Understanding And Overcoming Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bronchial tube and its branches. It may be acute or chronic; it may involve one side or both; it may affect the larger or only the minor portions of the tube, or it may involve the whole bronchial system.
The most frequent occasions (usually called causes) for bronchitis are colds, improperly treated or neglected, or irritating inhalations of smoke, dust, gas or fumes. Becoming chilled after being heated may result in an attack if there is an injurious degree of toxemia. Certain trades tend to the production of such irritation to cause bronchitis: stone-cutting, milling, carpentering, paper-hanging, etc. Inhalation of tobacco smoke or tobacco dust is one of the most prolific causes. Living in overheated quarters with the air insufficiently moistened is somewhat common in American city dwellings, and such conditions may lead to bronchitis.
Acute bronchitis results from an accumulation of toxins in the body, making it necessary for the body to call upon the mucous surfaces of the respiratory tract for additional elimination. Aside from the causes already given, acute bronchitis may accompany other acute diseases.
The symptoms are quite abrupt, the condition itself beginning with a sudden fever, often accompanied by a chill. Fever sometimes, however, is absent. Cough is the most prominent symptom. This may be frequent and hard with no expectoration, especially for the first two or three days. There usually is soreness back of the breast-bone. Gradually the cough becomes somewhat productive, there being a tenacious mucous accumulation which is expelled with considerable difficulty. Its presence in the bronchial tube causes a wheezing or humming sound upon breathing. The cough may be so frequent and severe as to result in headache, dizziness, nausea and perhaps vomiting.
The cough gradually lessens after a few days and is more productive, the expectorated matter being thick and more or less greenish, a mixture of mucus and pus. The condition frequently causes bronchopneumonia in children and old persons, through extension to the lung tissue, when neglected, improperly treated, or when the toxemia is so extreme that the body needs the increased surface of the lungs for elimination. Within a week these bronchial symptoms usually disappear in mild cases, and within two weeks in the more severe cases, though the trouble may linger on for a month or more. Considerable depends upon the patient's inherent vitality and recuperative powers and upon the strictness with which proper treatment is carried out.
Chronic bronchitis may be either chronic from the beginning or may result from frequent or repeated attacks of acute bronchitis. The inhalation of dust or smoke is one of the most frequent causes. Cough and expectoration are the leading symptoms, the cough being quite obstinate, especially in the morning and evening and during the night. It often prevents sufficient sleep for the patient to recover quickly. The cough may cause vomiting. There may or may not be any substance expectorated. What is brought up may be tinged with blood. During the summer the symptoms may subside or disappear entirely, only to return upon the appearance of cold weather.
Treatment. In acute cases it is necessary to remove any cause of direct irritation of the bronchial tubes. Usually when properly treated an acute case will subside in a few days. The "fruit fast" is very helpful in these cases and should continue until the temperature has been normal for twenty-four hours. The daily enema should be given, with plenty of water to drink. Fresh air is very important, but a cold wind over the patient should be avoided. A blanket-pack will help materially in the general efforts of the body toward elimination. Every two or three days the general pack may be substituted for the local pack to the chest. Hot compresses or heat by a therapeutic lamp over the upper chest will be very soothing in case the cough is very distressing. After any hot treatment there should be a cold application for a minute or so, then careful drying and adequate covering. A "sun-bath" over the upper chest by a sun lamp will help greatly in this condition. After the symptoms have subsided, the patient may gradually return to a diet more ample in quantity and consisting of any natural food desired. Of course, the quantities should be only gradually increased. There is no definite curative diet needed after the acute condition has subsided, though the fruit and strict milk diet would be very valuable at this time.
Chronic bronchitis makes it necessary to treat the entire body, because the condition is not local, but is due to a systemic toxemia, with the selection of the bronchial mucous membrane for the point of elimination when the other channels of elimination are functioning insufficiently to take care of the encumbrances. In these cases the repeated complete fast or fruit diet will be of great value, continued for from three to eight or ten days depending upon the strength and vitality of the patient and the effects of the fast. The milk diet is a very excellent diet to follow a fast or to use between these repeated fasts. It is especially recommended if the patient is below normal in weight and vitality. If the patient is normal or above normal, the milk diet may be used with benefit, but with a reduction in the amount of the milk sufficient to maintain normal weight or permit of a slow loss in weight.
In this chronic condition, steam-baths or other sweat-baths once or twice a week will be very helpful. They should of course be followed by a cold or cool bath and vigorous friction. The hot shower bath, in which the water is allowed to play alternately upon the upper back and the upper chest, terminated with a decidedly cool or cold shower, is an excellent treatment. Cold chest packs covered by dry flannel so that warmth is re-established; local heat to the upper chest followed by cold applications; hot compresses; steam inhalations; massage and spinal manipulation, are all of considerable benefit, and any of these may be used.
The patient should engage in walking, and practice moderate deep breathing as much as possible within reason, if it is necessary to improve the general vitality. Water should be drunk copiously, as a rule. Plenty of bulk must be in the diet for adequate bowel activity, or the enema or special aids, such as agar-agar or mineral oil or their emulsions, should be used.
Gradually increasing amounts of general exercise are of great benefit, but is important that the patient secure plenty of relaxation. Too much exercise or exercise of too strenuous nature is apt to increase the coughing. Natural sun-baths and air-baths should be obtained frequently. It should not be necessary for a person with bronchitis to change climate, though sometimes a warm dry inland climate is most advantageous in cases where there is much expectoration. Where there is a non-productive cough, the sea-shore may be of benefit. But regardless of a change in climate, if one does not live in a way to keep the systemic toxemia down to a minimum there is not likely to be a permanent cure.
The diet to follow generally should consist largely of the most natural foods obtainable - ^green and root vegetables, cooked and raw, fruits, whole grain cereals, milk in some form and nuts or cottage cheese for the chief protein. Meats should be used very moderately, and all refined sugars and their products should be avoided. Only a very moderate amount of fat, such as cream, butter and olive oil, and of starches should be used, until one becomes able to indulge quite freely in physical activity.
The cough of both acute and chronic bronchitis can as a rule be greatly relieved by teaspoonful doses of equal parts of honey and lemon juice taken every two or three hours.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9736440

5 Tips to Build Muscle As Fast As Possible

Learning how to build muscle fast is easy, putting it into practice is the hard part. Most people think that if you lift more, you will gain more muscle mass. This simply isn't the case.
Building muscle has just as much to do with diet as it does with training, if not more.
You can't build muscle without a calorie surplus, just as you can't build muscle without resistance training.
To build muscle fast, you have to optimize your diet as well as training regimen. Here is how to do it.
1. Avoid Low Carb Diets
While low carb diets are great for cutting fat, they won't help you with gaining muscle mass. You need carbs for fuel so you can exercise more efficiently.
Carbohydrates are important before training sessions, and immediately after training sessions. Carbs are your muscles primary fuel.
By consuming complex carbs you restore glycogen stores within your muscles[1] for further activity and fullness. This is a major factor in how effective a training session is.
2. Avoid All Alcohol
Alcohol, even in small amounts, can have major effects on sleep, and recovery. In a study conducted in 1980, alcohol in small doses (0.8 g/kg) before bedtime, suppressed plasma growth hormone by 70%-75%[2].
If you add in the effects of dehydration and release of cortisol, it's nothing but a recipe for disaster.
3. Get More Protein
There is a lot of confusion surrounding protein these days. One article says your not eating enough, the other says your eating way too much.
So what is the key?
For moderately active, and highly active adults, it is reasonable to consume around 2-3 grams of protein for every kilogram of bodyweight.[3]
Studies show that too much protein intake has an extremely low chance of negative side effects. Plus, protein is essential in so many bodily functions.
4. Lift Heavy Weights
Protein alone cannot build muscle. To really add-on size, you must lift heavy weights. Or use your bodyweight to achieve the desired resistance.
In the gym, you could focus on lifting 6 sets of 6 reps with a heavy enough weight to reach failure in the last couple of sets. This should be enough to make some serious gains.
5. Switch-up Your Workouts
This doesn't necessarily mean changing the exercises. Vary your sets and reps, rest time, and intensity. This will help you break through those dreaded plateaus.
I hope this list helps you in achieving your desired physique. But this can only help you if you continually take daily action. Avoid analysis paralysis, and just get to work.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9732489

