Friday, August 29, 2008

How to Remove Cellulite- Shed Unwanted Cellulite Quickly and Naturally

By: Sean Saunders

The accumulation of cellulite is not a thing that people are thrilled to deal with. Not only will it make your skin horrible looking, but cellulite can also be damaging to the skin. Luckily though, the majority of individuals afflicted by cellulite don't have to tolerate it for long. Why not? Because there is an arsenal of natural methods that may greatly help them to completely eliminate cellulite.

If You Want To Remove Cellulite Naturally, Read Over The Methods Below

Natural Cure 1

If you have no desire to spend a fortune on expensive cellulite removal techniques, exercising is definitely the way to go. The drawback of cellulite exercises, though, is that they require a very strict routine in order to achieve results. If there is no activity on a regular basis, any cellulite reduction that occurs won't be too noticeable, nor will it be everlasting. With that being said, if you decide to use exercises to naturally eliminate cellulite, then be sure to craft a routine and stick to it.

Highly effective exercises for cellulite removal include aerobic and cardiovascular exercises; jogging, running, bike riding, walking, swimming, hiking, etc.

Natural Remedy 2

Even though many of them are quite ineffective, there are a plethora of anti celulite creams out there that can help you to reduce nasty, unattractive cellulite. Celulite creams begin working to reduce the body's cellulite the moment they are applied by penetrating the skin and attacking the celulite immediately. The ingredients in these creams work in unison in order to halt the typical causes of cellulite build up; which is high amounts of toxins and unhelpful fats, poor circulation and blood flow, weak connective tissue, etc.

By using a cellulite cream that has the right combination of ingredients, you will, more than likely, obtain a clearly noticeable reduction in cellulite; on the other hand, using the wrong combination won't do anything besides moisturizing the skin. In light of that fact, before you start spending your (unrecoverable) time and (hard-earned) money on a specific cellulite-free cream, wouldn't it be wise to first find out if that cream/lotion has all the proper ingredients to combat cellulite?

Some of the most effective anti cellulite cream ingredients include caffeine, vitamin A, green-tea, and L-carnitine.

Natural Remedy 3

Even though it is not the first choice among women, proper dieting can be remarkably effective when it comes to eliminating cellulite; however, it's effectiveness greatly relies on the foods it is made up of.

You can not just choose any kind of diet plan and get started; it doesn't work that way unfortunately. If the diet's goal is to actually remove cellulite, it has to be comprised of foods and substances that will continuously attack celulite and defend against the accumulation of it. And, with cellulite being an ever-growing collection of harmful toxins and unhelpful fats, it means all types of junk food (saturated fats, processed foods, refined foods, sugary foods, etc.) must be excluded from the diet.

These are some of the foods you should add to your diet: fresh fruits and vegetables, brightly colored berries, fatty fish & fish oils, lean meats (fat trimmed). Also, don't forget to drink plenty of water and/or other natural juices.

For more detailed information on how to remove cellulite naturally through methods such as dieting, exercising, and cellulite wraps, try visiting www.CelluliteRemovalMethods.com, one of the most popular and informative cellulite treatment websites on the web.

Article source :Article click


Other Articles of Interest
Important Anti Cellulite Diet You Should Remember
The Causes of Cellulite and Cellulite Reduction Treatment
Natural Home Treatment for Cellulite

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Important Anti Cellulite Diet You Should Remember

People often wonder if an anti cellulite diet is really the solution to their problem. The truth is that maintaining the right diet will not always get rid of all of your cellulite. Even the slimmest and most fit people still have some cellulite. Eating right however definitely can help in the battle against cellulite. Before you get into any diet, here are some things that you should have in mind.

Be Careful with Diet

Not all diets work for the some people. Some diet programs may also specifically be prohibited if a person has serious medical conditions. Always ask your doctor for some advice before modifying your diet.

Dieting for cellulite is also not synonymous with crash dieting. In fact, crash dieting and not eating anything at all is bad for anyone. This can do more harm than good for you. Getting rid of cellulite with the help of a good diet involves eating what is good for you and avoiding foods that could increase your risk of developing cellulite.

What to Eat

Vegetables and Fruits - Fruits and vegetables are still the top health foods that should always be included in an anti cellulite diet. They contain fiber, phytochemicals, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. These can help in digestion, immune system function, toxin elimination and reduction of fat build-up. Although many fruits and vegetables are beneficial, some of them are especially recommended. These include berries, tomatoes, carrots, broccoli and grapefruit.

Foods with Fatty Acids - Aside from fruits and vegetables, soya, fish and nuts should also be part of your diet. They contain essential fatty acids. Choose poultry and lean meat in regulated portions.

Detoxification

Another option is detoxification. This is a process in which a few days or weeks are set aside in which one only eats a specific diet to the exclusion of all others. Some eat only fruits and vegetables while others only take fruit juices. What you take in and the span of time of detoxification will depend on the program that you follow. Again, you may need the clearance of your doctor to make sure that you are on the right track and especially if you have a serious medical condition.

What Not to Eat

Cellulite is essentially fat. One of the first foods that you should therefore avoid is pork fat. You should also try to avoid processed and junk foods. These may contain additional saturated and trans fats. It also makes sense to try to reduce the toxins in your body so you should limit your intake of alcohol and avoid smoking altogether.

Adding Exercise

Food diet alone will not be enough to get rid of cellulite. You should also have a regular exercise program. Choose aerobic exercises to help improve your blood circulation and nutrient distribution. You should also have muscle strengthening exercises. Having muscles will reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Natural Product - Aside from exercise and an anti cellulite diet, it might also help if you used a reputable cellulite fighting natural product. Natural products have nutrients that can supplement your diet and help break down and eliminate fat.

By: Mandy Adamsen

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Will an anti cellulite diet work? Find the most effective way of reducing cellulite.


Other Article of Interest

The Causes of Cellulite and Cellulite Reduction Treatment
Natural Home Treatment for Cellulite

The Causes of Cellulite and Cellulite Reduction Treatment

By: JW

Cellulite is a condition that effects more than eighty percent of all women over the age of twenty, regardless of their weight or size, is usually found on the thighs, butt and stomach. Cellulite is often associated with a weight problem; however an individual need not be overweight to have cellulite. It’s prevalent even in healthy and underweight women. It is an embarrassing skin condition, especially during the spring and summer months when the jeans are put away and the shorts come out of storage.

Cellulite is caused by the fat cells in the cellulite area becoming larger and clumping together in groups, pushing through the collagen connective tissue directly beneath the skin’s surface, causing a dimpled ‘orange peel’ appearance. Women’s skin visibly displays cellulite because their subcutaneous fat layer is separated by thin vertical columns in contrast to a crisscross network in men. These fat cells expand due to the body’s inability to remove excess saturated fat and toxins. Poor circulation of the lymph which carries waste products and toxins from the different tissues to the blood contributes to cellulite formation. Female hormones may also play a role in contributing to this pattern of fat distribution.

The causes of cellulite include: Genetics, Hormonal, vascular, digestive disorder, systemic diseases, sedentary lifestyle, pregnancy, wrong posture, damaged veins, unhealthy diet, too fat food, smoking, stress… Cellulite also depends upon how thick your skin is and what is your age. Cellulite often forms in postnatal women and those who take birth control pills because the waste system can’t get rid of the enormous flow of estrogen in the body. Cellulite can develop after a traumatic injury if the circulatory system has been disturbed.

Cellulite is one of the more difficult problems to beat to modern, figure-conscious women. It is something that women want to avoid at all costs. Cellulite reduction is the goal of anyone who has watched her young, smooth skin begin to ripple and lose elasticity.

Cellulite is found in the topmost or superficial layer of fat underneath the skin. Surgeons do liposuction on the second or deep layer of fat. So the expensive liposuction cannot offer complete results. Cellulite laser treatment massages and softens the skin tissue, allows for a more effective way to remove cellulite. And cellulite laser treatment can be used in conjunction with liposuction, allowing for improved results in a much shorter period of time. Dermatologists and other certified specialists also use machines, such as the endermologies machine, to pinch the skin and smooth out cellulite. These professional treatments for reducing cellulite are quite costly these days.

