Friday, 31 May 2013

Vitamins and Nutrition for Hair Loss Prevention

There are specific vitamins for hair loss you could take to present you wholesome hair. These vitamins for thinning hair often work nicely as long as they’re taken in moderation. Together with vitamins one
must remember that it is usually vital to eat a balanced weight-reduction plan and to get plenty of rest. The better care you’re taking of your self, the higher that your total well being and well-being will be. Taking nutritional vitamins for hair loss prevention is a sensible choice.

The B Nutritional vitamins will help with thinning hair as a result of they contain the next: Folic acid, Biotin, Magnesium, Sulfur, Zinc, and Inositol. In lab exams these vitamins have been discovered to control the thinning and thickening of hair in laboratory animals. For instance, when rats have been fed a weight loss program poor in magnesium, they lost their hair in bunches.

The situation was even more critical with some other B-vitamins. When rats were fed a food regimen low in biotin or inositol, they turned hairless! This nutrient-poor situation was found to be reversible. When the rats have been fed a weight loss plan that was wealthy in B nutritional vitamins, it resulted within the complete restoration of hair.

Vitamin A has long been identified to increase hair growth. It is vital to not over-use this vitamin because it could actually really result in thinning hair whether it is abused.

Fatty acids are additionally essential to wholesome hair. While they aren’t exactly a vitamin, we lump them within the nutritional vitamins for hair loss class as a result of they promote hair growth. They may even hold your hair from changing into dry and brittle. It is smart to include them in your diet.

Correct nutrition is essential in preventing balding. It’s also essential to regularly wash your hair. Some shampoos and conditioners comprise nutritional vitamins in them and this generally is a massive help also. You can too use a sizzling oil remedy to assist the condition of your hair.

Thursday, 30 May 2013

Yoga to Fight Depression and Anxiety

Yoga can be your gateway for your inner soul and effectively heal and rejuvenate it. Yoga is really a unique discipline which has been practiced in India since ancient periods.

It can't be regarded as a simple form of workout as it has a spiritual aspect too. Yoga not just makes way for a healthy body but a proper mind too. Read on to discover how yoga can help you combat depression and anxiety.

1. Breathing Exercises
Yoga includes a wide range of breathing exercises which combine body positions in addition to meditation. Padmasana or Lotus pose is among the practices in yoga which may be very beneficial to people suffering from depression. This asana involves relaxing in a cross-legged position with your hands sitting on the knees and your palms facing upward. Begin with meditating by closing your vision and concentrating on your breath. Breathe deeply and slowly and try to maintain a regular rhythm of breathing. Your chest should rise and stomach should compress whenever you breathe in and the opposite when you breathe out.

2. Sarvangasana
This asana is fantastic for regulating the thyroid gland which can help to reduce anxiety as well as anxiety. You can start by lying flat lying on your back and slowly your knees closer and to your chest. Then straighten out legs in upward direction so you feel pressure on your chin and chest. Then inside a fluid motion, raise your hips started while exhaling. You can support your hips with your hands. Your body should be vertical and straight as well as your chin should dip into your chest. Hold it for as long as you can and focus in your breathing. After completing the asana, restore your body to a lying position.

3. Bhujangasana
Also referred to as the cobra pose, this asana can relieve you against stress by regulating your thyroid and para-thyroid glands. Lie in your belly and keep your arms right beside the body. Now, with your arms before you and palms on the floor, arch your back and raise your torso. Avoid lifting your pelvis then apply straight out in front. Hold it for a few seconds and then relax the body back into a resting position. Continue doing this asana for a few minutes for as long as you're comfortable.

4. Balasana
This is a simple resting position which may be practiced almost any time when you're feeling stressed and even between asanas. Take a seat on your knees so that your hips touch your ankles. Then gently lean forward and continue until your forehead is sitting on the floor. Your arms should lie right beside your body with your palms facing upwards. Hold it as long as you are comfortable and focus in your breathing while doing so.

5. Viparita Karani
This really is one of the asanas which can be executed simply with the aid of a wall. Fairly good at dealing with depression, this yoga position enhances blood circulation to the brain. You can start simply by laying flat near a wall. Lift up your legs so that they are at the right angle to the body. You are able to take the help of the wall to aid your legs and with practice you may also do this asana without the help of a wall. Attempt to lift up your lower back and hold it for as long as you are comfortable.

6. Salabhasana
Also referred to as the Locust pose, this yoga posture can assist you to counter anxiety as well as lower back pain and digestion problems. Beginners may need a little bit of practice to perfect this pose because this position requires your body to become flexible. Lie flat in your stomach with your hands sitting on your sides. Lift up your chest and legs, so your body is in a curved position just like a bow. Raise your head so you are looking right ahead. The body weight should not be on your arms plus they should also be straight and suspended from your sides.

7. Shirshasana
This is an advanced yoga pose and just recommended once you are well-versed with yoga and also have adequate strength and flexibility within your body. Headstand, as this pose is also known, includes a relaxing and calming impact on your body and can help you to channel your time effectively. You can take the assistance of a wall for support, but it's best to execute this pose with no support. Place your head firmly on the mat with your hands wrapped around it. Begin by lifting your knees off the floor and extend them high, so your body is inverted and vertical.

Tuesday, 28 May 2013

Recipes Make Dry Skin Become Smooth

Dry skin is usually very sensitive and in the winter, skin tends to be getting worse and so it requires careful attention.

1. Use moisturizer properly
The best solution to take care of dry skin is to avoid using commercial creams and lotions that contain mineral oil types and products
other oils.

Cream and other skin care products with natural hypoallergenic ingredients will be best.

Every morning, after cleansing, pat the pure coconut oil, cocoa oil or pure shea oil over the entire body. They contain nutrients and products such as essential oils, skin-friendly vitamins such as vitamin A, C, D, E and protein.

Natural creams and lotions that will bring maximum benefit for dry-skin help immediately, penetrates and protects the skin from aging.

2.Avoid tap water
If skin is dry, do not wash under running water because tap water often contains fluoride and a number of other problems. Instead, use cold mineral water or ice cubes or it is better to wash your face with lotion, toner or cleanser and non-alcoholic beverages, made ​​from natural ingredients.

We will cleanse dry skin without causing irritation, while helping moisture balance. Toner and milk helps remove dirt and cosmetics, clean and open the pores, dry skin becomes clean, soft and moist.

3. Use soap barley extracts
If your skin is dry and itchy easy, try to reduce the time for the shower – some dermatologists even suggest should spend no more than 3 minutes contact with water.

Use a little soap, caustic soda and not abuse – just use soap 1 time / day. Soap Cake usually not recommended for dry skin. Instead, 1 times / week using soap barley extract, which clean soft skin without causing irritation.

After the bath, do not use a towel to wipe the skin. Instead towel pat the skin. Use moisturizer applied to the skin when the skin is still moist, and pay attention to your feet, dry skin which most.