How To Get Rid of Bad Breath Once And For All

Bad breath is a big problem for many people. The odor emanating from your mouth varies with respect to the cause of the odor. A lot of people tend to overestimate the extent of bad breath that they are suffering from, even when they may have a negligible bad smell. On the other hand, some people actually have unflattering breath but are not aware of the situation. Sometimes it may be difficult to gauge bad odor on your own and it may help to ask your spouse or any friend or family member about your breath. Causes Some of the most common causes of bad mouth odor include food stuck between your teeth which undergo breakdown by bacteria and give out the foul odor. Some specific food like onion, garlic, and other spices tend to be responsible for bad smells emanating from your mouth. Another major cause of bad mouth odor is the use of tobacco and tobacco products which are directly responsible for the bad smell. Smoking usually results in sustained complaints of foul smell from the mouth. In older people, another common reason is uncleaned dentures. Also, poor dental hygiene is a major cause of this condition in people of old ages. Not flossing your teeth regularly will cause plaque which is basically a film of bacteria responsible for multiple dental issues including bad breath and gum diseases. Dry mouth and tongue can also be responsible for bad mouth odor. Saliva is an important component of your mouth which helps get rid of foul particles and other sources of a foul smell. One of the most common reasons behind a dry mouth is sleeping with your mouth open. This can cause a dry mouth for long periods of time and result in a foul-smelling breath. Certain medications can also cause bad breath and there is little that can be done about it. These medications may be essential for your health and well-being and your only alternative is to ask your physician for alternative medication that does not have such an effect. However, medications may not always be available. Sometimes dental procedures and surgical treatments may cause wounds that may result in mouth sores which give out a bad smell. Certain diseases may also be associated with a bad odor from your mouth too. Quick Remedies The above are some of the reasons why you may have bad mouth odor and the most simple of these causes can be easily removed by a couple of fast remedial measures. You should first make it a habit to brush your teeth and clean your tongue after every meal. Apart from that, drinking water and regularly using dental floss can be of great help. Sticking to great dental hygiene habits and keeping track of any odor on your breath will help you stay away from bad smell. In some cases, it may be beneficial to have a natural mouth freshener at hand. If you continue to have bad mouth odor problems then it is advisable to visit your dentist and look for more serious dental issues which may be the underlying cause of bad breath. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9638418

The Invasion of the Zika Virus!

The Zika virus. And yet another "plague" hits us again. As far as I can remember in my entire life, first it was the SARS virus, followed by the Bird Flu, H1N1, H5N1 viruses. It's like mirroring the volatility of the stock markets the behaviors of these viruses! Introducing our next big hit. The Zeeek Mosquito. That's what I'm gonna call it and it's kinda closely related to the Chikungunya (another species of naughty mosquitos). These Zeeks were first discovered in 1947 in the forests of Zika (hence the name), Uganda, now, don't go asking me how it was first discovered because I have no idea how it became existent in our lives. And in 1952, the first human case of the virus was reported and the last taking place in the year 2007. The virus re-emerged just last year in 2015 and since then, the Virus has been making quite a tour from Brazil, to the USA and even to as far as Vietnam. And God forbid, we have to be prepared for its landfall here in Singapore. How is it transmitted? The Zika Virus was thought to be carried by infected AEDES mosquitoes. And in turn, when they infect humans, the latter gets infected with the virus. Now at this point, the infected person may or may not know that he or she is infected with the virus, with symptoms only showing in a few days or a week. And when other mosquitoes feed on the infected human individual, the mosquitoes in return gets infected!! It's a viscous cycle! Other ways include having unprotected sex; where the risk of sexually transmitted diseases are always greater without the use of a condom; and blood transfusion, although there has been no confirmation of infections via blood transfusion, there has been suspected cases in Brazil that the virus was passed via this mode. The last mode of transmission which has caught the world by storm is between mother and an unborn child or an infected woman who then conceives a child, and it has raised alarms from within the World Health Organization itself that the unborn child may suffer from birth defects. Symptoms of it? When one is infected with the Zika Virus, you should watch out for the following symptoms: Fever Rash Joint Pains Conjunctivitis( Redness in the eyes) It may sound mediocre but one should be really concerned of what I'm going to say next. You won't know what hit you until after a few days you get bitten. So you'll be practically going about your daily routines until reality sets in! People don't actually get sick enough to get seen by a Doctor. The light in all these is that death is rare in these instances. And the even greater news is that once you're infected, and recover from it, you're immune to it! How do I prevent it? It's quite simple actually. Refrain traveling to Zika affected areas like Brazil, some countries in South East Asia such as Thailand, South Korea and Vietnam and the United States. But resisting a trip to Phuket, Seoul and parts of the US? Who could? If a companion, friend or family are suspected to have contracted the virus, educate them to lay low for a week or two. Not to the point of really burying yourself in the room, but just to make sure that the household is free of mosquitoes. You wouldn't want to be infected them mosquitoes, do you now? By far, we know that this virus is not readily transmissible via airborne, but it's always good to take precautions: Use a mask if you would like to Wash your hands regularly Always use protection when having sexual intercourse. If you are infected, DO NOT get bitten by another mosquito, as that will cause the infections to spread via that little bugger, who goes on biting other victims. Treatment for it? There is no treatment ready till today. The only medications that the WHO propose to alleviate the symptoms are taking Acetaminophen or Paracetamol. Complications/consequences? Fortunately there has been no reports of deaths attributed by the virus. There has been however, anomalies in newborns, where Mircocephaly (defects of the brain) took place. Other anomalies include eye, hearing and growth impairments. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9380858

Mercer Infection - Signs, Symptoms, and Treatments

Mercer infection is the one of the colloquial terms given for MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) infection. Initially, Staphylococcal resistance to antibiotics (especially to Penicillin) was unheard of. However, bacterias can mutate and develop good resistance against antibacterial medications including Penicillin, such as Methicillin, as well as against other Beta-lactam antibiotics such as Meropenem, Clavulanic acid and Tazobactam. Furthermore, resistance to Cephalosporins (such as Cefazolin, Cefuroxime, Ceftriaxone) were also studied and documented. Surprisingly, the causative agent that causes MRSA, the Staphylococcus Aureus, has natural colonies in the human body. These natural bacterial floras are mostly located inside the nostrils. The skin is also a natural haven for this microbe. They normally stay dormant and do not cause any health problems. When immunity weakens and there is a break in the protective integrity of the skin, Staphylococcus Aureus now becomes pathogenic. Staph infection is usually treated with Penicillin-class antibiotics. Often, Penicillin alone is quite effective. However, some strains of Staphylococcus had developed effective resistance, and mercer infection sets in. Signs and Symptoms In its early stage, signs and symptoms are generally fever and skin rashes. A raised, red skin lesion that looks like a pimple, a pustule or a group of red bumps, is also present. The common topical infection sites are wounds, cuts and abrasions, as well as the neck, inner thighs, back, the interior portion of the arms, and hairy portions of the body such as the beard, armpits and groin. Infection may spread to the sebaceous or apocrine glands located in the edges of the eyelid, creating a red, painful, swollen and irritating lump called a Sty or Hordeolum. As the infection worsens, skin lesions may feel warm due to inflammation, and can become more painful, swollen and larger, which can eventually rupture, creating a profound and purulent abscess. Complications If left untreated or if the causative agent has a strong resistance and virulence, it can cause havoc to other body tissues. Immediate medical intervention must be initiated when serious and life-threatening complications occur, such as Endocarditis (heart valve infection), Osteomyelilits (bone infection), Septicemia, or also known as Bacteremia, Toxic Shock Syndrome, severe cellulitis, and flesh-destructive complications like Pyomyositis, Necrotizing fasciitisand Necrotizing pneumonia. Risk Factors Mercer infection can either be community-acquired or CA-MRSA or healthcare/hospital-associated or HA-MRSA. Risk factors include a weak immune system especially on patients with HIV/AIDS and those undergoing long-term chemotherapy and steroidal therapy, pediatric and geriatric patients, prolonged and multiple hospitalization confinement, long-term antibiotic therapy, as this can hasten bacterial resistance, invasive procedures such as surgery, urinary catheters and dialysis, frequent skin contact like mutual sharing or poor disinfection of personal stuffs like towel and clothes, overcrowding, skin trauma such as wounds and cuts, as well as poor personal hygiene and sanitation. Mercer Infection Treatments Both categories of MRSA infection are treated by antibiotics. The class of antibacterial medication to be used is dependent on the severity. For mild to moderate infections, a sulfanomide combination of Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim (Bactrim) or Co-trimoxazole for short, has effective results. Broad spectrum and semi-synthetic tetracycline antibiotics like Minocycline and Doxycycline, as well as Clindamycin, a lincosamide antibiotic, had all shown successful remedies against mercer infection. However, when antibiotic therapy response is poor or when the prognosis worsens, a different line of antibiotics are given by an IV route. For severe mercer infection, Vancomycin (Vancocin) and Linezolid (Zyvox) had shown the best results and are now the drugs of preference. Other antibiotics may be prescribed, such as Daptomycin (Cubicin), a lipopeptide antibiotic, Tigecycline (Tygacil), as well as Telavancin (Vibativ), a potent MRSA bactericidal lipoglycopeptide. An antibiotic combination from the streptogramin-class, Quinupristin/Dalfopristin (Synercid), shows strong antibacterial action against MRSA as well. Prophylactic antibiotic therapy may be continued for up to 2 months to prevent recurrence. For topical skin lesions, antibacterial ointment or creams may be prescribed. Drainage of pus and fluid may be performed when severe skin problems occur. Preventive Measures and Home Remedies MRSA infection is contagious. It is always important to practice good hygiene and sanitation. Never share or use contaminated items. Patient's personal effects and even eating utensils should be segregated. Cover ruptured wounds with sterile dressings. Encourage frequent hand washing with antibacterial soaps and disinfect with alcohol or any antiseptic solution. Other effective home remedies include the use of essential oils, such as lemon grass oil and tea-tree oil. Mercer infection is a highly communicable and potentially dangerous disease. With early diagnosis and treatment, along with consistent application of preventive measures at home, MRSA infection is not complicated to deal with. However, before trying any treatments, especially with antibiotics, it is always prudent to seek your physician's advice first. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6090902

