Relief For Burned Chapped & Swollen Lips

Your lips, centrally located on your face, are useful for both beauty and utility. They are made up of three to five layers of skin that are thinner than each layer of skin on the rest of your body. Burned, chapped or swollen lips can be painful, irritating, and unattractive. Thankfully, there are a few simple remedies to help you deal with these issues and return your lips to a natural, healthy condition.

Burned Lips

If you've burned your lips in the sun or due to a hot liquid, you've probably removed one or more layers of skin. You must apply something that will help regenerate the layers of your lip skin. Clean the area with mild soap and water and then apply an antibiotic-based ointment or cream to the lips. This will help prevent the area from getting infected and make it easier for the skin to grow back. Use a lip treatment that contains allantoin--this is a substance that helps regenerate tissue, moisturize, and protect the lips. Vitamin E, an antioxidant, also helps treat sunburned lips. Buy vitamin E capsules from your local health food store. Pierce one with a pin and squeeze the liquid out. Smear it over your lips throughout the day. Carry a couple of capsules with you at all times to apply whenever needed.

Chapped Lips

If you have chapped lips, it's because the skin is peeling from them due to extreme weather conditions, like wind and cold. To cure chapped lips, stop licking and eating away at them. This will aggravate the problem and make your lips less attractive. When you lick your lips and the water evaporates it makes them even drier than before. Instead, immediately apply a chapstick when you feel your lips chapping--again, preferably one that contains allantoin or aloe and vitamin E.

Swollen Lips

If your lips are swollen due to an allergic reaction, insect bite, or accident, get some ice. Wash the lips off first with an alcohol swab to kill any germs and remove dirt. Then place a couple of cubes in a small plastic baggie and hold it to your lips until the cubes melt. Take an over the counter antihistamine like Robitussin or Benadryl to help reduce the swelling if this is due to an allergy. Avoid lip gloss and chapstick that contains collagen, pepper, cinnamon, alpha-hydroxy acids, or retinol, as these substances can cause the lips to plump and swell up even more.

Tags: your lips, your lips, that contains, chapped lips, layers skin, Swollen Lips

Will Hydrated Lime Kill Fleas

Hydrated lime (also referred to as high calcium lime) is a type of lime that is often used as an ingredient in various building products such as plasters and mortars. Lime is often seen as a method of killing pesky fleas that can appear on pets. Here is some information about whether hydrated lime will kill fleas.

Significance

Hydrated lime is often used as a general insect repellent. Many vegetable farmers will attest to their strength at repelling insects, including beetles, aphids, squash bugs and fleas. Based on experiments conducted in 1992, after the application of hydrated lime on crops (five to eight times weekly), it was shown that hydrated lime was useful at repelling insects from plants, but it also increased plant defoliation, thus reducing yields in the hydrated lime treatment. Also, the hydrated lime didn't work well in reducing aphids on the plants.

Theories/Speculation

Normal lime (garden lime), as opposed to hydrated or dry lime, is a better option for killing fleas (and not harming your animal, while at it). Garden lime will suffocate both the fleas as well as their eggs. One of the most important things to remember when trying to rid your pet and house of fleas is that the environment should be controlled and maintained flea-free. This means that the pet's bedding should be regularly washed, and the pet should be kept away from dirt, if possible. Also, place flea bombs around your house. As for the use of lime, make sure you put some lime on dirt that your dog might step into. You should also sprinkle your carpeting and floors with lime.

Expert Insight

Even though hydrated lime might not be the best killer of fleas on your pets, it has other practical uses. In livestock farming, hydrated lime can be utilized as a disinfectant, and it also can create an alkaline, dry environment that does not encourage the growth of bacteria.

Warning

Make sure you use real lime, not hydrated or dry lime, when you sprinkle your house and your pet's areas. Also, one of the most important things to remember during this process is that you have to leave the lime sprinkles for over 2 weeks. This will ensure that the fleas and their eggs are completely dead.

Considerations

Using lime will definitely help get rid of your flea problem, but it is best to combine the lime remedy with a flea bomb, which you can easily purchase at a pet supply store. One of the best and most effective flea bombs that are available on the market is the Zodiac Fleatrol Fogger. This fogger will end the flea's life cycle and eliminate further infestation in your house.

Tags: hydrated lime, your house, lime will, flea bombs, fleas that, hydrated lime, important things

Nutritional Value Of Taro Root

Taro root can be a great addition to a meal to make it heartier and healthier. Taro root is often substituted for a potato in many recipes, at it is also a starchy vegetable. According to Food Reference, taro roots are tubers that are actually toxic when they are raw and take on a "nut-like flavor when cooked." There are multiple nutritional benefits to the taro root, including the caloric content and the fiber content. Before adding tarot root to your favorite meal, you should understand the nutritional facts.

Serving and Calories

This guide focuses on the numbers provided by the USDA for one cup of sliced taro. This is taro that has been cooked and has not had any salt added. This is 132 g of taro. One serving has 187 calories. The majority of the calories in this serving come from the carbohydrates in the food, with 184 of the calories coming from these carbohydrates.

Dietary Fiber and Fat

Like many vegetables, taro root is great for those who are trying to watch their fat intake. One serving of taro root has only .1 g of fat per serving. This fails to even register as a single percentage of your daily amount of fat.

Taro is high in beneficial nutrients, such as dietary fiber. One serving has 7 g of dietary fiber. This is 27 percent of your daily recommended amount of dietary fiber. Dietary fiber is important for two main reasons. Dietary fiber is great for the digestive system, as it helps to speed up the process and make the system regular. It can also help to lower cholesterol.

Cholesterol and Sodium

Those who are worried about high cholesterol and high sodium should look to add taro to their diet. They can avoid a high risk of heart issues and a risk of high blood pressure because of the lack of cholesterol and sodium in the food. One serving has 0 mg of cholesterol. This same serving only has 20 mg of sodium. This is only 1 percent of your daily value of sodium. Many will add sodium to the food, however, when they add salt to the tubers.

Vitamins

Taro is high in a few vitamins that are important for the body. One serving has 11 percent of your daily value of Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that is important for multiple bodily systems and functions. While it cannot fight colds, Vitamin C will help to keep your immune system healthy and functioning properly. One cup of taro also has 19 percent of your daily amount of Vitamin E and 22 percent of your daily amount of Vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 is important for the immune system as well, whereas Vitamin E can help to reduce your risk of a heart attack (according to NutritionData).

Minerals

Taro has a lot to offer as far as minerals are concerned. One serving has 10 percent of your daily value of magnesium and phosphorus, while also offering 13 percent of your daily value of copper. Taro is an excellent source of potassium and manganese, with 18 percent of your daily value of potassium and 30 percent of your daily value of manganese. Potassium is important for the regulation of your heart functions and your blood pressure, while allowing your muscles to work as they should. Manganese is important for the "metabolism of proteins and fat" while helping out the immune system (according to NutritionData).

Tags: your daily, percent your, percent your daily, daily value, your daily value, daily amount, immune system

14day Detox

A warning for a contaminated water supply

In Western cultures, we clean our cars and our homes regularly. We clean our teeth daily and our hair almost daily. So what about our bodies? We are religious about bathing, yet we often forget that our insides may need cleaning too. Meanwhile, in our modern cities, homes and diets, we encounter a large range of toxins each day that accumulate in the body over the years, eventually leading to disease. If you would like a system free of heavy metals, chemicals and radiation, follow this simple detoxification plan to remove these toxic substances.

Who Should Detox?

