements work on the three components of health: mental, physical and social. These three areas are not independent of one another and are interrelated. Therefore, they should be treated as a whole.

Natural health supplements

2009-01-07T00:53:00.000-08:00

These days, you can’t be too concerned about your health. With possible toxins and lower nutritional values found in the foods we eat and the things we drink, many people have taken to buying supplements to help aid their health. Here’s a list of natural health supplements that can lead you to a more sound and healthy way of life:

Saint John’s Wort: Used for over 2,000 years, this supplement is a simple plant that can greatly aid depression. One of the most widely used natural health supplements, in a double-blind clinical study, Saint John’s Wort was proven to be equally as effective as pharmaceutical antidepressants, while giving less side-effects then their drug company counterpart.

Bee pollen: People take bee pollen in supplement form to help increase energy and vitality. In addition to offering several required vitamins and minerals, bee pollen acts as an enhancer to the immune system, as well as being a useful tool in cleansing the body of harmful toxins.

Athletes have been known to take bee pollen regularly to help enhance their endurance, stamina, recovery time from exercise, and more. It may also prove to be helpful in alleviating the pesky symptoms of hay fever. With all these possible uses of bee pollen, it’s amazing to find out that it can also be used to aid in weight loss. A substance in the pollen known as lecithin helps to stimulate your metabolism and flush fat from your system. This is another one of the most widely used natural health supplements.

Fish Oil:
Harvested from the bodies of fish, fish oil is purified through a scientific process and turned into supplement form. Containing Omega-3 fatty acids, these natural health supplements can have numerous effects on your body for the better. For one, fish oil can aid in preventing the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. It has also been associated with better memory, clearer thinking, and health of the heart.

One of the best nutrients for brain health, this supplement’s effect on your body can be vast. Be sure to only purchase pharmaceutical grade fish oil, however, since this is the process which removes the heavy metals found in fish due to pollutants. If your fish oil is not pharmaceutical grade, you run the risk of consuming such dangerous materials as mercury.

Why not check out our nutrition guide at http://www.nutritional-supplement-guides.com/nut-ebook.html

This no nonsense book will tell you everything you need to know about nutrition.

Ans also, what supplement we personally use for our nutrition needs at http://www.nutritional-supplement-guides.com/what-we-use.html

Diabetes

2009-01-06T04:13:00.000-08:00

Diabetes is a growing problem in this country. With our
population at an all time high in weight gain and a low in
health care, the problem is only growing.

Diabetes is a disease of the metabolism. Our metabolism is
what the way our bodies use digested food for energy and
growth.

Most food that is processed through our bodies is broken
down by digestive juices into a sugar called glucose.
Glucose is the fuel our bodies run on.

When we eat, and our food is processed, the pancreas is
supposed to produce the right amount of glucose from our
blood automatically and release the right amount of insulin
into our blood.

In people with diabetes, little to no insulin is produced
or the body’s cells don’t respond correctly to the insulin
that is produced. Therefore the glucose builds up and
overflows into the urine and passes out of the body.

This is how the body loses its main source of fuel even
though the bloodstream contains good amounts of the natural
glucose.

There are three types of diabetes, type 1, type 2 and
gestational diabetes. People who have type 1 are known as
insulin-dependent.

This is an autoimmune disease where the body’s natural
system is fighting against another part of the body. In the
case of type 1 diabetes, the system attacks the insulin
producing cells and destroys them.

Therefore the pancreas can produce little to no insulin.
These people are in need of daily injections of insulin to
live. Five to ten percent of diabetes cases are type 1 in
the US.

Diabetes Symptoms

2009-01-06T04:12:00.002-08:00

All too often we get sick but ignore the symptoms we may be
feeling, shrugging them off to a cold, stress from work, or
just not feeling well.

There are certain symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored if
they develop. These symptoms could lead to blindness,
amputation of limbs, coma or even death.

Symptoms of type 1 diabetes often come on suddenly and are
severely dramatic. The extra stress of diabetes can lead to
something called diabetic ketoacidosis.

Symptoms of ketoacidosis may include nausea and vomiting,
which may also lead to dehydration and serious problems
with the blood levels of potassium. This could lead to a
diabetic coma and ultimately death.

Other symptoms of diabetes may include extreme fatigue. We
all get tired at times, but diabetes triggers a more severe
fatigue than normal.

People with diabetes also experience unexplained weight
loss. This is because they are unable to process many of
the calories they consume. Losing sugar and water in the
urine also contributes to the weight loss.

Extreme thirst is another symptom of diabetes. Diabetes
develops high blood sugar levels and the body tries to
compensate by diluting the blood, which translates to our
brain that we are thirsty.

With this is also excessive urination. It is another way
our bodies have of getting rid of the extra sugar in our
system. But this can also lead to dehydration.

One of the hardest symptoms to deal with is poor wound
healing. Wounds heal slowly, if at all when the carrier has
diabetes. This along with infections that are not easily
remedied can attribute to ulcers and loss of limbs.

Diabetes Mellitus

2009-01-06T04:12:00.001-08:00

Diabetes Mellitus is also simply known as diabetes. It is
the disease characterized by a malfunctioning metabolism
and a high blood sugar level.

The result can be low levels of insulin or abnormal insulin
resistance. This mixed with inadequate levels of insulin
secretion results in diabetes.

Symptoms of diabetes mellitus include increased urine
production, excessive thirst, extreme fatigue, and
excessive thirst and weight loss. These symptoms though may
not be present in those people with only mildly elevated
sugar levels.

Diabetes mellitus includes type 1, type 2 and gestational
diabetes, which occur only during pregnancy. Each type has
a different cause and different severity of symptoms.

But all forms of diabetes are dangerous if not treated.
With proper management though, people with diabetes can
live a long, healthy, normal life.

The main cause of type 1 diabetes mellitus is the loss of
insulin producing cells in the pancreas. This ultimately
leads to an insulin deficiency.

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is typically found in children and
young adults. It is also termed juvenile diabetes. The
common treatment for type 1 diabetes mellitus is daily
insulin injections to replace the insulin the body is not
producing properly, along with careful blood glucose
monitoring.

Without careful monitoring and treatment, complications
from diabetes could include loss of limps such as arms,
legs and feet, blindness and diabetic comas, which can be
fatal.

It is extremely important that if you suspect you or your
child to have symptoms of diabetes, that you visit your
doctor to be tested. If the tests are positive it is not
the end of the world. With careful monitoring and care,
type 1 diabetics can live long healthy lives.

Diabetes Management

2009-01-06T04:10:00.000-08:00

As of 2007, there is no cure for either type 1 or type 2
diabetes. This may seem like a dim outlook for many people,
but the fact is that even though there is no cure, there
certainly are ways to manage your diabetes.

Proper management can give you many years of healthy
living.

Diabetes management starts with a visit to your doctor.
first, finding out you have diabetes, what type you have
then arming yourself with as much information as possible
about the diabetes you are diagnosed with.

All management begins with controlling the glucose cycle.

The glucose cycle is affected by two factors, entry of
glucose into the bloodstream and blood levels of insulin to
control the transport out.

Your glucose levels are very sensitive to both diet and
exercise, so change in either should first be discussed
with your physician. Proper management of diabetes can be
very intrusive to the patient.

Proper management requires a complete lifestyle change and
frequent, sometimes multi-daily checks of glucose in the
blood.

It can change as people grow and develop and no two cases
are ever really the same. Today it is easier to measure the
blood sugar level.

Glucose meters are readily available and are quite easy to
use with a little practice and patience.

With a small drop of blood to the testing strip attached to
the glucose meter, the user is given the number, which
represents their blood sugar level. This in turn will let
the user know if and when insulin is needed.

Diabetes in Pets

2009-01-06T04:09:00.000-08:00

It is not only the human kind that can develop diabetes.
Even our beloved pets, no matter how well we care for them,
can develop diabetes.

This is often a scary situation for the pet owner and the
first question that is usually asked of the veterinarian is
-will my pet need to be put to sleep-

Of course this is a difficult issue and the answer may vary
on the overall age and health of your pet.

Many older pets that are diagnosed with diabetes go on to
live many more happy years, but this takes commitment and
close care of your pet.

Diabetic cats and dogs can live just as long as perfectly
healthy pet if the diabetes is diagnosed and treated
properly by both the veterinarian and the owner.

This takes great commitment from the owner. Pets must be
cared for and watched daily with a high level of care and
patience.

There can be no feeding the cat and forgetting until the
next day. There is no leaving the pet along to go on a
trip. Every day your pet will need medication, fed a proper
diet and his behavior will need to be monitored closely.

This doesn’t mean you will have to give up your job and
stay home full time with your pet, but it does mean you
will have to pay more attention to what his behavior is and
know what to do if the situation should change.

It is also more of a financial obligation to have a sick
pet. So it is something that should be discussed in length
with your vet.

Diabetes In Children

2009-01-06T04:08:00.000-08:00

Diabetes in children is also known as juvenile diabetes,
but more commonly known as type 1 diabetes. It is the most
common form of diabetes in children with ninety to
ninety-five percent of carriers being under 16.

Juvenile diabetes is caused by the inability of the
pancreas to produce insulin. It is an autoimmune disease,
which means the bodies own defense system attacks the
body’s tissues or organs.

In the last 30 years the number of juvenile diabetes had
increased three times over and in Europe and the US we are
now seeing type 2 diabetes in children for the first time.

Obesity easily explains type 2, but not why there is such a
rise in type 1 diabetes in children. It is believed that a
mixture of genetics and environmental factors are what
triggers juvenile diabetes. But the majority of children
don’t have a family history of diabetes.

The symptoms for juvenile diabetes are the same as in
adults. Thirst, weight loss, fatigue, frequent urination is
typical, but diabetes in children can also increase stomach
pains, headaches and behavior problems.

Doctors should consider the possibility of diabetes in
children who have unexplained stomach pains for a few
weeks, along with the typical symptoms.

If you believe your child may be experiencing these
symptoms you should schedule them for a thorough
examination and tell your doctor what you suspect your
child may have. Be sure to tell them about any and all
symptoms your child may be experiencing.

Diabetes Epidemic

2009-01-06T04:07:00.000-08:00

With obesity levels being at an all time high, the epidemic
of type 2 diabetes is growing at an alarming rate, and will
only get worse.

Between 2001 and 2002, the diagnosis of diabetes went from
5.5 percent of Americans to an alarming 6.5 percent. In
just one year!

Overall, twelve million Americans have been diagnosed and
another 5 million Americans have diabetes and don’t know
it. And yet another 12 millions are on their way to type 2
diabetes because of impaired glucose levels.

Not knowing is the worst because risks of untreated
diabetes puts us at a terrible risk of complications
including but not limited to blindness, amputations and
ultimately death.

The stickler is, that type 2 diabetes is almost completely
preventable. Doctor’s say eat less, eat better and
exercise. The numbers show just how many Americans are
currently overweight.

Statistically, people are now living longer, and it has
been on the rise for years. But this will not continue if
type 2 diabetes is not put under control.

We are a gluttonous society and ultimately it is affecting
how we live and how long we live.

And unfortunately, the diabetes epidemic is not just a US
problem. It is spreading worldwide with epidemic reports in
Asia, the Middle East and the Caribbean.

It is estimated that by 2025, the number of diabetics
worldwide will rise to 380 million. And diabetes is now
affecting more of the young and middle-aged population in
developing countries between the ages of 40 and 59.

Natural Growth Hormone Supplements

2009-01-04T08:59:00.000-08:00

Natural growth hormone supplements- help for the weary world

A hormone is a naturally occurring substance that is actually a chemical messenger for our body, helping it go about daily tasks everyday. A natural growth hormone is one that is responsible for the overall development and sustenance of normal body functioning for persons and while these natural growth hormones are comprised of amino acids that produced in the endocrine glands to stimulate certain activities, their job doesn't end there. Let us learn more about these hard working natural growth hormones and the role they play in helping us about our daily needs.

Natural growth hormones facilitate optimum body performance and determine muscle, tissue and cell functioning

The endocrine gland produces the natural growth hormone and proceeds to send it all through the body through the blood stream so that it helps our body maintain optimum performance levels for various task like eating, walking, sleeping. One prime example of a natural growth hormone is Insulin, which helps the human body digest food while others decide on the limitations of factors such as scope of bodily growth, digestion, reproduction and sexual functions. Thus, we find that the natural growth hormones play an integral role in ensuring peak performance of a person, especially during adolescence when there is maximum production of HGH, the human growth hormone occurring naturally in the body. Beyond the age of 22, the is considerable decline in the production levels of the natural growth hormone with the pituitary gland, one of the endocrine glands, situated in the center of the brain, producing less of this highly complex hormone. What makes the HGH a natural growth hormone that is immensely complex is the number of amino acids it takes to function (all of 191 amino acids) - a rather large number for any protein produced by the pituitary.

Adolescence is the time when the body needs to grow and the secretion of natural growth hormones like HGH helps it to do so. However, beyond adulthood, falling HGH levels and the slackness of the natural growth hormone production ability of the pituitary gland makes for lesser hormones in our body, which has tremendous impact on our physical and mental abilities. This is the main reason why many people are keen to try out the numerous supplements and synthetic solutions as a replacement means for the lack of natural growth hormones, but such persons are best warned to first learn about the costs (not just financial but physiological as well) of ordering a substitute for this natural deficiency.

Benefits of safe and real HGH enhancers: natural growth hormone replacement and acceleration aids

The availability of real HGH and homeopathic HGH sprays, powders and pills is a welcome deal for those looking to boost natural growth hormone production without the negative side-effects and exorbitant costs of synthetic enhancers or injections. Real HGH supplements are a blend of all natural growth hormones and replicate the role naturally occurring HGH would have played in keeping metabolism and energy levels high; increasing the body's ability to burn fat, hold on to lean muscle mass and not fat while combating wrinkles, greater libido and great looking hair and skin are other advantages of high natural growth hormones levels.

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Natural Cholesterol Control Supplements

2009-01-04T08:58:00.000-08:00

The body needs cholesterol for digesting dietary fats, making hormones, building cell walls, and other important processes. The bloodstream carries cholesterol in particles called lipoproteins that are like blood-borne cargo trucks delivering cholesterol to various body tissues to be used, stored or excreted. But too much of this circulating cholesterol can injure arteries, especially the coronary ones that supply the heart. This leads to accumulation of cholesterol-laden "plaque" in vessel linings, a condition called atherosclerosis.

When blood flow to the heart is impeded, the heart muscle becomes starved for oxygen, causing chest pain (angina). If a blood clot completely obstructs a coronary artery affected by atherosclerosis, a heart attack (myocardial infarction) or death can occur.

Heart disease is the number one killer of both men and women in the United States. More than 90 million American adults, or about 50 percent, have elevated blood cholesterol levels, one of the key risk factors for heart disease, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's National Cholesterol Education Program.

Cholesterol lowering supplements containing Policosanol or Red Yeast Rice are known to assist in lowering cholesterol levels.

Policosanol
Policosanol is a natural supplement derived from sugar cane. It is a mixture of eight higher primary aliphatic alcohols isolated and purified from sugar cane wax. One of the newest and more successful substances that benefits those suffering from high cholesterol is Policosanol, which is a safe and natural extract from sugar cane wax. It works by helping the liver control production and breakdown of cholesterol. Policosanol promotes healthy platelet function and helps to maintain cholesterol levels that are already within the normal range.

Red Yeast Rice
Red Yeast Rice is the product of yeast ( Monascus purpureus ) grown on rice, and is served as a dietary staple in some Asian countries. It contains several compounds collectively known as Monacolins, substances known to inhibit cholesterol synthesis. Red Yeast Rice is proposed to be a mild aid for gastric problems (indigestion, diarrhea), blood circulation and spleen and stomach health.