Weight Loss Medication Pros And Cons

Are you wondering about the Orlistat pros and cons for weight loss? Orlistat is a FDA approved medication to help people with weight loss. The over the counter version is called Alli, which has a smaller dosage for Orlistat than the prescription dosage found in Xenical. Like any medication, there are always risks and potential benefits, so let's review the Orlistat pros and cons to determine if it is right for you. Weighing the Orlistat pros and cons is an individual endeavor, but should be done with your physician even though it can be bought over the counter in some countries. All factors of your health, what you've tried so far in your weight loss goals and whether there is other things you could try, should all be considered very carefully. Many people including health care professionals sometimes take prescribing medicine as just the thing to do without really considering all options. Indeed, there are many people who benefit greatly from a variety of pharmaceutical intervention, even saving their lives, but still one should think it through and it is the same with Orlistat. Side Effects When Considering Orlistat Pros And Cons Orlistat works by preventing absorption of some of the fat from the foods we eat. Studies show that 91% of people taking Orlistat have at least 1 gastrointestinal side effect, frequently oily, loose stools. Related to that are increased gas, frequent and urgent bowel movements including some leaking out into the underwear. By the 4th year, only 36% experienced side effects. Eating a low fat diet tends to decrease side effects. With the use of this medication, the recommended maximum fat content per meal is 15 grams. Even bean salad and most chicken dishes are over that, so this in itself will be a challenge. There is speculation and study into this lower side effect causing people to start eating higher fat diets. The "aversion" to eating high fat diets is no longer present as when a person first started the medication. Study statistics when considering the Orlistat pros and cons are that 25.5 to 54.8% of the people using Orlistat accomplished 5% or more decrease in their total body mass, some of that was not body fat. Also, 16.4 to 24.8% accomplished at least 10% decrease in total body mass. Important to note though is that after the Orlistat was stopped, a large number of the people taking Orlistat in the study gained at least 35% of the weight back that they had lost while taking the medication. Additional Studies On Orlistat There was also a study done in Canada on 900 people taking the medication. It showed kidney injury of more than triple that of non-users. Liver issues are still being questioned as well. Another thing to consider is that it will inhibit the absorption of fat soluble vitamins. It also inhibits certain medications, so even if you purchase this over the counter, you should always consult your physician first. Orlistat Pros And Cons Summary So, in summary the cons found with the use of Orlistat for weight loss are the... 1. Potential side effects that could be unpleasant as mentioned above. 91% have at least one side effect. 2. Potential side effects that could be damaging to kidneys and liver. 3. Weight loss according to statistics is generally low. For example, in a year's time if you are 200 pounds and you lose 5%, that is 10 pounds. Or if you are one of the people who lose 10%, that would be 20 pounds. 4. You still need to make lifestyle changes for it to have lasting effects. (This is a pro also, depending on how you look at it). 5. Many people gain the weight back as soon as they stop the medication. The pros might be... 1. You have tried absolutely every thing else, including lifestyle changes and nothing has worked for you. This should be discussed with your doctor, but it may be determined that it is something to try to hopefully get things moving. 2. People who are on the verge of diabetes may benefit. There is a small percentage according to the study that were taking the medication that didn't develop diabetes. Maybe they never would have or maybe the weight loss helped. It is not clear. This may be a reason to try it if you and your doctor are concerned about that. Again, although considering the Orlistat pros and cons is an individual decision, it should be done with your physician. Obviously, there are cons or potential risks when taking any medication as well potential benefits. It is no different with Orlistat. People should make sure that they have tried a proven nutritional plan for weight loss including positive lifestyle changes and not just all the fad diets out there that often do more harm than good. There are also natural supplements that may have a similar action of preventing fat from being absorbed, which may have less side effects than Orlistat. Whatever is decided, weighing the Orlistat pros and cons should not be taken lightly. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7098915

How to Be Proactive About The Zika Virus

While the Zika virus has been around since 1947, it has not been recognized as a legitimate threat to the United States until quite recently. Zika is a potent virus that is carried by mosquitoes. Until 2007, the virus was limited only to Africa. Since then, it has spread to the South Pacific and into other tropical regions, such as the Caribbean. Zika is particularly concerning for pregnant women who may suffer birth anomalies, such as microcephaly, to their unborn children. However, it can also cause fevers, rashes, headaches and joint pain in anyone affected by it for up to one week. Zika Transmission Zika is transmitted by the bite of a mosquito. However, it can also be transferred between sexual partners. The species of mosquitoes that carry the virus include Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. Currently, only A. aegypti has been spreading Zika in the United States; this species is mostly present in warmer states with more tropical climates. However, it can come as far north as Ohio in the Midwest and Connecticut along the Eastern seaboard. While A. albopictus can carry Zika, it has not been known to do so as of yet in the U.S. The most recent information shows that the majority of Zika cases in the US are travel-related, meaning that they are due to a person having been bitten by an affected mosquito while traveling out of the country. The only place in the US that has been affected by locally-infected mosquitoes is a small area of Miami just north of the downtown district. Florida, Texas, California, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York have all reported more than 200 cases each with well over 600 reported in Florida. States reporting between 50 to 100 cases include Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia, Ohio, Illinois and Michigan. Being Proactive about Zika Because Zika is spread by mosquitoes, it is vital that you learn how to prevent mosquito bites no matter where you live and particularly if you travel out of the US. You should be aware that virus-laden mosquitoes bite during both the day and the night. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend using insect repellents with high levels of EPA-registered active ingredients, such as DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol or IR3535. Some brand name examples of approved repellents include Off!, Cutter Advanced, Repel, and SkinSmart. These repellents are safe even for pregnant women to use as well as for all children over the age of two months. In addition, you will be best protected if you wear long sleeve shirts, long pants and repellent-treated shoes and socks when outdoors. In addition, cover baby carriers with netting to protect very young infants from being bitten. The only other way that you could get Zika other than from a mosquito bite is from sexual contact with a person having the virus. To protect this type of transmission, always use a male or female condom during sexual intercourse. Condoms should be used during vaginal, anal and oral sex to prevent transmission from semen or vaginal fluids. Beware that a person may transmit the virus before any symptoms begin and even after symptoms end. This is Only the Beginning of Zika The United States government is maintaining a close monitoring system of Zika cases throughout the US as well as in Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and American Samoa. The local government of Miami has taken steps to contain and prevent future outbreaks by using aerial spraying in some neighborhoods. In addition, President Obama has asked Congress to approve emergency funding for vaccine development, virus testing and state and local financial aid. The government does not believe that the mosquitoes carrying Zika will travel much farther north than they already are, which is in Florida and Texas. However, travel-related cases could expand if people do not take proper precautions when traveling. Locally-acquired cases are most likely in Texas and Florida although the mosquitoes that can carry Zika can go as far north as Iowa and New Hampshire and as far west as California. Get Tested! If you develop symptoms that are consistent with Zika or have traveled to a different country affected by the virus, you should be tested. In addition, if you had unprotected sex with a person who has or had Zika, your doctor may recommend testing. This is particularly important for pregnant women. Testing can be done using blood or urine samples. A test known as real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction testing, or rRT-PCR, can be done within two weeks following the start of symptoms. It can also be performed on pregnant women who currently have no symptoms but who traveled to an affected country. While this new information about Zika should not be cause for panic, you should work consistently to prevent transmission of the virus by preventing mosquito bites and by practicing protected sex using condoms. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9570193