Although everyone can benefit from a detox or cleanse, it will be especially valuable if you experience any of the following symptoms: excess weight, cravings (especially sugar cravings), low energy, less than two bowel movements per day, allergies, premature aging, chronic pain (headaches, arthritic aches, etc.), bloating and indigestion, recurring infections or poor mental functioning (depression, brain fog, poor memory).

A detox can be as short as a weekend or as long as month. Two weeks is an optimal length for one who would like a serious cleanse without an overwhelming time commitment.

Getting Started

Begin in the places where you spend the most time: at work and/or at home. Invest in a water filtration system, as purified drinking water is essential throughout each day. Clean the carpets. Open the windows for fresh air. Next, open your calendar and carve out time for daily exercise, which can be as simple as a thirty minute walk. If you cannot always find a thirty minute block of time, try to fit in three 10-minute walks. Every minute of exercise counts in achieving good circulation and a healthier body.

Detoxify Your Diet

Stock your fridge with organic food whenever possible. In general, the most crucial products to buy organic are meat, milk, coffee, peaches, apples, sweet bell peppers, celery, nectarines, strawberries, cherries, kale, leafy greens, grapes, carrots, pears, potatoes and tomatoes.

For this 14-day detox, follow an easy diet of fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Incorporate both raw and lightly steamed vegetables. Shun processed foods, chemical additives, trans fats, and artificial flavors and sweeteners. Avoid sugar, alcohol, caffeine, animal products and soy products (except miso). Never re-heat food in plastic containers or packaging.

First thing each morning, cleanse the liver by drinking a cup of hot water with fresh lemon juice. Continue your water intake throughout the day, consuming a minimum of 64 ounces. Limit daily fat intake to two tbsp. of extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil or unheated flax oil. To ensure adequate protein and calorie intake, drink a protein shake (made from whey, rice or goat's milk protein) two to three times each day.

Supplements

A high quality multivitamin is paramount, during a detox and at all times. In addition, a probiotic supplement will provide beneficial bacteria, promoting optimal digestive function. Many companies, such as New Chapter, Garden of Life and Mt. Capra, offer vitamins made from organic, whole foods as well as beneficial compounds of probiotics.

Choose an herbal detoxification formula, such as Lily of the Desert's Aloe Vera Juice Herbal Detoxifying Formula or Detox Formula by Nature's Answer, to cleanse your organs. Better yet, visit an herbalist who can evaluate your condition and tailor a detoxification program of herbs based on your specific needs. Lastly, to aid in elimination, take one tbsp. of psyllium husk with water two to three times per day.

Follow this detox plan one to two times per year, or more, depending on your environment. In fact, if you listen carefully to your body, you'll learn just when it's due for a proper cleaning.

Tags: drinking water, made from, thirty minute, three times, would like

What Are The Dangers Of Flintstone Vitamins

Flintstones Vitamins are synthetic, but many sources believe vitamins from whole foods are safer.

Many parents give multivitamin supplements to their children to assure that they are receiving adequate vitamins and minerals during the important growing and developmental years. Flintstones Vitamins, originally introduced in 1968, have been used extensively. However, there are some health-related dangers for parents to consider when giving these vitamins to their children.

Artificial Colors

Although approved by the Food and Drug Administration, the artificial colors contained in Flintstones Vitamins can be dangerous. Also called dyes, these substances in Flintstones Vitamins are FD&C Red #40 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Yellow #6 Aluminum Lake and FD&C Blue #2 Aluminum Lake. According to MayoClinic.com, Red #40 and Yellow #6 may contribute to hyperactive behavior, and other sources concur with this assessment on the danger of artificial colors.

Artificial Sweeteners

Some of the Flintstones Vitamin formulations contain the artificial sweetener aspartame. Although the manufacturer states at FlintstonesVitamins.com that aspartame is safe and has been approved by the FDA, there has been a great deal of controversy over this issue. Many sources believe that aspartame is dangerous and can lead to serious health problems, including neurological risks. According to Dr. Joseph Mercola in "The Huffington Post," some symptoms of aspartame ingestion can include headaches, mood or behavior changes, seizures and depression.

Sugar

Flintstones Vitamins contain sugar, and it is better for all children, especially those with blood sugar imbalances, to not ingest sugar. Eating excess sugar can contribute not just to serious issues such as diabetes and hypoglycemia, but many other health problems as well. These include immune system suppression, anxiety, depression, irritability, concentration difficulties, cholesterol problems, weight gain, mineral imbalance, food allergies and tooth decay.

Gluten

The manufacturer of Flintstones Vitamins states that they do not add gluten to their products, but they also say at FlintstonesVitamins.com that they "cannot guarantee that they are 100% gluten-free due to the fact that raw materials [they] receive from outside vendors are not certified as 100% gluten free." Many children have food intolerances to gluten, and even a small amount of gluten can trigger an adverse reaction. Children who are gluten intolerant must only ingest foods and supplements that are guaranteed to be gluten free.

Synthetic

Many sources contend that whole food-based vitamin supplements are much healthier than synthetic ones and are better absorbed by the body, as the body can better recognize whole foods. Flintstones Vitamins, however, are synthetic. Whole food supplements are derived directly from foods and are thus more likely to provide necessary nutrients than synthetic ones, according to Whole Food Supplements Guide.

Tags: Flintstones Vitamins, that they, Aluminum Lake, artificial colors, FlintstonesVitamins that, gluten free, health problems

Nutritional Value Of Cranberry Juice

A healthy lifestyle can be maintained by consuming cranberry juice on a daily basis. This juice provides the nutrients and vitamins that your body needs if it is to operate at optimal efficiency.

Oral Health

Cranberry juice has been shown to help stop gum disease, including periodontal disease.

Vitamin C

Cranberry juice has a high content of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps to neutralize the free radicals which can damage cells in the body and lead to disease.

Weight Loss

Cranberry Juice that has been commercially prepared has sugar added and you should be aware of this if you are trying to lose weight. Unsweetened Cranberry Juice can assist you with weight loss if you can stand the bitter taste--you can also combine it with other juices that are naturally sweeter, such as orange.

Vitamin E

A good source of Vitamin E is cranberry juice. Vitamin E helps you maintain healthy skin. It also protects skin cells from the harmful elements that promote and manufacture free radicals.

Vitamin K

Cranberry juice is a good source of vitamin K, which help the body absorb calcium. Calcium is needed for strong bones and teeth. Vitamin K also has the ability to make your blot clot, and this promotes healing.

Tags: Cranberry Juice, free radicals, good source, Vitamin Cranberry, vitamin which

Do Pill Organizers Keep Pills Fresh

Pill organizers separate pills to take daily.

Many people taking at least one type of prescription drug find it beneficial to use pill organizers. Pill organizers help the person taking pills to stay on track and remember which pills are taken when so medication is taken consistently.

Significance

Pill organizers can be daily, weekly or monthly. They have slots where pills are placed as a reminder to take them that given day, such as morning, noon and evening, or daily for a week or month. Pill organizers are helpful in keeping pills in one place and serve as a reminder when pills need to be taken.

Benefits

Besides keeping pills centralized, pill organizers also help keep pills fresh as long as they close tightly. Pill organizers with snap-shut lids are designed to keep pills fresh by not exposing them to the atmosphere. Also, pills have long expiration dates, so they usually will stay fresh until that date no matter where they are placed.

Expert Insight

According to the article "The Right Prescription," pill organizers are recommended by doctors because they help patients organize pills --- although they don't necessarily remind them to take those pills.