Natural Arthritis Remedy To Reduce Inflammation

2009-01-04T08:56:00.000-08:00

Arthritis, whether it is osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout, have the common symptoms of inflammation of one or more joints. This is accompanied by pain, swelling and sometimes joint deformity. Traditionally, with herbal medicine, anti-inflammatory herbs such as black cohosh, feverfew, yucca and wild yam were recommended. And a naturopath might prescribe vitamins like vitamin A, the B complex, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Plus a host of minerals like chelated zinc, chelated calcium and magnesium, copper salicylate, selenium and bromelain. And supplements like evening primrose and fish oils, glucosmaine, and superoxide dismutase, which is found in good quality dehydrated (but not juiced) green barley powder.

But scientists have found some very effective anti-inflammatory agents in our own kitchen. Some of them, like ginger, can be bought as a supplement. And due to ginger's strong taste, this might be a preferable way of taking it to get the quantities you need for a significant anti-inflammatory effect. But others, like olive oil, can easily be integrated into the daily diet. Cinnamon is not commonly used as a supplement here, but in India it has a rich traditional use and may be available as part of an Ayurvedic supplement.

Ginger

One of the active constituents in ginger is a phenolic compound known as gingerols. These have been found to have a strong anti-inflammatory effect. In a study reported in the Osteoarthritis and Cartilage Journal, the participants who took the ginger compound had significantly less pain during movement than those who took the placebo. This study followed 29 people over 12 months, and also found that swelling in the knees was also reduced.
However, if you are taking blood thinning medication like warfarin, you may need to be careful about the amount of ginger you take, as ginger can thin the blood also. (Australian Healthy Food)

Cinnamon

This rather delicious spice has a number of health benefits. Specific to inflammation and arthritis, cinnamon can help inhibit the release of inflammatory fatty acids. (Australian Healthy Food)

Yellow and Orange Fruits and Vegetables

Some of the carotenoids in yellow and orange fruit and vegetables help reduce inflammation. Carotenoids are what gives these vegetables and fruit their color. (Australian Healthy Food)

Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil acts similar to the anti-inflammatory drug ibuprofen, though it doesn't have the immediate pain relieving effects that ibuprofen does. But a compund found in extra virgin olive oil, called oleocanthal has been found to inhibit the COX enzymes like ibuprofen, in what researchers describe as a 'dose dependant' manner. This research was originally reported in the September, 2005 issue of Nature magazine by Paul Breslin and his associates from Monell Chemical Senses Center. He describes oleocanthal as a natural anti-inflammatory compound that is potentially as strong as ibuprofen. He suggests that taken over the long term, it will have the same potential benefits that long term use of ibuprofen does. Their results found that taking 50 grams of extra virgin olive oil is equal to approximately 10% of the dosage of ibuprofen recommended for pain relief for adults. Olive oil also has a host of other benefits, including a heart protective effect.

Interestingly, scientists have also found that a diet high in refined grains, sugary soft drinks, processed meat and even diet soft drinks can encourage both inflammation and type 2 diabetes.

Resources:
1. http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/news/ng.asp?id=62217
2. Australian Healthy Food Magazine, November 2005 Issue
3. Australian Healthy Food Magazine, January 2006 Issue
4, P Bedson, The Complete Family Guide To Natural Healing (Hinkler Books)

Multivitamins For Your Child

2009-01-04T08:55:00.001-08:00

The belief of most parents is that children are eating a fairly healthy diet and if not they give up and throw their hand up in the air. Parents then provide multivitamins. Now that they come in gumballs, gummi candies, cute animals, and cartoon character shapes, children think they are candy and giving vitamins is not a bad thing.

If they are within a child’s reach it is a serious problem because they could be taking them without your knowledge. At any suspicion that your child has taken too many call Poison Control immediately and get them to an emergency facility. Your child could become seriously ill or die from an overdose of a multivitamin with iron in it.

It is vital to keep all manner of medication out of the reach of your children. For the most part children get their vitamins from their diet but if you think they need them generic multivitamins are fine. If your child’s special needs are an allergy to dairy products or that they won’t eat them, the calcium must come from other sources.

Consulting with your child’s pediatrician will benefit your child. Even though your child’s diet may not have been great this week all that is needed is one vitamin a day. If you get too much of one vitamin it could prevent others from being absorbed by the body.

If your child for example gets an excess of calcium it could prevent the absorption of iron and other vitamins. Children’s food choices are not always healthy so you can expect to be giving your child vitamins well into their teens. Before you consider buying vitamins know that opinions vary regarding vitamins with iron for children.

One premise is that, in fact, you be giving vitamins with iron. Vitamins with iron says another school of thought, under no circumstances should be given vitamins with iron. As an infant, it was my experience, that my child was iron deficient.

My child’s doctor put him on iron fortified vitamins and he’s now healthy but always check with your doctor on this. Hemochromatosis is a disease caused by too much iron in the blood. The body can no longer utilize the iron and it is not washed out of the body easily. It may cause very serious health issues and even death.

An important part of your child’s diet is calcium that helps to build strong bones and muscles. Calcium is a mineral. Eating ice cream, cheese, and yogurt as well as drinking milk will usually provide all the calcium your child needs from their diet. There are people who don’t like dairy products and some who are allergic to them.

Helping children get what they need is easy when you give them calcium fortified juices, cereals, and vitamins. Many children get sufficient fluoride from treated tap water and bottled war or using tooth paste. Do not administer fluoride supplements to your child without first checking with his doctor.

Too much fluoride might permanently stain your child’s teeth. This will defeat totally the purpose of treating water and using fluoridated toothpaste. An eyedropper is used to administer liquid infant multivitamins. These drops usually have vitamins A, C, and D as well as added iron in them.

They might contain other vitamins and minerals such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B-12. Vitamins for children are available in chewable forms such as cartoon characters and animals. They now come in gummi candy and gumballs forms.

If your child gives you difficulty with taking his vitamins, try getting him the gumballs or the gummi candy vitamins. Never leave your child unsupervised when s/he is taking his vitamins. My own child is given his vitamins rather than allow him to take them on his own. He might take it or not or he could take way too many.

Although vitamins for children can be a good thing, too much of a good thing could be fatal. It is vital that they are kept out of the reach of children. Giving your child vitamins may offset some of the effects of not always eating right.

Your child’s diet should not be adjusted without discussing it with his pediatrician, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Vitamins with fun shapes are fine but because your child could think they are ‘candy’, they should be in a locked cabinet or kept well out of reach.

MSM combats seasonal allergies and hay fever in a big way

2009-01-04T08:53:00.000-08:00

Seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) affects more than 25 million Americans each year and current studies indicate the problem of seasonal allergies is on the rise.

Numerous clinical observations and case studies have led researchers to propose that methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) may help to significantly reduce the symptoms of SAR.

In a study conducted in 2002, fifty people with chronic SAR, completed a study. They consumed 2600 mg of MSM per day. As part of the study, respiratory symptoms, energy levels and immune and inflammatory reactions were measured. All of the participants noted remarkable improvement and tests performed on the individuals in the study measured and confirmed that the use of the supplement MSM had made a physically distinctive rectification of SAR symptoms.

The results of the study suggest that MSM supplementation of 2600 mg per day for 30 days may help reduce the symptoms of SAR; additionally few side effects are associated with the use of MSM.
(information obtained for this article was found in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. Feb.2003, Vol. 9, No. 1: 15-16)

A PERSONAL NOTE: I have used MSM as a supplement regimen for 10 years. I have been a chronic hay fever sufferer all of my life, and I discovered that using MSM stopped the runny itchy eyes and scratchy throat during the hay fever season. I still sneeze but the more irritating side effects of hay fever have been chiefly eliminated.

Moringa Leaf Powder - The World's Greatest Unknown Supplement

2009-01-04T08:51:00.000-08:00

There is no doubt that the pure Moringa Tree leaf is the source of incredible health benefits. It's the ultimate, natural, organic, energy and endurance health supplement. There are plenty of studies that describe these benefits and the pure, powdered, moringa leaf is the most potent part of the plant.

India's ancient tradition of ayurveda medicine sites 300 diseases that are treated with the leaves of the Moringa tree. Gram for gram, Moringa leaves contain:

7 times the vitamin C in oranges

4 times the calcium in milk

4 times the vitamin A in carrots

2 times the protein in milk

3 times the potassium in bananas

Moringa Tree Leaf is organic and absolutely safe. There are no known side effects. It's gentle enough to be given to babies in Africa to overcome malnourishment. It's one of the most secret performance enhancing products taken by athletes today who ingest mega-doses that help them physically and mentally. It's great for people of all ages, especially oldsters who are losing their alertness.

Although there have been references to the Moringa Tree that go back a couple thousand years, and the World Health Organization has been studying and using the plant for the last forty years as a low cost health enhancer in the poorest countries around the world, there is a reason why the moringa leaf is still relatively unknown.

The sale of all forms of vitamins, minerals, and health supplements is a big business. If you were a company selling hundreds of nutritional products, why would you sell one product that could potentially wipe out all your other products! This would be true for the pharmaceutical
industry as well. These industries, with huge marketing budgets, would rather the general public remains ignorant about the moringa leaf.

Soothing Moringa helps lower blood pressure and is a sleep aid. Its detoxifying effect may come from Moringa's ability to purify water. Moringa acts as a coagulant attaching itself to harmful material and bacteria. It is believed that this process takes place in the body as well.

The result is long-lasting energy without hyperactivity, a nerve system at rest, a blood system not under pressure, and a gland and hormone system in balance. Here are some of the uses around the world for the fantastic Moringa Leaf:
Detoxification - Studies have shown Moringa's ability to remove hazardous materials from water.

Antibiotic - Moringa is used as a topical treatment for minor infections. Its antibiotic property is identified as Pterygospermin, a bacterial and fungicidal compound. Studies have shown an agueous extract made from seeds was
equally effective against the skin infecting bacteria Staphylococcus aureus as the antibiotic Neomycin.

Skin Treatment - Moringa has great healing benefits for the skin, curing cuts, scrapes, sores, and rashes as well as cracking and other signs of aging.

Diabetes - An extract from the Moringa leaf has been shown to be effective in lowering blood sugar levels within 3 hours of ingestion, though less effectively than the standard hypoglycemic drug, glibenclamide. The effects increased with larger doses.

The most popular way of using Moringa is as a tea or a spice in cooking. But the most potent way to ingest it is through capsules that are readily available on the internet by searching under "Moringa Tree Leaf Capsules."

Menopause: Male Fretting

2009-01-04T08:50:00.000-08:00

Menopause (definition): The almost inevitable fretting by husbands whereby they first anticipate (sometimes is sheer terror), the looming specter of being "outside the affections of the marital bedroom" looking in…

Let's concede the obvious. Menopause affects sex…can affect marriage.
That concern is as old as civilization. Even Roman husbands dreaded the onset of this problem associated with menopause. What was it they said?

"Hic astabo tantisper cum hac forma et factis frustra?"
(Rough translation: "Am I to stand idle and unnoticed, so handsome and so heroic, all for nothing?"). Menopause does evoke theatrics in men at times.

Of course, menopause is really a condition which develops in women usually between the ages of 45- 50. Menopause occurs when an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone causes symptoms such as:

" the uncomfortable hot flashes,
" vaginal dryness,
" osteoporosis (reduction in bone density),
" loss of sex drive, and
" Fibrocystic breasts.

There's certainly much more to menopause than that of sexual relations between husband and wife. Incidentally, the loss of sex drive occurs in menopause when the hypothalamus (an endocrine gland) lessens sex drive due to reduction in the production of progesterone.

Menopause: normal or abnormal condition?

Progesterone deficiency simply doesn't exist in many cultures around the world. As a result, menopause is practically unknown among such people. Why? The diets in those cultures are rich in certain nutrients found in fresh vegetables and legumes.

Those nutrients are called natural Phytosterols. Foods which are rich with such natural Phytosterols keep the body's progesterone capacity at the necessary levels. Menopause doesn't develop in these women. They show no symptoms of menopause. They do have strong sex drives, strong bones, no hot flashes…forcing the men to fret about other things besides menopause.

Progestins and Menopause

Of course, when we have a medical problem, it seems we immediately turn to some sort of drug to "fix it." Progestins are substances which are made to act like progesterone. So… voila! The problems of menopause are expected to disappear.

Anyone with a prescription of progestins to help them with the symptoms of menopause knows that "it just ain't so." Progestins do not provide all of the same effects as progesterone and there is a substantial body of research concerned with their side effects. Yes, some relief from menopause may take place but the side effects can be considerable.

I know, I know. "Nulla tam bona est fortuna de qua nihil possis queri." ("No luck is that good that you can't find something to complain about.").

Well, if you are looking for relief from menopause and tempted to take prescriptions, consider the side effects of progestins:

" Acne
" Weight fluctuations
" Jaundice
" Depression
" Insomnia
" Nausea
" Breast tenderness
" Fluid retention
" Bleeding

Menopause and DHEA

Because the "mother hormone" - DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) - is used by our bodies to produce as many as 50 other hormones, many use it to help regulate the estrogen - progesterone imbalance and to maintain good health.

Again, we have a problem like menopause, so we jump at the chance for a prescription. But, synthetic DHEA can result in liver damage. On the other hand, almost all of the degenerative diseases out there, are accompanied by low DHEA levels. Synthetic DHEA supplementation creates an imbalance with substances produced by our body, such as cortisol.

That imbalance creates further problems- such as low energy, Thyroid dysfunction, decreased immune function (see immune system at www.glycoshare.com), compromised sleeping habits, Muscular dysfunction and many other issues and complications.

Wouldn't it be better to simply take foods -or natural supplements - which contain Phytosterols to deal with menopause? Menopause can be prevented or mitigated by the progesterone produced from natural Phytosterols. Why go to drugs for relief? DHEA can be regulated by the progesterone produced by Phytosterols. Why, I say, do we run for drugs as our only choice?

Incidentally, Phytosterols can aid in other conditions besides relief of menopause and its symptoms:

1. Fat loss (Are you beginning to understand why dieting often doesn't work?)
2. Breast Cancer involves low levels of DHEA. Phytosterols help the body handle that issue and in turn, aids in combating breast cancer. In fact, one study showed that of 5,186 women who developed breast cancer, all of them - 100%! - had a dramatic fall in their DHEA levels up to 9 years earlier (R.D. Bulbrook, J.L. Hayward, C.C. Speir, "Relations Between Urinary Androgen and Corticoid Eccretion and Subsequent Breast Cancer." Lancet. 2:395-398.) 1971.
3. PMS along with menopause (See my article on PMS and Phytosterols).
4. Depression
5. Diabetes (for help with diabetes see my articles "Diabetes: The $132 Billion
Dollar Pandemic" and "Diabetes: "So Far, So Good…")
5. Stress
6. Prostate
7. Obesity
8. Arthritis
9. Many other diseases and conditions.

Phytosterols is a natural food substance which translates into hormonal action in the body. It is safe and it is almost a "menopause prevention program" by itself…

Women need it for menopause. Persons using phytosterols don't have to worry about side effects as they would with progestins and synthetic DHEA.

However, as with any treatment, you should consult a health care professional, if you have concerns.

Perhaps a new "definition" for menopause can begin to emerge. Yes, let's try that.

Menopause (New Definition): Menopause is no longer the disruption of the marital bedroom. Rather, it is replaced by the almost inevitable glee experienced by husbands whereby they (sometimes quite "boyishly") anticipate the constancy of your doting attentiveness lavished upon them as they stand before you "idle and noticed, so handsome and so heroic. "

Are you thrilled girls?