Gorgeous Hair With Gooseberries

Yes! Damaged hair can be cured and that too with little effort and without using chemical treatments or spending loads of money. Brittle hair, dandruff, hair fall, dry hair etc are all common hair woes in today's age. Pollution, inadequate intake of protein, zinc etc. through our diet and the use of various chemicals on your hair are some of the reasons for this. Everyone has their own hair complaints. Even men are suffering from severe hair damage and are opting for hair treatments now. The market is abuzz with products meant for curing almost every one of your hair issues and parlours are listed with an array of treatments to repair the harm that has been done. Our nature is abound with herbs, fruits etc that can heal and treat many of your beauty problems. A little bit of patience is required to regain what you have damaged but it will be worth the wait and the effort. Any chemical treatment is bound to harm you in the long run but treating yourself with herbal and natural cures will bless you with beauty that is real and long-lasting. This is a simple recipe of amla (Indian gooseberries) and coconut oil. Prepare this hair oil at home. It's easy to make, doesn't take much time and needs only two ingredients; coconut oil and dry gooseberries. Regular usage of this oil stops hair fall and gives you thicker and fuller hair. It cures premature greying and makes your hair darker. It even changes the texture of your hair giving you lovely, soft and smooth locks. This recipe needs (mainly) only two ingredients; coconut oil and dry gooseberries. Coconut oil nourishes you hair and scalp and promotes hair growth. Gooseberries can cure dandruff and make your hair strong, thick and glossy. Use plain, pure coconut oil for this recipe. If you are doubtful of the quality of your oil then make the oil at home or derive it by the cold pressed method by purchasing coconuts on your own and having the oil extracted. This will give you absolute pure oil that cannot be matched with any other brands that are available in the market. There are many methods given on the net that teach you how to prepare coconut oil on your own. You could choose the one that's convenient for you. Hair oil recipe Ingredients: · 200 ml. coconut oil · 25 gms. dry gooseberry pieces If your hair is rather scanty and you suffer from severe hair fall then you could add the below given ingredients as well to the oil. Soak the fenugreek seeds with the gooseberries overnight and add the castor oil, once the oil has cooled down after being cooked with the gooseberries. · 2 tsp fenugreek seeds/ methi dana (optional) · 1 tbsp castor oil (optional) Method for preparing the oil: Soak the gooseberries overnight in a vessel. The next day, heat the oil along with the gooseberries and bring it to boiling point. Now, lower the flame and let this cook on a slow flame for about 15 minutes. The oil will have turned yellowish, by now. Shut the gas and let this oil cool down naturally. Strain the oil and store it in a glass container. You could even store it without straining for maximum benefits. To use this oil, warm some of it and apply it on your entire scalp and gently massage with your fingertips. For optimum results, leave this at least overnight and wash off with a mild shampoo and warm water, the next day. Or then leave it for a few hours. Do this at least once a week. This oil is a little heavier and greasier than the usual, plain coconut oil because of the infusion of gooseberries, so you will need some more shampoo than usual to wash off your hair squeaky clean. Those who suffer from severe colds should not use this oil as it is slightly cooling. If you suffer from any deficiency of vitamins, proteins etc. then merely using a herbal hair oil cannot cure your hair issues. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9714300

Explaining the Coolsculpting Procedure

With more than 4 million procedures performed around the globe, Coolsculpting has come up as one of the most effective non-invasive technique for fat reduction. This ground-breaking fat-freezing technology allows you to get rid of those extra layers from problem areas like thighs, waist, arms or abdomen. In this article we are going to take a look at what exactly happens during a Coolsculpting procedure. The Process • Once you have made your appointment with a Coolsculpting specialist, the first thing you need to do is sit with your physician and select the areas you want to treat. • After a thorough review of the treatment area, your physician would place a protective gel pad on the skin surface. • Then the Coolsculpting applicator would be used deliver controlled cooling so as to kill the extra fat underneath the surface of your skin. • The fat cells of the treatment area would be completely crystallized before they are eliminated for good. • With time your body would naturally remove the dead fat cells giving you a slimmer and more sculpted appearance. What happens to the fat? The application of controlled cooling targets the fat cells and destroys them without affecting the skin. In the weeks following the treatment the dead fat cells are removed by natural body processes. Downtime This no-downtime fat reduction treatment would allow you to resume your daily activity immediately after the session. During the treatment process you can read a book, take a nap or text your friends since there is no pain involved. Is Coolsculpting right for every overweight individual? The ideal candidates for Coolsculpting are individuals who workout, follow a balanced diet and do not exceed 20 lbs. of their ideal weight. You need to keep in mind that this procedure is not an answer to obesity- it is rather used for treating the fat prone areas of the body like flabby arms, fat thighs, back rolls or love handles. How many sessions do I need? The number of sessions you'd require would depend on which areas you want to treat. If you are just looking forward to reducing your flabby arms then just one or two session is enough. On the other hand if you want to treat a number of problem areas then you need to go for consecutive sessions. In some clinics where there are multiple Coolsculpting systems, you can treat more than one body area at the same time. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9715827

3 Simple Ways to Do Blackhead Clearing At Home

A blackhead is a small spot on the face commonly called pores. They are pimples without the skin cover on them. The oil and dirt oxidizes and turns black because there is no skin cover. Most of the blackheads are not visible unless you press closer to your mirror. This means that a person standing close to you can see the blackheads on your face. You have to remove them to save yourself the embarrassment. You can use the cosmetic creams available in the market which guarantees to remove blackheads. If you have a sensitive skin then they can cause side effects also. We advise that you try out some home remedies that will be effective to remove the blackheads and will be safe on your skin. Exfoliate and Microdermabrasion Exfoliating the skin is very easy. The best way to do that is by using milk and nutmeg from your kitchen. For the oily skin, they are most helpful as they help to get rid of the oil. The milk breaks down the older skin cells. When you rinse off you will feel that your skin has become smoother. To get enhanced effects you can use buttermilk in place of the regular one. Honey Pat Down For this one, you have to get a very sticky honey. This makes the process effective. All you have to do is pat honey on the areas of your face where you have the blackheads. As you remove your fingers the sticky honey will pull out the dirt from the pores. The honey will also offer you antibacterial and antioxidant support which would ensure that any remaining would not turn black by oxidizing. You need to continue the process for three minutes before you rinse off your face. Apply Clay Mask To apply this method you have to buy a packet of cosmetic clay. The other key ingredient is water. Instead of plain water, you can add rose water also. But it is not necessary. Make a paste of the clay and water. Apply the mask all over your face or on the areas you have a blackhead. Let the mask dry for a while. To clean the mask, take a fresh cloth and warm water. Wipe off the face by pressing slowly and gently. When you clean out your pores the blackheads will be gone. Try out the simple home remedies that we have mentioned above and get rid of the burden of squeezing and squishing. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9667911

Healthy Winter Skin Tips

As the seasons change and we are faced with dry winter air our skin takes the hardest toll on our bodies. The cold dry air often leaves our skin dry, itchy, irritated and red. Don't panic as there are some tips to follow to help alleviate dry winter skin. I have found that following these tips has helped with my dry winter skin: · Reframe from taking hot showers - when the temperatures drop we are tempted to warm ourselves up by taking a long hot shower. However, the hot water dries out the skin by robbing it of its natural oils. The alternative is to take a shorter shower or bath in lukewarm water. This also applies to washing your hands. Avoid using hot water to wash your hands as it can turn your skin red if the water's too hot. · Select your soap carefully - selecting the wrong soap often worsens dry, itchy skin. Regular bar soaps generally contain irritating ingredients and fragrance. The alternative would be to start using fragrance-free, moisturizing cleansers or gels. Using less soap can also help prevent winter skin problems. · Moisturize often - to maintain healthy skin remember to moisturize after washing. Dry your hands and body by blotting the skin dry, don't rub. Then apply a moisturizer immediately after to seal the water into the skin. Using lotions, cream or ointments are best for warmer, humid climates. Remember to wear waterproof gloves while washing dishes or general household chores then apply hand cream after each washing. · Adjust your facial skin care procedure for the season - choose cream-based cleansers and apply toners and astringents for the winter months. Some astringents contain alcohol which can dry skin out even more. Select products that contain little or no alcohol but be aware that if your skin is oily this approach is not for you. Remember to apply a rich moisturizer on your face at night. · Use sunscreen - even during the winter months it's important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Apply a moisturizing broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher before going outside. This should be applied to all exposed skin. · Examine your wardrobe - although a nice warm sweater sounds good on cold days the fabric can aggravate dry winter skin. By keeping wool and rough clothing from directly touching your skin this can alleviate itchy, irritated, dry skin. Instead, wear soft breathable materials under that favorite sweater. Most importantly is to protect your hands. Wearing gloves or mittens will protect them from the cold and from drying out. · Change your thermostat - when it's chilly out the first thing we do is to crank up the thermostat. Central heat can make the air in your home dry. Setting the thermostat to a comfortable 68°F to 72°F will help maintain healthy winter skin. · Use a humidifier - using a humidifier in your home can add moisture to the dry winter air and will help keep your skin hydrated. Run a humidifier in the room that gets the most time spent in, such as the bedroom. · Drink plenty of water - the most important tip to keep in mind is to drink plenty of water when your skin is very dry. Although supplements such as fish oil and flaxseed oil can help restore the skin's hydration, the best approach is to drink more water. Following some simple tips this season will help aid in getting that healthy winter skin. Keep in mind that only practicing one tip may not achieve the results you are hoping for. Patti Zimmerman, writes articles based on her passion for skin care. At Perfume Aromas, we carry a wide range of skin care products for all skin types. We also provide the best customer service for your online shopping experience. Visit our website today! Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9559223