Tags: Pill organizers, keeping pills, pill organizers, pills fresh

What Is The Vitamin Lysine Used For

What Is the Vitamin Lysine Used For?

Lysine is an essential amino acid, not a vitamin, that the human body needs for proper health, yet the body is incapable of making it. Therefore, it must come from foods or supplementation. Much has been learned about this valuable amino acid and how beneficial it can be to our health. Since lysine is the building block of all protein, it is invaluable to our bodies.

Why is Lysine Essential?

Lysine is required for bone development and growth in children, and helps calcium absorption as well as balances nitrogen in the body. It is also necessary to produce antibodies, enzymes, hormones and collagen. It lowers cholesterol and helps the body to repair tissue damage.

Lysine Deficiency

Symptoms of lysine deficiency include blootshot eyes, anemia, nausea, dizziness, loss of energy, weight loss, reproductive problems, lack of concentration and appetite.

Lysine Toxicity

Too much lysine the in body will cause stomach cramps and diarrhea.

Foods That Contain Lysine

To get your lysine without taking a supplement, it is found naturally in potatoes, soy beans, lima beans, cod, sardines, nuts, Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, meat and brewer's yeast.

Supplements are available in your local drug, grocery or department store, in varying dosages. Follow the directions on the bottle exactly as given.

Surprising Uses for Lysine

When you feel a cold sore or a herpes sore starting, take Lysine immediately. It may stop it in its tracks. Repeat the dosage at night and in the morning.

You can also take Lysine to help burns and cuts heal, since it helps tissues to repair themselves.

Tags: amino acid, Lysine Used, take Lysine, Vitamin Lysine, Vitamin Lysine Used, What Vitamin, What Vitamin Lysine

Cure Athlete'S Foot With Vitamins

Athlete's foot can be painful and uncomfortable, so quick cures are key. The condition, caused by a fungus, grows in damp places and is highly contagious. Since your body will naturally fight the fungus, vitamins can be used to boost your immune system to cure athlete's foot.

Instructions

1. Take vitamin C. Boosting your immune system will help your body fight athlete's foot and you can do that by taking vitamin C. You might want to take smaller doses several times a day. Large doses can cause diarrhea.

2. Take vitamins A,B,D and E. These vitamins will help balance your overall health and work to help your immune system. Vitamins A, B and E help promote healthy skin.

3. Take Zinc. Zinc will specifically help your body fight fungal growth. Taken along with the other vitamins will keep athlete's foot away.

Tags: help your, immune system, your body, your immune, your immune system, athlete foot, body fight

Drinking Barley Water

Barley water is made from barley grains.

Barley water is a soft drink that is popular in Britain. Robinsons Barley Water, a brand available in the United Kingdom, began as a company sanctioned to make barley water to hydrate tennis players at Wimbledon. It is held as a restoring drink full of electrolytes and easily absorbed energy, making it a good drink for athletes, those who are ill, and anyone who is dehydrated. Barley water is purported to have several other health benefits as well.

Qualities

Barley water is typically viscous, tart and sweet. It is often flavored with citrus fruits, particularly lemon or lime. Occasionally it is flavored with ginger, berries or melons in addition to its citrus base. It has a taste similar to lemonade, though it is denser and sweeter. Barley water is almost always consumed when cold, enhancing its restorative properties. It is a very popular summertime drink, one that can provide a welcome contrast to lemonade and iced tea.

Health Benefits

Barley water can help restore hydration after a bout of stomach troubles.

Barley water is very helpful in aiding recovery from diarrhea. According to "More Chicken Soup & Other Folk Remedies" by Joan Wilen, barley helps the body retain water, and in a liquid form is particularly restorative. The nutrients in barley water are easily digested by the body and can help support a person who is too sick to eat. Drinking barley water is traditionally held to improve complexion and slow the wrinkling of skin. Barley and barley water also help in weight loss because they act as an appetite suppressant.

Nutritional Information

Lemon juice or other citrus juice provides Vitamin C to barley water.

Barley water, like many other sweetened beverages, tends to be high in carbohydrates and simple sugars but very low in fat. Barley water also tends to have negligible amounts of sodium. It generally has no protein content, as the protein from the barley is retained in the cooked barley rather than the barley water. Depending on how much citrus juice is used to flavor the barley water, it can be an excellent source of Vitamin C. Barley water can be made more healthful by using less sugar.

Making Barley Water at Home

Commercial barley water is very easy to recreate at home. For one quart of barley water, bring six cups of washed barley to a boil with eight cups of water. Set the heat to low and let it simmer for an hour, then strain. Pour the hot barley water over two juiced lemons and their juice and add sugar to taste while it's still warm. Chill, and remove the lemons before serving. You may add other fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries, to lend a different flavor, or add a small piece of peeled ginger fruit to the steeping barley water to lend a spicy tang.

Tags: Barley water, barley water, barley water, Barley water, Barley Water, barley water, Barley water

The Water & Celery Diet

Celery is packed with nutrients, but the water and celery diet is drastic.

The water and celery diet is a drastic weight loss diet in which your body essentially starves itself. Such fasting can flush toxins out of your body and help revitalize it, but careful monitoring is required. Although weight loss has been achieved with this diet, severe side effects are possible and weight loss is highly likely to be unsustainable.

Celery and Water: The Facts

Celery contains about 6 calories per stick. The process of digesting celery, which contains cellulose that is difficult to digest, an equal number of calories will be burned. In effect, celery is a negative-calorie food.

Water makes up about 60 percent of your body weight, but it holds no nutritional value, it only hydrates you.

When consuming only celery and water, you are technically fasting---or starving the body---which means you will lose weight but probably not in the best way possible.

Nutritional Benefits

Water is essential for hydration but must be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Both water and celery benefit those who consume them. Celery is rich in vitamin C, which supports and protects the immune system; is high in fiber; and contains blood pressure-reducing compounds called plathides, which relax smooth muscles in the walls of blood vessels to allow them to dilate. It is also rich in potassium, which is good for your heart. Water flushes toxins out of your body's main organs, carries nutrients to your cells, and provides a moist environment for your nose, ear and throat.

Starvation Mode

Despite the benefits of both celery and water, this diet will force your body into starvation mode. When your body believes it is starving and is deprived, your metabolic rate, which helps your body burn more calories and lose weight faster, slows. Your body will hold onto fat and start to break down muscle mass for fuel. When you start eating normally again, your body will retain the fat from your food as protection in case you starve it again. This means that even if you do lose weight on the water and celery diet, there is a high chance you will put that weight back on, and perhaps a little more too.

Effects

A starvation diet such as this is highly likely to result in low energy levels, irritability, trouble sleeping, headaches, stomach aches and impaired concentration levels. It could also affect the appearance of your hair, skin and nails. The recommended daily calorie intake for a woman is 2,000, and the recommended calorie intake for a man is 2,500. The calorie intake for a diet such as this will be greatly depleted from this healthy recommendation and is not a healthy way to lose weight.

Expert Advice

Running is an effective way to lose fat.

Before making any changes to your diet, always consult your doctor for advice on the best course of action. According to the website, theofficediet.com, in order to lose weight safely and keep the weight off, the recommended calorie deficit a day---that is, calorie intake minus the number of calories expended in daily activity---is 500 calories. This should result in a pound of fat loss a week. Exercising daily will increase the speed of weight loss, as well as tone your body and increase lean muscle mass, which in turn, will eventually increase your metabolic rate.

Tags: your body, lose weight, calorie intake, weight loss, water celery, body will, celery diet

Vitamins For Hysterectomy Recovery

Vitamins work to improve the overall health of the body, and they are also beneficial when recovering from an illness or medical procedure. Certain vitamins have been found to especially help with hysterectomy recovery by repairing the affected area, encouraging healing and calming painful side effects.