4. Add the vegetable oil in the diet
If the whole body or scalp skin becomes dry, itchy, it is best to avoid eating choices.

Give skin layer shea oil or coconut oil several times a day to prevent dehydration and irritation. Dry skin also nearly eczema and other uncomfortable skin diseases.

Another positive is the addition of vegetable oil, eggs, coconut oil, and deep-water fish in the diet.

5. Use a humidifier
In the cold and dry winter months, should invest in one humidifier and put it in the bedroom or the area where you spend a lot of time. Additional humidity will help to improve the skin immediately.

Things That Could make Your Seasonal Allergies Worse

The winter was warm and spring sprung early this year – leaving many of us allergy sufferers suffering early. We’re experiencing itchy, watery eyes, congested sinuses and misery up to a month
earlier than usual and allergy symptoms only seem to worsen as the temperature increases and lovely flowers, luscious grass, and shade trees bloom early.

Spring is just around the corner, and that means sprouting flowers and blooming trees. If you're one of the millions of people who have seasonal allergies, it also means sneezing, congestion, runny nose and other bothersome symptoms. Seasonal allergies — also called hay fever and allergic rhinitis — can make you miserable. But you don’t have to settle for a miserable allergy season. Try these simple strategies to help reduce the likelihood of suffering from the symptoms related to seasonal allergies.

What not to do if you have seasonal allergies:

1. Eat certain fruits and vegetables - While this rarely makes a "what not to do" list, if you suffer from seasonal allergies, you may also suffer from pollen food allergy syndrome, "a cross-reaction between the similar proteins in certain types of fruits, vegetables (and some nuts) and the allergy-causing pollen," noted the statement. For instance, if you are allergic to birch or alder trees, you might react to celery, apples, or cherries. Grass allergies? Then tomatoes, potatoes, or peaches may bother you. Talk to your allergist.

2. Use the wrong air filter - Studies show inexpensive air conditioning filters and ionic electrostatic room cleaners aren't helpful, and that the ions released in the latter can be irritants. Look to whole-house filtration systems but change the filters regularly.

3. Open your windows - To keep pollen from drifting inside your house and settling into carpet and furniture, keep your windows shut during allergy season. Also, keep your car windows closed, since pollen can settle into car upholstery as well.

4. Procrastinate - If you have a history of seasonal allergies, get a jumpstart on the condition and begin taking your medications before the season gets underway.

5. Self-medicate - Rather than trying to resolve the problem yourself, talk to an allergist, who can help you determine what is triggering your symptoms and suggest the proper treatment plan.

Monday, 27 May 2013

Balance Diet for Women

Women today are achievers in many fields. Hence,  the dietary needs of women are also changing. In their busy lives of fulfilling all the roles in their life and the needs of the family, women often give least priority to nutrition.

This brings about serious health hazards in the mid and old age. A balanced and nutritious diet is essential for women as they have to go through child birth and menopause which are periods in life of hormonal upheavals and changing body functions.

Plan your diet to suit your lifestyle, health concerns and dietary preferences and to include the following nutrient prerequisites.

It is meant to boost your immune system to keep the diseases at bay.

Healthy Diet for Women

Fiber Intake
Women over 50 are recommended to have 21 grams of fiber a day and women below 50 are recommended to have 25 grams of it a day. Fiber is responsible for the slow absorption of glucose, which keeps the sugar levels in the bloodstream at normal. Fiber makes you feel full early, so incorporating it in your dietary intake will prevent overeating.

Vital Vitamins
Vitamins are essential for the body, to avoid related deficiencies. The recommended vitamin intake for women is as follows; 700 mcg a day of vitamin A, 10 mcg a day of vitamin D for women above 50 and 5 mcg a day for women below 50, 15 mg a day of vitamin E and 75 mg a day of vitamin C. Fresh fruits and vegetables are abundant in vitamins, which is why they must be a part of the daily diet. Vitamins are a very crucial part of healthy diet for pregnant women.

Iron Feast
Women lose a lot of blood during the menstrual cycle every month. If the iron intake is low, this can lead to anemia and other iron related disorders. Thus women in particular, must be cautious about their iron intake.

Bone Corrector
Women are at a high risk of developing osteoporosis. To prevent this condition, calcium intake of 1,000 milligrams a day is mandatory. For women in the post-menopausal period, daily calcium intake should be 1,500 milligrams. Thus, having calcium rich foods like yogurt, skimmed milk and cheese will go along way if keeping your bones strong.

Eating Patterns
You may have a healthy meal, but what's the point if it is being eaten at the right time? Often women skip meals owing to their busy schedule. This leads to binge eating and unnecessary consumption of saturated fats, high cholesterol food items and all the junk food. Healthy diet for women should have 5 small meals a day to maintain good health.

Balanced Dieting
Young girls are often in a frenzy to mimic unrealistic images. This makes them follow illogical diet plans and ideas. They should avoid junk food as far as possible and to eat healthy meals. Stick to a balanced diet chart that suits your need and not your preposterous dream image. Starving leads to malnutrition and begins to affect other parts of your body like hair, skin and the functions of the organs. Thus, knowing your food before you eat it, is more important than following a diet plan blindly.

Friday, 24 May 2013

Healthy Chai: Simple Ingredients, Major Benefits


Autumn is just around the corner, and there’s no better method to prepare the body for the stop by temperature than to boost the defense mechanisms with a soothing, warming Chai. Not referring to the
sugar-enhanced version made by cafes. Introducing you to the ingredients and advantages of real Chai: the Chai that really does promote therapeutic healing on all levels.

Unlike coffee, Chai has numerous inherently beneficial properties. According to Ayurvedic philosophy and medicine, Chai spices are thought to be ‘Sattvic:’ calming, vitalizing and mentally clarifying, the right antidote to the stresses of contemporary life.

Benefits of Spices in Chai
Ginger-used to treat a number of ailments. Researchers all over the world are finding that ginger works wonders. Take a look at a few of the many ailments that it may be used to treat:

-Morning sickness
-Motion sickness
-Heartburn
-Helps within the reduction of pain and inflammation (a natural painkiller)
-Migraine relief
-Menstrual cramp relief

Cinnamon-not only will it taste good, but it enables you to feel good too. Here are a few of their beneficial properties:
-Regulates blood sugar levels
-Helps reduce Cholestrerol levels levels
-Contains natural anti-infectious compounds
-Reduces pain associated with arthritis

Cloves - have a therapeutic role within the following conditions:
-Food poisoning
-Athlete’s foot
-Skin disorders for example acne
-Symptoms of flu, bronchitis, sinus conditions, coughs and asthma
-Gum and tooth disorders

Cardamom Known in India as ‘Choti elaichi,’ cardamom is recognized as an extremely useful medicine.
-Improves digestion
-Helps reduce stomach cramps
-Eases struggling with flatulence and gas
-Cleanses your body
-Improves circulation to the lungs; may treat asthma and bronchitis
-Stimulates appetite; may relieve stomach acidity