Common Tips for Healthy and Beautiful Hair

Beautiful hair adds to one's personality, whereas un-cared for and un-kempt hair can visibly mar it. Besides, healthy hairs reflect one's general health too. Below are mentioned some tips for maintaining healthy and beautiful hair: Eat nutritious diet - Experts suggest that correct nutrition is instrumental to healthy hair growth and, conversely, many deficiencies correlate with hair loss. A nutritious diet must include enough of fruits, dark green leafy vegetables, beans, whole grains, carrots, low fat dairy products and nuts besides fatty fish like salmon, eggs and poultry. Consumption of red meat should be kept to minimum. A diet that includes all these things will provide adequate quantities of vitamins, anti-oxidants, trace elements and amino-acids essential to hair health. Have adequate sleep daily - Besides nutritious diet, having enough sleep of 7 to 8 hours daily is essential to hair health. Avoid stress - Stress can have adverse effects on our body. Stress can lead to hair loss as well as reduce their growth rate and make them unhealthy, so use stress management techniques to reduce it. Minimize hair styling products - Use of harsh chemicals in some hair styling products and treatments will only spoil their growth in the long run. So, try your best to minimize their use and instead use herbal products. Use natural products more - Aloe vera is an effective natural remedy to treat dry or damaged hair and adds shine and volume to them. It can be used in the form of gel, which is readily available in the market but be aware that most will contain additives. So, try to use a brand that contains pure aloe vera. Use of a 2:1 mixture of curd and lemon juice is quite effective as hair conditioner. Moreover, it is natural and easily available in every home. To add bounce to hair, use of a 1:1 mixture of warm water and apple cider vinegar on them is very effective. Rinse it thoroughly after 5 minutes to get rid of the apple cider smell. Olive oil is great for conditioning and shine. Honey can also be combined with olive oil to make the results much better. Use them once a week or a fortnight depending on natural oiliness of hair. Keep hair clean and free from oil - Hair wash should be quite frequent, depending on the oiliness of skin and exposure to dirt and dust. It's not good to wash them daily, because it can strip them off natural oils, which are essential for healthy hair growth. So, try to find your own balance. Use correct shampoo and conditioner - Try to use different high quality products for a certain period of time and decide by the process of elimination the product that suits you most. Try to find a good combination of products especially designed for specific hair types. Do not comb wet hair - Combing wet hair can break them. Use of dryer should be kept to minimum as it is likely to weaken them. It is best to let hair dry naturally, especially in the summer time. Treat hair gently - Avoid being harsh when combing, drying or styling hair, because harsh movements can significantly damage the locks. Similarly, using very hot water for washing hair can damage their tips. Therefore, use cold or lukewarm water instead. Give regular massage to hair - Massaging improves blood circulation and stimulates blood flow to hairs. One can use coconut oil or almond oil to massage scalp. Applying lavender oil also promotes their growth. Massage the scalp gently moving it with finger tips in circular movements. Trim hair regularly - Snipping hair more often helps in faster hair growth and removes split ends. Trimming the lower portion of hair every six to eight weeks is always advisable as it ensures that the damage is minimal. And this promotes growth of healthy hair. Avoid using styling tools - The biggest culprits behind damaged hair are hot tools and styling products as they reduce their thickness and sheen making them look dull and dry. Avoid tight hairstyles - Ponytails and similar hairdos look awesome but tight hairstyles cause pressure on the roots and can lead to breakage of hair. So, try different and loose hairstyles. The bottom line - Good and lustrous hair is the crowning glory of one's looks. Our hectic, modern lifestyle, which includes everyday stress and pollution, adversely affects our hair health. Maintaining long and lustrous hair is not a one day task. But, conversely, it requires a proper and dedicated hair care regimen. The above tips for hair care are easy to follow and are bound to give us healthy and beautiful hair. Good and lustrous hair are an asset for one's personality. Our modern, hectic lifestyle does a lot of damage to their health. Therefore, it entails that one should take proper care to keep them healthy and beautiful. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9666735

A Healthy Penis - 6 Simple Tips Keep Your Libido Strong

There are many products that claim to increase libido and keep your penis healthy, however a healthy penis and strong libido are normally a reflection of overall lifestyle. Many men look for miracle cures, when they should be looking at changes in lifestyle. These changes become even more critical as men pass the age of 40. Lets look at 6 simple liefstyle changes that can help you A healthy penis and overall health The human body is a totally integrated organism, it is virtually impossible to have a healthy penis if there are health problems elsewhere. Al healthy penis means, one without erectile dysfunction (ED). ED is not yet perfectly understood, and most studies are inconclusive if the causes are physiological or psychological, or both factors working together. A healthy penis and testosterone levels As men age, it is proved that the level of testosterone in the blood slowly decreases. This is a main cause of libido drop and if libido can effect erections, it is then a cause of ED. Check yourself, and see if any of the following symptoms apply to you. Do you have sleeping problems, hair loss, become tired quickly, gaining weight, depression, become irritable easily, Sweating and flushing without physical activity? So, if your testosterone is dropping, there is no way to have a healthy penis, and you must resort to the new generation of ED drugs (Viagra, Cialis, and so on) which may work, and may not and have unpleasant side effects. Getting an erection with an ED drug does not mean your penis (or you are healthy) Also, if your state of health has deteriorated, you veins and arteries are not open as they were when you were young, so your ED may be caused by a slowdown / breakdown in your circulatory system. A healthy penis 6 rules for increased libido For both levels of testosterone and your general state of health, you can follow the easy rules below. You will be healthier, and it will show with a healthy penis and a more virile you Rules 1, 2 and 3 are MUSTS! 1.If you smoke, stop now. Smoking damages every part of your body, especially the circulatory system, and introduces dangerous chemicals directly into the blood. 2.You need physical exercise, and every day. It is estimated that you need at least 30 minutes of strenuous exercise daily as a minimum. To get testosterone levels up naturally, put yourself on a good weight lifting program. See your doctor first, and then ask a professional trainer to give you a special program suited to your body type, age, and physical condition. The testosterone levels will rise naturally. This is a proven fact. 3.Diet. If you are overweight, your penis will pay the price, along with your heart and every other critical organ. Eat plenty of fruits (in season only), and vegetables, lots of roughage (in the form of cereals), and meat sparingly. Your weight will drop naturally (without a formal diet) and you will notice your libido returning and your ability to satisfy it as well. The next rules are SHOULDS; so keep as much to them as you can. 4.Moderate your alcoholic intake. Do not over-indulge in drinking. Hard liquor sparingly, and wines and beers with great moderation. 5.Find good vitamin and mineral supplements. It should contain most or all of the following: Vitamins A, B, B complex, C, D, and E. From minerals, look for Chromium, Selenium and Zinc. From protein, L-arginine. From enzymes, DHEA. From natural herbs, look for Damania, Dong quai, Ginger, Ginkgo Biloba, Ginseng, Gotu kola, Horny Goat Weed, Hydrangea root, Pygeum, Sarsaparilla, Saw palmetto, and Wild yam. 6.If you are alone, masturbate. You need to ejaculate often, and through masturbation, the chemicals and reactions required for keeping your penis healthy are put to use. Done properly (as in the technique called jelqing) the result is, if nothing more, an improved circulation to the penis, and use of the prostate gland for more than just continence. A healthy penis final words Remember the state of your penis is a good indication of your own state of health. Follow the rules above, and at any age, you will find increased testosterone in the blood, better circulation, relief from many symptoms that may now plague you, and of course, a healthier penis. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/174454

Tips to Keep Yourself Looking Young

Keeping that youthful glow is not so hard to pursue, you just need to be determined. Make the mirror as your best companion on your way reaching to your goal. It is good to see yourself in the mirror once in a while to watch your transformation. So, boost that self-confidence and follow these simple tips to keep yourself looking young. Start losing weight. The better way to look and feel good is to lose weight. If you are overweight,you do not have to lose weight in an instant. Put on your last list taking synthetic slimming pills otherwise you will end up sick and frustrated. And forget going to a liposuction clinic since you have options. You may try taking a walk every morning to begin your journey towards becoming skinny. Walking around the neighborhood can take out the stress. You can stretch out that facial muscles while saying hi to friends and release your happy hormone along the way. You may also join a zumba class. There are many groups who offer zumba activities nowadays. Joining this kind of activity is good for your health. It is fun and never boring. You can make a lot of friends too while dancing. It is a good way to lose the excess fat when you are happy doing it. Aerobics, ballroom dancing or any kind of dance exercise has the same calories burn as jogging. Maintain natural youthful-glowing skin. Never forget to apply moisturizer after washing your face. You need to hydrate your whole body too. Moisturizers like petroleum jelly and baby lotion are not that expensive and it really add softness to your skin thus make you look younger. Natural toner like the apple cider vinegar is good for your skin too because it provides pH balance to your skin. Regular use of this will eliminate dark spots and other skin discoloration. Apple cider vinegar can also reduce pores leaving your skin healthy and young-looking. Protect your skin with sunscreen or sunblock. Even if you are not exposed directly to the sun's rays you need to use sunscreen because as your skin detect heat it create melanin production causing age spots and discolorations. Fair and clear skin add glow to your aura making you look younger. These tips can be very effective if you will add to your beauty routines taking natural food supplements. Buah Merah mix is a best choice to provide your health the natural nutritions you need. It can make you look and feel younger because it is a ready to drink juice with a combination of barley, mangosteen, guyabano, wheat grass, malunggay and red fruits. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9674025