There are a number of different products that claim to smooth out the skin and take away the lumpiness, but none seem to have any kind of permanent effect on the epidermal appearance. Cellulite treatments dietary supplements claim to have positive effects on the body such as boosting metabolism, improving circulation, protecting against cell damage, and breaking down fats.

Cellulite cream is safe and effective product that you apply directly to the problem zones. Anti cellulite cream is only a temporary technique for cellulite reduction. It couldn’t remove the ‘orange peel’ cellulite appearance completely. These anti cellulite products are made of ingredients that help improve the appearance of cellulite. Among the ingredients that are commonly found in cellulite reduction creams are caffeine, vitamins, and green tea extract.

Massage is also a way to improve the circulation and reduce cellulite. You could combine an anti cellulite cream with massage if you want to see faster results of cellulite removal. A hand-held massage brush with either wooden or rubber pegs feels great and is inexpensive.

A proper diet mixed with exercise will help reduce the appearance of cellulite. Although they cannot get rid of cellulite as fast as you want, they are the most natural, safe, healthy ways for cellulite reduction and removal. Cellulite can be gradually eliminated by detoxification of body and speeding up metabolism. A healthy metabolism will remove cellulite forever.

Cellulite Free Forever: How to Eat Your Way to a Cellulite Free Body in Just 12 Weeks!

Article Source: ArticlesGarage.com


Other Article of Interest

Natural Home Treatment for Cellulite

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Acupuncture Weight Loss? Plus 5 Step Weight Loss Plan

By: Brian Carter

I remember back in my senior year of high school - my best friend since 5th grade was living in France. He wrote that they didn't like Americans much. "They think we're all fat," he said. With his own skinny frame, of course, he confounded their belief.

But, he added a funny, or perhaps ironic capstone to the issue. "I went to a store, and they were selling statues of these fat people, and, at the base of each one was written, 'American.'"

Obesity is not only an American problem. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it's a global problem. They call it globesity. Parodoxically, their understanding of this problem began with their original mission to eliminate hunger and malnutrition. We live in a world where many have nothing to eat, and many eat too much. From 1995 to 2000, the number of obese adults worldwide mushroomed from 200 million to 300 million. That's a 50% increase in just 5 years! What is Obesity, and What is Overweight?

Overweight means an excess of body weight. This excess weight may be muscle, bone, fat, and/or body water. Obesity refers specifically to an abnormally high proportion of body fat. You can be overweight without being obese - for example, a bodybuilder or other highly-muscled athlete. But many people who are overweight are also obese.The main way to determine whether you are overweight or obese is with the body mass index (BMI). It doesn't directly measure body fat, and it's not gender specific, but it does give you a pretty reliable estimation.

To find your BMI, divide your weight (in kilograms) by your height in meters squared. Yep, for the math-challenged, that's complex, so I'll give you a website that will figure it out for you, the National Institute's of Health BMI calculator (http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/). This will very quickly tell you if you are normal, overweight, or obese, and it does all the calculating and metric conversions for you!

Overweight is defined as a BMI above 25 (including those above 30 BMI, too), and obese is a BMI above 30. So, all obese people are overweight, but not all overweight people are obese.

The Obesity Epidemic

Obesity isn't just about not feeling good or having trouble getting dates…

* It leads to more than 300,000 premature deaths each year in the United States. 90,000 are preventable cancer deaths. (CDC)

* Severely obese men die 13 years sooner than men of normal weight (JAMA).

* As a killer in America, obesity is second only to tobacco. (CDC)

The Weight Loss Industry

* Spending: Americans spend between $40-50 billion per year to lose weight.

* Results: I haven't seen any recent news that Americans are getting any thinner - have you?

* Conclusion: What people are doing isn't working. If we want different results, we have to try a different solution.

Acupuncture Weight Loss: Fantasy, or Fact?

* Fantasy or Fact? As a well-trained and fairly conservative Chinese medicine practitioner, I had assumed that acupuncture for weight loss was a marketing fad and a patient fantasy.

* Evidence: But while researching my upcoming book Chinese Medicine: A Practical Guide to Optimal Healing, I found some surprisingly positive information that changed my mind.

Chinese Medicine's Collective Clinical Data on Acupuncture Weight Loss

Chinese Medicine has thousands of years of clinical experience. This collective data not as convincing as randomized controlled trials are, but it does contain truth - it's imperfect but still valid and important.

A U.S. government study in the 80's concluded that 85% of western medicine is based on clinical experience, not on research. (Office of Technology Assessment of the Congress of the United States, The Impact of Randomized Controlled Trials on Health Policy and Medical Practice, Background Paper OTA-BP-H-22. Also see Michael Millenson's book, Demanding Medical Excellence)

There is good Chinese Medicine research in Taiwan, Australia, and Europe that gets ignored by American scientists and media. Much research in Chinese has not even been translated into English. Seven Studies of Acupuncture for Weight Loss

How it works: By enhancing the function of two neuroendocrine pathways that regulate many bodily processes, including metabolism.

What it does:

* Lowers body weight, body fat, insulin levels, and lipid levels in the blood

* Decreases excessive appetite and makes it easier to satisfy your hunger with less food.

* Decreases menopausal weight gain

* In one study, acupuncture took off 10 pounds in 2 months - that translates to 60 lbs in a year!

* Combined with diet control, and aerobic counseling it not only takes off the pounds and body fat, but keeps them off, especially if you're diligent with their exercise.


(See references at end of article for the research) Ephedra misuse and mislegislation

Ephedra is a Chinese herb for colds and coughs. It has been misused to increase metabolism, and this misuse has caused numerous deaths. As a result, the FDA is considering a total ban on ephedra products. We can blame two major things:

1. Supplement companies that care more about your money than your health (no, not all of them are that way, but some of them are, especially the ones that market weight loss formulations).

2. The idea that you can medicate yourself safely with herbs - self-medication of any kind is risky. Self-medication with herbs is off the radar, and people generally think they can do it safely. The ephedra debacle is an example of how dangerous it can be.

Traditionally, Chinese herbs are given in formulas (not singly), which is safer and more personalized. They're prescribed by a Chinese medicine practitioner who diagnoses your specific imbalances first. Ephedra would never be given for weight loss, but only for certain kinds of colds and coughs, and only to people whose body's can handle it.

No traditional Chinese herbs should be outlawed without allowing Chinese medical practitioners to continue to use them traditionally.

Food Cravings

* Problem #1 (Enzyme Deficiency): The foods you crave depending on your personal imbalances. Modern digestive science explains that when your body can't digest a food, you crave more of it - you're not getting what you need from it. This lead to a cycle of craving and overeating the exact food you can't digest.

* Problem #2 (Low Blood Sugar): Another vicious cycle happens when you can't digest complex carbs, so your blood sugar is low, so you eat simple carbs that raise your blood sugar which raises insulin, which lowers your blood sugar again, and your stuck eating donuts and feeling horrible.

* Solution: Enzymes (I recommend various enzyme formulations from a company called Transformations) and Chinese herbal formulas can help you digest your food and break both of these cycles

Weight can be lost safely if done slowly and naturally.

You can lose up to 2 lbs per week without gaining it back. That means you could lose 104 lbs this year and keep it off!

Positive change is like stretching a rubber band- if you stretch too far too fast, it breaks or snaps back on you.

So avoid the temptation to take an easy solution like ephedra or citrus aurantium (both misused Chinese herbs), because you'll gain the weight back, and you're risking heart problems and stroke.

5 Things to Do Right Now To Lose 10 Pounds Within 2 Months And Keep Them Off:

1. Avoid heavily marketed supplements - instead, see a professional trained herbalist (acupuncturist) - it's safer and more effective - my preference would be a Chinese medicine practitioner, but some very well-educated western herbalists are good too.

2. Acupuncture Weight Loss: See an acupuncturist/chinese herbalist - Get acupuncture (once to three times per week) to SAFELY regulate your metabolism and hunger-satisfaction. Your acupuncturist can also get you the herbs that will balance your digestion and cravings - and based on your Chinese pattern diagnosis, they can also give you personalized diet advice. Herbs and enzymes (specific formulations from the enzyme company, Transformations) can eliminate your food cravings.