Black pepper-a spice you might not think of as having a great deal of healing properties, but here are just a few.
-Improves digestion
-Helps decrease intestinal gas
-Prevents heartburn and constipation
-Anti-bacterial agent
-Rich in anti-oxidants; contains high amounts of vitamin A and C
-Assists in managing blood pressure and heart rate

Black Tea-all to often, black teas are compared with the negative facets of coffee. Below are some of the positive causes of drinking black tea.
-Abundant in anti-oxidants for example flavonoids, demonstrated to prevent the oxidation of Cholestrerol levels
-Contains caffeine and the amino acid, L-Theanine, which increases mental concentration and focus
-Oral health-polyphenols and tannin perform as antibiotics, preventing bacteria that triggers tooth decay and bad breath
-Contains abundance of tannins, which fight viruses and influenza, dysentery and hepatitis

Steps to make Chai:
Ingredients:
10 handfuls of filtered water
8 slices of fresh ginger herb finely diced
12 cloves
16 green cardamom pods, cracked
16 black peppercorns
2 cinnamon sticks
4 black tea teabags (black teas are normal tea bags or loose tea)
1 double number of milk/soya milk (optional)
Add honey to taste (optional)

Thursday, 23 May 2013

Healthy Pregnancy Tips – Stay fit, Stay healthy


Every women deserves healthy pregnancy. To stay fit, healthy and energetic during and after pregnancy add exercise in your daily routine. We at health cater would like to suggest some of the basic exercise to help you
to keep yourself healthy in your crucial time.

3 steps towards a healthy pregnancy…………………………

Meditation
Meditation is a very soothing and subtle way of getting yourself out of stress, explore your inner self; establish that connection with your child that is impossible to explain it brings with it an incredible awareness which works at a very subtle level. It creates a phenomenal understanding of you and you alone. It puts you in tune with your baby.

Meditation can help to resolve the deepest of neuroses, fears and conflicts which are a major cause for stress and ill-health.

Mantra Japa meditation has a positive effect on your senses. A certain sound is repeated a number of times to have a remarkably soothing and subtle impact on your consciousness.

Mantra literally means that which liberates the mind. Ancient yogis discovered certain ways of developing and controlling the mind by using sounds, both aloud as well as mental.

Walking
Planning a walk with your baby into your day is a great way to get out of the house and get on the road.

Moms who walk with dad and baby find it a time to connect, to build family, to unwind from a day at home or at work.

A walking/jogging stroller should be high on your baby shower wish list. You will need to exercise regularly when the baby arrives to get back into condition.

Deep seat and a seat belt.
Locking brake to use whenever you put the child into or take the child out of the stroller.
Safety wrist strap to keep the stroller from rolling away from you.
Check the stroller and a sunshade is essential to protecting the baby’s skin from sunburn.
To lose the weight and build fitness, you can now gear back up to walk at your target heart rate for either weight loss or for conditioning. Pushing the stroller can help raise your heart rate at lower speeds. However, you may not be able to achieve high enough walking speeds if you are already in good condition.

By walking with your baby, you are instilling regular exercise habits in your child from his/her first memories. This is a gift every mom should give their child. Do not take the stroller on gravel or rough paths, the vibration and bumping is not good for either the child or for your wrists, arms, and shoulders when pushing the stroller. Stick to sidewalks and asphalt.

Swimming
Swimming is considered safe in pregnancy. It can be the perfect combination of aerobics and relaxation.

The only reasons that swimming would not be an acceptable exercise are:

If your practitioner told you not to exercise.

If your water had broken.

It should be noted that diving from the high dive is generally not advised.

Swimming is enjoyed by many pregnant women, most notably for the feeling of weightlessness in the water. This is particularly true in the third trimester. This can also make aerobic exercise safer than on dry land because the water provides more cushion for your joints.

After you’ve done your work out, consider spending an extra few minutes working on your relaxation. Try floating on your back and just clearing your mind. Imagine your baby floating in his or her own swimming pool.

The hardest part can be finding a bathing suit. While maternity swim suits are easier to find, many women still worry about being in one while pregnant.

Tuesday, 21 May 2013

Specially Beauty Tips For Dark Skin

Beauty tips for dark skin given here are all natural and homemade. Dark skin tones are very attractive and these look very sexy if their makeover is done well and with style so that they look hot in even dark skin
tones. Few years back there was a point of view of every one that neautral and nude colors are best for dark skin tones when it comes to beauty tips, but with the passage of time, beauty tips and trends have completely transformed and the dark skin tones look really sexy. Few years back it was also hard to find the dark skin tone care products but they these can be found every where. Manufacturers are even making cosmetics that can match the skin tones of women of color.

Beauty tips of dark skin 
  • You can use cocoa butter for dark skin tone. Cocoa butter is a natural moisturizer. It reduces the appearance of stretch marks and hyper pigmentation and also smooths the rough elbows and knees. Use the coca butter two times in a day to have best results. Pure Cocoa butter can be found at the health food and organic stores and you can also get products that are formulated with cocoa butter.
  • Exfoliate your skin to reveal a layer of fresh and smooth skin. Take few tablespoons of coarse sea salt in a bowl and add orange juice to make a paste. Apply to the skin by rubbing gently in circular motion. After that rinse with cold water so that the pores tighten up. Moisturize with cocoa butter to complete this facial.
  • You can also use an orange mask for the dark skin. Take some oranges and peels them off. Grind the peels of oranges to make a paste. Mix it with the homemade yogurt. After that apply this paste on hands and on face. Leave this for 20 to 30 minutes and wash with water. Apply this regularly and this will help to remove the tan.
  • Potato is a wonderful bleaching agent. Apply the potato paste on skin and leave it for at least half an hour. After that wash with water. This mask will help you to lighten the skin tone.
  • For a glowing skin keep your body hydrated. Not only water keeps the body hydrated you can also take other fluids like juices of different fruits.
  • Sugar can be used for exfoliation of the skin. Mix several teaspoons of sugar with water in order to make a paste. Apply this on wet skin and leave for several minutes. After that rinse with cold water. At the and apply cocoa butter as a moisturizer and get a natural swish skin.
  • For smooth and admirable skin you can also use honey moisturizer. Take equal amounts of honey and plain food and mix them together in a bowl. Apply it on skin and then rinse with water after five to ten minutes.