Finis

(I'm done.)

Mangosteen can help fight free radicals in the body

2009-01-04T08:49:00.000-08:00

Mangosteen has been a big word in the herbal supplement arena for quite some time the reason for this is the xanthone flavonoids and other compounds found in Mangosteen The xanthone flavonoids and other compounds in Mangosteen fruit are responsible for its high level of antioxidant activity. In vitro tests have been conducted on XanoMaxtm Mangosteen 10% extract to determine the level of free radical scavenging ability in both watery and fatty environments. A major test recognized as the industry standard for measuring antioxidant activity is known as the ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) assay.

The ORAC test is an in vitro assay that works by measuring the amount of free radical damage done to a fluorescent probe (measured by a change in probe intensity). Antioxidants lessen the damage to the probe fluorescence, which indicates a reduction in free radical damage. This measure is used to quantify the antioxidant's (or combination of antioxidants) capacity to quench free radicals. This quantification is known as the total ORAC value.

The total ORAC value provides a relative measure of total antioxidant strength of any substance, allowing for comparison of different mixtures. A high ORAC value corresponds to a high total in vitro antioxidant capacity.

The development of the ORAC test has led to a number of commonly eaten foods being assessed in terms of total ORAC scores per serving. Similarly, particular combinations of antioxidants, such as those in nutritional formulas, can also be assessed for their total ORAC scores. This has led to the ability to determine the potential usefulness of a particular supplement in increasing overall antioxidant capacity.

When XanoMaxtm Mangosteen 10% extract was tested for ORAC value, the resulting antioxidant potential was over 3,500 ORAC units per gram of extract. This result is extremely high. ORAC values of compounds vary with their nutrient concentration, moisture content and other factors. For comparison purposes, whole blueberries, considered to be a rich source of antioxidants, had an ORAC value of 61 units per gram, while pomegranate tested at 105 ORAC units per gram.1 XanoMaxtm Mangosteen extract scoring at 3,500 ORAC units is a potentially rich source of beneficial antioxidants to the body. Free radicals are produced every day in the human body and an over abundance of free radicals can damage cells. If enough cells get damaged one can get cancer, organ damage and pre mature aging. Some say that free radicals speed up the aging process and taking supplements that have a high ORAC can help slow down the aging process and help us look younger and live longer.

There are many vitamins and herbs on the market today that help fight free radical damage in the body, Mangosteen just happens to have one of the highest ORAC value for your money, give it a try and see how you feel.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Managing Anemia Associated With Chemotherapy Treatment

2009-01-04T08:48:00.000-08:00

This year, an estimated 1.3 million cancer patients will undergo chemotherapy and more than two-thirds of these patients will develop anemia, a low red blood cell count. Anemia is one of the most common side effects of chemotherapy and can negatively affect patients and impact their daily activities.

"Chemotherapy attacks fast- growing cancer cells, but it can also kill normal cells like red blood cells that transport oxygen from the lungs to the body's muscles," said Dr. Ralph Boccia, director of clinical research, Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Bethesda, Md. "As a result, the body's tissues are starved of oxygen, making a patient feel short of breath, very weak, faint and tired."

More than half of chemotherapy patients report that fatigue, a common symptom of anemia, affects their daily lives more than any other side effect, including nausea, pain and depression. Further, anemia is often undertreated, despite the availability of treatments for more than a decade.

Typically, anemia treatment takes more than two hours per visit. Now, there is a treatment option that provides added conve-nience from current weekly dosing. Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved every-three-week starting dosing of 500 mcg of Aranesp® (darbepoetin alfa) for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced anemia in patients with certain types of cancer. This allows physicians to synchronize anemia treatment with most chemotherapy schedules, increasing convenience for patients and caregivers by reducing the number of clinic visits and injections for anemia treatment.

"Receiving anemia treatment every three weeks on the same schedule as my chemotherapy was convenient for me and my family," said Danielle Mannix, who suffered from anemia. "We had fewer visits to the doctor for anemia treatments, which gave me more time for my regular daily activities."

Aranesp is contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled hypertension. Erythropoietic therapies may increase the risk of thrombotic events and other serious events.

Malic Acid A Good Supplement

2009-01-04T08:47:00.000-08:00

You may not know what malic acid is, which is okay because many people don’t exactly know what it is anyway. It is an organic acid that helps the process of deriving ATP. That is the energy currency that runs the body from food. Basically malic acid helps in the production of energy.

Malic acid can also be called fruit acid, because it is found in apples and other fruits. But Malic acid is also found in some plants and animals including humans. I won’t get into too many details as it can be confusing, but the acid is a chiral molecule. Some people also refer to malic acid as apple acid, hydroxybutanedioic acid and hydroxysuccinic acid.

The acid if absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. This is then transported to the liver. Again I won’t go into details as it is pretty complex. Malic acid is derived both from food sources and synthesized in the body through the citric acid cycle. As I have stated before, the importance of Malic acid is for the production of energy in the body, which is really all you need to know. Other benefits from the supplement are helping respiratory problems and chronic fatigue.

Many people in the medical industry think that Malic acid can have benefits when you use it in connection with fibromylagia. The only problem is that the results for the studies have been mixed. They will probably need more time to have 100% proof of the benefits connected to fibromylagia. But that doesn’t have to stop you from taking Malic acid supplements.

We already know that Malic acid is a good way to boost your energy. If you find you are always tiered try out Malic acid supplements and see if they will help you. They can give you the boost you need to get threw the day.

Making Vitamins Plain And Simple

2009-01-04T08:39:00.000-08:00

It's no wonder we are pretty confused when shopping for vitamins. We've been told, for example, that a good vitamin supplement would boost our energy level. In fact, we're told this constantly: in magazine arti- cles, television media, the plethora of vitamin- promoting infomercials, web sites, and pop-up ads on the Internet.

So when you arrive at the vitamin shop, you're already at a complete loss (and may have forgotten altogether) why you're even there, and end up like many of us, just not taking any vitamins at all because it's all so...so...confusing!

Vitamin World, Vitamin Gallery, The Vitamin Patch, Vitamins for Vegeterians -- the vast array of shops, whether online or in your neighborhood, all beckon, promising renewed everything. If you have any health problem or complaint known to man, you'll find a good vitamin supplement (or 12 to 15 of them) to straight- en out your suffering right away.

The good thing about vitamins (just one of many) is that they're really largely "natural," with very few containing harmful or otherwise irritating, toxic chemicals.

To put it plainly, vitamins are good for us because they are derived largely from natural plants and min- erals. That's the basic fact. And the benfits are many; it's difficult to take the "wrong" vitamin, and it certainly can't hurt you, so why not give it a swing? But remember: Take everything in moderation.

Beta-carotene, for example, is thought to protect against cancer and heart disease. It can dramatically boost the immune system and is a powerful antioxidant, which controls those "free radicals" we've all heard about and prevents them from causing damage to cells that lead to premature disease and aging.

Biotin metabolizes protein, fats, and carbohydrates. It also helps in energy production, and there is some proof that it can help people with diabetes by keeping glucose levels reduced. Other benefits include healthy hair, skin and nails, and reducing fatigue, heartburn and some allergies.

Folic acid is famous among women who are trying to conceive and those already pregnant. Other benefits include keeping your heart strong, increasing energy and helping ward off Alzheimer’s disease.

Vitamins and minerals are now seroiusly recognized in playing a role in the health and vitality of every organ in the body, from skin and bones to the nervous and immune systems, right up to the brain. Vitamins can lower cholesterol levels, help wounds heal more, raise your sperm count and make you more resistant to colds and flu, asthma, cataracts, and even gum dis-ease.

Again, you really can't go wrong with vitamins. Look beyond the fancy marketing and packaging. The key is to focus on your particular ailment and go straight to the natural remedy. Don't let all the hype distract or confuse you; all you really need to do is keep it plain and simple.

Legal Steroids - Another Alternative - Natural Body Building

2009-01-04T08:38:00.000-08:00

For competitive body builders to build bigger muscles faster is a constant temptation but for the average non competitive body builder there is another natural option - natural body building. True it is a much slower process but the long term gains far outweigh the adverse affects that even legal steroids may have on your body over an extended period of time.

Steroids are usually used for a short duration of say 6-8 weeks with a substantial period of time elapsing before starting on the next course of steroids. It is not recommended that anyone take steroids on a continuous basis. This on and off program tends to produce short term spikes in muscle mass and muscle strength.

The advantage of natural body building is a slower but steadier increase in muscle mass rather than the peaks and lows of those on steroids. I am sure many of you have seen or heard of the affects on a body builder who stops using steroids - Rapid loss of muscle bulk and strength. The affects of steroids are fairly short lived and can result in some dramatic changes to both physique and health of a body builder.

Natural body building results in a steadier and more constant performance rather than the often times spectacular ups and downs of steroid induced muscle bulk and strength performance. When you achieve top results as a natural body builder you will be able to maintain your muscle bulk and strength for as long as you continue intense training without adverse affects on your general health.

You will not experience any dramatic muscle wasting that is many times seen in body builders when they stop using steroids. Loss of muscle bulk and strength are two of the most dreaded words for body builders. Natural body building will help most to avoid these pitfalls.

So why do people use steroids? Most of us are impatient creatures and want instant results so the steroid alternative is very attractive. Probably one of the most important factors that affect a person's decision to use steroids or go the natural way is what is their reason for body building - is it just to look and feel better or are they in it for the competition.

So it is your call - you decide whether using legal steroids will benefit you and your objectives.

Or play it safe and go for the healthier, steadier natural body building program that will have longer term benefits for a healthier lifestyle - Its your choice.

Know Your Bodybuilding Supplement - Tribulus

2009-01-04T08:37:00.000-08:00

Tribulus terrestris is a herb that comes from a plant found in Asia. It has been used in the past by many cultures for the treatment of liver, kidney and cardiovascular diseases. It has also been used as a diuretic and to treat infertility. In recent years strength athletes in eastern Europe are reputed to have used it to enhance performance.

It is believed to enhance testosterone levels by encouraging the production of lutenizing hormone. Studies have shown that when lutenizing hormone levels are increased, the natural production of testosterone also increases.

It is difficult to assess the validity of tribulus as a muscle growth enhancer because none of the studies carried out have appeared in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Its proponents do suggest that it can prove useful when stacked with 100 mg of DHEA and 100 mg of androstenedione but this takes us into the equally uncertain territory of prohormones which we have covered in a separate article.

If you do wish to experiment with tribulus you can take 750-1250 mg per day divided between meals. Some people experience stomach upsets but this can be minimized by taking it with food. There's no guarantee that tribulus terrestris will help you grow bigger muscles but many users report a much improved sex drive!

Know Your Bodybuilding Supplement - L-Arginine

2009-01-04T08:36:00.000-08:00

Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid that the body cannot make naturally. It is found in nuts, seeds, chocolate and raisins.

Arginine is used by the body in the execution of many important physiological processes including hormone secretion, output of growth hormone, removal of toxins from the body and enhancement of the immune system. It is also a precursor of nitric oxide which vasodiolates vessels in the body. For this reason arginine is often used to treat conditions such as angina, high blood pressure, cardiac disease, sexual dysfunction and infertility. Recent research has also highlighted arginine's ability to scavenge free radicals, remove bad cholesterol, enhance fat metabolism and regulate salt levels.

There are several reasons why arginine appeals to bodybuilders:

1. It prevents the retention of water under the skin thus minimizing bloating and helping to create a ripped appearance.

2. It helps the body to retain nitrogen that is essential to the muscle building process.

3. Its vasodilating abilities support muscle growth.

4. It enhances protein synthesis.

5. It helps to boost the immune system allowing harder training and minimizing the minor illnesses that come from overtraining.

With any amino acid supplement overdosing can lead to weakness and nausea so care should be taken in applying small doses and increasing them gradually until an optimum level is reached. Bear in mind that many protein powders and other supplements are fortified with amino acids so check the labels carefully. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed in all instances.

Know Your Bodybuilding Supplement - BCAA's

2009-01-04T08:34:00.000-08:00

BCAA stands for branched chain amino acids and is increasingly being recognized as an important supplement in the field of sports nutrition. In short the term refers to three essential amino acids - leucine, isoleucine and valine.

Amino acids are widely known as the building blocks of protein. When protein food is eaten it gets digested into individual amino acids and short chains of amino acids that are sufficiently small to be absorbed into the bloodstream. They are then used by the body to build and repair tissues amongst other things.

Amino acids are split between those classed as essential and those labelled non-essential. This simply means that essential amino acids cannot be made by the body, whereas non-essential amino acids can. There are nine essential amino acids and each must be obtained from the diet. The nine essential amino acids are histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine.

Non-essential amino acids are just as important as the essential variety and the term simply means they can be made by the body from vitamins and other amino acids. The non-essential amino acids are alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, cystine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, proline, serine and tyrosine.

The BCAA's are especially important to athletes because they are metabolized in the muscle rather than the liver. This means that they can be used either to build new proteins or be burned as fuel to create energy. Supplementing with BCAA's has been shown to result in measurable gains in both muscle strength and size. Taken before a workout BCAA's can improve performance and delay the onset of fatigue. They also operate as anabolic agents allowing the body to burn fat and not muscle.

As a supplement that has no reported side effects, branched chain amino acids offer many benefits to the serious bodybuilder.

Know about Health Supplements

2009-01-04T08:30:00.000-08:00

People are usually of the impression that the body receives sufficient minerals and vitamins through their diet. However, this is not always true. It is sometimes very important to use health supplements to compensate on the deficit of vitamins and minerals.

Health supplements can be purchased from the general pharmacy stores or from the many online stores available in the World Wide Web. All you have to do is to choose the health supplement that best suits your vitamin and mineral needs. It is not only the athletes who need health supplements; people suffering from ailments need health supplements to develop a natural immunity and resistance to the ailment. The pregnant woman, lactating woman and senior citizens also need health supplements. The pregnant and lactating women need health supplements to provide themselves and their child with sufficient nutrients. Senior citizens generally reduce their food consumption with age; because of this the nutrients to the body tends to decrease. Health supplements help to compensate this deficiency.

Health supplements are generally considered to be safe. However, it is always advisable to take health supplements that are approved by the Food and Drug Administration. This helps you to make sure that the health supplements are safe and do not have any side effects. There are some health supplements that are not advised for teens as they are hazardous to them as they have steroids that cause damage to the body. When taking health supplements, watch out for any warning signals or possible side effects such as headache, rashes, stomach discomfort, and dizziness. This is because some health supplement may constitute ingredients that may prove to be allergic to some people.

It is important to take health supplements in their stipulated dosage. Taking too much of vitamins and minerals is not advisable. Always consult your physician before starting on any health supplements as there are some health supplements that may affect any medication that you are taking. Some people use energy bars as health supplements. However, though this is good for athletes who burn lots of calories, they can turn out to be additional calories to the average person!

Nowadays, people have become more health conscious and are aware of the benefits of health supplements. Along with health supplements, it is important to have as varied and balanced diet as possible. Remember, health supplements are meant only to act as additional nutrients to the body, and not as the only food to the body!

Joint Pain Relief

2009-01-04T08:29:00.001-08:00

Sports-related activities, as well as falls and other trauma, can injure the cartilage within a joint and, if it is not provided sufficient time to heal, chronic pain and persistent disability can follow. These activities and incidents may increase the risk of osteoarthritis, especially if there's impact involved or there's the risk of injury to ligaments. Additionally, damage to the bone surface can start a biological process that results in joint degeneration. This, in turn, often leads to rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.