Vitamins can improve hysterectomy recovery.

Significance

A hysterectomy is an out-patient procedure consisting of the removal of the uterus. Though an abdominal hysterectomy has a longer recovery time than a vaginal hysterectomy, both involve significant recovery time, sometimes more than a month. Women are usually placed on heavy pain medications and are instructed to limit physical activity, driving or lifting. Due to this long recovery process, taking vitamins to speed healing is beneficial.

Fundraise With Shaklee Products

Shaklee specializes in multivitamin supplements.

Shaklee is a multi-level marketing company that sells multivitamins and home cleaning products. Non-profit organizations can sign up for the program and use the profits from sales to generate fundraising money. Organizations that sign up for Shaklee operate just like regular Shaklee business owners and are paid in the same ways.

Instructions

1. Visit the Shaklee website, provided in the Resources section, to find a distributor near you. Enter your company's contact information in the provided form and click "Submit Information." Wait for the nearest Shaklee distributor to contact you.

2. Sign up as a Shaklee distributor through your contact. As a non-profit organization, there is no sign-up cost to you.

3. Set up your sales website with the help of your Shaklee distributor. You can now direct people to that website to make purchases. You can also set up a laptop and your Shaklee display at various fundraising events and allow people to make purchases at the event.

4. Wait for your payment. Shaklee pays you the difference between the wholesale cost of the product and the retail price at which you sell the product. The company also pays you a performance bonus based on the amount of your sales.

5. Maintain an all-volunteer staff in your organization to protect your non-profit status.

Tags: Shaklee distributor, make purchases, your sales, your Shaklee

Vitamins That Can Help With Congestion

Nasal congestion (a "stuffy nose") can be uncomfortable and is caused by swollen mucous membranes that line the nose and sinuses. Supplementing your diet with one or several vitamins may help alleviate or decrease the stuffiness and strengthen your immune system to help you feel better. Some vitamins help decrease histamines, which are proteins that are associated with increased congestion. Others support general nutrition, strengthen the adrenal gland (which helps regulate immune response) and decrease inflammation.

Vitamin C

Taking vitamin C can help reduce congestion because it works as a natural antihistamine. Histamines are bodily proteins that are associated with congestion at high levels. Vitamin C can help lower the level of histamines in the blood, which in turn reduces the effects they have on congestion.

The current RDA (recommended daily allowance) for vitamin C is 70 milligrams for women and 95 milligrams for men. However, research suggests that higher doses of the vitamin---around 1,000 to 3,000mg per day---may provide more health benefits than smaller amounts.

Research from three separate studies over the past several years at Arizona State University has shown that high doses of vitamin C lower blood histamine levels. Specifically, the studies also showed that people who consumed 2,000mg of vitamin C per day had blood histamine levels that were 40 percent lower than those who consumed the RDA.

To help reduce histamine levels in the blood, take 1,000 mg of vitamin C, up to three times daily. Increasing your intake of vitamin C-rich foods, such as citrus fruits, melons, berries, broccoli and cabbage can also support decreased histamines, in addition to their other health benefits.

In some individuals, using the therapeutic dosages of vitamin C three times daily can result in loose stools or diarrhea. If this occurs, try reducing the dosage to 1,000 milligrams once a day.

Other Vitamins

Taking adequate levels of B-complex vitamins can help promote proper functioning of the immune system and the adrenal glands. Impaired adrenal function caused by chronic stress or low levels of these vitamins can result in a higher tendency to contract the flu or other respiratory diseases that can cause congestion, and the illnesses may last longer.

Take a multivitamin that contains a B-complex or check with your health care provider if your requirements may differ than those that a multivitamin provides. Individuals with chronic stress levels, vegetarians and alcoholics who do not eat regularly and pregnant women can require additional levels of these vitamins.

In addition, eat foods rich in B-complex vitamins. These include whole grains, Brewer's yeast, rice, nuts, seeds, milk, meats, eggs, many green vegetables and liver.

You can also take vitamin E to strengthen overall immunity against colds and allergies that can cause congestion. This fat-soluble vitamin is also a potent antioxidant. Among its benefits, vitamin E enhances the production of B-cells, the immune cells that produce antibodies that fight bacteria and viruses. It has also been shown to reduce the decline in immune response associated with aging.

The RDA for vitamin E is 15 milligrams each day for both men and women. Dietary sources of vitamin E such as seeds, vegetable oils and grains can help fulfill the RDA. Take higher levels of this vitamin, from 100 to 400 milligrams daily, to boost the immune system. For individuals who smoke, don't exercise regularly or who consume a lot of alcohol, taking supplements at the higher dosage is recommended.

Another vitamin to that can boost immunity and counter inflammation is vitamin A. Taking vitamin A as part of a multivitamin regimen can enhance white blood cell function, increase the body's resistance to infection and help decrease inflammation in mucous membranes.

Taking Supplements

As a general guideline, when taking any vitamin supplements, take them before or with a larger meal to avoid stomach issues and allow the body to absorb them better. If taken on an empty stomach or after a meal, some supplements can cause stomach irritation.

Also, don't lie down right after taking any supplements. If taking a large amount of any one vitamin, try splitting it up in smaller doses taken throughout the day so it doesn't conflict with the absorption of other nutrients from food or nutrients taken at lower levels.

Other Considerations

While taking supplements can help decrease congestion and help the immune system, other healthy lifestyle practices like following a nutritionally-balanced diet, drinking enough water and getting adequate rest and exercise can improve your symptoms or even prevent them.

Tags: immune system, associated with, help decrease, histamine levels, vitamins help

Vitamins For Pregnant Dogs

Make sure your pregnant dog has all the nutrients necessary for a healthy pregnancy and puppies.

If your pooch is pregnant, you likely want to do everything possible to ensure a healthy pregnancy and healthy puppies. In the first stages of pregnancy, puppies develop slowly, so the mother won't need any extra nutrients, according to the Pet Place website. However, the puppies begin growing very quickly during the last few weeks of pregnancy, placing a big demand on the mother's nutrients and energy. Thus, this is the time when added vitamins can come in handy.

B12

B12 may help create puppies who are better equipped physiologically to handle stress, according to The Vitamin And Supplement Guide. Ribofavin, the common name of Vitamin B12, is necessary for proper development, a healthy coat, heart and eyes, notes the Dog (spired) website. A deficiency in this important vitamin can result in birth defects in the puppies. Talk to your vet about how much is appropriate for your pregnant dog.

Folic Acid

Folic acid is commonly recommended for pregnant dogs. In humans, folic acid plays an important role in preventing neural tube defects, so many people think that giving folic acid to pregnant dogs will accomplish the same thing. However, this condition is very rarely seen in dogs, so the risk of neural tube defects in the puppies developing in the womb is minuscule to start with. However, if you want to be on the safe side, supplementing folic acid will not hurt your dog. Your vet will be able to tell you how much is appropriate.

Calcium

Common sense may tell you that your pregnant pooch needs more calcium than normal. After all, the developing puppies' bone structures are growing, and mom will soon need to nourish them with her milk. However, pregnant dogs only require a very slight increase in the amounts of calcium they take in, according to the Pet Wave website. Additionally, giving a pregnant dog too much calcium can drastically increase her chances of experiencing preeclampsia, a dangerous medical condition resulting from very low blood calcium levels after birth. Thus, unless your dog's diet is already deficient in calcium, supplementing her diet with calcium tablets may not be a good idea. Talk to your vet about whether calcium is necessary at all, and if so, in what amounts.