Monday, 20 May 2013

How to Clean Pores on the Face


A pang of envy grips you whenever you see a beautiful, blemish-free face pass by. You wonder how that came to be and you question why you don't have that. Let me tell you then that there are very few people who are blessed with naturally beautiful, great looking skin that is devoid of any skin problems. Most others will have experienced some skin problem at some point of time in their lives and a majority will be dealing with niggling skin problems every single day. Even though the problems might have long gone, there is still a need to take proper care of one's skin in order to keep it free of any problems. Following a good skin skin problem-free.
routine is the answer to great skin health and many believe that cleaning one's pores forms the base of the same. This is because the pores can trap dirt and oil and thereby lead to a host of skin problems like acne and blackheads. Deep cleansing pores needs to be undertaken; and in the following article, we will concentrate on how to deep clean your pores to usher in great

1. Fill a pot with water.
2. Place the pot on a stove and turn it to high heat.
Add a handful of herbs such as rosemary, lavender or peppermint.
4. Once the water starts boiling, turn off the heat.
5. Let the water cool down for a few minutes so you don't burn your skin.
6. Drape a towel over your head, and then position your face over the steam.
7. Steam your face for about 15 minutes.
8. Rinse off your face with lukewarm water.
9. Repeat this steam treatment twice a week.

Toning
10. Apply tea tree oil or apple-cider vinegar to a cotton ball.
11. Sweep the wet cotton ball over your nose and other areas of your face affected by clogged pores.
12. Repeat this treatment every day.

Saturday, 18 May 2013

Post Workout Skin Care Tips

According to experts, working out will oxygenate your skin and give it that attractive glow, but it also stresses your skin. This makes it imperative that you try and look after post workout skin well to protect it and also to make the most of your workout.

Why sport is a natural elixir for skin
You’ve probably noticed the natural glow that your skin gets after a workout if you are an active person yourself. Or you may have noticed this with others who work out. This happens because the blood circulation improves and more oxygenated blood reaches the skin. This is of course good for the skin.

However the sweat could cause clogged pores and lead to breakouts if not properly cleansed. Also there is the damage that chlorine, grease and others may cause to your skin. Then there is the fact that a lot of salt and minerals as well as natural skin oils are lost. All this can irritate the skin and cause it stress. So a good post workout skin care routine assumes significance here.

Skin care tips
It is advisable to have a shower with warm water and a mild cleanser after a workout. The pH value of the cleanser should be about 5.5 so as to prevent drying out of the skin.

An aloe vera gel is recommended because of its light natural properties. It helps moisturize and also acts as an effective after sun treatment.

Moisturizers that you use should have a light texture to prevent pores being clogged to prevent that unpleasant feeling produced by heavy, fatty skin care products.

If you swim, moisturize your skin before you get into the water to help put up a protective barrier against the chlorine as well as the moisture loss from the skin.

If you have to wear makeup during your workout, use a light matte or powder foundation and waterproof mascara to avoid running and blotching.

Other skin care tips for active people
Don’t forget to hydrate your skin from the inside out. Drink plenty of water before, during and after your workout.

If you have oily skin, think about using an oil control serum to prevent that oily look.

Another tip for healthy skin is to use a clean face towel each time while working out. This helps you mop up bothersome sweat. And ensuring that you use a clean towel each time prevents old bacteria and dead skin transferring on to your skin.

Thursday, 16 May 2013

Beauty Fitness Spa Massage

When everything seems to be too monotonous and exasperating, your body and mind need to be rejuvenated. To consider a break from the drudgery of the mechanical lives, many people find spa parlors like a 'safe haven', where they could be pampered from top to bottom. Both men and women in the urban areas are actually opting for beauty treatments almost every other week or month. This will make it quite evident that beauty spa treatment, ensuring both beauty and fitness, is really a hot trend in the fitness industry. Feel the following lines to know much more about spa beauty fitness.

Spa Beauty Fitness
Cities across many countries have become a hub of spa massage parlors. To be able to cater to the specific needs from the clients, many beauty parlors are picking out exclusive packages, which include spa massage a properly. Such spa massages generally contain manicure, pedicure, scalp massage, foot massage, aromatherapy massage, facial cleansing, deep tissue massage, hair cream bath and hand massage. The therapy concentrates on stretching the muscles and revitalizing energy. The strain relieving massage therapies promise to supply total relaxation for the body and increase blood flow.

Most of the spa massages focus on replenishing skin and repairing skin damages. You may also go for spa treatment, which try to stimulate lymphatic system and give instant respite from strains and cramps. The treatments assist in reducing scar and stretchmarks as well. You may opt for spa massages, if you wish to reduce post-surgery swelling. It is a perfect method to relax the tired and injured muscles. Beauty spa massages often act as natural pain killers, because they assist in releasing endorphins-amino acids. The treatment is the greatest bet for people suffering from headache and migraine.

To obtain the maximum benefit of the essential oils along with other beauty products used in beauty spa massages, you need to go for the treatment on a regular basis. You might visit a spa parlor monthly. Make sure that the spa parlor that you simply visit is set up in a hygienic atmosphere. It is because an unhygienic atmosphere might worsen your wellbeing problems can lead to various types of skin diseases. Additionally, the location should be peaceful, since the ultimate aim is to relax the body and mind. It is suggested to not go for a spa massage, when you're suffering from infections (such as cold and flu) or fever, since you won't be able to enjoy the full advantage of the treatment. Pregnant women should consult a health care provider before opting for spa massages.

Wednesday, 15 May 2013

Delicious Desserts for Losing Weight


There are plenty of pitfalls when it comes to dieting – the first being that it isn't any fun! Plus there are more restrictions than there are freedoms, which often means dessert is left out of the equation. But as the old adage says, "There is always room for dessert!" You might not want to blow your sugar intake for the day with a blueberry pie or ice cream cake; however, making a quick and nutritious dessert for after dinner is perfectly fine. Using plenty of fresh ingredients and practicing portion control helps make the best out of a limited situation.

Now that we've covered how it's sometimes alright to indulge in desserts, here are some healthy, delicious desserts that you can try.

Cherry Almond Delight
There are a ton of vitamins and antioxidants in cherries. Those who eat cherries on a regular basis will benefit from its disease-fighting antioxidants, lowered risk of cancer, and a decrease in inflammatory issues like arthritis. If you're trying to keep your age a secret, you'll be happy to hear that cherries also contain melatonin to slow aging. Almonds have an increased amount of nutrition compared to all other nuts because of the power they pack. Every almond contains vitamin E, calcium, phosphorous, iron, magnesium, copper and zinc, (almond nutritions) which are all better for you than the ingredients found in pie crust! You can pump up the protein by choosing a greek yogurt instead of other yogurts that tend to have more sugar than necessary! Here is what you'll need to make cherry almond delight:

  • Fresh cherries
  • Almonds
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Nutmeg
  • Cinnamon
  • 2-3 Tablespoons sugar or Truvia
  • Coconut oil
  • Vanilla Greek yogurt

Begin by slicing 2 sides of your cherries off and reserving the pits and stems in a small pot; the amount of cherries depends on the number of servings you're preparing. One serving should be about 1/3 of a cup of cherries after they've been pitted.