3. Develop a plan and goals with your acupuncturist and aerobics instructor- make it realistic, and stick to it. If you mess up, don't beat yourself up, just get back on track as soon as you can. Any progress is better than none at all.

4. Eat less, exercise more - Eat a low fat diet, and don't miss breakfast! Weigh yourself regularly, and exercise an hour a day. Start by walking a few minutes each day, or take the stairs at work. Don't overdo it! Remember the rubber band. In fact, you may want to wear a rubber band on your wrist to remind yourself to make changes slowly. Get some aerobic exercise help- a public class, or private aerobic counseling.

5. Join a support group like Weight Watchers or Overeaters Anonymous. There's nothing like positive friends to encourage you and keep you on track. OA members say that this spiritual program of action has changed the way they relate to food.

References and Resources

1. Office of Technology Assessment of the Congress of the United States, The Impact of Randomized Controlled Trials on Health Policy and Medical Practice, Background Paper OTA-BP-H-22.

2. Michael Millenson's book, Demanding Medical Excellence

3. Effect of acupuncture on weight loss evaluated by adrenal function. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1993 Sep, 13(3):169-73.

4. Wozniak, P., Oszukowski, P., Stachowiak, G., and Szyllo, K. [The effectiveness of low-calorie diet or diet with acupuncture treatment in obese peri- and postmenopausal women] (in Polish). Ginekol.Pol. Vol.74 Issue 2 pp. 102-107. 2003

5. Acupuncture on Spleen, Stomach, and Ren Mai Channel Points for the Treatment of Stomach & Intestinal Replete Heat Pattern Simple Obesity. Abstracted & translated by Bob Flaws, Dipl. Ac. & C.H, Lic. Ac., FNAAOM, FRCHM

6. Richards D, Marley J. Stimulation of auricular acupuncture points in weight loss. Aust Fam Physician. 1998 Jul;27 Suppl 2:S73-7.

7. Zhao, M., Liu, Z., and Su, J. The time-effect relationship of central action in acupuncture treatment for weight reduction. J Tradit Chin Med Vol.20 Issue 1 pp. 26-29. 2000

8. Liu, Z. Mechanisms underlying the effects of acupuncture moxibustion on simple obesity complicated by hypertension. Inter J Clin Acup 371-378, 1995.

9. Studies of the Weight Loss Industry

10. Obesity prevalence and effect

11. Overeaters Anonymous

Article Source: http://add-articles.com

Medical professor Brian B. Carter is the author of "Powerful Body, Peaceful Mind: How to Heal Yourself with Foods, Herbs, and Acupressure" (www.pulsemed.org/bookpreview.htm), and has been quoted and interviewed by publications like Real Simple, Glamour, and ESPN magazines. Read more about Acupuncture and Weight Loss here.


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Monday, August 25, 2008

High-Fiber Foods For A Heart-Healthy You

It's not where you start, it's where you finish. So get the morning off to a great start with a bowl of high fiber cereal with fresh fruit. Fiberlady is pleased to inform you that if you choose a cereal high in fiber with your favorite fruit topping, you could get as much as a third of your daily fiber requirement. For optimal health, 25-30 daily grams of fiber-rich foods is the goal. High fiber foods effectively reduce the risk of cancer, gastrointestinal conditions and diseases, and the all too prevalent killer in our society, heart disease.

The heart is a fascinating organ. It beats to its own rhythm and when the rhythm is off, it can be your wake up call to action. When you proactively choose high fiber foods in your everyday menus, you will find some amazingly natural benefits, including weight loss. Foods that are high in fiber are filling, so you tend to eat less at mealtime. Snacking even becomes less compelling.

There are many studies that have verified the importance of a high fiber diet. One such 11-year British study showed how women and men reduced their chances of death from all causes by one third because of their high fiber intake. For women, the risk of heart disease was cut by nearly a half.

An important Harvard study revealed that women who consumed 23 grams of daily fiber, mostly from cereal, were much less likely (about 23% less likely) to have a heart attack than women who ate lesser quantities of fiber-rich foods. For men who ate a high fiber diet, the odds for a heart attack were reduced by 36%. Another study found that foods high in fiber lowered cholesterol levels, blood pressure and triglycerides. All of these are variables of potential heart disease.

The lack of dietary fiber is a critical issue in the hearts of most Americans' diets. Fruits, veggies, beans, nuts, lentils, and whole grain breads are the high fiber foods that provide you with the vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals that are the key essentials for good health and a healthy heart.

Fiberlady heartily encourages you to fulfill your dietary fiber requirements until it becomes second nature to your lifestyle. And to get you started, she would like to share with you this delicious heart-healthy, high-fiber recipe. Add it to your summertime dining menu. It will make your heart sing!

Spinach and Wild Greens Salad with Avocado

Servings: 4
Ingredients:
* 4 cups organic salad greens mix
* 4 cups spinach leaves, stemmed
* 1/2 red onion, sliced
* 1 avocado, sliced
* 1 orange, peeled and sectioned
* 1/4 cup pine nuts
* 1/2 cup bottled lime dill salad dressing
Preparation:
Combine salad greens and spinach and place on plates. Assemble remaining ingredients on top and drizzle with dressing.
Calories: 384, Total Fat: 30 grams
Fiber: 13.3 grams

Article Source: http://www.articlecat.com

By: Stephanie Shank
Stephanie Shank aka Fiberlady has studied nutrition for many healthy years which prompted her commitment to a high fiber lifestyle and the development of her informative website High Fiber Health.


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Saturday, August 23, 2008

The Secrets of Dark Chocolate

By: Joe Young

A true chocolate lover finds ways to accommodate his passion and make it work with his lifestyle." - Julie Davis

Well said! Any chocolate lover loves all kinds of chocolate. They will taste any kind, for the most part. I won't go for the chocolate covered locusts, though, I do draw a line at that. There is something bitter sweet about dark chocolate. It is bitter when it is pure dark, but still satisfying just the same. Dark chocolate was an acquired taste for me seeing that I had favored milk choclate mostly. However a slight intolerance to the sweeteners and milk in it turned me over to the dark side of it, and I found no problem as long as it was in moderation.

Dark Chocolate Delight

Dark chocolate, sometimes refered to as plain chocolate, is manufactured by adding fat and sugar to the cacao bean, without milk being added. Some would say milk contaminates the purity of the cacao bean. Perhaps they are right, I won't argue though! If you are going to eat chocolate, then choose a dark chocolate candy bar or the same in smaller quantity. It is one of the many varieties of chocolate available today, not necessarily everyone's favorite, but definately a healthy choice. You can purchase bars, truffles, drinks, and more. The awesome thing about this is, no matter what form you choose, you can still enjoy the health benefits of dark chocolate.

There are quite a few different benefits offered by dark chocolate. Not only is it delicious, but for one it can be used to enhance moods. There should be a law to eat it on Monday mornings! If you ever feel down in the dumps you can eat some chocolate and it can make you feel better, as proven medically. Just look in the face of a child who's crying and put chocolate on the tongue and you'll see! Chocolate actually contains quite a few different chemicals that are associated with happy emotions. Holidays, like Christmas, Easter and Valentines Day, are a perfect examples of happy celebrations that chocolate is associated with.

Dark chocolate is also full of antioxidants, which can help prevent heart disease, and lower blood pressure, and improve blood flow like phenols(anti-oxidants) from the cocoa plant. I have read that pure dark chocolate has more anti-oxidants than red wine - very interesting.

Keep in mind that if you want to get the most benefits from your dark chocolate, you should buy it in its pure form because other forms of chocolate have been manufactured with additives that have removed parts of the pure chocolate. You can talk to your doctor for more information on this, but they will definitely agree and tell you that there are many health benefits offered by chocolate, dark and other types.

"Nine out of ten people like chocolate.
The tenth person always lies."
-Artist/cartoonist John Q. Tullius

Just as with wine, which is supposedly healthy to drink a glass of it a day, but not healthy if you splurge with it, the same applies to eating dark chocolate, or any other type of chocolate. A bit of it will be good for you but too much of it will add layers to your waist line! Moderation keeps the smile and the opportunity to have more.