Tags: folic acid, your pregnant, defects puppies, healthy pregnancy, much appropriate, neural tube

Organic Treatment For Cellulite

Reducing and Treating Cellulite: Steps to Smooth Legs

Cellulite is an insidious enemy. The contributing factors of this silent enemy include toxins in the body, poor circulation, the hardening of fat, lack of hydration, and a lack of physical activity. As formidable a foe as cellulite is, there are some simple, organic ways to address and treat the causes of those unwanted dimples. Topical remedies, internal remedies, and exercise can all dramatically, inexpensively, and organically address the problem.

Exfoliate

Raw Sugar Crystals

Weakening of the skin is one cause of cellulite. To combat this, keep skin fresh, exfoliated, and conditioned. Accumulated dead skin cells and flaccid, loose skin, will contribute to the appearance of cellulite. To create a simple, organic, and effective exfoliant, mix a teaspoon of cold water with a quarter cup of organic, raw sugar. The consistency should be paste-like. Vigorously scrub the area rinse with warm water when finished.

Stimulate

Fresh Coffee Grounds

A wonderful and effective cosmetic fix for cellulite is a caffeine treatment. Caffeine when applied topically will stimulate the skin and tighten it. As the skin tightens, it will appear smoother and more elastic, reducing the appearance of bulges. To create this treatment, apply warm, fresh, coffee grounds to freshly exfoliated skin and wrap the area with plastic wrap or a cloth. Leave the grounds on for 20 minutes.

Purify

Apple Cider Vinegar

The build up of toxins in the body slows every natural body process down. This means that proper fat processing and lymphatic drainage are slowed down significantly, leading to the build up of fatty deposits. Apple Cider Vinegar has long been known as a purifying agent. It aids in the dissolution of subcutaneous fatty deposits. Take two tablespoons daily. One way to do this is by dissolving 2 tbsp of vinegar and 1 tsp of honey in an 8 oz. glass of water.

Improve Circulation

Cayenne Peppers

Poor blood circulation is thought to be another cause of cellulite. The circulatory system plays a large part in the removal of waste from our tissue and the replacement of fresh nutrients. When this system is not working efficiently, waste buildup can occur very rapidly. There are many foods that can increase circulation. Introducing these foods into your diet on a regular basis will reduce cellulite and increase overall health. Some circulatory strengthening foods include: garlic, ginger, berries, turmeric, watercress, radishes, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds.

Walk It Away

Beauty Walking

Regular exercise is a must for general health as well as the treatment of cellulite. Something as simple as a daily walk can dramatically reduce fat all over the body. Walking also increases and stimulates circulation, builds and stretches muscles. Walking is also a wonderful way to address and reduce stress, another contributing factor of cellulite.

Target the Area

Leg and Thigh Exercises

Targeting the specific muscle groups in the area of cellulite will tone the muscles that exist below the fatty deposits. This will result in a smoother and tighter area and a reduction of dimples. Thigh, buttocks, and leg exercises, paired with a healthy diet, skin treatment, and sufficient water intake, may significantly reduce the appearance, and the cause, of cellulite.

Tags: cause cellulite, fatty deposits, Apple Cider, Apple Cider Vinegar, Cider Vinegar, simple organic, toxins body

Can Starting Prenatal Vitamins Cause A Period To Be Late

Reasons Your Period Might Be Late

Starting prenatal vitamins cannot cause your period to be late. Prenatal vitamins are simply a preparation of nutrients that are beneficial during pregnancy, and there is no way for them to affect your menstrual cycle. If your period is late, you are either pregnant or simply having an abnormal menstrual cycle this month. Most women have an occasional abnormally long or short menstrual cycle, but if you have abnormal cycles as the rule rather than the exception, it's worth mentioning to a doctor.

How Prenatal Vitamins Work

Prenatal vitamins can't cause your period to be late, but they can boost your nutritional status and help your body prepare for pregnancy. If you have started taking prenatal vitamins before getting pregnant, you have made a wise move. The most important ingredient in your prenatal vitamins is a nutrient called folic acid. Getting adequate intake of folic acid (such as by taking a prenatal vitamin) in the months before conceiving can drastically reduce the risk that your baby will be affected by neural tube defects when you do get pregnant. Prenatal vitamins will also improve your levels of iodine, iron, zinc and other important vitamins and minerals that will help you to have a healthy pregnancy.

What Prenatal Vitamins Don't Do

Although they can definitely help, prenatal vitamins are also not a cure-all or a license to engage in unhealthy behaviors during pregnancy. They will not counter the negative side effects of smoking during pregnancy, for example. It's also important to make sure you choose the right prenatal vitamin. Many vitamins are not well regulated, and consumer test reports have found that the folic acid in many over-the-counter brands does not properly dissolve, so be sure to check with your doctor before choosing a prenatal vitamin in order to select the best one for your baby.

Tags: during pregnancy, folic acid, menstrual cycle, prenatal vitamin, prenatal vitamins, your period, your period late

Lose 20 Pounds Fast

Lose 20 Pounds Fast

So it's that time of the year again to take stock of how much weight we've gained. Unfortunately some have grown more than we've ever thought we would. Thankfully I didn't gain any weight and this is how I did it

Instructions

1. Detox. This is perhaps the most important step in the whole process. Before you even begin to burn some calories you need to clean all the toxins out of your body. A usual detox program should be atleast a week long. A good tip is to drink plenty of water and eat light meals during your detox program. This will aide in flushing your system. Plus you would be suprised. Many people lose 5-10 pounds on a typical week long detox program.

2. Water. You need to start drinking water from day 1. Water should be your drink of choice becuase of many reasons. One is it helps breakdown food and aide digestion. Second helps hunger. Many times people confuse hunger for thirst so always have a big glass of water when you feel the urge to eat or snack. Third reason is there water is zero calories! Substitute soda for water and you can lose 3-5 pounds in no time.

3. Vitamins. Go down to your local vitamin shoppe and get a quality multi-vitamin. This will ensure you are getting plenty of nutrients and help weight loss.

4. Exercise. Ahhhhh! Now comes the fun part! Don't worry. You don't need to go to the gym and lift every weight. You want to start real easy. Start with one body part a day and go real light. Your initially just looking to build up a tolerance and get used to the motions of working out.

5. Get a personal trainer. It is wise to have a professional show you the exercises and proper form to make sure you don't hurt yourself. all gyms have personal trainers that they can set you up with and they are reasonably priced.

6. Consumption. This is the hardest part of the whole process. First thing to do is cut out all soda, juices and other high fructose syrup drinks at meals. Most people say to cut them out entirely but this will set you up for disaster. Permit youself to have one of these drinks a day no later than 3pm. This will give you plenty of time to burn it off. Next cut out all fast food, cookies and cakes. You need to eat foods that are as natural and healthy as possible. This means plenty of chicken and lean beef and vegetables.

7. Cardio. This will help speed up the process. Some of my favorite activities are running, riding my bike or swimming. You should also look to use the cardio machines at the gym. Your goal is to burn atleast 500 calories each time. Since 1 pound of fat equals 3500 calories, the more your burn the quicker you lose.

8. Get family and friends involved. It's much easier to stay on track when everyone around you is traveling the same way. Make it fun. Try and make a game out of it.