How To Swallow Medicine

What you would not learn from your mother, the world will teach you. However there are some things that neither your mother, the globe or any business school have the curriculum, textbooks or teaching methods to instill. A large number of people continue to struggle on how to swallow their medicine because of this untaught skill. The choking, hopping and shaking behavior that accompanies your average pill swallowing session is evidence that many people would benefit from competent instructions in this skill. Weapons of war Pills come in two varieties: Capsules Tablets A capsule has a highly antisocial shape, because everything else that has that kind of similarity is a bullet and a missile, which is a weapon of war. It has that shape purposely to move smoothly through the air and kill a person, in the case of a weapon of war, or to move smoothly down the gullet and kill a few microbes, in the case of a capsule. The problem is that there is a good possibility of misfiring, especially when the capsule has moved around the mouth in some water before being fired or swallowed. There is nothing like the feeling of a capsule forcing its way down the gullet at an angle. Swallowing a tablet is even worse because tablets are prone to maliciously disintegrating in the mouth, targeting the exact spot of the tongue that is capable of tasting bitterness. That is a bitter pill to swallow. Challenges of administering drugs does not end with the round things. Pharmacies are full of drops for eyes, nose and ears, inhalers, ointments, injections and all sorts of other aids which should have a certificate course to master. Opening your eyelid, and then hope that some of the liquid will find its way in as water always seeps in at the lowest point. For inhalers, I can never figure out whether you have to breath in first or vice versa. Which of us know how to keep nose or ear drops in place when both gravity and anatomy conspire to make sure that the relief never quite hits the spot? Communication issues Before encountering the medicine taking problem, it is likely that you have been to see a doctor. Do you know how to talk to one? I suspect that this is another area where education is deficient. When faced with a medical problem, most human beings seem to revert to one of two types of behavior. There are those from whom extracting any information flows so freely that stopping it is like getting water from an open tap. Others are those from whom irrelevant information flows so freely that stopping it is like trying to seal a leaking pipe with bare hands. Article Source: http://www.streetarticles.com/medicine/how-to-swallow-medicine

All About Beauty

Beauty is not skin deep. It's attitude that separates the beauty from the crowd. "Looking at beauty in the world, is the first step of purifying the mind." The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman is seen in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides. True beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. A woman whose smile is open and whose expression is glad has a kind of beauty no matter what she wears. All women are beautiful, regardless of their looks. You just need to touch their soul with respect and appreciation for their inner beauty and you will be rewarded with joy. The heart is way more important than the package. I love natural beauty, and I think it's your best look, but I think makeup as an artist is so trans-formative. I would never like to endorse a fairness cream. I believe in natural beauty. True beauty can't shine through make-up. Many of us can't even imagine our life without makeup. It sounds strange and even scary for many girls, thanks to media popularization of unrealistic beauty standards. To be beautiful without makeup?! Is it even possible?! For many of us it would be a big nonsense even to go to a supermarket with no makeup on. Media often forces us to believe that a woman with no makeup on can't actually look somewhat attractive or beautiful. If someone wants to live a makeup-free life, or at least to be able to have makeup-free days, then it makes sense to put a little bit more effort into caring about the natural beauty of your face, hair and body. 1) Feel beautiful (even without makeup) Yes, first step to natural, makeup-free beauty is connected with your inner perception of yourself - your self image. If a girl considers herself beautiful and is able to accept herself totally and unconditionally, then the whole world will feel the same about her. Yes, it's that simple! But if you don't feel comfortable and confident about yourself with no makeup on, try to adapt the new 'natural' image gradually. 2) Your skin is your everything! If you decide to lead a makeup-free life, it doesn't mean that you need to completely let go of all skin care products. Many skin problems are actually related to the excessive use of makeup; skin tone becomes uneven because of the reaction of your body on a foundation, concealer or blush. If skin problems persist, get a professional advice of a dermatologist; it's better to treat the problem straight away, than to put it on hold into a waiting box. Some other tips for the beauty of your skin include: use facial masks 2 or 3 times a week (choose masks according to your skin type), and exfoliate your skin regularly (we are not only talking about exfoliating your facial skin, exfoliate your whole body. 3) Healthy eating and water Good food is important not only for the beauty of our skin, but also for the overall health of our body. We are what we eat, therefore healthy and balanced diet should be our faithful, lifelong friend. Make sure you eat fresh fruits and vegetables every day, as well as healthy fats and proteins; these are so important for our beauty. And, of course, our best friend is water! Try to drink about 8 glasses of water a day and also treat yourself with a green or white tea from time to time, because these are rich in antioxidants and will help your skin look fresh and young for a very long time, even without makeup. 4) Smile and love yourself Smile will instantly help you to feel and look pretty, even if you don't have any makeup on! As Audrey Hepburn once said: "The prettiest girl is the happiest one!" Smile every time you look in the mirror, smile to people you see on the street and, in general, let smile be your favorite accessory - you will see how the whole world will start smiling back at you! Love yourself. Accept yourself fully and completely. Love the way you look with or without makeup, because you are truly unique and beautiful! Remember it! 5) What about your hair? If you want to look pretty with no makeup on - it's important to take a good care of your hair and keep your hair color close to natural. Try to keep your hair in great condition by using right hair care products that are suitable for your hair type, and do hair masks and oil treatments regularly. Nothing can be more beautiful than silky and shiny locks! It became our daily ritual to wake up early and put on our "beautiful" makeup mask. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9628179

A Way To Better Health With Acai - What Is Acai?

This most likely was a question for many of us some time ago: What is Acai? Even more interesting, where does it come from? All of this was hardly known to the Western world a decade ago. Even today there are many people who don't know, or haven't any idea about the health benefits discovered in this little berry. Not until scientists stumbled across some natives in the Amazon; natives, who had very little food as we know it but were found in good spirit and health. Among them are hardly any illnesses that exist in most Western societies. The Amazon has long been known as a fertile ground for various plants that thrive in its exotic climate producing some of the best health benefits. Their tribal healers used this fruit to promote health and longevity for hundreds, if not thousands of years. Their warriors consumed it as a source of strength, energy and vitality. Because of these unusual and remarkable health benefits of Acai there have been many studies by modern science since. Having found these unparalleled antioxidant levels and superior nutrient content in a small berry, Acai is now being cited as a highly beneficial addition to a healthy diet exercise regime. What Does It Look Like? Looks can deceive: It is a small berry, round, black-purple in color. Its appearance is similar to a grape, but it has less pulp and only a single large seed. Maybe because of its appearance it has gone unnoticed by the rest of the world for centuries. The big news broke in 2004 as this potent fruit was featured on a number of talk shows such as The NBC's Today's Show and in many other health profiles. A scientist gave detailed information about this incredible fruit and how it developed to the top ten super foods. He announced: "The Acai berry is one of the most nutritious and powerful foods in the world!" With even bigger health benefits as these berries being mixed with other specific fruits plus adding other ingredients to produce one of the best natural health supplements available today. How Popularity About The Acai And Its Health Benefits Started To Grow. The National Academy of Sciences in research has found: The Acai berry is full of nutrients, including beta carotene, fiber, potassium, essential fatty acids, amino acids and phytosterols. All this was confirmed as the Acai fruit underwent the ORAC test. A test, that's been introduced by the food science and nutrition industries in the late nineties to have a standard for measuring antioxidant capabilities of foods and supplements. This test results revealed an average value of - 1027 ORAC. That makes this fruit, Acai, far higher than any common fruits and vegetables. To compare this to other fruits or berries: The next highest berry is the wild Alaskan blueberry, as in comparison the wild black raspberry - 340 ORAC, wild blue berry - 260, - elder berry - 240 and so forth, reducing down the ladder. What Is ORAC? Let's have a closer look at the ORACs which stands for "Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity". There are some twenty-six thousand ORACs in total and the human body requires a minimum of six thousand per day just to stay healthy. In the food market, with many over processed foods and chunk foods consumed, where are we going to get that many ORACs from every day? This points to one of the many reasons why diseases and illnesses are becoming more common in the Western world. There are six classes of free radicals linked to chronic illnesses like heart disease and cancer. This is why many researchers are studying the ancient medicines of the Amazon jungle, having discovered a variety of health-promoting plants and fruits from mother nature, which have long been used by native cultures for its health benefits. Some are so complete in their nutritional content providing a completely balanced diet by themselves. Experts in health agree, by eating well - a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains - a person may reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. The fact is: You can't just take one pill or one food and solve all your problems. More Was Discovered About The Acai Berry As more research continued the more they realized the fascinating science behind the Acai berry because it is a pure food, it is a whole food; it has protein, carbohydrates, and so many other beneficial nutrients. That makes it a great addition to the daily diet and to fulfill some of the ORACs requirements. What was found is, that the Acai berry is power packed with nutritional value, including proteins, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, trace minerals, and has a low glycemic index. Most important though are the levels of phytonutrients it contains. But what makes the Acai berry unique from other fruits, is all of this concentration of immune supporting antioxidants, which are seldom found with this amount in any other fruits or berries. As we live with poor diets, toxic environment, excessive stress, air pollution and chemicals, this is known to create "immune complexes" when attacked by our immune system. Acai nutrients also improve our immune system, thereby minimizing the damage that could occur to cell membranes throughout our body, particularly the cells in our joints. In developing this formula even further by creating a complete dietary supplement as other fruits have been added to the Acai berry, such as wild Alaskan blueberries, pomegranate, blueberry, dark sweet cherry, aloe Vera, grape seed, green tea and many more. This unique selection with its synergistic effect reaches far beyond what any single fruit could accomplish. Such a formula of a conveniently packed gel will have many health benefits, supplying your body with some of the things that are missing in your daily diet. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9661821