About the Author:

I am an avid chocolate lover, like most people and enjoy sharing information about it as well as eating it. http://www.chocolatecandylovers.com

Published At: www.Isnare.com



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Healthy Dark Chocolate - SuperFood Or SuperScam?

Recipe for Raw Dark Chocolate Bars

Antioxidants in Dark Chocolate

Cocoa Increases Blood Flow to the Brain

How Much Antioxidants Does Our Body Need?

Diabetic Friendly Chocolate Sweetened with Xylitol


Friday, August 22, 2008

Healthy Dark Chocolate - SuperFood Or SuperScam?

For most people, the word "chocolate" certainly would not be considered synonymous with the word "healthy". Healthy infers a food source that provides nutritional benefit for our bodies.

Chocolate is a treat, a candy, an indulgence that for centuries has been enjoyed worldwide. Chocolate can quiet a crying child, impress a romantic interest, and add comfort to a relaxing moment ... but HEALTHY? Oh yea ... so it appears!

In recent years, research results have been released indicating that the antioxidant properties of red wine and green tea can have a positive effect upon the body's cardiovascular system.

A recent study conducted by scientists at Cornell University found that cocoa powder, the base from which chocolate is made, contains nearly TWICE the antioxidants of red wine, and up to three times the antioxidants found in green tea.

It is now known that raw cocoa, derived from the FRUIT of the Cacao tree, contains more than 300 chemically identifiable compounds, making it one of the most complex food sources on this planet. In addition, it has been established that raw cocoa has the highest antioxidant value of ALL natural foods in the world!

Fresh cocoa is super-rich in strong antioxidants called flavonoids (up to 10% concentration per mass of cocoa). These flavonoids help maintain healthy blood flow and blood pressure. They also help keep fatty substances in the blood from congealing together, thus decreasing the risk of oxidation and clogging of the arteries.

Flavonoids also help keep the important blood platelets from sticking together ... a condition that can lead to blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes.

The antioxidants found in dark chocolate help to neutralize naturally occurring 'free radical' molecules in the body. Free radicals, if left unchecked, can damage the core structure of healthy cells which leaves them susceptible to disease.

Free radicals can also alter the structure of the cell's DNA, which is the blueprint for a cell to reproduce and duplicate itself. Damaged DNA can lead to malignancy, tumors, and cancer.

Healthy dark chocolate as a nutritional supplement is not merely all about antioxidants.

Cocoa is a good source of the minerals sulfur, calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, copper, potassium, manganese, plus some of the important B vitamins.

Of these minerals, magnesium is by far the most important. Proper magnesium levels in the body are essential for a healthy heart and ensure its strength and vigor.

Magnesium helps regulate blood pressure and the heartbeat. It also decreases blood coagulation leading to lower blood pressure.

A deficiency in magnesium can have far reaching health consequences, including hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, joint problems, and PMT.

Just as with antioxidants, organic dark chocolate is the highest rated natural food for providing this heart healthy essential mineral.

Another mineral with a high concentration in cocoa is sulfur. Sulfur promotes healthy skin, helps build strong nails and healthy hair, helps detoxify the liver, and supports healthy functioning of the pancreas.

Organic dark chocolate also provides supplemental benefits for the brain.

Cocoa is a potent source for the amino acids which make the neurotransmitters known as serotonin and dopamine. These two agents help alleviate depression and stimulate feelings of well being.

Phenylethylanmine (PEA) controls our ability to focus attention and stay alert. It has also been indicated as an integral element in maintaining mental alertness and countering the onset of dementia.

Another healthy chemical compound found in healthy dark chocolate, 2% - 3% per mass, is 'theobromine.

This health promoting compound stimulates the central nervous system, relaxing smooth muscles and dilating blood vessels. It is also a known diuretic, and has been clinically used to remove excess body fluids, stimulate the heart, and reduce high blood pressure.

Chocolate has been known as the "comfort" or "happy" food, and rightfully so.

Anandamide, a neurotransmitter, is found in significant quantities in cocoa. Anandamide occurs naturally in the brain, and is released when we are feeling good. The introduction of more of this 'bliss chemical' helps contribute to our feeling of having a 'natural high'.

ABC news reported in 2005 that the average American consumes 11.5 pounds of chocolate per year. This amounts to a full 1% of the American diet. These numbers are really not surprising.

There is no question that humans have for centuries maintained a love affair with chocolate. Accepting organic, healthy dark chocolate as a heart and mind healthy food instead of simply a feel good snack certainly takes some getting used to.

Can you envision a conversation at the dinner table like this ... "Billy, you're not leaving this table until you finish your dark chocolate"?

Although that situation seems strange, providing yourself and your loved ones with a consistent diet rich in healthy nutrients does not, and organic dark chocolate may clearly be indicated as a wise menu addition.

However, not all "Healthy Dark Chocolate" products are created equal. The challenge now lies in determining which of these delicious, satisfying, cocoa rich products provide the most health benefits for you and your family.


The author lives in beautiful Hilo, Hawaii, USA, and has published a number of articles related to Internet Marketing and Business Opportunities. For more information regarding Healthy Chocolate, download the author's FREE ebook, "Healthy Dark Chocolate For Life"


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Recipe for Raw Dark Chocolate Bars

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How Much Antioxidants Does Our Body Need?

Diabetic Friendly Chocolate Sweetened with Xylitol


Recipe For Raw Chocolate Bars

By Mark A Ament

Since 1842, when Cadbury's of England created the first chocolate bar, millions of people have had a love affair with chocolate. It's estimated that the average American eats 4.5 kilos per year and the average Swiss eats 9.5!

Of course the history of chocolate stretches back to ancient Olmec and Aztec civilizations where it was considered to be a "Food of the Gods."

I personally was never a big fan of chocolate, at least not until I started experiencing pure raw cacao. I think the reason is that normal chocolate has literally been cooked to death. To make a typical chocolate bar, cacao beans are crushed, fermented and then roasted at 150 C (300 F) for 1 - 2 hours. After that, they are tempered with boiling water for 20-30 minutes.

When you add processed sugar, milk products, preservatives, artificial colors, chemical flavors and more to this lifeless chocolate substance it's no wonder that some people develop allergies to chocolate. Interestingly, though, I've seen that most people with chocolate allergies, do not have a similar reaction with raw cacao.

Raw cacao has many nutritional benefits and is generally considered one of the most complete foods on the planet.

Since experiencing the effects of raw cacao for myself, I find myself using it often. I regularly add a few whole beans to my smoothies, I use cacao in salad dressings and sauces, and sometimes I just snack a few beans with a bit of agave or honey.

But, thanks to my partner Gabrielle's love of chocolate, I get most of my raw cacao in the form of great tasting raw chocolate bars.

I'm happy to share her basic recipe with you here.

To make this recipe you need a grinder or a mortar and pestle

Ingredients for simple chocolate:

1/2 C whole peeled cacao beans, ground
1/8 C coconut oil
1/8 C melted cacao butter (use coconut oil if not available)
1/4 C raw honey or raw agave syrup

Optional ingredients:

1/4 cup raisins
1 T almonds, finely chopped
1 drop orange, lemon, clove, lavender or other essential oil
Cinnamon to taste
Celtic sea salt to taste

Preparation:

Grind cacao until it is very fine. The cacao will have a consistency like raw almond butter and will stick to the sides of the grinder. Mix ground cacao with coconut oil or cacao butter in grinder. Remove mixture and add honey and other ingredients. Stir well with a fork. The mixture should be able to be poured. If not, add more coconut oil. Pour into ice cube trays or other forms and freeze for 45 minutes. Serve immediately after removing from the freezer.

A Few Interesting Facts About Cacao and Chocolate

The word 'Chocolate' comes from the Aztec word, "cacahuatl" or "xocolatl." This means 'bitter water'.

Raw Cacao was regarded as an aphrodisiac by Aztecs.

In 1624 Johan Franciscus Rauch an Austrian professor, tried to ban chocolate from monasteries and urged monks not to drink chocolate as he said it "inflamed passions."