Arthritis is often a chronic disease meaning it can affect the person afflicted over a long period of time. It cannot be cured, but it can be treated through a variety of methods and products. Learning how to manage your joint pain over the long term is an important factor in controlling the disease and maintaining a good quality of life. This is a brief overview of some of the methods that arthritis sufferers can use to alleviate many of the symptoms associated with arthritis, especially joint pain. Products, both prescription and over-the-counter, for of relieving arthritic joint pain are described in Joint Pain Products.

Heat and cold

Heat and/or cold therapy is not recommended to alleviate symptoms associated with all types of arthritis and as such, the decision whether to use it or not should be discussed with your doctor or physical therapist. If your care provider determines that the use of heat and/or cold is appropriate for use on your arthritis pain, it must be determined which kind of temperature treatment should be used. Moist heat, such as a warm bath or shower, or dry heat, such as a heating pad, placed on affected joint for about 15 minutes may relieve the pain. An ice pack or bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel and placed on the sore area for about 15 minutes may help to reduce swelling and stop the pain. If you have poor circulation, do not use cold packs.

Joint protection

In order to relieve the stress of everyday activity on an afflicted joint, which can exacerbate the condition and may lead to additional injury, a splint or brace can be used to allow joints to rest and keep them from being used. As with many other treatments, a medical care provider such as a physician or physical therapist can make recommendations and possibly provide you with the brace.

Massage

Massage is associated with temporarily relieving joint pain, one of the major symptoms associated with arthritis, rather than treating the underlying cause of a loss of cartilage. A massage therapist will typically lightly stroke and/or knead the muscles around the joint, which increases blood flow to the stressed area. It is important to realize that arthritic joints are very sensitive, so the massage therapist must be familiar with the disease and problems associated with the affected joints.

Exercise

Low-impact exercises such as stretching exercises, swimming, walking, low-impact aerobics, and range-of-motion exercises may reduce joint pain and stiffness while increasing joint mobility. A physical therapist or gym trainer can help plan an exercise program that will give you the most benefit with the least stress on the arthritis-stressed joints.

Weight Reduction

In addition to alleviating some symptoms, the weight loss associated with an exercise program is beneficial in relieving the extra stress that extra pounds put on weight-bearing joints such as the hips and knees. Studies have shown that overweight women who lost approximately 10 pounds substantially reduced the development of osteoarthritis in their knees. In addition, these studies suggested that if osteoarthritis has already affected one joint such as the knee or hip, weight reduction would reduce the chance of it occurring in the other knee or hip. A physical therapist or gym trainer can help plan an exercise program that will give you the most benefit with the least stress on the arthritis-stressed joints.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation uses a small device that is placed near the joint afflicted with arthritis and directs mild electric pulses to nerve endings in and around the arthritic joint. It is theorized that TENS blocks the pain messages sent to the brain from the nerves and modifies the body's perception of pain. Although TENS relieves some joint pain associated with arthritis, it doesn't offset the joint inflammation that is associated with arthritis.

Surgery

In some extreme cases of persons with arthritis, surgery may be necessary. The surgeon may perform an operation to remove the synovium, realign the joint, or in extreme cases, replace the damaged joint with an artificial one. Total joint replacement provides not only dramatic pain relief but also significant improvement in joint motion and mobility for many people with arthritis.

Information About Germanium Supplements

2009-01-04T08:27:00.000-08:00

Dietary supplements containing germanium started becoming popular in the 1970s in Japan. From there it spread to other countries, where it became known as an elixir against certain diseases. Germanium is found in the Earth’s crust. Plants and the human body also show traces of germanium. This element is available in plenty of plant foods such as vegetables, leguminous seeds, wheat and bran; while it is almost nonexistent in animal foods. Germanium is considered to be the prime reason why nutritional practitioners recommend taking garlic, ginseng, mushroom, and comfrey. Some organic complexes of germanium have shown the capacity to curtail the growth of tumors in animals.

A lack of germanium is associated with infection and immune disorders, but the biological role of germanium is still unclear. Germanium is not an essential element. The nutritional supplement form of germanium is known as germanium sesquioxide or Ge-132. This is a synthetic organic product found naturally. This form of germanium has been used to boost the immune system and improve body system functioning. Germanium products have been used to treat a variety of problems like arthritis, heart disease, AIDS, cataracts and cancer. People suffering from neurosis, asthma, diabetes, hypertension and hepatitis also find relief after taking germanium. It is said that germanium causes the production of interferon, which is a naturally occurring anti-cancer agent. By boosting the activity of the natural killer cells in the body, germanium helps the immune system to fight invading germs. To some extent, disease states like osteoporosis and heart disease have responded favorably to germanium therapy. Strong oxygen regulation and antioxidant activity is undertaken by germanium in the human body.

But there is no scientific evidence as to the benefits of germanium. Many herbal supplements containing germanium are mixed with possibly harmful impurities/additives, rendering them dangerous. The use of germanium has been associated with various side effects, so it is dangerous to use this product without consulting a physician. Though its actual toxicity is low, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reported that supplements that contain germanium present a potential hazard to humans. Therefore the FDA has banned the import of germanium. At least 31 human cases have linked prolonged intake of germanium supplements with kidney failure and even death. Interestingly, germanium found naturally in food products do not appear to be toxic.

Germanium products are available in powdered form or as capsules. The peculiarity of the structure of germanium causes it to be easily contaminated with inorganic germanium, which is more toxic. It is unclear whether the side effects associated with it are due to organic germanium or due to the supplement’s interaction with inorganic germanium. In a study conducted on a small group of humans, even small levels of germanium have been found to be toxic. In many patients, their symptoms got worse, and illness was compounded by side effects. Scientists are vociferous in their warning that inorganic germanium may lead to permanent kidney damage and even death.

Germanium may also interfere with other medications and make certain symptoms worse (seizures, for instance). Very little is known about the effects of germanium on pregnant women. Therefore such women should never take germanium, unless advised by a physician. Other ill effects include weight loss, anemia, vomiting, muscle weakness, and numbness in the hands and feet. The deadly effects of the toxin builds up with time, and in the long run, symptoms get worse.

Information About Chromium Supplments

2009-01-04T08:26:00.001-08:00

Chromium supplements

An essential trace mineral, chromium is needed for the growth and health of the body. Among other things, it is needed for the breakdown of fat, carbohydrates, and protein. Chromium has become the most popular mineral supplement in America, after calcium. It is also one of the most controversial.

Chromium offers a mixed bag of good and bad effects. In the positive light, it was reported that chromium supplements would help burn fat and lower blood sugar levels. Chromium supplements are also supposed to build muscle mass, lower cholesterol, and reduce the risk of heart disease. A recent study shows that chromium seems to have a mild cholesterol-lowering effect. Further research may prove that chromium is helpful in lowering triglyceride levels, while raising the HDL (good) levels. However over-dosage may lead to complications and chromium supplements are best used under medical supervision.

Chromium may help to:
Control diabetes: In people with type 2 diabetes, the pancreas tries to regulate blood sugar levels by secreting insulin. A molecule called “Glucose Tolerance Factor” (GTF) increases the sensitivity of cells to insulin. The GTF molecule contains chromium. Therefore, chromium supplements may help normalize blood sugar levels. Several clinical tests have proven that diabetics who were on chromium supplements were able to reduce their dosage of medication. The effects of chromium are enhanced when taken with niacin (vitamin B3). Studies have also revealed that chromium may have a stabilizing effect on people with hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), thus doing away with symptoms like headache, nausea, fatigue, and irritability.

Assist weight loss:
Chromium picolinate assists people with obesity to lose weight. It helps to improve body composition by increasing muscle mass and reducing fat. But studies reveal mixed results because people using chromium supplements lose just about the same amount of weight as people using placebos. It is possible that when combined with a healthy diet and a rigorous exercise program, chromium supplements may aid weight loss.

Prevent heart disease:
Chromium may help raise the HDL (‘good’) cholesterol and lower the LDL (‘bad’) cholesterol levels. There is no proof regarding this and a good diet program combined with exercise can accomplish the same thing.

Chromium is naturally available in the food we eat, and most people who eat a healthy diet do not need chromium supplements. But supplements (not just of chromium) become indispensable in a high-fat diet that depends on over-refined ingredients. Therefore some people develop a chromium deficiency, and in such cases, chromium supplements are necessary. Chromium comes in the form of a capsule, softgel or tablet. While there is no recommended dosage for chromium, 50 to 200 mcg taken on a daily basis is adequate for adults. Most basic vitamin-mineral combinations have enough chromium to prevent a deficiency. The body seems capable of absorbing all forms of chromium equally well. For optimal absorption, it is better to combine chromium with vitamin C. Taking antacids may impair absorption of this mineral. Excessive amounts of chromium may lead to a deficiency in zinc.

While there have been no indications regarding side effects, over-dosage may lead to kidney failure. A woman who was on a 1,000 mcg daily dosage developed kidney failure after a few months. Long-term and high-dose chromium supplements may damage the body. Chromium picolinate may cause a chromosomal damage that leads to cancer. Diabetics must consult with a doctor before taking chromium supplements. Chromium picolinate also alters certain brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. Therefore people with any behavioral disorder should consult a doctor before taking chromium supplements. Chromium may have unknown effects on pregnant or lactating women.

Incorporating Vitamins And Nutritional Supplements Into A Healthy Weight Maintenance Program

2009-01-04T08:24:00.001-08:00

If you have spent a great deal of time and exerted a great deal of effort on losing weight, it goes without saying that you do not want to put those ugly pounds back on. Done correctly, a weight loss program is an investment. As a consequence, you are going to want to embark on a program through which you will be able to maintain a health weight now and in to the future.

Of course, there are two fundamental keys to maintaining a healthy weight. First of all, you need to eat a balanced diet. Such a diet needs to be rich in fruits and vegetables, have a limited amount of lean meat products and should fatty foods as well as refined sugars.

In addition to eating correctly, exercise is also an important part of a program designed to maintain a healthy weight both after a weight loss program reaches its goal as well as on into the future.

Many experts maintain that the glue that holds both elements of a weight maintenance program together is the proper usage of vitamins and nutritional supplements. A vast majority of weight control experts and nutritionists maintain that a person has a better chance at weight maintenance success through the use of vitamins and nutritional supplements.

What you do need to keep in mind is that vitamins and nutritional supplements properly used are not designed as replacements for a healthy diet. Rather, these products are created to help aid and advance the benefits that you can derive from both eating a well balanced diet and from regular exercise.

If you are interested in obtaining various vitamins and nutritional supplements, but are living on a budget, you will want to develop ways in which you can save money on your diet product purchases. The Internet has proven itself to be a reliable resource for men and women looking for reasonable prices on vitamins and nutritional supplement products. By spending a bit of time surfing around the Net, you will be able to find a significant selection of different types of vitamin and nutritional supplement products in a wide price range. Indeed, although the saying may seem trite, in the final analysis, there really is something for everyone when it comes to the availability of vitamins and nutritional supplement products on the World Wide Web.

Incorporating Vitamins And Nutritional Supplements Into A Healthy Weight Loss Program

2009-01-04T08:22:00.000-08:00

Many people incorrectly assume that using vitamins and nutritional supplements is an easy deal -- that you can use these products without giving their use much thought. In point of fact, when it comes to incorporating vitamins and nutritional supplements into your overall weight loss program, you have to give their use serious thought. You must make proper decisions as to how these products will fit into your overall health weight loss regimen and into your ultimate health weight maintenance program down the road.

The first step in developing a health weight loss program that incorporates vitamins and other nutritional supplements is a meeting with your doctor. Although many people fail to consult with a doctor before beginning a diet program, such a failure can have significantly negative consequences over the long run.

In addition to consulting with your doctor prior to embarking on a diet program, you might want to consult with a qualified, certified nutritionist. A nutritionist can aid you in determining what types of vitamins and what sorts of nutritional supplements can best aid you in crafting an overall effective and healthy weight loss program.

Through the assistance of a nutritionist, you not only will be able to determine what products will best aid you in your diet regimen but you will be able to ascertain how to use these products to make sure they provide the greatest benefit to you.

In regard to incorporating vitamins and nutritional supplements into a health weight loss program, you need to set realistic in regard to your weight loss plans. Too often people starting a diet have unrealistic goals and expectations. When they fail to meet what really are outlandish and impossible goals, these people give up on their weight loss plans and programs -- abandon a course for healthy living. Through realistic goal setting a person has a far better chance of working through an effective weight loss program on into the future.

Finally, in developing a system of incorporating vitamins and nutritional supplements into an overall diet program for healthy living, you will also want to construct a companion exercise and workout program to compliment your overall dieting scheme and regimen.

By taking the steps outlined in this article, you will be in the best position to develop a weight loss program for healthy living and for a healthy life that incorporates the usage of reliable vitamins, minerals and nutritional supplements.

Improve Your Mood with 5-HTP Supplements

2009-01-04T08:13:00.001-08:00

What is 5-HTP?
The Griffonia Extract is rich in 5-HydroxyTryptophan (5-HTP), which comes from an African vegetable, the Griffonia simplicifolia seed, and contains 30% 5–HTP. 5-HTP is an amino acid that is a direct precursor of serotonin, an important neurotransmitter having pain soothing and relaxing effects. 5-HTP is not present in significant amounts in a typical diet. The human body manufactures 5-HTP from L-tryptophan, a natural amino acid found in most dietary proteins. However, eating food that contains L-tryptophan does not significantly increase 5-HTP levels.

5-HTP and Serotonin
5-HTP is the precursor to serotonin. It improves mood, anxiety and is beneficial in weight loss. 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an amino acid that is the intermediate step between tryptophan and the important brain chemical serotonin. There is a massive amount of evidence that suggests that low serotonin levels are a common consequence of modern living. The lifestyle and dietary practices of many people living in this stress-filled era results in lowered levels of serotonin within the brain.

5-HTP and Carb Cravings
Researchers believe that inadequate serotonin levels are in part responsible for the desire to overeat. Not surprisingly, obese individuals who crave carbohydrates usually show abnormally low levels of serotonin. Taking a 5-HTP supplement half an hour before a meal can " turn off" cravings and hunger pangs by feeding the brains carbohydrate satiety center. In this way 5-HTP can be a great asset as part of a weight-loss regime.

5-HTP and Addiction
The use of many addictive substances, such as tobacco, alcohol, caffeine and certain narcotics, elevates serotonin levels. When these substances are eliminated, serotonin levels drop drastically, causing anxiety and cravings. Taking 5-HTP can stabilize serotonin levels and help minimize the symptoms of withdrawal.

5-HTP and PMS
PMS sufferers report pain relief, as well as decreased irritability and mood swings from using 5-HTP. The supplement works by countering the hormone-induced decrease in serotonin levels that occur naturally during menstruation.

5-HTP and Sleep
Because of its calming effect, many rely on 5-HTP to alleviate stress-attacks, as well as to encourage restful sleep. Unlike sedative drugs, 5-HTP is not associated with unwanted side effects, such as disturbed sleep patterns or grogginess. It can be taken regularly one hour before retiring as a remedy for insomnia.

Side Effects
Very high intakes of 5-HTP have caused muscle jerks in guinea pigs and both muscle jerks and diarrhea in mice. Injected 5-HTP has also caused kidney damage in rats. To date, these problems have not been reported in humans. “Serotonin syndrome,” a serious but uncommon condition caused by excessive amounts of serotonin, has not been reported to result from supplementation with 5-HTP; in theory it could be triggered by the supplement. However, the level of intake at which this toxic effect might potentially occur remains unknown.