9. Motivation. Losing weight and working out can be tough. Your going to wake up some mornings and not want to go to the gym. Your going to get home from work sometimes and want to eat everything in sight. You have to keep the fath and stay in control. You need motivation. Take a picture of yourself before you started and put it on every mirror in your house. Also put your goal weight under this picture and make it a point to look at it 3 times a day. Listen to motivational cd's. you'd be suprised how much Tony Robbins can pump you up.

10. Reward yourself. You need to give yourself one day to relax. A "cheat day". This will keep you on track and keep your sanity. Im sorry but anyone that says eating chicken and salad all the time is great is lying. You need to give yourself a break. This doesn't mean go nuts. Allow yourself to have 1 indulgent. If you want a piece of cake have 1 piece of cake. You like soda? Have one glass of soda not the whole bottle.

Tags: This will, detox program, give yourself, Lose Pounds, Lose Pounds Fast

Get Free Or Lowcost Health Care

Get Free or Low-Cost Health Care

We all know how bad the economy is right now. Millions are out of work, many unable to access adequate health insurance, many unable to pay for health insurance if they do have access.

In this article, I will show you get free or low-cost health care if you are in the United States. Most of these programs work on a "sliding-scale" basis- you pay what you can afford.

Instructions

1. A lot of people are unaware of the fact that there are a number of clinics in the United States that offer free and/or low-cost health care to people with limited income and limited resources. There are over 6500 such clinics. They offer free or low-cost health care on a sliding scale basis- you pay what you can afford.

In the resources section of this article (below), there is a link to a database with these clinics. Click on your state and a list of clinics in your state will come up. Many of these clinics even offer dental work, mental health care, and women's health services on a sliding scale. This is an absolutely fantastic list to have.

2. If you are seeking mental health services and do not see a clinic listed, check your local yellow pages. There are usually "community mental health centers" available. These are government-run mental health clinics available. They will see you on a sliding-scale basis.

3. Planned Parenthood is another option for free or low cost health care. They offer general health care services, such as employment and sports exams, physical exams, high blood pressure screening, and vaccinations. They also offer men's health services (colon cancer screenings, male infertility screenings and referrals, sexual check-ups, etc.), women's services (breast exams, PAP tests, infertility testing and treatment, sexual check-ups, etc.), birth control, and pregnancy services (including testing, prenatal services, and childbirth classes).

See the resources section below for the link to find a free or low-cost Planned Parenthood clinic near you.

4. If you do not see a clinic listed near you, you should be able to call any hospital and ask for a referral to a free or low-cost health clinic that works on a sliding-scale. Some hospitals even work on a sliding-scale.

5. If you are pregnant, elderly, or disabled, you can apply for Medicaid or Medicare. Please search for this topic in the eHow search box at the top of the page.

6. Ask-a-Nurse hotlines are a free health care option for you if you have a mild injury or unusual symptoms and are unsure whether or not you should go to the hospital. The hotline numbers vary by state and city. With these hotlines, real nurses answer the phones and walk you through treatment of small injuries that do not require a doctor. They can also help you identify symptoms and suggest what to do about them. The Ask-a-Nurse hotlines can also refer you to doctors, if needed. Some may have information on low-cost clinics. To find one near you, do a Google search for "Ask-a-Nurse (your city)".

7. If you have a procedure you need to have done, it can be hard to price shop. There is a link in the Resources section below to a website that will help you do just this.

Tags: free low-cost, health care, free low-cost health, mental health, health services

B12 As A Mosquito Repellent

Vitamin B supplements are one home remedy to repel mosquitoes.

Several home remedies have been used to try to repel mosquitoes, including eating garlic, vitamin B12 supplements and applying herbal essential oils. Several university and research centers have tested vitamin B12 supplements for their efficacy.

Testing Results

The University of Florida IFAS Extension found no scientific evidence to support the use of vitamin B supplements, including B12, as an effective mosquito repellent. The University of Wisconsin's Integrated Mosquito Management program reached the same conclusion.

Considerations

Mosquitoes are enticed to bite due to a complex interaction of visual and chemical cues. The University of Florida IFAS Extension admits that some foods or vitamins may increase or decrease a given individual's attractiveness to mosquitoes, but the reasons why they may affect one person in one way and another in the opposite way is not understood. However, vitamin B supplements do not provide the kind of consistent results necessary to earn an endorsement as an effective mosquito repellent.

Potential

Vitamin B does seem to help ward off another biting bug related to the mosquito: the flea. Vet Info says dog owners have experienced some success in warding off fleas by giving their dogs vitamin B and garlic supplements.

Tags: effective mosquito, effective mosquito repellent, Florida IFAS, Florida IFAS Extension, IFAS Extension

Improve Eye Health With Nutrition

Your eyes can be affected by many conditions, diseases, pollutants and the natural process of aging. Preventing a serious condition is easier than treating it. It's important to maintain the amounts of vitamins and minerals your body requires. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, in addition to taking a multi-vitamin. Be sure to schedule regular eye exams.

Instructions

1. Treat glaucoma with plenty of vitamin A. A vitamin A deficiency can result in increased eye pressure. Vitamin B complex can also help, as can bioflavonoids (antioxidants present in plant foods), vitamin E, and spirulina, which can help improve vision loss due to glaucoma.

2. Supplement your diet with bilberry preserves to improve your night vision. Bilberry is also available in a supplement. Bilberry helps strengthen collagen, destroy free radicals, and improve the flow of blood and oxygen to the eye.

3. Reduce the probability of getting cataracts by including lots of antioxidants in your diet. They destroy free radicals, the cause of most cataracts. Supplements that may help include vitamins C, A, E, and B complex, as well as copper, zinc, manganese, magnesium, potassium, selenium, and chromium. Lowering your sugar intake can also help.

4. Avoid macular degeneration with a daily regimen multi-vitamin that includes B complex, beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, as well as selenium, zinc, and lycopene. Other helpful supplements include garlic, lutein, zeaxanthin, bioflavonoids, and the amino acids cysteine and taurine.

5. Treat dry eyes with essential fatty acids, found in evening primrose oil. You can also try gingko, potassium, and vitamins C, E, and B complex. It's also helpful to avoid refined sugar and artificial sweeteners.

Tags: also help, complex also, destroy free, destroy free radicals, free radicals, vitamins complex, your diet

Vitamins To Boost Metabolism

Vitamins to Boost Metabolism

Boosting your metabolism means increasing your energy. Having more energy means feeling better and could also help in losing weight. If you have low metabolism you have low energy. Low energy can make you feel like you have to force yourself to get through your day. Luckily, there are vitamins you can take to help increase your metabolism, increase your energy, help you lose weight, and make you feel better every day.

Green Tea

Green Tea is a great source for metabolism boosting. Green tea helps in more ways than one. If you substitute green tea for caffeine, it will help prevent your body from making more insulin than it should and prevent extra fat around your belly. Green tea also helps as an appetite suppressant by tricking your body into thinking it is full. It accelerates cell function, which boosts your metabolism. Green tea comes in a drink and vitamin form as a tablet or liquid drop.

Vitamin B

You can take a multi-vitamin, but if you still feel fatigued, then you might not be getting enough vitamin B. Vitamin B12 will improve your energy by boosting your metabolism. It can also help keep your skin healthy, improve muscle tone and your immune system, and promote cell growth and function. B complex helps reduce stress, which in turn releases less cortical and helps you lose weight.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C can help boost your metabolism by taking a vitamin C supplement or eating foods containing vitamin C. Foods rich in vitamin C include orange juice, tomato juice, oranges, tomatoes, red peppers, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cantaloupe, cabbage and greens.