Cacao contains antioxidants which may help prevent cancer and heart disease.

Cacao brings instant comfort and acts as a mild anti-depressant by increasing our serotonin and endorphin levels.

Cacao contains theobromine, which is a mild relative of caffeine and magnesium. This chemical is found in some tranquilisers. Because coffee also contains caffeine, it both picks you up and calms you down.

Cacao beans were so valuable in ancient Mexico that the Maya and subsequent Aztec and Toltec civilizations used them as a means of currency to pay for commodities and taxes.

The French Leader Napoleon insisted that wine, from the Burgundy vineyard called Chambertin, as well as chocolate be available during military campaigns.

During the Second World War, the U.S. Government commissioned Milton Hershey to create a candy bar to be included in soldier's rations. The candy bar chosen was the famous Hershey Milk Chocolate Bar.

Every Russian and American space voyage has included chocolate bars.

Mark Ament is the author of several books and programs on natural health, including his unique introduction to natural healing course called the "5 Master Keys To Ultimate Healing." To get your free copy and learn more about Mark's work visit http://www.healingvibes.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_A_Ament



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Thursday, August 21, 2008

Is The Acai Berry Really A Super Fruit?

By: Darren Yates

The Acai Berry is being promoted as a super fruit and with good reason. Acai Berries are considered one of the richest fruit sources of antioxidants.

These are the same antioxidants that destroyed cultured human cancer cells in a University of Florida study in early 2006, this was one of the first serious studies to investigate the 'super fruit's' supposed benefits.

The Acai Berries triggered a self-destruct response in up to 86 percent of the leukaemia cells tested when applied for 24 hours. Depending on the extract and concentration, anywhere from about 35 percent to 86 percent of the cancer cells were destroyed!

It has been shown in other studies that compounds demonstrating a positive effect against cancer cells are more likely to have a beneficial effect on our entire body.

The Acai Berry is not only loaded with antioxidants, it also contains anthocyanins (20 times the amount found in red wine), omega 6 and omega 9 fatty acids which are rarely found in fruit, the berries are also low in calories and contain fibre, calcium, amino acids, minerals such as iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium and vitamins B1, B2, B3, C and E.

This high concentration of elements can also help to combat -

Aging

The high concentration of antioxidant anthocyanin, Omega 6 and Omega 9 fatty acids helps delay the natural aging process.

Fight Heart Disease

The high concentration of phytosterols in the Acai Berry helps to reduce heart related problems and disease.

Control Cholesterol

The Acai Berry has been proven to help maintain good cholesterol levels.

Something this beneficial must taste pretty foul then right?

Wrong! Many describe the taste as a combination of berry and earthy chocolate.

When ripe, the berries are dark purple and about the size of a blueberry with a thin layer of edible pulp surrounding a large seed. Acai Berries are produced by a palm tree common on the floodplain areas of the Amazon River in Brazil.

Brazilians have used Acai Berries for centuries to treat digestive disorders and skin conditions and they have come to take the place of rice, bread and milk.

In the city of Belem, state capital of the Para region in Brazil more Acai juice is consumed on a daily basis than milk! Acai is an energiser and is suitable for all age groups. Large quantities are sent to the cities of Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro where it has become the health drink of choice for both young and old alike.

The rest of the World are now finally catching on to the little Acai Berry as they realize this little fruit really does deserve the title 'Super Fruit'.

Article Source: http://bb-articles.com

About the Author:

Natural Alternative Products are one of the largest suppliers of the Acai Berry in the UK. You will also find a huge number of naturally beneficial health related products on offer at our site.


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Lasik - Simple Procedure or Dangerous Surgery?

By: Tatyana Turner

Lasik is a relatively simple and fast procedure. The entire surgery takes about 30 minutes, during which you will be lying on your back in the room containing the laser system. The laser system is a machine with a computer screen and a microscope attached to it.

Whether you have shortsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism the cause is the same - your cornea is not a perfect shape. The goal of the lasik surgery is to reshape (polish) your cornea so the light going through it focuses better on your retina.


The surgeon can't use a general anesthetic because you have to remain conscious, throughout, and be able to look directly at the laser. However, anesthetic drops are used for your eyes, so you will not feel any pain - only some pressure and a little discomfort. You will be able to see during the entire procedure, although your vision might blur or flicker, for a few moments.

Lasik surgery can be separated into 6 steps

1. First of all the surgeon will drop a few numbing drops into your eye and clean the area around it. Then your eyelids will be propped open.

2. Before the laser can start its work, the surgeon will need to cut a flap in your cornea. This could be done with either a laser or with microkeratome - a special cutting instrument. It might sound scary, but don't worry: you won't feel the cutting.

3. After that, the laser will be positioned over your eye and you will have to look directly at it for about 60 seconds. The reshaping has not started yet, but your eye needs to get used to being focused on the light.

When your eye is in the perfect position, the laser will start its work. The laser is controlled by a computer, which is preprogrammed by the surgeon to remove a specific amount of corneal tissue.

4. After your cornea is reshaped, the flap is put back on it place.

5. Stitches won't be used to keep the flap in place; instead, doctors use a special protective shield to hold it. The shield will protect your eye from being touched accidentally.

6. That's it! Usually you can go home straight after the procedure, but you will have to organize a lift for yourself because you might feel a bit dizzy and your vision will be blurred, at first; obviously you shouldn't drive, under these conditions. The improvement in vision is usually noticable the same day, or by the following morning, at the latest.

Straight after lasik surgery you might feel some discomfort, like there is something in your eye. The most difficult thing is to resist the urge to rub your eyes, but you mustn't touch them until the flap is healed.

There are also several restrictions, after the surgery. You shouldn't use any eye make-up for two weeks, play any sports for four weeks, or swim or take a hot bath for two months. Also you will have to come in for a follow up visit within 48 hours after the surgery, plus a few more visits during the following six months.

Article Source: http://bb-articles.com

About the Author:

Tanya Turner is an eye health expert and a founder of Contact Lenses Consumer Guide where you can find reliable information about eye health and lasik surgery.


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Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Lasik Eye Surgery - Like A Walk In The Park

By: Ray La Foy

Everyone, but everyone seems to want to get on to the lasik bandwagon today. It seems to be the new mantra when it comes to improving your eyesight and throwing away your spectacles. It would, however, be in order for you to be in full possession about the facts about lasik and the way the procedure is done before you commit yourself. Once you know about all the things that could be right with it and the few things that could go wrong, it's easy enough to weigh the pros and cons and take an informed, practical decision.

Yes, lasik surgery is a very simple procedure. What's more, it's a quick one too. All told, it takes just half an hour. The machine used is a laser system with a screen and a microscope. What this system does is to reshape your cornea. Why is that? Because whether your problem is farsightedness, shortsightedness or astigmatism, the problem is the cornea and the fact that it is not in the perfect shape it should be in. Lasik surgery seeks to change the shape of your cornea so that your focus is better.

The procedure does not involve any general anesthetic because you have to lie on your back and look at the laser, remaining conscious throughout. Your eyes, however, could be painful so anesthetic drops are put in - all you will feel is a bit of pressure from time to time, that's all. Right through the surgery you can see but you might feel a bit of discomfort and maybe a little blurring.

Let's look at how the surgery proceeds. First, the anesthetic drops, after which the area around is cleaned thoroughly. Your eyelids are then propped open. This is followed by the doctor cutting a small flap in your cornea with a special instrument called the microkeratome or with the laser. Rest assured you won't feel a thing! The laser is then brought into position and you will be asked to look directly at it for one whole minute to get your eyes acclimatized to the light. Then, controlled by the computer, the laser goes to work to remove a part of the cornea, after which, the flap is put back. How much is cut depends on what your eyesight is like and would have been already preprogrammed by the doctor into the computer. A shield is put into place to keep the flap from moving and to hold it in place while it heals and that's all, you're free to go.