Warnings
5-HTP should not be taken with antidepressants, weight-control drugs, other serotonin-modifying agents, or substances known to cause liver damage, because in these cases 5-HTP may have excessive effects. People with liver disease may not be able to regulate 5-HTP adequately and those suffering from autoimmune diseases such as scleroderma may be more sensitive than others, to 5-HTP. These people should not take 5-HTP without consulting a knowledgeable healthcare professional. The safety of taking 5-HTP during pregnancy and breast-feeding is not known at this time.
Conditions with low serotonin levels helped by 5-HTP:
• Depression
• Obesity
• Carbohydrate craving
• Bulimia
• Insomnia
• Narcolepsy
• Sleep apnea
• Migraine headaches
• Tension headaches
• Chronic daily headaches
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Fibromyalgia

Importance of Vitamins in your Life

2009-01-04T08:10:00.000-08:00

Vitamins

Natural vitamins are those organic food substances which are found only in plants and animals, i.e., living things. The body is not able to synthesize or manufacture vitamins (although there are a few exceptions to this). Because of this, they must be supplied either directly in the diet, or by way of dietary supplements. Vitamins are vital if our body is to function normally. They are absolutely necessary for our growth, general-well being and vitality.
Vitamins cannot be assimilated without ingesting food. This is why it is suggested that vitamins must be taken with a meal. They help to regulate the body’s metabolism, assist in forming the bone and tissue, and help convert fat and carbohydrates. However, one must remember that vitamins cannot replace food.

We shall now look at the importance of each of the vitamins by turn.

Vitamin A
• Repair & growth of body tissues
• Protects mucous membrane of mouth, throat, lungs and nose
• Helps maintain smooth, disease-free skin
• Counteracts night blindness.
• Reduces risk of lung and certain types of oral cancers

Vitamin B1
• Aids in digestion of carbohydrates
• Essential to the normal working of the nervous system, heart and muscles
• Stabilizes appetite
• Promotes growth
• Generates energy

Vitamin B2
• Aids in formation of red blood cells and antibodies
• Essential for carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism
• Promotes general health
• Necessary for the maintenance of good skin, nails, hair and good vision
• Maintains cells respiration

Vitamin B6
• Building blocks of protein
• Necessary for synthesis and breakdown of amino acids
• Promotes healthy skin
• Aids in production of antibodies
• Reduces muscle spasms and leg cramps
• Helps maintain a proper balance of phosphorous and sodium

Vitamin B12
• Prevents anaemia by helping in formation and regeneration of red blood cells
• Necessary for fat, carbohydrate and protein metabolism
• Increases energy
• Promotes growth in children
• Maintains healthy nervous system

Niacinamide
• Helps metabolize sugar, fat and protein
• Reduces high blood pressure
• Improves circulation
• Reduces cholesterol level
• Increases energy
• Helps maintain healthy digestive system

Panthothenic Acid
• Aids in the utilization of vitamins
• Helps in cell building
• Aids in development of the central nervous system
• Fights infections
• Participates in release of energy from carbohydrates

Biotin
• Promotes healthy
• Aids in the utilization of folic acid, protein, Vitamin B12 and Panthothenic Acid

Folic Acid
• Essential for the formation of red blood cells
• Aids in the metabolism of amino acids
• Necessary for the synthesis of DNA and RNA

Inositol
• Aids in breakdown of fats
• Helps prevent thinning hair
• Helps to reduce blood cholesterol levels
• Necessary for the formation of lecithin

Choline
• Prevents fat from accumulating in the liver
• Helps improve memory
• Important in controlling cholesterol and fat build up
• Facilitates movement of fats in cells
• Important in nerve transmission

Para Amino Benzoic Acid
• Aids in formation of red blood cells
• Contains sunscreen properties
• Returns hair to its natural colour
• Aids in the assimilation of Panthothenic Acid
• Produces folic acid, this aiding healthy bacteria

Vitamin C
• Helps heal wounds, scar tissue and fractures
• Essential for healthy bones, teeth and gums
• Builds resistance to infection
• Prevents scurvy
• Gives strength to blood vessels
• Aids in absorption of iron
• Is essential for the synthesis of collagen

Vitamin D
• Required for bone and teeth formation
• Improves absorption and utilization of Phosphorous and Calcium
• Maintains stable nervous system

Vitamin E
• Retards cellular aging because of oxygen
• Alleviates fatigue by supplying oxygen
• Prevents and dissolves blood clots
• Helps in preventing sterility
• Aids in bringing nourishment to cells

For more information on vitamins, visit: http://www.vitaminsdiary.com/vitamins.htm

Human growth hormone and the weight gain trap

2009-01-04T08:08:00.001-08:00

Human growth hormone - the weight gain catch 22

As a person ages it’s more arduous to find the time and drive to exercise. Add to that the fact that metabolism naturally slows and you’ve got a recipe for weight gaining. As you gain weight, it becomes even more difficult to get up and get the exercise you require. This is the definition of a vicious circle.

As a general rule

There’s commendable news and bad news. Foremost, the bad news. It’s truly a circle and it doesn’t get easier without some serious effort on your part. Now the good news, human growth hormone supplements can help break the cycle.

HGH is the acronym for Human Grown Hormone. The natural human growth hormone is produced in the body’s pituitary gland and this protein blend has several roles. Primarily, it aids in the routine growth of children. But it’s also been proven to increase energy and to combat the aging process. Imagine winding back the clock just by adding human growth hormone dietary supplements to your everyday schedule!

By the same token

How many times have you watched youngsters playing and reflected how much better your life would be if you only had the vitality of those kids? It brings to sense the old saying, if only you could flask that energy and sell it! While a human growth hormone supplement doubtlessly isn’t going to have you turning cartwheels by tomorrow, it is likely to help you find the energy to get started on a realistic exercise regimen.

Do you ever think that your existence would be better if you could simply shed a few pounds? Many adults have that thought on a regular basis. Or maybe you’re just going into that phase of your life where you require to watch your weight before it gets out of hand. There are all sorts of weight reduction aids out there, but energy is the biggest factor in taking command of your life. With that in mind, human growth hormone supplements may be just the lift you need to get your life and your weight back on line.

Have you ever considered…

Increased energy isn’t the only effect of human growth hormone supplements, though it’s closely woven to others. Some folks take human growth hormone supplements only for the known anti aging benefits. Before you dismiss the feasibility that human growth hormone can slow the aging process, contemplate the link between those people who look younger and those who often exercise. Isn’t it true that most people who pay regard to weight and have an exercise program invariably to look younger? You can see that the connections are extremely interwoven.

Besides providing the lift to get you started on a regular exercise regimen, the increased energy has another positive side effect. How frequently are you simply too exhausted to properly care for your skin? You may be giving your features a speedy cleanse before bed, but ignoring all the other help your skin needs to remain young and flourishing. It’s not that you’re unconcerned only that you’re too tired to pay appropriate attention.

In closing

A focused mind is one of the most powerful forces in the universe.

A human growth hormone releaser and other human growth hormone dietary supplements can deliver you the energy you need to make the most of your life.

Human Growth Hormone – Playing An Anabolic Role In The Body

2009-01-04T08:05:00.000-08:00

HGH or human growth hormone is a protein hormone of 190 amino acids, which is synthesized and secreted by the Somatotroph cells (hence called Somatotropin) in the anterior pituitary. The genes for human growth hormone are localized in the q22-24 region of chromosome 17. The structure of HGH includes four helices necessary for functional interaction with the GH receptor. Structurally, HGH is homologous to prolactin and chorionic somatomammotropin and it appears as if the three share some evolutionarily connection. The triad is known to promote growth and aid the lactogenic activity.

Human Growth Hormone Secretion

Synthesis and secretion of HGH is controlled by many factors such as exercise, nutrition, sleep, stress and sometimes even by growth hormone itself. The control, however, are wielded by two hypo-thalamic hormones (Growth hormone-releasing hormone or GHRH and Somatostatin or SS) and one hormone present in the stomach (Ghrelin).

Functions of HGH

Human growth hormone contributes in the building up of the human body. HGH has two different types of effects on the human tissues and the human system as a whole – direct and indirect. The direct effects are the upshot of the growth hormone binding its receptor to the target cells. Indirect effects are stimulated by an insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), a hormone secreted by the liver and other tissues in response to growth hormone action. In fact, most of the growth promoting effects of HGH are the consequence of IGF-I acting on the target cells.

Thus, it is apparent that HGH or Somatotropin plays a vital role in major physiological processes, including growth and metabolism.

HGH & Growth

The major role of growth hormone in effecting body growth is to stimulate the liver and various other tissues to secrete IGF-I. IGF-I. This, in-turn, it provokes proliferation of Chondrocytes (cartilage cells), resulting in bone growth.

HGH & Metabolism

Human growth hormone has been found to have important effects on protein, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. These effects in some are direct, others indirect and a few showing mixed effects.

Although height growth is an all-too-manifest effect of HGH on the human system, it has several other specific and essentially functions. These functions range from protein synthesis to building muscle mass, calcium retention to mineralization of bones, stimulating the immune system to maintaining fuel homeostasis, etc.

This is all about real human growth hormone. Biosynthetic human growth hormone, also known as recombinant human growth hormone and abbreviated as rHGH was first used for remedial use in the U.S. in 1985. Since then, the biosynthetic variety of HGH has nearly sidelined the pituitary-prompted human growth hormone, especially in therapeutic use.

How useful are Vitamins?

2009-01-04T07:58:00.000-08:00

Let me tell you what a vitamin is and how useful they can be. A vitamin is an organic compound and these are essential to help your body grow and remain healthy. What this means, in simple terms, is that a vitamin is a natural chemical. Of the essential vitamins, there are thirteen major ones, the lack of any one of them can mean you are deficient in a certain vitamin.

Vitamins come in two distinct types, those soluble in fats and those soluble in water. Of the major vitamins, A, D, E and K are the ones soluble in fats and Vitamins B and Care water soluble. The water soluble vitamins are not stored by the body and so these need to be topped up regularly.

On the whole, if you have a normal well balanced diet this should provide your body with the vitamins it needs, but if your diet is not fully balanced then you may need to supplement the vitamins you receive in your diet. This shows that vitamin supplements can be useful. Some of the following may suggest if you may need help with your vitamin intake.

Vitamin B12 is found in meats so this is something vegetarians need to look out for. Vitamin C and B can be lacking in elderly people. People working on night shifts could have a lack of vitamin D as your body produces this during sunlight hours. Overworked people, people under pressure and people suffering from stress could be lacking in vitamin B and C. People on diets can also have a lack of these 2 vitamins. Vitamin B can be lacking in heavy drinkers and vitamin C deficiency can be a problem area for heavy smokers as well as heavy drinkers.

The usual way to get vitamins into your body is orally. Some vitamins can be taken by injection such as vitamin B12 but it is important that this is only carried out by a fully qualified medical practitioner. By taking vitamins orally they have to pass through your digestive system and the strong acids in your stomach can destroy much of the usefulness of the vitamins so you have to ensure you take the recommended dose, not more or less, but the recommended dose.

I hope I haven’t spoilt your views on vitamins but you must remember that even though you may have a healthy and well balanced diet, the natural processes of your body can destroy some of the value of the vitamins you absorb. If you want to help preserve their effectiveness than eating fresh foods and only cooking foods lightly will help increase the usefulness of the vitamins.

Vitamin supplements can be used to help boost any vitamin deficiencies you may have and extra vitamins are most easily obtained, (and used), in tablet form. Vitamin tablets can either be multi vitamins or single vitamin types. The decision as to what you take is up to you, unless of course you have been advised to take a vitamin supplement by your doctor. Vitamin C is often taken in the winter and the time leading up to it. This has been shown to help keep the common cold at bay.

You must only take vitamins to help supplement a well balanced diet and do not go overboard, so take vitamin supplements in moderation. Take only as much as you need and no more, and if your diet is as good as it should be, then you may not need any vitamin supplements. You must remember that they are, as the name suggests, supplements and they are not designed to replace a well balanced diet. Be sensible and use vitamin supplements carefully.

How to Make Tinctures From Herbs

2009-01-04T07:56:00.000-08:00

The philosophy behind tincture is to capture the spiritual and physical essence of the plant. This is done by using the power of ethyl alcohol to dissolve and preserve the herb in question.

The substance used to extract the herbs is known as the menstrum. The herbs you are tincturing are known as the mark. Tincturing will extract and preserve both the water-soluble and alcohol-soluble properties of an herb.

In the interest of taking a more involved stance in their health, many people are turning to homemade tinctures made from fresh or dried herbs. Tinctures have proven to be more powerful and longer lasting than dried herbs. Dried herbs can get moldy or be eaten by insects, tinctures do not. Tinctures will keep up to two years and keep their potency if stored properly. Making your own tinctures will save you quite a bit of money. If you purchase tinctures in a retail store you will get a few ounces whereas if you make it yourself it will yield about a quart.

When purchasing herbs, make sure you are buying from a reputable source. Better yet, grow your own herbs to be sure of the highest possible quality. When growing your own you can make any number of combinations to make up your tinctures. I have also found that when growing my own herbs I get the most enjoyment, knowing not only did I make the tincture but I grew the herbs. I become part of the process from beginning to end.

There are several items that you will need to make your own tinctures. First you need either powdered herbs or fresh cut herbs. Vodka, brandy or rum, 80-100 proof to cover the herbs. Mason jars with lids. Muslin or Cheesecloth that is unbleached. Lastly, labels for the jars.

You will need 7-10 ounces of chopped fresh herbs for every quart of vodka, brandy or rum. I prefer to use fresh herbs when making my tinctures. When using powdered herbs, I use 4 ounces of herbs to one pint of liquid. If you are making a tincture from bitter herbs it is best to use rum as it will mask the taste of the herbs. To make a non-alcoholic tincture use distilled water, glycerol or vinegar. Keep in mind that if you use vinegar the tincture will have to be refrigerated.

Put your herbs in the mason jars and then pour the liquid over them so that it comes up to about an inch above the herbs. Seal tightly and label the jars then put them in a very dark, warm area. Keeping them in a paper bag has worked well for me. You will have to shake the jar everyday, several times a day if you can mange it.

At first check the solution daily to make sure the vodka, brandy or rum still covers the herbs. Let the mixture steep for at least two weeks and up to three months. When you reach the allotted waiting period, line a sieve with the cheesecloth or muslin and pour the liquid thru the sieve into another bottle. Gather up the ends of the cheesecloth and squeeze to extract all of the liquid. You can now fill small bottles with droppers with the tincture for ease in use. Be sure to label the jar with the name and the date.

The dose is one teaspoon tincture in a cup of tea, juice or water taken three times daily.

There are no right formulas for making tinctures. Experiment with different combinations. Be sure you write down the formula so when you come up with a winning combination you will have it on file.

Here are a few ideas for treating colds. Make tinctures from the following herbs:
* echinacea (leaves, flowers)
* elder (leaves, flowers, berries)
* eyebright (leaves, flowers)
* ginger (root)
* peppermint (leaves)
* yarrow (leaves, flowers)
* catnip (leaves

Copyright © 2006 Mary Hanna All Rights Reserved.

This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.

How To Easily Obtain HGH

2009-01-04T07:55:00.000-08:00

How is HGH purchased?

HGH supplements are accessible in an assortment of forms, including the HGH releaser, which is developed to assist your body extend the production of natural growth hormone.

But why should an adult want to include HGH dietary supplements in their everyday regimen? The reasons can be summed up in only a few words, anti aging and higher vitality levels. Since many of us wish to stay younger and HGH is a way to increase energy levels, it just makes sense to find the human growth hormone supplement that works best for you, and then to make it a daily part of your daily existence.

You can find HGH dietary supplements in the shape of pills, capsules, powder and even a spray. The array of options for introducing a human grown hormone supplement into your daily programme means that there’s something that’s likely to work for you. Take time to do a bit of research on the HGH products. You can buy HGH supplements that will fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.