Curing Acne By Adopting a Vegan Diet

You've probably heard a lot about the benefits of adopting a vegan diet from countless articles on the internet. Some of these include more energy, weight loss and a lower risk of heart disease and cancer. Apart from these, going vegan will help you discover a whole host of benefits for your skin. By embracing a healthier vegan lifestyle you can get glowing acne-free skin. If you are someone who has struggled with acne, you've probably tried everything- from harsh chemicals, facials, and various skin treatments- to help solve the problem. You may be washing your face regularly, paying for expensive facials and doing everything right, but still have new spots on your face every morning. Impact of your Diet on acne You may not realize that your diet, particularly dairy foods could be the reason behind your constant breakouts. There is a significant link between the foods we ingest and the condition of our skin. Studies have found that there is a link between giving up dairy and improving your skin's health and overall appearance. Milk has an abundance of hormones and can cause insulin spikes. It can also lead to excess sebum oil production and accumulation of dead skin cells which contribute to acne. Breaking certain bad habits can help you get clear skin. A high-fat diet can lead to poor circulation and contribute to acne by clogging pores. Start by cutting down on Junk food and adopting a low-fat diet, and you will soon begin to notice your skin clearing up. Certain carbohydrates can also lead to acne and breakouts.High-glycemic index carbohydrates such as white bread can spike your insulin levels and blood sugar. It is better to opt for low-glycemic carbohydrates like brown rice and whole wheat pasta, which are digested more slowly and keep blood sugar levels steady. High glycemic foods can lead to sharp increases in insulin levels which are known to increase the production of androgen and directly cause acne. Cutting out fats, dairy, and high-glycemic index carbohydrates can have a miraculous effect on your skin. This diet has almost immediate effects and prevents future breakouts. Advantages of Vegan diets A balanced, vegan diet may hold the answer to clear skin. Adopting a plant-based diet has a tremendous impact on health and can help prevent several chronic diseases. Vegans also tend to consume more fruits and vegetables which are high in vitamins, antioxidants, and other nutrients that are essential for skin health. The fiber from produce and whole grains flushes out toxins and gives you a healthy glow. Healthy vegan meals contain vitamin C, which is powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants protect skin from damaging free radicals. They also help prevent wrinkles and age spots, promoting a youthful appearance. Also, seeds and nuts such as walnuts, sunflower seeds, almonds and flax seeds are packed full of Vitamin E. Eating more plants and fiber and reducing your consumption of non-vegan foods leads to a reduced risk of diabetes, hypothyroidism, high blood pressure, heart disease and certain cancers. It can also lead to weight loss and drastically improve the health of your skin. A vegan diet involves cutting out all animal products such as meat, dairy, and eggs. Many of these have been found to carry various strains of pesticides, hormones, and bacteria. Some animal products can also increase inflammation, by increasing insulin levels, which contributes to acne. Also, meats increase the production of acid which increases your body's pH above the ideal level. This excess acid can increase inflammation and lead to more breakouts. A vegan diet is also very low in saturated fat, which is found in abundance in animal products. So increasing your intake of vegan foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and beans and cutting out dairy products and meat can give you healthy skin that glows from within. Conclusion It is important to eat balanced, non-toxic food if you want to cure acne permanently. Eating healthy food on a regular basis will clean out your digestive tract so the toxins will expel themselves naturally instead of going through the skin. If you have been following a vegan lifestyle consistently without seeing results, try giving up wheat and gluten. Many vegan foods contain wheat and gluten which can make your acne worse. Also, certain foods may be labeled as vegan, but this does not mean they are good for you. Check the ingredients carefully for any acne aggravating ingredients. A vegan diet is touted by many as being the healthiest way to eat. Through some trial and error, and by paying attention to the signs your body gives you, acne and breakouts will soon be a distant memory. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9555193