Just take care that you have someone accompanying you because your vision will remain blurred for quite a while. There will have to be someone to drive you home because you will not be up to doing it. Your eyes might irritate but this is normal, just don't rub them. They need to remain undisturbed till the flap heals. The don'ts after the surgery include hot baths, swims, sports and eye make-up. You might have to go in for follow-up checks to make sure all is going well.

Article Source: http://bb-articles.com

About the Author:

More information on lasik eye surgery eye surgery www.lasikeyesurgeryfaq.com



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Sunday, August 17, 2008

Acai and Joint Pain - A Natural Alternative?

By: Kathryn Lively

Read the latest alternative health literature, or maybe turn on the news, and you might find a report on the benefits of acai as a natural remedy. For centuries, people of South America have enjoyed acai in drinks, as a mashed pulp topping for food, and as supplements for daily vitality. Only recently has acai come into the Western consciousness, with sources like Oprah and a handful of doctors proclaiming the wonders of this "superfood."

Yet, for all the praise acai receives, one must wonder if it is truly capable of drastic healing qualities. Can this little purple berry from the Amazon Rainforest do what many conventional medicines can't for some? It is believed that regular intake of acai juice can relieve or put an end to joint pain in particular?

The structure of acai

"Antioxidants" is a popular buzzword in alternative health these days. We're told to eat more rich berries high in antioxidants in order to purify the blood and strengthen the body's natural ability to fight free radicals that can weaken our immunity over time. Blueberries, cherries, and pomegranates fall under this category, yet the acai berry is believed to surpass them all in terms of overall quality.

Acai berries are rich in not only in antioxidants, but vitamins A, C, and E, and is very high in something called the ORAC value, which is known to be beneficial in battling joint pain.

ORAC and joint pain

ORAC stands for Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity, and measures the antioxidant level of foods. Antioxidants are essential in fighting superoxide free radicals, which are known to decrease joint function and mobility as the body ages. To combat join pain naturally, it is believed that a diet rich in antioxidants can assist the body's ability to heal. It can be concluded, then, that regular consumption of acai can be of help here.

However, while acai in juice or powdered supplement form may work instantly for some, it may not for others. As a healthy alternative to soft drinks and other beverages of little to no nutritional value, acai can provide the body with necessary vitamins and minerals needed to maintain daily health. Pain relief for some may be a bonus in this regard.

When seeking remedy for severe pain, remember to consult with a physician or nutrition expert before trying any type of alternative supplement or diet plan. If you wish to try acai for improved health, enjoy the flavor and be mindful of the effects.


About the Author:
Kathryn Lively writes for AcaiGogo, the powerful acai drink mix available in individual packets.

Article Source: thescoopsite.com


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Transfer Factor With Acai–Super Fruit Anti-oxidant

By Lori Matthews

It’s official—the Acai fruit is officially an energy fruit. A particular celebrity show host has said so. Don’t worry if you haven’t heard of acai fruit before, most people are still discovering the little berry. This little berry, though, is soon going to be world famous and in high demand. This fruit is actually a berry that comes from an Amazonian palm tree that is harvested in the Brazilian rainforest.

The acai fruit is a drupe that measures about an inch in diameter and looks sort of like a grape but does not have as much pulp. It grows in panicles of seven hundred to nine hundred and two crops of these fruits are produced each year. The fruit has a seed that is less than ten millimeters in diameter. The fruit is harvested as a food and is considered to be one of the most important species of three different Caboclo tribes in Brazil. The juices from the fruit are often blended into sodas, smoothies and other drinks and are traditionally served in a gourd alongside tapioca and sugar. In Brazil it is popularly served in a bowl where it is mixed with granola. This concoction is often thought of as an energy meal. The fruit has also been made into ice cream.

It is a very nutritious fruit. One hundred grams of this powder contains almost five hundred and forty calories, fifty two grams of carbohydrates, eight grams of protein and thirty two grams of fat. It has forty four grams of fiber, which makes it incredibly valuable as a macronutrient.

It is also rich in fatty acids like oleic acid, palmitic acid and linoleic acid. It is thought to reduce blood cholesterol. It contains nineteen amino acids and is very high in aspartic acid and glutamic acid content.

The most important part of this fruit, though, is its anti-oxidant content. Anti-oxidants can slow down the aging process by keeping our cells healthy. Many authorities find that acai fruit is one of the most powerful anti-aging foods in existence. This small fruit contains more antioxidants than grapes and blueberries.

This fruit also has the potential to help people’s digestion (thanks to its high fiber content), keep their cardiovascular system healthy, and helps with muscle regeneration and contraction.

Acai-rich foods are hard to find, as the fruit is rare. You probably will not find anything with acai as an ingredient in your local grocery store, but you might be able to find it in a health food store or a gourmet store. Because the fruit is becoming more popular, largely thanks to a popular magazine, it will slowly start becoming easier to find and people might find ways to grow the “super fruit” somewhere outside of Brazil.

The acai fruit is probably one of the healthiest fruits on the planet. It may help your muscles, your heart, your digestion, your energy levels and even can prevent early aging and slow down the rest of the aging process.

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

Lori Matthews studies health, nutrition and wellness. She enjoys writing articles on health for both people and pets. Please visit transfer factor with Acai for more information.

Article Source: http://www.discoveryarticles.com/articles/73770/1/Transfer-Factor-With-Acai--Super-Fruit-Anti-oxidant/Page1.html


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Saturday, August 16, 2008

Rooibos - The Anti-Aging Herbal Tea

By : David Philips

Rooibos or Red Bush Tea as it is also known is not a true tea but an herb which is indigenous to the Cederburg area of South Africa. Due to its widely publicized health benefits it has grown into a billion dollar export industry since the mid twentieth century.

The tea has no caffeine and only half the tannin of ordinary tea. Apart from being refreshing to drink, in place of ordinary tea and coffee, it has the advantage of containing minerals and powerful antioxidants. Having no oxalic acid it also does not irritate the kidneys.

The Japanese scientists, who did studies in the 1960's, discovered Rooibos contains a powerful antioxidant similar to SOD which is thought to retard aging and quercetin which is believed to have potent anti-inflammatory properties. Besides that Rooibos is also found to contain aspalathin which counteracts the atherosclerotic processes that result in heart disease. Due to this the Japanese promote it as an Anti-Aging Tea and import large quantities of the tea.

Research was done elsewhere where the French found that hair lotion containing Rooibos promoted faster hair growth with improvement in the hair condition and caused no allergic reactions. In South Africa research found that the polyphenol content in Rooibos is similar to green tea. Polyphenols help protect the body from damage by free radicals.

Rooibos has been found to be helpful with general health problems. It relieves digestive problems, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and constipation. Having a calming effect it helps with irritability, insomnia and depression.

Both pre natal and breast feeding Mothers supplement their intake of manganese, calcium and fluoride drinking Rooibos and therefore promote strong teeth and healthy bones in their babies. Rooibos, when applied at every nappy change, relieves nappy rash and when drunk by the baby relieves colic.

Preparation of Rooibos is the same as ordinary tea. First warm the tea pot with boiling water and then place one teaspoon of tea or tea bag per cup required in the pot. Pour over boiling water and let infuse for a few minutes. The longer it is left before drinking the more antioxidants the tea will contain. Can be served plain, with hot or cold milk or lemon. It can be lightly sweetened with honey or sugar or just left without any sweetening. Rooibos also makes a wonderful iced tea.

In South Africa Rooibos Tea is often used in day to day cooking as not only does it add important minerals and antioxidants to the diet and help digestion, it also enhances the flavors of the cooking. Just replace the water in a recipe with the tea.

Next time you are in your health shop or in a department store stocking specialty teas, why not pick up a packet and try it out? Author Resource:- David Philips is the author of 'Perfect Sleep Secrets'. He is also a contributing author at Present Health - providing natural health answers to present health questions. http://www.presenthealth.com

Article From Quality Free Articles Directory - W3Article.com


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The History Of Rooibos Tea

By : Lee Dobbins

In 1772, a botanist by the name of Carl Thunberg, was the first to report Rooibos Tea. However, for thousands of years before that, people of Khoisan were using the tea for its value medically. Later, because black tea was so expensive, many people turned to Rooibos Tea as an alternative. Depending on the process of the tea, it can be green or red. This directly depends on if fermentation or oxidation is used in the creation process.