What happened next..

This wasn’t often the situation. The human growth hormone was fist discovered in the 1950s. It’s a protein compound manufactured in the pituitary gland and researchers were quickly at odds over what the role of this special protein was. Two decades would pass by before that query began to be answered. The protein, as researchers discovered, was the reason certain kids grew and physically developed at a normal pace while others remained smaller or grew more obese. It was later discovered that the HGH protein even played roles in boosting energy levels and slowing the aging process.

When the idea to supplement the body’s natural production of human growth hormone first came to be, the only method for processing was to extract the protein from human cadavers, process it, then insert it to the recipient. It would be several years until a supplement was created to be widely available in tablet, spray or powder configuration.

A purpose is the eternal condition for success.

There are several points to consider as you’re choosing HGH dietary supplements. The construction is clearly one of the most important. If you’re the type of person who simply hates to swallow a tablet any tablet you’ll likely wish to look at the other options. You can choose a human growth hormone supplement in powder form. Just add it to your morning orange juice and you’re ready to take on the day. For those who favour to simply take a pill and be done with it, that’s also an option.

Another important factor in choosing your origin of HGH dietary supplements is the manufacturer. Like all products of this type, look for a company with a commendable reputation who is willing to rise behind their products. While cost is important, quality is even more so. A reputable company will furnish excellent product descriptions along with proven benefits and potential side effects. If you possess doubts about the HGH products listed on a particular website, proceed on.

Actions speak louder than words. But without thought and focus those actions are like a meandering river. Michael Ross.

Taking this all into consideration...

Finding quality HGH supplements could be just the boost you require to make you feel, act and look younger.

How is HGH Available?

2009-01-04T07:54:00.001-08:00

HGH supplements are available in a variety of forms, including the HGH releaser, which is designed to help your body increase the production of natural growth hormone.

But why should an adult need to include HGH dietary supplements in their daily regimen? The reasons can be summed up in only a few words - anti aging and higher energy levels. Since most of us want to stay younger and HGH is a way to increase energy levels, it just makes sense to find the human growth hormone supplement that works best for you, and then to make it a daily part of your life.

You can find HGH dietary supplements in the form of pills, capsules, powder and even a spray. The array of options for introducing a human grown hormone supplement into your daily routine means that there's something that will work for you. Take time to do a bit of research on the HGH products at http:www.hgh-supplements.co.uk

You can buy HGH supplements that will fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.

This wasn't always the case. The human growth hormone was fist discovered in the 1950s. It's a protein compound manufactured in the pituitary gland and researchers were quickly at odds over what the role of this particular protein was. Two decades would pass before that question began to be answered. The protein, as researchers discovered, was the reason some children grew and physically developed at a normal rate while others remained smaller or grew larger. It was later discovered that the HGH protein also played roles in boosting energy levels and slowing the aging process.

When the idea to supplement the body's natural production of human growth hormone first came to be, the only method for processing was to extract the protein from human cadavers, process it, then inject it to the recipient. It would be several years before a supplement was created to be widely available in tablet, spray or powder form.

There are several things to consider as you're choosing HGH dietary supplements. The form is obviously one of the most important. If you're the kind of person who simply hates to take a pill - any pill - you'll likely want to look at the other options. You can choose a human growth hormone supplement in powder form. Simply add it to your morning orange juice and you're ready to face the day. For those who prefer to simply take a pill and be done with it, that's certainly an option.

Another important factor in choosing your source of HGH dietary supplements is the manufacturer. Like all products of this type, look for a company with a good reputation who is willing to stand behind their products. While price is important, quality is more so. A reputable company will provide excellent product descriptions along with proven benefits and potential side effects. If you have doubts about the HGH products listed on a particular website, move on.

Choosing quality HGH supplements could be just the boost you need to make you feel, act and look younger.

How Echinacea helps the immune system

2009-01-04T07:50:00.000-08:00

In this day and age everyone is looking for ways to boost their immune system. In recent years their has been an herbal remedy that seems to provide some relief to colds and flues and assist your immune system is Echinacea.

What is it?

Echinacea is one of the oldest and popular herbal supplements in the world. Echinacea is a Native American plant that is a natural fighter. It is categorized as an immunostimulant, which is a substance that is known to boost a body’s immune system.

How does your immune system work?

White blood cells are part of the body’s cells that make up the immune system. These are the body’s first line of defense. If a flu virus enters an individual’s body and begins to multiple, the white blood cells calls in for help from the T-lymphocytes, and also they can get help from lymphocytes. All these working together allow the body to destroy the viruses that have invaded it.

How does it work?

Echinacea works differently from other treatments. It works directly, killing the germ by strengthening an individual’s immune system. There is evidence that Echinacea stimulates the body into producing more white blood cells. It also stimulates the release of interferons. These are what the body uses as a fighting weapon. Echinacea also helps to prevent bacteria from producing an enzyme called hyaluronidase, which works through the membrane, and invades the tissue. Echinacea also has been known to destroy viruses, such as the common cold and flu.

How to take it

This depends on an individual’s immune system. You may want to check with your doctor before. They are some illnesses that you should not take Echinacea if you have. In most cases, it is safe for an individual to take three hundred milligrams three times a day.

Some individuals take Echinacea on a daily basis to prevent colds and flues from developing. Others people will begin to take it once they feel a cold coming on, and to greet it with a line of defense.

If you have a child, the studies on how Echinacea can help them has been up in the air. It is recommended that you for children ages six to thirteen you give them half the dosage recommended for adults. Under the age of six, you should consult your doctor. Children’s immune systems work differently than adults, many times they have not built up all of their resistance and need to do that before bolstering it with herbal supplements.

Does it work?

While Echinacea is just gaining ground in the United States, it has been research in Europe. Echinacea has been studied in Germany in a controlled study. No one knew which they were getting. The individuals who took the Echinacea experienced less frequent and severe virus infections. Studies continue to show that there are no toxic effects to taking this herbal supplement. As with any medication or supplement they are some side effects, some side effects with Echinacea are diarrhea. This has been the most frequent side effect anyone has noted.

They are many things that an individual can do to help to boost your immune system. Taking Echinacea is just one of the natural herbal supplements that we can take. Studies continue to show the effectiveness of this supplement, and as more and more people continue to look to other alternatives, Echinacea will continue to gain in popularity. Remember to always check with you doctor before taking any supplement as it could have an interaction with any medication you are currently taking and could have a negative reaction.

How Can SAMe Supplements Help Me?

2009-01-04T04:07:00.002-08:00

What is SAMe?
SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine) is a naturally occurring compound found in all human tissue and organs. It is a "building block" necessary for the production of many compounds produced by your body, and is used in over 35 different biochemical reactions. SAMe actually donates a part of itself to form these new compounds through a process called methylation or transmethylation. SAME is one of the few dietary supplements on the market today that combines the benefits of several nutrients into one, because the body uses the substances produced from SAMe for numerous bodily reactions and processes.

SAMe is a supplement formed in the body by an enzymatic reaction between adenosine-triphosphate (ATP) and methionine. It was discovered in 1952 in Italy and has been researched and manufactured there. SAMe works closely with folic acid and vitamin B-12 and functions as a methyl donor. This nutrient carries and donates methyl molecules necessary to facilitate the manufacture of DNA and brain neurotransmitters.* Tissue levels of SAMe are typically low in the elderly.

How can SAMe help me?
SAMe might be an effective treatment for depression, with fewer side effects than antidepressant drugs. But the real benefits and risks of SAMe are still unclear. In theory, it may increase the risk of heart disease. People with depression or joint pain should seek medical advice before trying SAMe. Supplementation with SAM-e increases levels of serotonin, dopamine and phosphatides, and improves serotonin and dopamine receptor site binding. Some research has shown that SAM-e provides relief from arthritis pain, without the stomach irritation caused by aspirin and similar drugs.

Are there any side effects associated with SAMe supplementation?
SAMe is a very safe dietary supplement. Minor side effects include nausea and gastrointestinal irritation, due to its sulfur content. These were only noted at very high doses (1200-1600mg) and symptoms diminished with continued use. Persons suffering from manic depression (bipolar disorder) should not take SAMe without prior consultation with their physician. If you experience any of the symptoms above for an extended period of time, you may be allergic to SAMe, or it may not be the right supplement for you.

Benefits
• treatment for depression
• improves serotonin and dopamine levels
• relief from arthritis pain

How Can Green Tea Benefit My Family?

2009-01-04T04:07:00.001-08:00

No doubt you've heard of Green Tea and the health benefits you can experience from drinking it.

Are you giving your family this powerful antioxidant daily?

Here is a refresher on some of the benefits you can experience with Green Tea.

Historically, Green Tea has been one of the world's most popular beverages. The Chinese have been drinking it for thousands of years. It is now the second most popular beverage in the world, after water!

Green tea is made from the Camellia Sinensis plant...as is black tea. The difference is that Green Tea is unfermented, which means that the powerful antioxidant properties are fully intact.

The power of Green Tea lies in its catechin polyphenols, particularly something called epigallocatechin gallate (say that 5 times fast!). EGCG is a powerful anti-oxidant: not only does it inhibit the growth of tumors, it kills cancer cells without harming healthy tissue.

Green Tea has been reported to:

*Assist in weight loss.

According to a a study conducted at the University of Geneva in Switzerland, Green Tea seems to help the body burn more calories.

Green Tea also slows down the release of carbohydrate in the body, preventing sharp rises in blood sugar.

I know a couple who lost ten pounds each in the first few weeks after drinking Green Tea every day, with no other changes in their diet.

*Boosts the immune system.

Green Tea is one of the most potent antioxidants available. It also contains some vitamins and minerals. Green Tea lowers the risk of cancer.

In 1994 the Journal of the National Cancer Institute published the results of an epidemiological study indicating that drinking Green Tea reduced the risk of esophageal cancer in Chinese men and women by nearly sixty percent. University of Purdue researchers recently concluded that a compound in Green Tea inhibits the growth of cancer cells.

A study in September 1997 by the University of Kansas reported that Green Tea has the highest amount of any known antioxidant. EGCG (that tongue twisting antioxidant found in Green Tea) is 100 times more effective than Vitamin C, and twice as powerful as resveratrol (the antioxidant in red wine).

*Lowers cholesterol

University of California scientists discovered that the caffeine in coffee is bound with coffee bean oils, which raise cholesterol levels.

In contrast, research indicates that drinking Green Tea lowers total cholesterol levels, as well as improving the ratio of good (HDL) cholesterol to bad (LDL) cholesterol.

Green Tea Benefits Moms

*Helps with morning sickness

There are no studies that confirm this, this is a personal observation.

I had severe, prolonged morning sickness with all 3 of my pregnancies.

With my third child, I discovered Green Tea and noticed that when I drank it, not only did it ease the nausea, but it seemed to have a mildly stimulating effect on my appetite and it helped me keep the food that I ate down. My guess is that the astringent effect of the polyphenols caused this.

Historically Green Tea has been used as a digestive aid. That can certainly be helpful to a pregnant woman.

*Natural energy boost

Again, I could find no studies that proved this, but I drink Green Tea primarily for the natural energy boost it gives me, without any unpleasant side effects. I used to drink a coffee in the afternoon, get shaky and hyper, only to crash later on.

Green Tea doesn't cause those unpleasant side effects, and it also gives me the same feeling of "clearing the cobwebs" from my brain.

What Mom doesn't need this?

*Lowers the risk of blood clots

Green tea has been shown to be effective in preventing abnormal clotting of blood, which is especially important during pregnancy.

Green tea is non-toxic and safe. It doesn't cause birth defects and has no adverse affect on pregnancy or breastfeeding.

In fact, a study conducted at Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program of Northern California, researchers found that women who drank more than one half cup of green tea every day doubled their odds of conceiving.

No significant association was found for other beverages, researchers concluded that some chemical component of tea might have been responsible for the increase in fertility.

Green Tea Benefits Kids!

*Helps prevent tooth decay

Green Tea can kill the bacteria that causes plaque. Does your child's juice do that?

Having a hard time getting your kid to eat his veggies?

A cup of Green Tea has more antioxidant ability than a cup of broccoli or spinach!

*Helps prevent illness

Previous tests prove Green Tea can neutralize germs, including some that cause diarrhea, pneumonia, cystitis and skin infections.

New research by Milton Schiffenbauer of Pace University finds that Green Tea deactivates viruses.

Recent research at Harvard indicated that tea chemicals stimulated T-cells that bolster immunity against bacteria and viruses.

Would fewer illnesses make life more pleasant in your home?

*Ok, so why aren't you drinking Green Tea already?

If you're like me, it's because the Green Tea you've tried tastes terrible. I've tried many brands that reminded me of diaper rash ointment...no I'm not kidding!

My favorite brand of Green Tea is manufactured by Sunrider International. (For more information visit http://www.diana2.com.) My kids and picky husband even love it.

Here's to your health!

How Calcium Supplementation Can Affect Your Health Outlook

2009-01-04T04:05:00.001-08:00

It seems more emphasis is placed on the importance of vitamin supplementation. While there is some information available about minerals, it is not as prevalent as what is published about vitamins. Despite the reports that recommend vitamin and mineral supplementation for people who need them, many people don't consider supplementing their diet with minerals. Since it's difficult to know how much of a particular mineral your body is lacking, many people are afraid they may take too much and become sick. While taking minerals in excess can cause problems, a lack of sufficient minerals in the body can also have an effect on your general health.

Calcium is by far one of the most essential minerals in the body. The parts of the body that are most associated with sufficient calcium are healthy teeth and bones. Calcium also plays a vital role in blood clotting and muscle contraction. An individual who has a calcium deficiency has an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak bones that makes the individual prone to breaks. Signs of muscle weakness, such as muscle spasms or cramps or also caused by calcium deficiency. Pregnant and postmenopausal women, young children, and the elderly have the greatest need for calcium. In addition, anyone who does not consume at least 1200 milligrams each day should consider supplementation.

Calcium supplementation may be particularly important to individuals who are overweight. Recently, there have been reports that consuming the recommended daily amount of calcium can assist with weight loss. The reports contend that the more calcium that is in the body, the better the body is able to metabolize fat. When there is an insufficient amount of calcium, the body stores more fat. Although the studies are still relatively new, calcium has also been found to lessen the risk of colon cancer and heart disease
.
If you discuss your health concerns with your medical doctor and it is determined that calcium supplementation is right for you, your doctor will probably recommend that you take vitamin D and K. Vitamins D and K assist with calcium absorption and are also beneficial to healthy bones. It is very important that you do not take more calcium and vitamins D and K than recommended by your doctor. Excessive amounts of any of these can result in serious side effects.

Why not check out our nutrition guide at http://www.nutritional-supplement-guides.com/nut-ebook.html

and also what supplement we personally use for our nutrition needs at http://www.nutritional-supplement-guides.com/what-we-use.html

Hoodia Gordonii - One Reason To Take It

2009-01-04T04:03:00.000-08:00

When Hoodia was discovered the very first animal trials to test it was with Rats. The rats that were fed with Hoodia stopped eating completely. Rats are well know as animals that will eat anything and everything. Can you believe that an animal who loves to eat anything simply switched off its desire to eat, even when foods that rats love were placed in front of them.