Next you will set the halved cherry pieces aside and add the Truvia to the pits and stems of your cherries that you placed in the small pot. Truvia isn't as bad as other alternative sweeteners and is also sold in a brown variety. Add about 1/4 cup of water or a few tablespoons if you're making a single serving. Put a few sprinkles of nutmeg and cinnamon into the pot – the amount is up to you so feel free to add a few more sprinkles!

Place the pot on your stove and bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat slightly to allow it to simmer. Stir it occasionally until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of your spoon.

Take 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 1/4 cup of slivered or chopped almonds and mix them together; place the mix in a microwaveable bowl. Put the almonds into the oven for 4-7 mi
nutes (350 degrees), until they're brown.

Once the sauce is nice and thick, spoon out the stems and cores of the cherries, only leaving the sauce. Pour the sauce over the remaining cherry halves and mix together. Grab a small mug, cup, or dessert plate and begin layering the almonds, cherries and yogurt.

Alternatives:
Try using strawberries if you enjoy the taste of them more. They're also nutritious with vitamin C, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory capabilities. You can also use mixed nuts to change the flavor!

Power Foods That Help Detox the Body

Spring time is usually the most popular time for people to consider and make the decision to do a detox program. Most of these brave and committed soldiers are forced to choose between dozens of media popularized detoxes, most of which are expensive, abusive to the colon or too low in calories.

Beneficial detoxes should help the body eliminate and neutralizing toxins from the liver, gallbladder,
kidneys, lungs, lymphatic system and skin, and also help to rebuild damaged tissues through the detoxification process. Because there are so many programs out there, and picking the exact detox program right for your own body and life situation can be overwhelming, below is a list of top detoxing foods that will help in the day to day elimination of accumulated body toxins.

1. Beets
Full of vitamins B3, B6, C and beta-carotene.
Valuable source of iron, magnesium, zinc and calcium — all necessary to promote optimal detoxification and elimination.
Supports good gallbladder and liver functioning (organs that are important for breaking down and removing toxins).
High in fiber and improves digestion while eliminates bodily waste.

2. Lemons
Super alkaline-forming and high in vitamin C.
Stimulates the release of enzymes and helps convert toxins into a water-soluble form that can be easily excreted from the body.
Drinking warm lemon water, first thing in the morning on an empty stomach help to balance out the acidity of foods previously consumed.

3. Grounded Flaxseeds
Great source of fiber that helps to bind and flush toxins from the intestinal tract.
Great source of omega-3 essential fatty acids.

4. Garlic
Wards against vampires.
Powerful antiviral, antiseptic and antibiotic.
Kills pathogenic microbes and can reduce endogenous toxins.

5. Turmeric
Every kitchen should have this super herb, turmeric, stocked.
Curcumin is the active ingredient in the spice turmeric, which gives it its yellow color.
The rate at which your detox pathways function depends on your genes, your age, lifestyle and a good supply of nutrients involved in the detox process.
Curcumin is used a lot in Ayurvedic Medicine to treat liver and digestive disorders.

6. Basil or Sabja Seeds
Aids in digestion
Antispasmotic, and is used in treating colds and the flu.
Due to its carminative effects, it is effective for treating digestive disorders such as stomach cramps, flatulence, constipation, irregular bowel movements and indigestion.

7. Sea Vegetables
Seaweeds and sea kelp are power house antioxidants that help to alkalize the blood and strengthen the digestive tract.
The algin in seaweeds absorb toxins from the digestive tract.
Perhaps one of the healthiest foods on the planet, blue green algae and sea vegetables offer the broadest range of minerals of any food, containing virtually all the minerals found in the ocean — the same minerals that are found in human blood.

8. Alfalfa and Broccoli Sprouts
Highly alkaline forming in the body.
Sprouts are part of the powerhouse brassica family of vegetables.
The broccoli sprouts, in particular, when chewed, release substances that break into sulphorophanes, indole-3-carbinol and D-glucarate, which all have a specific effect on detoxification.
Broccoli sprouts can actually provide more benefit than regular broccoli as they contain 20 times more sulfurophane.

9. Artichokes and Asparagus
Both superfoods have been shown to increase bile production and purify as well as protect the liver.
They also have a mild diuretic effect on the kidneys, ensuring proper removal of toxins once the liver breaks them down.

10. Cabbage and Kale
“Numerous anti-cancer and antioxidant compounds and helps the liver break down excess hormones.
Deep cleans digestive tract and soothes the stomach, which could in part be due to its antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and kale demonstrate powerful detoxification activity, including neutralizing some of the damaging compounds found in cigarette smoke (and second-hand smoke).
They also contain a compound that helps the liver produce adequate amounts of enzymes for detoxification."

11. Avocados
Eat one of these alkaline fruits a day.
Lowers cholesterol and dilates blood vessels while blocking artery-destroying toxicity.
Contains a nutrient called glutathione, which blocks at least 30 different carcinogens while helping the liver detoxify synthetic chemicals.

12. Arugula
A culinary staple in Mediterranean cooking, arugula is a type of cruciferous vegetable (like broccoli, kale, and watercress)
Contains a number of compounds that aid in detoxification, such as sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol.
Packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, vitamin C, magnesium and folate and the phytochemicals lutein and zeaxanthin, which may protect against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

13. Celery and Parsley
Celery has phytochemicals called phthalides, which are responsible for relaxing the muscle tissue in artery walls and increasing blood flow.
Celery is a powerful liver detoxing food and cleaner of the small and large intestinal walls.
Parsley contains vitamin C, chlorophyll, beta-carotene, vitamin K and folate, which are all needed by the body for detox.
Raises glutathione levels and may guard against liver dysfunction due to insulin resistance.

Monday, 13 May 2013

Green Tea Diet For Good Health

Skinny is the current fashion trend related to people, especially women around the world. There has emerged all sorts of weight loss supplements and products, all of which claim to help one lose weight quickly. But even as such, one particular diet that has been found to be very efficient is the green tea diet.

Saving money tea diet has numerous benefits, but perhaps one must begin by understanding how it works in your body. The below facts can help one know more about this wonder diet.

So how exactly does Green tea diet work?
Green tea extract contains polyphenols compound, which is very useful to a person’s health. It has the capability to improve a person’s health through lending its support to antioxidants EGCG in your body. These are same compound that actually work together to help a person shed extra pounds.
A person is guaranteed of weight reduction within the first four weeks of utilizing green tea diet. This is unlike other products offered on the market, some of which promise gradual weight reduction within a shorter period of time, however they instead end up showing the worst results ever expected. Existence of polyphenols in high concentration may disperse fat concentration in your body by oxidizing it.

Polyphenols also provides support for thermogenesis process in your body. Thermogenesis is a term used to describe a procedure associated with the rate at which calories contained in the body are reduced into useful components for in body functions. Continued disposal of un-burnt calories in your body predicts weight gain. And with the current eating routine, many people take unhealthy foods, which lead to build up of calories in your body. It is the work of polyphenols contained in green tea diet to speed in the rate at which the body burns these unwanted fats.