Also known as Red Tea, Rooibos Tea, is a very popular drink among many nations and ethnics. For example, in most places, the tea is consumed without the addition of any milk or sugar, because most people define the tea as a sweet drink, with a slightly nutty taste. However, in the South African region, the people generally add some sugar and milk prior to drinking. Rooibos Tea is known as a very close relative of the black tea. The two processes and brewing preparations are extremely similar. The only real differences are the end color and the amount of brewing time needed.

You see, with black tea, you end up with a dark black color, hence the name. At the same time, steeping of black tea is short, oversteeping results in an extremely bitter taste. However, with Rooibos Tea, the longer you brew the tea, the more improvement the flavor shows.

Of course, besides the great tastes to be had with this type of tea, there are many medicinal properties as well. One very popular aspect of Rooibos Tea, particularly with the health conscious is that it is caffeine free. In fact, it has been compared with Chamomile Tea, with the only difference between the two being the fact that Rooibos Tea is free from caffeine and Chamomile is not.

If this is true, then Rooibos Tea is a great natural alternative to medication for many ailments such as, colic, allergens, depression, menstrual cramps, toothaches, and even insomnia. Of course, there are many other health benefits that the tea possesses, all of which has been based on extensive research and studies.

So, as you can see Rooibos tea has a long history and is not only tasty but it's good for you to! It's no wonder, that this is being touted as one of the new health drinks and is being sold in many health stores as well as local markets. Author Resource:- Lee Dobbins writes for http://tea.topicgaint.com where you can learn more about different types of tea and tea accessories.

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Aromatherapy and Back Pain

By: Masni Rizal Mansor

Today many people suffer from lower back pain. This may be a result of poor posture, standing too long at work, or from a previous injury. For those who deal with back pain, they know that the pain can become unbearable. Back pain can cause great discomfort and can hinder the enjoyment from a person's life. Living with chronic pain can take its toll on the emotions as well, and can lead to mood swings and a negative outlook of life. The best remedy is to avoid injuring the back to begin with.

One of the best ways to prevent back pain is to watch your weight. Being overweight can lead to chronic back pain. When the abdomen becomes overstretched, the back muscles will be used to counteract the effect of slack abdomen muscles. By keeping the abdomen toned and not becoming overweight you can save your back a lot of injury in the future.

Pregnancy is another cause of back pain. When a woman is pregnant, the growing baby will stretch out the abdomen and the back will feel the effects. You may even have a mental image of a pregnant woman standing with her hands held on her lower back. Some women even have greater amounts of back pain during pregnancy when the baby sits on the Sciatic nerve. This may result in excruciating and debilitating back pain. Thankfully, this type of back pain is temporary and will subside once the baby is born.

It is important that you prevent back injury at the workplace as well as at home. This may mean that you wear a back brace at work when picking up heavy objects. Also, you should always bend at your knees when picking something up. Many people make the mistake of bending at the waist to pick up heavy objects and this can result in strained back muscles, or back injury.

If you are suffering from back pain then you should schedule an appointment with your chiropractor or family physician. It is important that you nurture your spine, and if you suspect an injury do not put it off. You may need to take a course of prescribed treatment so scheduling an appointment is very important.

Aromatherapy also offers some great benefits to easing back pain. Along with Aromatherapy, you can also do some gentle Yoga stretching exercises. Always check with your chiropractor or doctor before starting any exercise, but Yoga is wonderful for the spine and most likely will be recommended by your doctor.

You can take hot oil baths to relieve the pain as well as have hot oil massages on your back. There are many natural essential oils that will help relieve the pain. To make a great hot aromatic pain-relieving bath, use 10 drops of Eucalyptus and 10 drops of Peppermint added to your bath. Soak in the hot bath for at least 20 minutes to achieve the full therapeutic benefits. If you are pregnant, make sure that you read the safety precautions on the label of any essential oils that you are using.

Article Directory Source: http://www.1articleworld.com

Masni Rizal Mansor provide tips and review on aromatheraphy oils and aromatheraphy products. Get free aromatheraphy ebook by sign up with his aromatheraphy newsletter.


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Friday, August 15, 2008

Aromatherapy Skin Care

By: Manuel Wiggins

Aromatherapy is considered an ancient science. Its origin backs to the sixty centuries. It applies the extracted oils from trees, flowers, resins, and herbs. The importance of these oils is that they enhance mood and have cleansing properties as well. The result of modern life is shown in the effects of excessive pollution, quick food, stress, lack of suitable training, and the full-schedules of business, on our health and souls as well. People nowadays, are eager to return to ancient methods to obtain some balance. Aromatherapy is used to treat some skin troubles, especially that using basic oils. It must taking caution not to use the oils without diluting. Also, practicing some exercises of aromatherapy skin care is very important for renewal of the skin and facial skin's cells. To clean and renew the cells of skin well, it must pour 3 - 5 drops of basic oil in a hot water and add one spoon of milk or honey to the mixture. The face can be nearer to the steam of this bowl while covering the head with a towel. This way is called the facial steam. Above all, to breath that steam is the best way of relaxing.

Facial masque is another way of aromatherapy skin care. It assists in maintaining the freshness and hydration of the facial skin. To manage this way, it is important to mix 2 - 3 drops of the basic oils with honey mashed avocado, moistened clay, or egg white. It may apply to a dampened face. The masque can be left on the face for 10 - 15 minutes to allow its dry then the face may be washed thoroughly.

There is a smart way to heal and nourish the facial skin. It is to add around 10 drops of the main oil to a carrier. Mix other oils such as frankincense and German oils, according to the skin type. Facial oil blend is which called upon this method.

Another smart way of aromatherapy skin care is skin brushing. It assists in refreshing and stimulating the lymphatic system. To show the easy way, it must mix a drop of the basic oils with a little spoon full of honey. Then, it can apply the mixture on the face using the skin brush.

Taking care in selecting the basic oils is important. It must get the oils which are natural, safe and effective as well. This way may replace any other ways, in case they are not successful, especially in treating traumatic cases. As a general, it must be confirmed with the quality of the purchased products.

Article Directory Source: http://www.1articleworld.com

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acai berry drink

by Priya Gill

Nutritional Armor - It would be nice if you could put on armor everyday to protect your body from all those things which would harm it. Cell research has shown that free radical damage causes early aging, and free radicals come from the environment. The good news is that nature holds secrets like the Acai berry which can be consumed and become a natural armor against free radical damage.

When you read Acai facts, it's hard to believe this amazing fruit has not been used in most health products. The berry contains an intense concentration of flavanoids called anthocyanins known to reduce the occurrence of heart disease. Acai also contains fatty acids which help the body absorb the fat soluble vitamins like A, D and E.

The nutritional armor you wear when using Acai also includes a variety of vitamins and other elements like phytochemicals. There is calcium, fiber and protein also packed into these little berries. You will find minerals like potassium and magnesium which are required by your body's systems for efficient operation.

Knights on White Horses

When you read the facts about Acai, it's easy to see that consumption of the berry will give you the ability to fight disease and increase your energy levels. When you put on Acai armor, it's like having knights on white horses come to your defense. Except in this case the "knights" are essential nutrients and the "white horses" are the antioxidants.

Reading Acai facts presents an interesting story of a plant known to contain exceptional health benefits for years. In South America the Acai berry has been used in fruits drinks as a nutritional supplement. The fact is the berry has up to 30 times the number of anthocyanins as any other dark colored fruit.

Most people have read about the heart health benefits of drinking a glass of dark wine each day. It's the anthocyanins in the wine which are protecting your cardiovascular system. It's amazing to think this natural remedy has been hiding in the Amazon for thousands of years.

A summary of Acai facts shows you the tremendous nutritional value of the berry. The berry is turned into a delicious drink that can be used regularly in your daily diet. It makes it easy to insure you are getting the nutritional supplementation you need to stay as healthy as possible. Acai Facts You Never Knew!