When the first clinical human trial was conducted with Hoodia, several morbidly obese people were placed in a unit which was a closed off area were all that they could do was to read, watch television, interact with each other, and of course eat. Half the people were given Hoodia Gordonii to take, and half were given a placebo. After fifteen days, the group that had been taking Hoodia Gordonii had reduced their calorie intake by 1000 calories a day - despite taking no exercise and not being on a diet

This is due to the active ingredient in Hoodia Gordonii, the molecule known as P57, as it imitates the effects that glucose has on your brain, signaling that you are full. Your brain has what is called a Hypothalamus. This part of your brain controls your appetite. When you eat, the glucose levels in your body rise. As these levels go up, the hypothalamus sends off a signal to your cells to stop eating. This is when you start to feel full. Hoodia Gordonii's molecule, P57, tells your brain the same exact thing, even if you haven't eaten a bite. By mimicking the effects of glucose on your brain, the hypothalamus starts to send messages to your cells which in turn, make you feel full

Hoodia is grown in the Kalahari Desert region of South Africa, Hoodia Gordonii is an all natural appetite suppressant, derived from a cactus like plant with prickly spikes. Scientists have been researching the Hoodia plant for almost a decade, and have found it to be completely free of harmful side effects.

Homemade Whey Protein Shakes: Using Bodybuilding Supplements Creatively

2009-01-04T04:02:00.000-08:00

If you are serious about building muscle mass or sculpting your body you most likely supplement your diet with commercially available whey or soy protein powders (and possibly other supplements). No doubt within a short period of time you discovered the protein shakes whey powders produce may not be the best tasting drinks you've ever had. Despite this you try to stick with them because your goal is a better body and a supplement shake that doesn't taste so great is simply a sacrifice you make.

People find that the flavor of the protein shake powder they paid a good money for quickly gets boring. If you are taking your protein shakes two or even three times a day it can become a real chore. This is when people start to experiment a little by adding other ingredients to make their protein shakes taste a little better.

You can soon turn your boring, often tasteless, protein shakes into mouth-watering bodybuilding or dieting delights. All you need to have to get started is a blender and a little imagination.

Choosing What to Put in Your Protein Shakes

Before rushing off to your refrigerator to blend everything in site, let's go through some basic principles you will want to consider first. Not only do you want to create the best tasting shakes but you should also aim to make the most effective protein shakes for your dieting requirements. This is important because there is no point throwing full fat ice cream, chocolate sauce, peanut butter and full fat milk all together to create a wonderful tasting fat gaining shake. You need to be a little wise when choosing your ingredients.

So what kinds of ingredients make good choices for your shakes? I recommend using the following tips when getting your ingredients from the supermarket or refrigerator:

Try to keep as many of your ingredients as natural as possible. A good example of this is using natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter. The natural version has better protein content and also natural fats that are important in your diet.

Fresh fruit should be used whenever possible. Fruit contains the carbohydrates that will fuel your workouts and your day. The complex sugars in fruit are important to any diet (unlike the simple sugars in sweets, sodas, etc).

Think about ingredients that will boost your shake's protein content. For example, you could throw a handful of nuts into the blender for a little extra protein without making the shake much thicker. You could add a few raw egg whites (if you are worried about eating raw eggs you may be able to find treated egg whites in cartons at your supermarket). You could always simply dump an extra scoop of whey powder in there as well.

Make sure you have enough liquids. If you get a little too carried away you may discover your shake is easier to eat with a spoon then drink from a glass. When you first start creating your shakes it is a good idea to add your liquids (water, fat-free milk, fruit juices, etc.) in stages so that you get your desired consistency.

Examine the nutritional information for each ingredient and consider the impact it will have on your dieting goals. For example, you may be opting for fat free (skimmed) milk if you aren't trying to gain weight.

Always know what your goal is and make your shakes accordingly. If you are trying to shed the fat you will be skipping the types of ingredients that add too many carbohydrates and fats while trying to increase the protein content.

Think of how you might create a unique flavor. You can try things like cinnamon, vanilla, honey, coconut milk, etc. Once you get the hang of this you will see the possibilities are endless.

Making Your Protein Shake

Once you have decided on the ingredients for your shake you are ready to start. It couldn't be simpler and if you can make toast you won't have a problem. It's a good idea to think about the order in which you will add your ingredients into the blender. Always add your main liquid source first so that everything else you add afterwards is easily blended. Following this, add your protein powder and give your blender a quick 'burst'. Now you are ready to add the rest of your ingredients and blend until you get the right consistency. At this point you may want to add a little more liquids to tweak your shake's thickness. Throw in five or six ice cubes to make your shake more refreshing.

Now you can let your imagination invent all sorts of bodybuilding and dieting concoctions that make your supplement shakes a great deal tastier. Don't forget to share your creations with friends at the gym and people across the world through the internet. You will also discover many ideas other people come up with to inspire you further. Visit websites and online forums for recipes and you can get some ideas from my site's homemade protein shakes using whey supplement powders section.

Happy blending!

HGH The Human Growth Hormone Supplement For 50 And Over

2009-01-04T04:00:00.000-08:00

Baby boomers are known for their purchasing prowess and for their aches and pains. If you are gasping as you rise from the chair or groaning as you set down you might be 50 and over!

When I was 21 my eyesight was keener, I was stronger, my skin looked smooth, my sex drive was in overdrive and I felt like I could pick up the world, place it on my shoulder and walk off with it. Well now I am 56 and it feels like I did pick up the World on my shoulder and now I have no place to put it down!

Welcome to 50 and over! As you age your pituitary gland produces less human growth hormone than it did at your peak, which was 21. The ideal condition would be to stimulate the pituitary to produce more HGH to prevent aging.

Human growth hormone has been collected by harvesting HGH from other humans and injecting the foreign HGH into the body at a cost of $3000.00 to $4000.00 a month. This application requires a prescription. There is another method called precursors that can allow the level of HGH to go below the level that you are currently manufacturing in your body, which is dangerous as it may cause the pituitary to shut down. The Homeopathic version includes small amounts of human growth hormone that is “activated” by transferring energy from the homeopathic’s hand into the bottle of formulation. No clinical evidence supports this method of production at this time. And then there is the natural way. A “releaser” is natural herbs and minerals that stimulate your pituitary gland to produce more HGH, which gives you a more youthful life and body with no side effects. The releaser should only be chosen that has a clinical history; doctor formulated and be taken orally.

I was beginning to see age spots on my skin, hair thinning, loss of libido, memory playing tricks on me, having trouble sleeping, vision dimming, and the lack of energy. I began to see the benefits of using an HGH supplement that would stimulate the pituitary gland. My cholesterol level has become like the thermometer, up and down like the temperature and wrinkles where I never had them before. Some people want to roll back the aging clock back; I just want to stop it! If an HGH supplement will arrest my aging process and take some time off this body that I have accumulated, I’ll consider it a bonus!

When you are 50 and over you soon grow to realize quality of life far exceeds quantity of years. I watch folks my age and younger now struggle to get up from a couch, groan as they stand after sitting, ache for no apparent reason and I am happy for the discovery of HGH supplements and the myth busting of the fountain of youth.

There are vendors who sell HGH plus other natural vitamins, supplements and minerals. Most are without clinical trials to back their product. I tried to find a product that had a 10-year history and a doctor formulated product that would have no side effects on ME other than natural youth changes. I also looked for a reputable company to buy from that had a money back guarantee and a professional web presentation.

HGH Supplements – Benefits and Safety Concerns

2009-01-04T03:58:00.000-08:00

From the moment the natural growth hormone was discovered in the human body, it's been a mystery. Though researchers have identified much about HGH, there are still some questions. For example, how integral is the connection between energy levels and the aging process? Consider the connection.

What is it that makes a child so energetic? Those energy levels are thought to be directly tied to the natural growth hormone found in the human body. If you compare the levels of HGH in a person at 20 to a person three times that age, you'll find a significant decrease in the amount of this protein compound. Which gives rise to the question, does the diminished HGH protein level prompt lower energy levels? Asked another way - could the introduction of HGH supplements increase the amount of energy a person has?

Think what you could do with a daily energy boost? If you doubt the benefits of more energy, take a look at the number of products available that are geared for no purpose other than to increase energy. The selection is astounding. But there's another advantage to the human growth hormone supplement.

Not only does HGH increase energy, it also helps fight the aging process. Anti aging products are also available in abundance, but the natural human growth hormone may very well be the answer you've been looking for. You may even want to try an HGH releaser to stimulate your body's production of this protein. After all, your body knew how to produce adequate supplies of HGH when you were a youngster!

Think for a moment about the interaction of youth, aging and energy. If you can remember to your childhood, you are probably amazed at how hard you worked at every day, including playtime. And at the end of the day, you can probably remember dropping off to sleep as soon as your head hit the pillow, and then sleeping a deep, restful sleep throughout the night. Do you think it was all just because you were younger? What if the decrease in HGH has impacted all those things - how much energy you had for work and play, how well you slept, and how rested you were when you woke each morning? HGH is released in pulses soon after you fall asleep. The amount of HGH diminishes with age and may fall by three fourths between the ages of 20 and 60.

If you're concerned about the potential side effects of HGH products, you should take some time to hear what the experts are saying. While HGH occurs naturally in your body, you're probably wise enough to realize that increasing even naturally occurring compounds and proteins isn't always a good idea. In this case, side effects are generally mild and most people seem to find the risks worth the benefits.

As with any dietary supplement, that becomes an individual choice and only you can decide what you should (and should not) introduce into your body. Being smart with your supplement choices is just common sense.

HGH Supplementation - What Really Works? An HGH Review

2009-01-04T03:57:00.001-08:00

If you are at all interested in anti-aging news or nutritional supplements, you’ve probably heard about hGH or Human Growth Hormone. Although it is important to discuss what HGH is and how it works, the main focus of this article is to review the various types of HGH supplementation. Let’s briefly cover the basics.

What Is Growth Hormone?

GH is a hormone released by the pituitary gland. It generally releases the hormone in bursts. GH levels are high during puberty and then fall off. They remain stable during mid-adulthood (the 30s) but then decline progressively through old age. By the time many people reach 60, GH levels are very small. One third of the 60+ adults produce NO GH at all!

What Does It Do?

Why should we care about our GH levels? GH is important in repairing damaged tissue, promoting cell regeneration, enhancing muscle growth, burning fat, and supports healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Low GH levels could very well be the reason some of us age faster than others. Of course, heredity and life style choices factor into that.

Is There a Natural Way to Increase My GH Level?

That depends upon your age and present GH level. Factors that help with GH production are a low-fat, high protein diet, exercise, plenty of sleep and avoiding stress. If you are over 40 and feeling sluggish, chances are you may benefit from a GH supplement.

What Types of GH Supplements Are Available?

The ONLY type of HGH that has proven results is pure Growth Hormone given by injections. However, they require a doctor’s prescription, are expensive, and can have some side effects. Unless you’ve had your hormone levels tested and are suffering from a growth hormone deficiency, you may be able to see some benefit from less invasive supplementation.

Homeopathic HGH - Secretagogues

These are supplements that contain a small amount of actual synthetic growth hormone. They usually come in spray form and are have to meet FDA guidelines on how much HGH to include. The idea is to stimulate production of your own HGH by using a small amount of synthetic HGH.

HGH Releasers

These also come in spray form as well as pills and here’s where the confusion starts. The releasers contain amino acids which can stimulate HGH production but in fact, do not actually contain synthetic HGH. If you don’t know the difference between these two products, it’s easy to assume you are buying an actual HGH product when you aren’t. Read the ads carefully.

Which one works better? It’s probably a case of experimentation to see how your body responds. There are many doctors that claim none of the oral sprays work. There are also plenty of people using them that claim to see results. There are factors to consider when choosing a homeopathic spray – For more discussion and my recommendation, see the website below.

Nutritional Supplements

Nutritional supplements have been used by athletes and body builders for some time but only recently have started to catch on with the mainstream public as part of an anti-aging program. I’m not talking about the vitamin and mineral supplements, but specific amino acids that stimulate GH production.

The amino acids that stimulate the release the GH are arginine, lysine, ornithine, tyrosine and tryptophan. However, it has been discovered that only a specific type of arginine (arginine pyroglutamate) combined with L-lysine makes the best GH releaser. There are places that carry the right APG Lysine combination. For an inexpensive option, see the website below.

Important Factors to Know – Please read this

You may get better results if you DON’T take your GH releaser every day. It turns out that the body can develop a tolerance to GH supplementation. It depends upon your age and GH levels but every other day to only 2 or 3 times a week should be sufficient. It might also be helpful to change supplementations. Use the oral spray for a month or two, change to the nutritional supplements and then take a break from both for a month. Again, this would be part of your own personal experimentation.

Another important consideration is the use of aspirin or antihistamines. They have been shown to block the GH release and should not be taken within 8 hours before or after you take your GH supplement.

Fat or a fatty meal will also severely decrease the release of GH. Be careful what you eat before and after your supplementation.

In conclusion, HGH supplementation for people over 40 can prove to be part of an anti-aging regime. It’s important to do your research to avoid wasting your money. Do your own experimentation to see what works for you but be smart about it.

Herbal supplements for memory

2009-01-04T03:55:00.000-08:00

With the advent of the information superhighway and the need for knowledge higher than ever, it can be difficult to cope with life when you have a bad memory. Luckily, people around the world have been using herbal supplements for memory for thousands of years, and many of them that have been proven effective are available today.

Here are a couple of herbal supplements for memory that can help you get your thought process back on track:

Fish Oil:

Harvested from the bodies of fish, fish oil is purified through a scientific process and turned into supplement form. Containing Omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil can have numerous effects on your body for the better. For one, fish oil can aid in preventing the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. It has also been associated with better memory, clearer thinking, and health of the heart. One of the best nutrients for brain health, this supplement’s effect on your body can be vast.

Be sure to only purchase pharmaceutical grade fish oil, however, since this is the process which removes the heavy metals found in fish due to pollutants. If your fish oil is not pharmaceutical grade, you run the risk of consuming such dangerous materials as mercury. In addition to being a great one of the herbal supplements for memory, the other numerous effects it has on your health are wide-spanning and helpful.

Ginkgo Biloba:

Ginkgo Biloba is another one of the herbal supplements for memory on the market that promises to aid your depression in addition to a host of other features. Ginkgo is the oldest known tree in the world, and its primary effect on the human body is improving cerebral circulation. Ginkgo Biloba is also known to increase oxygenation of brain tissues.

Due to these two features, Gingko has been linked to better brain health and is used for memory loss, depression, and even headaches. Another sound fact to know is that ginkgo has no known side effects.

These herbal supplements for memory can definitely change your life for the better.

Why not check out our nutrition guide at http://www.nutritional-supplement-guides.com/nut-ebook.html

Herbal Supplements Anemia natural cure

2009-01-04T03:53:00.000-08:00

Ya you might have come across this anemia and you don’t know the reason. There are n number of reasons for it, but actually it is accrued with the iron deficiency. Though you
might be fat or thin this does not matter. But it is the deficiency of iron in blood.

We are people sharing information on curing anemia with herbal supplements. This is for everyone who is suffering from Anemia or who is interested to learn about cause, prevention and cure. We know how to cure it, and want to cure it. We want health, not suffering.

You can get treated with folic acid deficiency anemia. But yet you are not out of it then you surely consult our specialist. For the better and fast cure of this with herbal supplements.

What is anemia?
Anemia or anaemia which literally means "without blood," is a lack of red blood cells and/or hemoglobin. This results in a reduced ability of blood to transfer oxygen to the
tissues. This can occur in men or women without any discrimination.

This anemia can be attacked when the person is suffering with any other diseases. This happens due to the lack of red blood cells and white blood cells in his body.

Women are at higher risk than men towards the disease of anemia as she undergoes pregnancy, monthly menstruation and others.

What are the causes of anemia
1.excessive blood loss (hemorrhage),
2.excessive red blood cell destruction (hemolysis)
3.below normal count of red blood cells
4.lack of oxygen in the red blood cells
5.iron deficiency
6. poor diet
7. disease
8.reactions to medications like chemotherapy

Anemia can be mild or severe, temporary or chronic. In the worst-case scenario, anemia can create a serious oxygen deficiency in bodily organs that can lead to heart attack.