Green diet tea diet performs this by increasing a person’s degree of energy. Higher energy level translates to a boost in the body’s metabolic process, which in turn results in sweating. All these processes result in reduction in weight of the user.

Sunday, 12 May 2013

Is Stomach Flu Contagious?

Not only is stomach flu contagious but can also be the second most common illness in the usa. Although most people recover with no complications, stomach flu could be serious when people do not drink enough fluids to exchange the water content in the body that's lost through vomiting and diarrhea. This is often especially serious in infants, seniors, and people with a weak defense mechanisms.

What Causes Stomach Flu?

The most typical type of viruses causing this stomach disorder are:
Rotavirus: Rotavirus may be the leading cause of gastroenteritis among children which are 3 to 15 months old. They're also responsible for causing diarrhea in youngsters under the age of 5 years. This virus causes the individual being infected by it to need to deal with symptoms like vomiting and watery diarrhea for 3 to eight days. This may sometimes be combined with fever and abdominal pain. Adults in close connection with infected children can also be affected. However, the signs and symptoms are usually milder in adults.

Adenovirus: Affecting children younger than 2 years, this strain from the existing 49 types of adenoviruses causes vomiting and diarrhea.

Norovirus: The noroviruse fit in with the family of caliciviruses which are usually accountable for epidemics of viral gastroenteritis. These virus attacks tend to be more frequent from October to April using the infected people experience vomiting and diarrhea, fatigue, headache, and often muscle ache. These symptoms will also be similar to a condition known as gastritis or burning stomach, that is primarily a food borne condition.

Astrovirus: Infants, young kids, and the elderly are more prone to this virus being most active throughout the winter season which displays symptoms for example vomiting and diarrhea, One to three days from exposure.

Transmission of Stomach Flu
With respect to the type of virus, stomach flu can be quite contagious and spread quickly for every person.

Once a person is exposed to herpes, the symptoms usually appear within 4 to Two days and last for 1 to 2 days. In a few severe cases the duration may include as long as 10 days. Some people may remain contagious till as much as 2 weeks of being infected by norovirus gastroenteritis. Similarly, the contagious period for rotavirus also is a common cause of stomach flu can be 2 days before you start displaying symptoms and as much as 10 days after you recover.

The viruses are generally transmitted by people with unwashed hands or by arriving close contact with infected individuals. Sharing food, drink, eating within the same utensils, or when you eat food or drinking beverages which are contaminated with the virus can result in a stomach infection.

Noroviruses typically spread with other people by contact with stool or vomit of infected people and thru contaminated water or food poisoning. The typical outbreaks are in households, day care settings, schools, nursing homes, restaurants, along with other places where people gather in groups.

Treating Viral Gastroenteritis
Because of the stomach flu being the result of a virus, antibiotics will not work on all. However, due to the dehydration brought on by the vomiting and diarrhea, the very best treatment is to intake plenty of fluid. To provide the body using the appropriate nutrition and to ensure that it stays well hydrated, you can also check out a bland diet of rice, dry toast, applesauce and bananas. Should there be signs of severe dehydration then hospitalization are usually necesary, especially in infants, children, individuals with a lowered immunity and also the elderly. Oral rehydration fluids and solutions are generally advised to replenish the body fluids and electrolytes. The best way to avoid the infection is by maintaining hygiene. Washing both hands before and after eating, before food preparation, and after using the restroom and changing soiled clothing and diapers can help to eliminate the transmission of the virus, and stop the spread of the illness.

Friday, 10 May 2013

Coconut Oil Benefits And Side Effects

Coconut oil is one of the oldest oils that individuals currently use. However, today many people are afraid to consume it simply because they have heard that coconut oil has negative effects.
Coconut oil is a natural oil that's extracted from fresh coconuts. It does not contain trans fats or partially hydrogenated oils. Many Pacific Islanders think that coconut oil is the best fix for the treatment of all diseases

Bad Reputation
Coconut oil is regarded as a saturated fat. 92% of fats in coconut oil are fatty foods (butter contains 66% saturated fats). This is exactly what disturbs lots of people who know that a high consumption of saturated fats increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and other cardiovascular diseases.

Not All Fatty foods Are Bad For Your Health
To date you are able to that not all saturated fats are identical. Earlier they were considered bad, until it had been discovered that unsaturated fats had helped protect the center and increase the level of HDL (good cholesterol).

Fatty foods are usually composed of short chains of essential fatty acids, while tropical coconut oil includes medium-chain fatty acids. Coconut oil is digested much easier than other foods containing fatty foods.

Animal fats mainly contain palmitic and myristic acids, while vegetable fatty foods contain large amounts of lauric and stearic acids. Those acids are thought to be very healthy. Lauric acid has antimicrobial, antiviral and antibacterial effects which kill pathoenic agents and contribute to an increase in good bacteria - that is important for the digestive tract.

Thus, the fatty foods in coconut oil are totally different than the saturated fats in junk food such as, French fries and donuts.

Coconut Oil’s Vitamins and minerals
One tablespoon of coconut oil contains 125 calories and 14 grams of fat, which 13.5 g is saturated fats, 0 g of trans fat and 0.5 g of unsaturated fats. Saturated animal fats contain cholesterol, but vegetable fatty foods do not.

Coconut Oil’s Benefits

  • Strengthens teeth and also the skeletal system: people who consume coconut oil daily, rarely are afflicted by osteoporosis
  • Helps to better the absorption of nutrients and minerals (magnesium and calcium)
  • Helps burn fat
  • Normalizes blood sugar
  • Strengthens the defense mechanisms
  • Is a preventive measure against diseases from the genitourinary system (including the serious disease: prostatitis)
  • Helps you to resist viruses and bacteria that cause diseases for example, hepatitis, influenza, and even HIV
  • Improves cardiovascular and digestive tract
  • Facilitates the flow of psoriasis
  • Normalizes the menstrual period in women
  • Helps in hypoglycemia

Wednesday, 8 May 2013

Uses of Marjoram Herbs

A popular herb in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, marjoram is a perennial herb, botanically known as Origanum majorana. A high level of antioxidants combined with its sweet, pine flavors make this herb an absolute must have in the kitchen. But there are more uses of this herb than just for cooking.

Marjoram is low lying, about 30-70 cm in height with bright green, oval leaves that have a pine like citrusy scent. In summers tiny white, pink or purple flowers are produced. There are basically three types of this herb:
  • Sweet marjoram, botanically known as Origanum majorana
  • Wild marjoram, botanically known as Origanum vulgare
  • Pot marjoram, botanically known as Origanum onites
Marjoram for Cooking
It is mostly the sweet marjoram used for cooking purposes. The leaves can be used fresh or dried, with the fresh as well as the dried having a slightly different concentration of flavor. Except for desserts, its leaves and flowers are used to flavor dishes. It works particularly well with meat and fish foods, as this herb can flavor them without overpowering the meat's taste. They can be added to vegetables while cooking. Fresh aromatic leaves can be added as a garnish to salads, stews, soups and meat stuffing.