Magnesium

Magnesium can help improve metabolism. You can take magnesium in vitamin form alone or with a combination of Zinc and calcium. Taking a combination of zinc, magnesium and calcium seems to work better for most people. When your metabolism increases, you will notice a difference in your body temperature.

Cayenne Capsules

Cayenne capsules or cayenne in food is another great metabolism booster. Cayenne capsules stimulate warmth in your body and help you burn more calories.

Tags: your metabolism, your body, your energy, also help, Boost Metabolism, increase your

Energy Supplements For Running

Energy supplements help runners stay strong during races and training.

Energy supplements are vital for runners. These supplements not only provide fuel to run harder and faster, but also may be necessary for runners to finish a race. Runners use four basic kinds of supplements -- energy gel, multivitamins, sports drinks and protein drinks. Each has unique benefits.

Energy Gel

Energy gel has a thick consistency that provides carbohydrates to the body. Energy gels can also be called endurance gels, sports gels, nutrition gels and carbohydrate gels. Gels generally are made from sodium, potassium and carbohydrates. The gels come in packets that can easily be carried in runner utility belts. Energy gels should be used 15 minutes before a run and every 30 to 45 minutes during the run. If the runner has eaten a high carb meal before the race, the first energy gel may not be necessary. Any runner completing a marathon or ultra-marathon must use energy gels or risk serious health side effects.

Multivitamins

Runners know the importance of eating a healthy diet, but sometimes they are missing key vitamins. Multivitamins that are high in Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Betacarotene are best to keep runners energized and injury free. Most sports multivitamins are the right supplement for runners, but if a runner does not have a good diet, he or she should consider a more generic multivitamin.

Protein Drinks

Protein powder or protein drinks are usually made from whey protein, carbohydrates, fat, minerals, vitamins, amino acids and electrolytes. These should not be used during a workout or long run, but should be ingested after a workout to help the body recover. If a runner wants to have a protein drink before a workout, the drink should be ingested at least one hour before the workout begins. When shopping for a protein drink, make sure it has more than just carbs; the body needs fats, protein and electrolytes to properly recover from a run.

Sports Drinks

Sports drinks provide hydration during a run or workout. These drinks usually contain electrolytes, carbohydrates and water, which allows the body to digest the drink more easily during exercise. Sugar in the sports drink will help the body absorb the drink faster than it can absorb water. When choosing a sports drink, it is important to find one you like -- if you do not like it, you will not drink it and it will not do any good. Runners should have four to eight ounces of sports drink every 15 to 20 minutes of exercise.

Tags: sports drink, before workout, drink will, drinks usually, during workout

What Causes A Rise In Coagulation Factors

Coagulation factors are a key component of the blood.

Coagulation factors, also known as clotting factors, play a vital role in the body's immune system. Coagulation factors are essential for blood clotting, and are often measured by health professionals to determine a patient's health. There are many coagulation factors, and a rise in coagulation factors can be the result of a number of different conditions.

Coagulation Factors

The term "coagulation factors" (also known as "blood clotting factors" or "clotting factors") refers to a number of different substances, mostly proteins, that occur in the blood and control clotting or coagulation. Coagulation factors are essential components of blood --- without them, blood doesn't clot, and you could bleed to death from even a small cut.

Causes for a Rise in Coagulation Factors

Generally speaking, doctors are more concerned about a drop in coagulation factors than in a rise --- and as a result, the reasons for a rise in coagulation factors haven't been well-studied and are still largely unknown. There are a number of genetic conditions that cause a hypercoagulable state, in which clotting factors are elevated and the blood clots more easily. Some people have a natural deficiency of Antithrombin III or Protein C, both of which are important coagulation factors. The most common genetic cause of a rise in coagulation factors is a genetic mutation called Factor V Leiden. This mutation occurs in 5 percent of the white population.

Non-Genetic Causes

The most common non-genetic reason for a rise in coagulation factors is pregnancy, which changes the balance of these factors in the blood and generally causes most coagulation factors to rise. Many other conditions can also cause a rise on coagulation factors by mechanisms that doctors still do not fully understand. A rise in coagulation factors can be cause by trauma, surgery, some cancers and infection. Elevated coagulation factors can also be an indicator of heart disease, but the relationship between heart disease and coagulation factors is only beginning to be studied.

Thrombosis

High coagulation factors can be an indicator of other health problems, but high coagulation factors can themselves cause serious problems. When coagulation factors become too high, this put you at risk of thrombosis, the clotting of the blood inside the circulatory system. A blood clot in an artery, vein or the heart can be deadly or cause a stroke. When coagulation factors get too high, a doctor may prescribe aspirin or blood thinners to lower the levels of coagulation factors and reduce the risk of thrombosis.

Tags: coagulation factors, coagulation factors, clotting factors, coagulation factors, rise coagulation factors, factors also

Types Of Shower Filters

Shower filters can keep your skin from absorbing harmful particles.

Shower filters are used to reduce the amount of harmful particles in water that may be absorbed by your skin. Tap water that is used in showers can include metals, chlorine, chloramines, nitrates and other particles that may damage your skin. Filters are often differentiated by their ability to absorb particles, how long they last and their price.

KDF

Kinetic Degradation Fluxion (KDF) filters consist of a mix of copper and zinc that can remove lead, iron, hydrogren sulfate, chlorine and mercury from water. These filters use an electrochemical charge to change these particles into less harmful substances. The KDF filters also work well at preventing mold and fungus buildup and reduce the incidence of lime scale. KDF filters do not remove fluoride, nitrates, bacteria and viruses, and they work best when paired with other filtration systems.

Carbon

Carbon filters work well to remove sediment, chlorine, radon, bad tastes and odors from water. These filters are less effective with minerals, salts, barium, arsenic, copper, nickel, fluoride, sulfate and other inorganic contaminants or metals. Carbon filters are generally the cheapest option when it comes to filtration, but they also need replacing the most often. The Granular Activated Carbon filters that are popular in showers can accumulate bacteria when they are left in for too long.

Chlorgon

Chlorgon filters electrochemically charge chlorine deposits and convert them into harmless particles. These filters tend to work well in a range of temperatures and are often paired with KDF filters to enhance filtration ability.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C filters are often found in Asia and are more difficult to locate in the U.S.. The way this filter works is that all the water is filtered through a block of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). When the water goes through the vitamin block, most of the chloramines and chlorine particles are neutralized. The filters last between 6 and 12 months, and the filters remain effective until they are completely used up.

Tags: Carbon filters, These filters, work well, your skin, from water, from water These, harmful particles

B12 Vitamin Supplement For Hair Growth

B12 is one of a number of vitamins that can help hair growth.

In a society that values a healthy appearance in all bodily aspects, a full head of hair can go a long way to improving a person's image. While drugs of many kinds have been created to try to remedy hair loss, side effects seem too plentiful and many times vast amounts of money are spent with little to no results. Vitamin supplements usually have few if any side effects, tend to be less expensive than commercial medications, and have been known to help hair growth. Vitamin B12 is just one of these helpful and healthful hair-aiding vitamins.

Benefits of Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble (easily dissolved in water) vitamin that is helpful in the formation of red blood cells, brain function and DNA synthesis. This essential nutrient has also been found to be helpful in transporting oxygen to different parts of the body. A deficiency of vitamin B12 can cause weakness, constipation, weight loss, balance issues and even depression in some cases. Correcting a B12 deficiency can also promote hair growth.