10 Most Fabulous Health Benefits of Pomegranates

Just in case you're hearing about pomegranates for the first time: Pomegranates are the orange-sized fruits with a firm ruby-red outer skin and sweet arils - a red gelatinous flesh containing lots of seeds. Despite the many beliefs, the pomegranate seeds are edible and absolutely healthy. In fact, each part of pomegranate has health benefits - even the skin is used in dietary supplements as it's an excellent source of the polyphenols, including prodelphinidins, catechins, and condensed tannins. The History of Pomegranates Originally grown as decorations, pomegranates are native to a region from modern Iran to the northern part of India and have been cultivated throughout the South Asia, Middle East, and Mediterranean region for thousands of years. Pomegranates are mentioned in the Book of Exodus, Babylonian texts, and the Homeric Hymns, and are believed to have been found in the Garden of Eden. Pomegranates were known in early Bronze Age and a dry pomegranate was found in the tomb of Thoth, one of the Ancient Egyptian deities, making us think that pomegranates were more popular during the ancient times than they are now. The ancient Spanish city of Granada was renamed after pomegranate during the Moorish period but despite all the efforts to introduce the fruit to the different countries, including England, pomegranate kept staying a hidden gem that nobody noticed. Nowadays, Greek and Turkish cultures see the pomegranate seeds as symbols of prosperity and good fortune, and other cultures are still trying to discover this miracle fruit. Pomegranate Nutrition Facts Pomegranates belong to a superfood category, which means they are plentiful in nutrients that can protect every aspect of your health.They're fortified with protein, fiber, omega-6 fatty acids, copper, calcium, selenium, magnesium, iron, zinc, potassium, phosphorus, and vitamins C, K, B6 and E. Pomegranates are also a small source of riboflavin, thiamin, niacin, folate, and choline. Flavonoids found in both pomegranate fruit and its outer skin contribute to a better whole body health. Pomegranates are low in sodium, saturated fat, and cholesterol as well as have a relatively low glycemic index, which means they don't cause a significant spike in blood sugar. 100 grams of fresh pomegranate contains: • 83 calories • 13.7g of sugar • 4.0g of dietary fiber (16% of recommended daily intake) • 18.7g of carbs (6% of RDI) • 1.7g of protein (3% of RDI) • 10.2mg of vitamin C (17% of RDI) • 0.6mg of vitamin E (3% of RDI) • 16.4mcg of vitamin K (21% of RDI) • 0.1mg of vitamin B6 (4% of RDI) • 0.1mg of thiamin (4% of RDI) • 38.0mcg of folate (10% of RDI) • 7.6mg of choline • 0.1mg of riboflavin (3% of RDI) • 236mg of potassium (7% of RDI) • 10mg of calcium (1% of RDI) • 12mg of magnesium (3% of RDI) • 0.4mg of zinc (2% of RDI) • 36mg of phosphorus (4% of RDI) • 0.1mg of manganese (6% of RDI) • 0.3mg of iron (2% of RDI) • 0.2mg of copper (8% of RDI) 10 Best Health Benefits of Pomegranates The science never stays still and it keeps exploring new superfoods day by day. Luckily, many researchers around the world have paid attention to pomegranates and what they have already found surprised even them. It turns out, pomegranates can promote not only better health, but also a longer life. Pomegranate juice, in particular, has been proven to control blood sugar, improve heart health and fight overall body inflammation. Have a look at the 10 best health benefits of pomegranates researchers have found: 1. Promote heart and artery health A large number of studies and experiments have been conducted to explore the heart-healthy benefits of pomegranates. A study done by the Rambam Medical Center, in Israel showed that drinking a pomegranate juice regularly helps to reduce the amount of plaque, lower high blood pressure and prevent inflammation and oxidation. The study was conducted with 10 patients who had been drinking a pomegranate juice for 1 and 3 years. Another study done by the National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, in Iran, that involved 22 diabetic patients, found that a fresh pomegranate juice can help to reduce the cholesterol level. The patients had been drinking the juice for 8 weeks. In another study 13 men aged 39-68 who suffered from high blood pressure drank 5 ounces of pomegranate juice and after 6 hours, their overall high blood pressure was decreased by 7%. Plus, the experiment showed that pomegranate juice consumption improves artery function. The researchers from the Preventive Medicine Research Institute in California conducted a big study that involved the patients with ischemic coronary heart disease. The patients were given 8 ounces of pomegranate juice a day for 3 months. As a result, the blood flow was improved and the blood pressure was decreased. The conclusion is, regular pomegranate juice consumption may better stress-induced myocardial ischemia in people who suffer from heart disease. 2. Fight chronic inflammation Pomegranates have been shown to decrease inflammatory activity in colon cancer and breast cancer cells - that's all thanks to the punicalagins found in the fruit. Pomegranate juice can also help to prevent and treat chronic inflammation, which mostly leads to serious diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer's disease, and cancer. 3. Protect the skin against killer sun-induced damage Pomegranates boast the powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that promote the skin health as well. A study done by the University of Wisconsin, Madison, found that pomegranate fruit can help to protect your skin against harmful sun-induced damage and keep it younger longer due to its anti-aging properties. 4. Lower the arthritis risk There are many various types of arthritis, but most of them have one thing in common - they cause a serious inflammation in the joints that lead to unbearable pain and a number of other dangerous health issues. As I mentioned above, pomegranates have excellent anti-inflammatory properties thus eating them regularly may help treat arthritis and relieve joint pain. The two researches also showed that pomegranates' anti-inflammatory properties can also be beneficial to people with osteoarthritis. 5. Reduce the prostate and breast cancer risks The two most common cancer types that are highly dangerous to men and women. Pomegranates have been proven to contain the compounds that slow down the cancer cell reproduction and even stimulate apoptosis in cancer cells. A 2013 study conducted by the Duke University Medical Center, in Durham,found that giving men who suffered from prostate pomegranate extract tablets before surgery that involved a removal of cancerous tissue from the prostate can reduce the amount of tissue that must be removed. While these are not the end results and more studies are going to be conducted, men can certainly benefit from consuming pomegranates. A number of other studies, and found that pomegranate extract restrains the breast cancer cell reproduction and may kill some of them. Although more experiments are needed in this field, we can confidently say that incorporating pomegranates is worth the candle. 6. Boost brain health Pomegranates are high in the polyphenols, which have potent brain-boosting properties. A team of international researchers from the University of Huddersfield found that pomegranate contains a natural polyphenol compound that can prevent inflammation in certain brain cells, thus help to slow down or prevent Alzheimer's development. Another research involved elderly people with memory complaints, including age-associated ones. They were asked to drink pomegranate juice for 4 weeks. After those 4 weeks, they showed the significantly improved markers of visual and verbal memory. 7. Combat fungal and bacterial infectious Pomegranates have anti-microbial activities that have been reported to kill fungal and bacterial infectious and antifungal properties ( https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20930339 ), making it one of the most effective fruits to consume when trying to fight the harmful body bacteria. Regular pomegranate consumption can also prevent conditions such as denture stomatitis, periodontitis, and gingivitis. 8. Help women giving birth A study conducted by the researchers from the Heidelberg University in Germany revealed that pomegranates contain special substances that strengthen the muscles in the reproductive system,helping pregnant women in labor. Another research from the University of Liverpool found the same benefit of pomegranates, which make them one of the healthiest foods pregnant women should be consuming more. 9. Promote the liver health and fight Hepatitis C Chinese researchers revealed that flavonoids and polyphenols, the powerful antioxidant components found in pomegranates, help to protect the liver from damage. Another study shows that regular pomegranate consumption can significantly reduce the risk of developing Hepatitis C, which leads to a serious damage to the liver, brain, kidneys, bones, joints, blood vessels, and pancreas. 10. Boost sexual health Pomegranates have been considered as a natural aphrodisiac and often associated with abundance and fertility for many centuries. Of course, the researchers couldn't miss this fact and have already conducted a host of experiments that show that pomegranate consumption promotes sexual health. The research done by the Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh that involved 58 individuals aged 21 to 64 showed that pomegranate juice has "Viagra" effect, raising the testosterone levels in both women and men. Another study found that pomegranate juice have positive effects on erectile dysfunction, making it a must-eat fruit for men. 9 Interesting Facts about Pomegranates Pomegranates boast a rich history and many hidden secrets that humans have no idea of, but thanks to researchers, today we can learn more about these fruits of the Bible. I've collected some of the most interesting facts about pomegranates that you probably didn't know about: • The word "pomegranate" derives from the Latin words "pomum" (apple) and "granatus" (seeded), translated like an apple with many seeds. • Pomegranates are in season from September to December (and February in the Northern Hemisphere), with November being the National Pomegranate Month. • Pomegranate trees grow for more than 200 years. • Despite being a fruit, pomegranate belongs to the berry family. • The Pomegranate Festival is annually held in Azerbaijan in October, with tons of pomegranate meals and desserts, and festive music. • Breaking pomegranates on the ground on New Year's Eve and at weddings is a big tradition in Greece. • Although the number of seeds in pomegranates varies, an average pomegranate contains from 203 to 613 seeds, depending on the type of the fruit. • Lots of scholars consider pomegranate a fruit that tempted Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden,rather than an apple like most of us believe. • In Greece, a pomegranate placed near or under the ikonostasi of the house is considered a housewarming gift, as it symbolizes luck, abundance, and fertility. The Possible Side Effects of Pomegranates Unless you take pomegranate supplements, fresh pomegranate seeds are rather safe to eat and there are few cases when a person experiences certain side effects. The evidences of the possible side effects of pomegranates are: • Some people experience sensitivity to pomegranate juice and seeds, including swelling,itching, difficulty breathing, or/and runny nose. • The root of pomegranate contains a large amount of poison and must never be eaten, otherwise, it can lead to death. • Pregnant and breastfeeding women must be extra careful while including pomegranate in their meal plans. • Since pomegranate juice has the ability to reduce the blood pressure level, people suffering from low blood pressure should limit their pomegranate consumption. • People suffering from plant allergies are more likely to develop an allergic reaction to pomegranates. • Pomegranates shouldn't be eaten at least 2 weeks before and after surgery due to their abilities to reduce blood pressure. When incorporating pomegranate into your diet plan, remember about moderation and consult your doctor before taking any pomegranate supplements in order to avoid any possible side effects. Are Pomegranate Supplements Recommended? When you have no opportunity to buy fresh pomegranates, the pomegranate supplements may come in handy. Like any other type of supplements, pomegranate supplements do have the side effects, which is why it's critical to consult your doctor first. Pomegranate supplements are available in most health food stores as loose powder, capsules, and pills. Pregnant and breastfeeding women shouldn't take the supplements that contain pomegranate extract. If you take any blood-thinning medicines, blood pressure medications, and medications that reduce cholesterol, you shouldn't take the pomegranate supplements, no matter how "organic" they are. When taken correctly, pomegranate supplements can help to improve your heart health, reduce your cancer risk, fight inflammation, and increase your energy levels. 2 Super Healthy and Simple Pomegranate Recipes There are many ways to consume pomegranates, but if you're looking for something quick, easy and healthy, give these 2 recipes a try. You won't regret you did. Festive Pomegranate Quinoa Salad Ingredients: 1/3 cup pomegranate seeds 1 cup sprouted quinoa 2 cups water 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 cucumber, chopped ½ red onion, finely chopped 1 avocado, chopped 2 cups baby spinach, chopped 1 tbsp olive oil 1 lemon, juiced light herbed feta, optional salt and pepper to taste Directions: Add the quinoa and water to a saucepan and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer until the liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Let it cool. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, cucumber, avocado, onion, red bell pepper and pomegranate seeds. Add the quinoa and feta and fold to mix. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and serve. Super Tasty Pomegranate-Packed Parfait Ingredients: 1 cup plain plant or Greek yogurt 4 cinnamon graham cracker, crumbled ½ cup sweetened almond milk 1 cup pomegranate seeds Directions: Place the half graham cracker crumbs in a glass jar. In a small bowl, whisk the milk and yogurt and add to the jar. Layer another half graham cracker crumbs and top with the pomegranate seeds. You can also add nuts and oats, if you're making the parfait for breakfast. Pomegranates are unfairly underappreciated these days, yet more and more studies have already been conducted to let people know about this amazing super fruit. Although pomegranates are available all year round, I recommend consuming them during the winter season when they're a lot tastier, therefore, healthier. Feel free to share your favorite pomegranate recipes with us in the comments section. Our purpose is to reach out to as many people as possible. We want to spread happiness, useful information, health benefits, tips, product reviews. Anything that can help remind our visitors to appreciate the little things. We are willing to do all even if it means investing a lot of our own time and money. This generation and our world today is filled with tremendous opportunities. However, I am sure both you and I have encountered people who just don't seem to appreciate anything regardless of how much they have. On the other hand, I am sure we have also seen people who are a handicap or who seem to have nothing much going on in their life in a big exciting way, yet these people are so much happier. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9595008