Health Benefits of Marjoram
The herb has expectorant and restorative properties. As an excellent expectorant, a steam inhalation with fresh marjoram leaves can help clear the mucus from the lungs and treat a sore throat. Gargling with warm water seeped with fresh leaves can also help speed up healing for thrush and inflamed gums. The use of marjoram tea is a recommended home remedy for bronchitis and sinus.

It aids in digestion by not stimulating the appetite but providing relief from gas, flatulence and abdominal cramps. Being a stimulant it works like a tonic to help one overcome the feeling of tiredness. The leaves and flowers are used to extract essential oils. Being analgesic and antiseptic, its essential oil is used to treat bruises and cuts. The oil is also used in a wide range of skin care products such as skin cream and lotions, body washes and soap bars.

How to Use Marjoram
Fresh leaves can be crushed with hand or chopped and added to a variety of meals. The dried leaves can also be used in the same way. For making herbal tea or for inhalation purposes, seep leaves into hot water. Add a few drops of marjoram essential oil into your cream or body wash.

If you are keen to know how to grow and use marjoram, you can use fresh leaves or home stored ones, it is simple. One can start this herb with seeds, softwood cuttings as well as division of root balls in spring. Prepare soil maintaining the pH between 6.5 and 7.5. The soil should be mixed with organic compost and must be well draining. Grow them either in full sun or in partial shade. With leaves right at hand enjoy all the uses of this beneficial herb.

Tuesday, 7 May 2013

The Use Of Dextrose for Bodybuilding

Dextrose is a type of simple carbohydrate your body uses as a primary source of energy. Dextrose, also known as glucose, can be beneficial during athletic endeavors because it is the form of sugar your body breaks foods down into for fuel. Dextrose is sold in powdered form as a sports nutrition supplement, and it can be beneficial for bodybuilders. Prior to using any dietary supplement, seek the advice of a medical professional.

Calories:
Dextrose is calorie dense, which benefits bodybuilders. Each 80 g serving of dextrose contains 290 calories, or 14.5 percent of the daily suggested intake of 2,000 calories. This amount is more than enough calories to fuel an hour-long weightlifting session, which burns 219 calories. To gain mass and muscle, you need to be in a calorie surplus, which means you need to eat more than your daily activities burn.

Amount of Carbohydrates:
Dextrose is made up entirely of carbohydrates, so an 80 g serving of dextrose provides 74 g carbohydrates. Carbohydrates fuel your body for exercise, so a high-carbohydrate food supplement such as dextrose can help fuel intense workouts. According to nutrition and bodybuilding researcher, carbohydrates are also vital for workout recovery, so you should consume .8 g of carbohydrates for every kg of your body weight following exercise.

Types of Carbohydrates:
All the carbohydrates in dextrose are sugar, which can be beneficial thanks to their fast absorption, but this can also be detrimental for bodybuilding. Dextrose has a high glycemic index rating, and research from the May 2009 issue of "The Journal of Nutrition" indicates that low-glycemic foods can enhance fat burning more than high-glycemic foods. Because bodybuilding success requires a low body fat percentage in addition to a lot of muscle mass, dextrose may not be optimal for preworkout use.

Protein:
Dextrose does not contain any protein, a nutrient vital for bodybuilding. Your body needs protein to build and repair muscle and other tissues, and consuming .4 g of protein immediately following workouts and up to 2 g per kg of body weight each day.

Dietary fat:
Dextrose is devoid of dietary fat, a nutrient required for proper growth and development. Dietary fat is high in calories, so it can be beneficial for bodybuilding, because it can help you reach a calorie surplus. Research from the October 2003 edition of the journal "Gut" indicates that consuming omega-3 fats with protein can improve muscle growth compared to protein alone.

Monday, 6 May 2013

Health Benefits of Gooseberry

The Gooseberry also known as amla or amalaki tree is a small or medium sized deciduous tree. The tree bears pale green flowers, fleshy round fruits that are pale green to yellowish in color. The fruit has a hard seed in the center. Fresh fruit of amla is refrigerant, diuretic and laxative. Green fruit is exceedingly acid. Fruit is also carminative and stomachic. Dried fruit is sour and astringent. The tree is indigenous to India and used in many Middle Eastern and medicines. You are reading this article at: loss of weight – Gooseberry. It contains large amounts of Vitamin C. Even a small single Amla fruit contains Vitamin C equivalent to that present in two oranges.

Diabetes
Gooseberry or Amla stimulate the isolated group of cells that secrete the hormone insulin. Thus it reduces blood sugar in diabetic patient. You can take amla juice with honey as a remedy for diabetes.

Heart disease
Gooseberry strengthens heart muscles. So heart pumps blood flawless throughout the body. Taking ground Amla with cow’s milk can benefit all diseases of the heart.

Infection
Due t o its antibacterial and astringent attributes the Gooseberry protects against infection. It improves body resistance.

Diarrhea
Due to its strong, cooling and laxative properties Gooseberry is useful for remedies for diarrhea and dysentery. It is a great relief for gastric syndrome and hyperchlorhydria (burning sensation in abdomen). You are reading this article at: loss of weight – Gooseberry.

Improving appetite
Consuming Gooseberry powder with butter and honey before meal improves appetite.

Anti aging
Vitamin C is an excellent anti-oxidant and as amla is so rich in Vitamin C, it has strong anti-oxidant properties and helps combat free radicals. Free radicals are unstable ions in the body, responsible for ageing and cell degeneration.

Liver Health
Amla helps strengthen the liver, and rid the body of these toxins. It thus helps purify and clean the blood.

Hair care
Amla is used in many hair tonics. It enriches hair growth and hair pigmentation. It strengthens roots of hair, maintains color and luster. Eating fresh fruit or applying its paste on hair roots improves hair growth and color. Amla oil is very popular in India as it serves as a very good hair growth booster thereby preventing hair loss.

Eye care
Taking Gooseberry juice with honey is good for improving eyesight. It improves nearsightedness and cataract. It reduces intraocular tension.

Uses of Gooseberry

  • It has cooling astringent properties and preparing it as a tea is beneficial for the skin.
  • Use pickles and preserves made from this fruit as a remedy for stimulating appetite.
  • Consume this fruit with neem; you will get rid of pimples of your face. You are reading this article at: loss of weight – Gooseberry.
  • Take one dose of amla juice in morning and one dose in the evening. It relieves burning, brings on urine and removes constipation.
  • Amla oil acts as a wonderful conditioner for the hair. The juice of Amla when applied to the hair effectively controls hair loss.
  • Amla is essential for the formation of muscles of the heart and for the development of our bones, liver and teeth.