Before we dig into the amazing acai facts, let's take a look at the famous acai story. Legend says that there lived an Amazon Indian girl called "Iaca." Her father was the chief of the tribe. It so happened that their tribe faced acute shortage of food. Thus, the chief ordered every newborn to be killed in order to let the existing members survive. When the chief's daughter, Iaca, gave birth to a baby, the tiny life had to be terminated too! Iaca couldn't overcome her baby's death and wailed for many days in her hut.

One day, she heard a cry outside. Curiosity got the better of her and she followed the baby's cry that led her into the forest. She came across a tall, attractive palm tree loaded with dark purple tiny berries. This came as a rude shock to her. Here was so much food for the tribe and she had to kill her baby! This harsh truth struck her like a bolt of lightening and she died right there against the tree.

The next day, the tribesmen found Iaca's body and the treasure of food too. The rule was removed and the tribe became healthier and stronger after eating the wonder fruit, which was named as "Acai" after the chief's daughter. Actually, it's "Iaca" spelled backwards!

Among all the interesting acai facts, one especially intriguing is that out of all the native Indian tribes, only those who consumed acai berries survived; the rest perished due to European germs!

Astounding Acai Facts! Acai juice is known popularly as the "Wine of Amazon." Acai can't be transported in its whole fruit form. It has to be processed into freeze dried powder or liquid form. The amount of disease-combating antioxidants found in acai is higher than any other fruit found on the earth. The ORAC value of acai berry is 1026 as compared to spinach's 150 and broccoli's 130! Acai berry contains anthocyanins that are 30 times more than that present in red wine! This fruit is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C, and E; minerals like calcium, iron, and phosphorus; protein, dietary fiber, and essential fatty acids like Omega 3, 6, and 9 that are also present in virgin olive oil. This fruit with abundant health benefits and loads of nutrients is dark purple in color and just one inch in diameter!

Brazilians have been relishing on acai fruit for decades. A cold bowl of these rejuvenating berries for breakfast daily is your way towards a healthy and youthful life in the future. Chomp Chomp!

The fact is that using the Acai berry will increase your energy, improve organ function, strengthen the immune system and fight free radicals. It's hard to find a single product which can accomplish so much in one drink. Read the facts and see for yourself all of the health benefits.

Acai facts presents an interesting story of a plant known to contain exceptional health benefits for years. In South America the acai antioxidant has been used in acai berry fruit as a nutritional supplement. http://www.antioxidant-berry-juice.com


About the Author: Hi, I am Priya, author of this article.Professionally MBA.

Article Source: GoArticles.com


 

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Thursday, August 14, 2008

These 2 Belly Exercises will Flatten Your Stomach

By: Mr. Basketball

No more crunches. No More Sit-ups. No more Ab Rockers, Ab Chair, or any other "miracle" ab gadget that you bought on a late night infomercial. I know the mere thought of never having to do any more of the typical "gym style abdominal exercises" makes you smile and rejoice because you and I both know that too many crunches always seem to hurt your neck and even your back.

However at the same time there are a handful of people around the world that will be reading this and shaking their head in disbelief. I understand that since the days of Arnold Schwarzenegger and beyond that the typical gym mentality was something like: "you do crunches if you want to work your abs", "sit-ups burn the most belly fat", "do ab exercises and run on the treadmill for an hour to get a flat stomach", etc. My question to you is if all of the different crunches, sit-ups, abs machines, or running for hours on the treadmill actually burns belly fat and helps flatten your stomach then why the heck do they come out with a new miracle abs exercise toy every two weeks? Why are you currently reading this article?

The answer is simple: THEY DON'T WORK! I know you are reading this because you are ready to do what it takes to get a flat stomach. So without further adu, below are my favorite abdominal exercises that by the looks of them are not abs exercises. There really is no painful curving of the spine like there is with situps and crunches. Also these next few stomach exercises you will notice they also work many other areas in your body all at the same time.

1. Renegade Row- I ABsolutely love this hidden gem. If you can imagine being in a pushup position but rather than spreading your weight to both arms, you will want to put the entire load on just one side. This frees up your opposite arm to execute the row aspect of the Renegade Row. I typically use a kettle bell for this move but you are welcome to use a dumbbell or any other weight object. So what you will do is now grasp the weight and pull it up, driving your elbow to the sky. Lower the weight and repeat about 6 times. Then you do the other side.

2. Super Plank- All the Pilates lovers out there already know about this magic move. Again you will want to get into the pushup position (in case you're wondering why I like the pushup position vs. laying on your back and doing crunches... the pushup position neutralizes and stabilizes your spine thus protecting your back and allowing all the supportive muscles to do their job) then you will want to drive your left knee towards your right elbow. Return to a full pushup position and then repeat a dozen times. You will want to do this on both sides to get the job done right. If you want a little extra burn you can drive your elbow towards your knee as you bring your knee towards your elbow.

3. Hip Driven Exercises- it is a proven fact that whenever you engage your legs, butt and hips into an exercise you will burn more calories. Add a moving weight to the mix and you are going to burn a lot of calories and engage a lot of muscles! There are so many different hip driven exercises that you can do that I won't even attempt to list them here. I personally choose to use a kettle bell because the transition between planes of movement is so much easier and smoother then with dumbbells.

What to take home out of this: I tried to be as clear-cut as I could so that I don't overload you with fancy fitness terms. I really would like to see you replace all of your sit-ups and crunches with the moves I listed above and then drop me an email once you see how flat your stomach is getting with these "new" abs exercises!

Article Source: http://add-articles.com

Another interesting article that may help you out is Best Post Workout Meals and Shakes Are you tired of having to wear long shorts and sometimes even pants to cover up all that nasty looking fat on your butt and thighs? Well now you don't have to, if you want to wear that bikini or even just a sexy pair of shorts you can when youGet Sexy Thighs, Abs and Nice Firm Butt, Now! I have a ton more interesting articles for you at the following pages. First, check out this must-read article about healthier meat choices- Grass-Fed Beef and Meats with more omega-3 fats


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Tuesday, August 12, 2008

How the Qlink can help you

By: Juliette Pickup

In our every day lives we are being affected by forces that we cannot see and these forces are wearing down our health, both mental and physical, on a daily basis. These forces originate from EMFs, Electromagnetic Fields, which are present everywhere, but is concentrated in certain areas, like near power lines. In the home the EMFs are concentrated around power outlets.

The Q-link was created by group of professionals who combined their research to produce a device that would help people to resist the effects of the EMFs. The Qlink is intended to help to build up your bio-field, the field that permeates and extends out of our bodies, and help you to combat the effects of radiation on your health. The Q-link is also intended to help those that live or work within a highly irradiated environment to continue to function at a peak levels.

The Qlink is an attractive, stylish pendant that can be worn any time and should be worn as often as possible to ensure that you receive the greatest benefits from it. This pendant will look good while providing you with a multitude of benefits. That something that looks so good can help you so much seems almost too much to believe, but the Q-link does just that. It is worn by many celebrities and many top performing athletes.

The athletes attest to the fact that the Qlink helps them to perform better than when they are not wearing it and even if you are not a top level athlete this pendant can help you in many ways. The Q-link has 3 chief functions and through the performing of these functions you will be the recipient of many health benefits, both mental and physical.

The chief functions are strengthening your capacity to function within an EMF inundated atmosphere, the bolstering of your resistance and resilience to the effects of stress encountered in the course of daily life and the third function is the increasing of your energy and the enhancing of your mental performance especially in times where you are submitted to large amounts of stress and tension to help you cope with the addition pressure.

The Qlink provides you with a myriad of benefits, including protection from the EMF radiation that is so prevalent these days, the enhancement of mental alertness and lucidity, the aid in balancing your emotion to help achieve the mental alertness and lucidity, helping you to achieve deep and refreshing sleep on a regular basis, as well as an improvement in athletic performance.

The more you wear your Q-link, the more emphatic the benefits will be that you receive. Your Qlink should be worn as often as possible, including while you sleep at night. If you wear it at all time then you will be helping to enforce your bio-field in a major and this will help to combat the lethargy, ailments and weariness that you feel when your bio-field has deteriorated.

Author Bio
All Qlink information has been researched and written by Juliette Pickup www.blockemf.com

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content


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