Symptoms of anemia
Symptoms might start off as almost unnoticeable, but increase as the condition worsens. Most at risk for this type of anemia are woman due to these reasons
1. heavy menstrual periods
2. pregnant women
3. suffering from internal bleeding due to ulcers or various forms of cancer
4. an iron-poor diet is another symptom
5. vitamin B12 deficiency
6. disease that interferes with the process of manufacturing blood
7. the side effect of chemotherapy

Treatment of Anemia
Anemia is treatable through various means depending on the cause. Some treatments consist of little more than dietary adjustments and exercise. When a more serious
underlying disease causes anemia, it might be a question of management rather than cure. In some cases the herbal supplements given by our specialist is needed to cure anemia naturally . While this article provides general information, it is not intended as a diagnostic tool and should not be considered medical advise. If you need any medical advice then visit our site and consult our specialist.

*Poor diet. Your body needs iron and vitamins to produce sufficient numbers of red blood cells so the diet should be rich enough.

*Intestinal disorders. Having an intestinal disorder that affects the absorption of nutrients in the small intestine should be removed.

* Menstruation. In general, women are at greater risk of iron deficiency anemia than men because women lose blood and with it, iron each month during menstruation so she should be aware of it and have sufficient iron content foodz.

*Pregnancy. Pregnant women should have more food which contains iron ingredients so that the iron is balanced to both mother and the growing fetus.

*Chronic conditions. For example, if you have cancer, kidney or liver failure, or another chronic condition, you may be at risk as it can lead to a shortage of red blood cells.

* Family history. If your family has a history of an inherited anemia, you also may be at increased risk of the condition so when you know this you can take the precautions for it.

Many types of anemia can't be prevented. But with the help of our specialist's herbal supplements which are natural they can be cured. However, you can help avoid iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiency anemia by eating a healthy, varied diet that includes foods rich in iron, folate and vitamin B-12.

The best sources of iron are beef and other meats. Other foods rich in iron include beans, lentils, iron-fortified cereals, dark green leafy vegetables, dried fruit, nuts and seeds. Folate, and its synthetic form, folic acid, can be found in citrus juices and fruits, dark green leafy vegetables, legumes and fortified breakfast cereals. Vitamin B-12 is plentiful in meat and dairy products. Foods containing vitamin C help increase iron absorption.
Eating plenty of iron-containing foods is particularly important for people who have high iron requirements; such as children iron is needed during growth spurts and pregnant and menstruating women. Adequate iron intake is also crucial for infants, strict vegetarians and long-distance runners.

You will get iron supplements or multivitamins containing iron for people with high iron requirements. But iron supplements are appropriate only when you need more iron than a balanced diet can provide. Don't assume that if you're tired that you simply need to take iron supplements. Overloading your body with iron can be dangerous. So instead of that you are having an alternate way of visiting our site and getting the herbal supplements which are naturally cured without any side effects.

Herbal Remedies To Prevent Travelers Diarrhea

2009-01-03T09:17:00.000-08:00

Travelers visiting many tropical, sub-tropical and developing countries run an increased risk of suffering a gastrointestinal illness. These are usually caused by bacteria, parasites and viruses. The microscopic bugs at the top of these rather gut wrenching (for all the wrong reasons...) charts are E Coli, the staphylococci, shigella and salmonella species, campylobacter jejuni, cryptosporidiosis, and hepatitis A.

Infected food is the biggest culprit, with water coming in second. Ice cream, cocktails served in re-used coconut shells, raw seafood, ice, and food from street vendors are potential risks that can interrupt your adventure with less salacious memories to pass on to family and friends.

The nausea, stomach cramps and diarrhea from such acute infections usually sorts itself out after a few days (unless of course you have contracted hepatitis A, or something like giardia). Certainly, if you are unlucky enough to be sick after a few days, you should see a doctor.

Fortunately, there are remedies you can take that will strengthen your immune and digestive system and hopefully give your body a better chance at dealing with its new environment. The herbs I describe below would make an excellent travelers mix. The best form to take them in would be as a tincture, which can be made up by going to a local herbal dispensary if you have one in your area, or alternatively, a local herbalist.

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)

Astragalus is a good anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-microbial. The polysaccharides in it support the immune system. Astragalus increases the activity of phagocytes, natural killer cells, and the levels of antibodies in the blood.

Picrorrhiza (Picrorrhiza kurroa)

This is an Ayurvedic herb that is best given in low doses, as higher doses can cause diarrhea and flatulence in more sensitive people. Its a bitter herb, so it stimulates the digestive system. It is also anti-malarial, supports the immune system, and protects the liver. Picrorrhiza encourages all aspects of the immune system, such as B and T cell activity, and the activity of phagocytes. This herb is used in Ayurvedic medicine for liver related problems and immune problems.

Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis)

Goldenseal is a gut antibiotic, which for example helps reduce adhesive e coli, and encourages some immune functions of the body. For example, berberine, which is one of its active constituents, has been shown to increase the activity of macrophages, which digest bacteria and viruses. Barberry also contains berberine, so more information on this very valuable constituent is below. Goldenseal, being a bitter herb, it is also good for the digestive system. If you are pregnant or suffer from hypertension, however, you should not take goldenseal.

Barberry (Berberis Vulgaris)

Berberine, one of the active constituents in this herb is an anti protozoic, which helps protect travelers against giardia, leishmania, and treponema pallidum. Other notable effects of berberine are its activity against giardia, dysentery, and candida, as well as the cholera vibrio. The active constituents berberine and palmatine are also anti-bacterial. And berbamine, which like berberine is an alkaloid, is a strong anti-bacterial which seems to work by increasing white blood cells and platelets. The constituent palamtine is a uterine stimulant, however, and as such pregnant women shouldn't take this herb. Barberry is another gut antibiotic, but it is also anti-malarial (though no self-respecting herbalist would recommend anything other than doctor's treatment if you do contract malaria).

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea or augustifolia)

Echinacea is an immune stimulant. Its main active constituents are the polysaccharides and the alkamides (especially the isobutylamides), which are both immune stimulating, and the polyaceytlenes, which are antibacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal. Echinacea supports the activity of phagocytes, which are part of the immune system, and is also considered anti-viral and anti-microbial. One of the ways echinacea appears to work is by inhibiting the action of the enzyme hyaluronidase. This enzyme is used by micro-organisms to break down the connective tissue that prevents them from entering and spreading through the body. For these reasons, it is excellent as part of a travelers remedy mix.

These remedies are not designed as a prophylactic, like a vaccine. They work on the principle of giving your body an increased chance at staying healthy. But nothing replaces common sense. Wash your hands before eating. Don't drink ice or from water bottles where the seal has been broken. Drink cocktails in glasses, not cute but probably old coconut shells. Don't eat anything fresh that you can't peel. Don't eat ice cream or drink unpasteurized milk. Be wary of eating from street vendors. Some people do, and are fine. But they are a risk factor with gastrointestinal upsets. Its a good idea to pack some oral hydration salts as a precaution.

But above all, enjoy your holiday!

References: C Fisher & G Painter, Materia Medica of Western Herbs for the Southern Hemisphere

Class notes from Ses Salmond, certified Natural Therapist and Herbal Medicine teacher

Heart Health with Herbal Cholesterol Supplements

2009-01-03T09:15:00.000-08:00

Heart supplements

2009-01-03T09:11:00.000-08:00

If your “get up and go got up and went” these heart supplements are just what you’ve been looking for. If you are taking any of the statin family of drugs such as Lipitor, Zocor or Crestor to lower your cholesterol you should not be without CoQ10. These drugs can literally “kill” synthesis of CoQ10.

New clinical research
You might say this study included a little monkey business. The subjects were thirteen male and eight female baboons. These primates were fed a variety of diets that were supplemented with different amounts of vitamin E and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).

The purpose of the research was to measure the effectiveness of CoQ10 and vitamin E in reducing inflammation in the body. The inflammation was measured by conducting a simple blood test of C-reactive protein (CRP).

A New England Journal of Medicine studies showed that people with high levels of C-reactive protein were almost three times as likely to die from a heart attack.

When CRP levels were analyzed, vitamin E was found to lower levels of inflammation to an average of less than half of pre-supplementation levels. When coenzyme Q10 was added to vitamin E, CRP levels revealed a whopping seventy percent reduction in inflammation.

In the discussion of their findings, the researchers called the results “remarkable.” They concluded that “co-supplementation with vitamin E and coenzyme Q10 significantly enhanced both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant protection.”

Important heart attack risks
Why is this so important? Inflammation and oxidation are two of the most important risks leading to a heart attack or stroke. The latest research indicates that these risks are far more dangerous than high cholesterol.

Big words for a big problem
A high level of CRP in your blood indicates an increased risk for what your cardiologist describes as “destabilized atherosclerotic plaque.” These are big words for a big problem.

Interpreted in laymen’s language, when arterial plaque becomes destabilized, it can burst open and block the flow of blood through a coronary artery, resulting in an acute heart attack. And a heart attack isn’t as much fun as you might think.

"CoQ10, is energy on call," says, Dr. Stephen Sinatra, a board certified cardiologist at the New England Heart and Longevity Center. “I have long considered CoQ10 a wonder nutrient because of its ability to support heart health.”

In addition to energizing your heart, these heart supplements have also been shown to support the immune system, blood pressure and healthy cholesterol levels.

More than 100 clinical studies at major universities and hospitals have documented the actions of Coenzyme Q10 and now new studies have researchers heaping more praise on this heart vitamin.

Women with breast cancer and non-cancerous breast lesions commonly have low blood levels of CoQ10. Although more studies are needed, Danish researcher Knud Lockwood, M.D. has had good results using high doses of CoQ10 to prevent the recurrence of breast cancer in women.

Chronic inflammation is also an underlying cause of many age-related diseases. A fact that until recently has been given very little attention by the medical establishment.

CoQ10 is a notoriously bulky nutrient that's quite hard for your body to absorb. When shopping for these heart supplements look for a product that has been tested for maximum bioavailability and also has the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) seal on the bottle. There are a few good brands on the web and a lot that are not what they seem to be.You can find my favorite at VitalHeart.info

Do your heart…and the rest of your body a favor by getting acquainted with these multi talented heart supplements. Be careful though…a burst of energy might have your friends wondering what’s going on in your life.

Heart Health with Herbal Cholesterol Supplements

2009-01-03T09:09:00.000-08:00

Healthy Diet For Your Child

2009-01-03T09:08:00.000-08:00

It is the belief of most parents that children are eating a relatively healthy diet, but if not, they throw up their hands and give up. Children are then plied with multivitamins. Though this is not a bad thing to do, many children think they are candy especially now that they come in gummi candy, gumballs, and cute animal and cartoon characters.

This is extremely serious because if they are with a kids reach, they could be taking more than you know about. If there is the remotest chance your child has ingested too many, immediately call Poison Control and get them to the emergency room.

If your child overdoses with multivitamins with iron your child could become seriously ill or die. All manner of medications must absolutely be kept out of the reach children. If you think your child needs them generic multivitamins are fine but for the most part, children get a lot of their vitamins in their diets.

If your child is either allergic to dairy products or won’t eat them, calcium will need to come from other sources. A consultation with your child’s pediatrician is important. One vitamin daily is all a child needs even if his diet has been questionable for that week.

The absorption of other vitamins could be blocked if there is too much of any one vitamin. For example, too much calcium can prevent the absorption of other vitamins such as iron. Healthy food choices are not a child’s priority you can expect to be giving your child vitamins well into their teens.

Before buying vitamins you should know that opinions about vitamins with iron for children vary greatly. One belief is that you should, in fact, be giving vitamins with iron. Another philosophy is that never should a child be given vitamins with iron in them.

In infancy my own child showed signs of iron deficiency as an infant. Always check with your child’s doctor; my child’s doctor put him on iron fortified vitamins and he is healthy now. A disease called Hemochromatosis is caused by too much iron in the blood.

The iron becomes unusable by the body and it is not washed out of the body easily. It is almost always a fatal disease and can cause serious health issues. Calcium helps build strong bones and muscles and is a very important part of your child’s diet.

Calcium is a mineral. Kids who eat ice cream, yogurt, and cheese or who drink milk usually get enough calcium from their diets. Some do not like dairy products, still others are allergic to them. Children can be assisted in getting what they need by consuming calcium fortified juices, cereals and vitamins.

Drinking fluoride treated tap water and bottled water and/or using fluoridated toothpaste is enough for most children. Your child should not be given fluoride supplements without checking with your pediatrician. Your child’s teeth could be permanently stained if they get too much fluoride.

This defeats entirely, the purpose of the treatment of water and the use of toothpaste meant to protect your child’s teeth. Infant multivitamins in liquid form is available and usually administered with an eye dropper.

The drops contain vitamins A, C, and D and may have added iron. Also they may have other vitamins and minerals such as thiamin, niacin, riboflavin and vitamin B-12. Chewable children’s vitamins are available in the forms of cartoon characters and/or animals. Now vitamins are available in gummi candy and gumballs.

Try buying gum ball vitamins or cartoon characters if your child is difficult about taking vitamins. Your child should always be supervised while he’s taking his vitamins. My son never gets to take his vitamins on his own, I give them to him.

He may or may not take it or he could take too many. Children’s vitamins could be a very good thing but too much of a good thing could be fatal. They should not be left in the reach of children. Eating what is right is not your child’s top priority so giving him vitamins may offset some of that.

Adjustments to child’s diet should always be discussed with your child’s pediatrician, it’s better to err on the side of caution. It’s fine to have fun shapes but your child could think they are candy and they should be kept out of reach of children or locked in a cabinet.

Health Supplements, Antioxidants and the FDA

2009-01-03T09:07:00.001-08:00

The Food and Drug Administration understands that people may not eat properly. That is why they have listed recommendations for consumers about health supplements – and specifically those with antioxidant properties. The simple fact is the human body cannot work properly without antioxidants. The FDA acknowledges that a lack of antioxidants in a person’s diet is detrimental to their health. They also recognize that health supplements are coming to the aid of many people.

Most people -- even those who eat healthy -- do not consume the proper amounts of vitamins and minerals they need on a daily basis. When the human body lacks the proper nutrients that include antioxidants (foods that contain vitamins C and E, along with beta-carotene and selenium) the immune system is not as strong as it should be. This means that common illnesses and even serious diseases can arise.

Antioxidants are a protection from free radicals. Free radicals should be thought of as dangerous, deformed enemies who are out to hurt us. Actually, free radicals are mutated oxygen molecules. They are “mutated” by pollution, sun and other hazards. When free radicals are allowed to run free inside the human body, they will attach to cell walls and start to change the cell. Changes in the cells can bring on early aging and even cancer.

Health supplements, such as Resveracine, are the soldiers that guard us against the outside, enemy forces. Resveracine is a combination of super nutrients. This “super hero” is specially formulated to provide the human body with the highest level of free radical scavenger hunters in the world today.

It should be noted that nothing will ever take the place of whole foods. However, the simple fact remains that in today’s world of processed foods, adding a health supplement such as Resveracine to your diet is the only sure way to ensure that you have a ready supply of antioxidants available to fight off disease and signs of early aging.

Only in recent years has the importance of antioxidants been relayed to the general lay person. Education by cancer and disease organizations has prompted many to purchase health supplements for themselves and their families. People are coming to understand that if they take in enough antioxidant though healthy eating and health supplements, their bodies will have a strong defense system in place.

The fact that antioxidants slow down the aging process is the added benefit. Doesn’t it just make sense to make sure you are getting all of the nutrients you need?