Calendula for Skin care

Calendula officinalis (pot marigold) is a plant in the genus Calendula of the family Asteraceae. It is probably native to southern Europe, though its long history of cultivation makes its precise origin unknown, and it may possibly be of garden origin. It is also widely naturalized further north in Europe (north to southern England) and elsewhere in warm temperate regions of the world. It is a short-lived aromatic herbaceous perennial, growing to 80 cm (31 in) tall, with sparsely branched lax or erect stems. The leaves are oblong-lanceolate, 5–17 cm (2–7 in) long, hairy on both sides, and with margins entire or occasionally waved or weakly toothed. The inflorescences are yellow, comprising a thick capitulum or flower head 4–7 cm diameter surrounded by two rows of hairy bracts; in the wild plan. The useful components of calendula include a volatile oil, carotenoids, flavonoids, mucilage, resin, polysaccharides, aromatic plant acids as well as saponins, glycosides and sterols. Extracts of calendula can include infused oil, alcohol tincture, water soluble tea, or distilled and used as essential oil or watery distillate (hydrolate).

Benefits
Healing properties
People with dry broken skin are more likely to get benefited from calendula since it is a great skin healer. The oil soluble components including the essential oil seem especially good at stimulating wound healing. Scientific studies find that extracts of calendula can speed the healing of skin wounds and burns.

Anti-inflammatory properties
It can very well cure skin irritations because of its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It has an anti-inflammatory as well as spasmolytic effect and is used with great effect for inflammation and small ulcers in the mouth and throat. These properties are useful for treating various types of dermatitis such as eczema.

Skin infections
It is used to treat conjunctivitis, eczema, yeast infections, herpes, gingivitis, ringworm, athlete’s foot, varicose veins, and other minor injuries and skin problems. In cases of slow-healing wounds, as well as burns, eczema, hemorrhoids and dry skin, it is most effective.

Skin cleanser
Calendula can also be used in place of traditional skin cleansers which usually have side effects like burning sensation or irritation. You can use calendula oil to moisturize your skin after a cool shower. You can add other ingredients to it when it is being used as a skin cleanser. If you frequently get red eyes, infused calendula herbs can be of great help for washing of red eyes.

Friday, 3 May 2013

Ways to Stay Hydrated

Do you think this is enough to get you through the scorching hot summers? Not really! Makeup is just for your face but the rising temperature requires you to be hydrated from the inside. Staying hydrated during summers is not just about drinking eight glasses of water daily but much more than that. Read on to know how you can keep yourself healthy and hydrated this summer.

It’s summer: the season of sun, sand, and…dehydration. In the heat of the moment, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water. Still, staying hydrated during the summer—and every

season—is important, especially if you’re working out. Drink up, drink often, and follow these 4 tips to stay hydrated.

1. Drink Water:
The most obvious way to stay hydrated when the heat’s cranked up: drink water. It may sound simple, but most people don’t drink enough (at LEAST 8 glasses daily). Water’s flavor—or lack there of—is unappealing to many, but that’s no excuse. If you aren’t keen on flavorless hydration, amp-up your water with citrus flavor. From the beach club to Bari Studio in Tribeca, fruit infused water is all the rage. Just a hint of flavor goes a long way to make the simplest beverage a deliciously stylish summer drink. Add berries or orange, lemon, or lime slices to your water and start sipping. Drinking water is an absolute necessity for everybody and even more so for those of us who like to break a sweat.

2. Cut Caffeine:
Drinking water is essential, but your other drink choices are as important. Caffeine and alcohol will only further dehydrate you. While your morning iced coffee, afternoon iced tea, or occasional cold beer may taste refreshing, don’t be fooled. Caffeine and alcohol are diuretics that will cause your body to purge valuable water and electrolytes. Skip Starbucks, unless you’re buying a bottle of Ethos water…

3. Eat Water-Rich Foods:
…or a fruit salad. What you eat affects your hydration level almost as much as what you drink. Reach for foods with high water content. These foods will not only keep you well hydrated, but they’ll also keep you feeling full. Cucumbers, grapefruit, tomatoes, and watermelon are some examples of water rich foods (more than 90% water).

4. Up Potassium Intake:
In addition to drinking—and eating—more water, you should also increase your potassium intake. Potassium helps maintain hydration and aids in your body’s water absorption; so pick up a potassium-packed banana, a sweet potato, or a glass of orange juice or coconut water.


Wednesday, 1 May 2013

Magic Yoga Move: Slim, Strong Arms

It has been challenging to fit in time with family and friends, let alone time for you. Relocate Resolutions are already beginning to dwindle a little? Maybe your workouts are difficult to squeeze in? We’re with you; and that we have a solution! If you can’t allow it to be into your favorite yoga class, it’s ok - that you can do yoga at home!

Below is an efficient and quick mini-Yoga Sculpt workout. Grab your 3 or 5 lb. weights, have space in your living room and obtain to it - no more excuses!

Start by warming up in down dog. Pedal your heels, shake your head and neck, and begin to unwind. Start to deepen your breath, after which walk your heels towards the front of your mat for rag doll, or forward fold.

Utkatasana Squats:
After a couple of breaths in forward fold, grab your weights and discover Utkatasana, or chair pose. Bring your weights together at hearts center and press them together. Keep the feet hip distance apart, so that as you inhale, squat down together with your core engaged, weight inside your heels - and press on your exhale. Repeat for Ten to fifteen breaths.

Crescent Lunge Bicep Curls:
Find your Crescent Lunge together with your right leg forward, weights from your sides. As you inhale, decrease your left knee toward your mat, and then leave your weights by your side. While you exhale, straighten both legs, and curl your weights up toward your biceps. Lower while you inhale, press up as you exhale. Repeat Ten to fifteen times and switch sides.

Warrior 2 with Tricep Press:
Find Warrior 2 in your right side. Press your weights together at the heart center, and carefully extend your arms too deep. Keep your elbows stacked (together) over shoulders and a 90 degree angle, as well as on your inhales, dip your weights down toward your mat. Exhale, extend your weights toward the ceiling; inhale, dip the weights down, and press support on your exhale. Repeat Ten to fifteen times, then repeat together with your left leg forward.

Horse with Chest Press:
Goddess Pose! Everyone’s favorite! Look for a nice, deep horse (wide-leg squat) having a strong belly and your shoulders stacked over your hips. Extend your arms out parallel towards the floor with your weights inside your palms, and your palms facing forward. Bend your elbows to 90 degrees, so that your upper body looks like a goal post. Still hold your goddess pose, take an inhale here, so that as you exhale, draw your forearms together before your face, finding a chest press. Inhale, open your arms support; exhale, press your forearms together, keeping the elbows at shoulder height. Repeat Fifteen to twenty times, and then find a wide-legged forward fold to produce.