Vitamin B12 and Hair Loss

Vitamin B12's association with hair growth has to do with its assistance of oxygen transportation throughout the body. Hair, just like most body parts, requires oxygen to grow properly. Therefore, a symptom of vitamin B12 deficiency can be hair loss. Water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin B12, are not stored in the body as easily as fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E and K. For this reason, it is important to ensure that daily recommended allowances of vitamin B12 are consumed each day. If this is accomplished, hair can grow much more normally. While simply taking extra vitamin B12 supplements will not necessarily cause hair growth (hair loss can occur for a number of reasons and is not always linked to vitamin deficiency), correcting a preexisting B12 deficiency can, in many instances, cause some hair to return.

Recommended Intake

The U.S. Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) has established that the average person over 14 years of age requires 2.4 micrograms of vitamin B12 each day. Pregnant women require 2.6 micrograms per day and lactating women need 2.8. Any amount less than these is considered to represent a B12 deficiency and the possibility of hair loss is increased. Consuming foods and taking supplements to reach these recommended intake levels will, in most cases, do much to stimulate hair growth.

Food Sources of Vitamin B12

Though supplements can be a good way to add vitamins to the diet, consuming these nutrients in their natural food sources is usually considered the best way to get needed nutrition. Vitamin B12 can be found in large amounts in beef liver, clams, trout and salmon, and sirloin beef. The vitamin is also found in yogurt, milk, Swiss cheese and tuna. As discovered by examining each of these foods, vitamin B12 is found much more prevalently in meats and animal products. Vegans and others who do not consume animal products can, unfortunately, only get adequate amounts of vitamin B12 through supplements and vitamin-fortified foods. Most breakfast cereals are fortified with at least 25% of the daily allowance of vitamin B12.

Vitamin Intake Warnings

Because vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, meaning it is difficult for the body to store, it is difficult to overdose on this essential nutrient. However, taking too much of any vitamin can have negative effects. Always read supplement labels and follow the instructions found thereon. Also, be sure to speak to your doctor or medical professional before making any major changes to vitamin intake in order to ensure the decision is a healthy one.

Tags: hair growth, hair loss, animal products, essential nutrient, growth Vitamin, hair growth Vitamin, have been

Benefits Of Vitamin C With Rose Hips

Rose hips are the small fruits of the rose plant.

Vitamin C and rose hips work together. This combination is not an uncommon one, and many brands of vitamin C also contain rose hips. Rose hips are the small fruits of the rose plant. They are saturated in vitamin C as well as iron and vitamins B, A and E. Their combination has tremendous health benefits.

Immunity

Vitamin C assists the immune system, especially in times of stress. Rose hips do the same thing in that they protect the structure of cells from attack by pathogens. Vitamin C cannot cure the cold, but it can protect the body during a cold from additional complications such as developing infections of pneumonia. Rose hips help stave off infection and inflammation.

Nutrient Metabolism

Rose hips have more vitamin C than do oranges. This double dose of C permits other vitamins in the system (as well as in the hips themselves) to be absorbed at a quicker rate.

Cellular Defense

This combination of nutrients can protect against stroke. This is because vitamin C, in conjunction with rose hips, permits the proper nutrients to get to the right places as it protects cellular walls from invasion or decay. Both chemicals strengthen cellular structure, which prevents the weakening of blood vessels in the brain--the cause of stroke. It is the same action of strengthening cells that also permits authorities, such as the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, to postulate that C with rose hips can also prevent facial wrinkles.

Pectin

One important purpose of the C-rose hips combination is the ability of rose hips to assist in the vital work of C. As C protects the body from infection, rose hips spur the kidneys to clean the body. Urine production is increased, which means the system cleanses itself as it receives proper nutrition. In addition, rose hips contain pectin, which is an important chemical that binds waste products in the intestine. This also cleanses the system efficiently and permits a better elimination of waste products. In short, rose hips act as an efficient disinfectant for the intestinal tract.

Tags: Rose hips, rose hips, fruits rose, fruits rose plant, hips small, hips small fruits, rose hips

Use Vitamins For Acne

Use Vitamins For Acne

Acne can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. Did you know that you can use vitamins to help treat your acne? Here's how.

Instructions

1. Consider the use of vitamin C. This vitamin not only strengthens your immune system, but also reduces inflammation—including the inflammation caused by acne. Take 100 to 300 mg of Vitamin C two to three times per day, depending on who you are.

2. Consider the use of a vitamin B complex. Vitamin B has many uses, including improving skin health and minimizing the appearance of acne. Vitamin B, when taken as recommended, can aid in improving your overall skin complexion and tone and is also known as a stress-reducing supplement. Vitamin B should be taken in 100 mg doses three times per day (one at breakfast, lunch and dinner) for optimum results.

3. Consider the use of vitamin A. Vitamin A is primarily used for improving and maintaining eyesight, but it also strengthens and revitalizes skin tissue. It naturally cleans your skin from the inside and acts as an antioxidant.

Tags: Consider vitamin, three times, Vitamins Acne

Benefits Of Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that is essential for human life, and is necessary to the healthy function of nerve and blood cells. It is also involved in the creation of DNA. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause serious health problems.

Sources

Vitamin B12 is obtained mostly from animal products. Meats, fish, poultry, dairy and fortified cereals contain vitamin B12.

Deficiency

Vitamin B12 deficiency causes many conditions, including anemia, depression, weight loss, numbness and tingling of the feet and hands, dementia and weight loss. Symptoms of B12 deficiency in children include anemia, failure to thrive and developmental disorders.

Vegans

Vegans do not eat animal products so they must take B12 supplements to avoid a deficiency.

Infants

Breastfed infants risk B12 deficiency if their mother is a vegan. Children do not have stores of B12 built up and will quickly become deficient.

Absorption

An illness such as Crohn's disease can prevent proper absorption of vitamin B12 by the body. As people age, their ability to absorb B12 is also reduced.

RDA

According to the National Institutes of Health, the Recommended Daily Allowence (RDA) of vitamin B12 for healthy adults is 2.6 mg. Pregnant or breast feeding women need 2.8 mg (see Resources).

Tags: animal products, Vitamin deficiency, weight loss

Improve Male Infertility Naturally

Male infertility is a frustrating condition for couples trying to conceive. Prescription medications are available to increase fertility, but they can also cause undesirable side effects. Medical procedures such as in vitro fertilization are also an option but may be invasive and expensive. Fortunately, men can take certain steps to help increase fertility naturally.

Instructions

1. Stop smoking and drinking. Alcohol and cigarette smoke can lower sperm count and be a factor in male infertility.

2. Avoid hot baths, spas and saunas. Heat is known to be associated with reduced sperm production.

3. Wear loose-fitting underwear. Tight underwear can constrict the testes and increase testicular temperature, lowering sperm count.

4. Maintain an ideal body weight. Both obese and underweight men often have a low sperm count.

5. Take 2,000 to 6,000 mg of vitamin C, 100 to 200 mg of zinc, 1,000 mg of chromium and 1,000 mg of vitamin B12 each day to increase sperm count and improve sperm motility.

Tags: sperm count, increase fertility

Benefits Of Taking Vitamin B12

Benefits of Taking Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a key contributor in your body to the formation of cells, especially in helping make healthy red blood cells and important parts of your nerve cells. B12 is found in food products such as meat, shellfish, and dairy foods. Although most people do not have to worry about their supply of B12 there are those that need to take the vitamin to maintain their health. Here's a look at B12 and its benefits.

Function

In addition to maintaining strong red blood cells and nerve cells B12 is necessary to form your genetic DNA. The acids in your stomach release the B12 found in your food where it combines with something called intrinsic factor, a protein. It is then absorbed into your bloodstream.

Time Frame

The body has the ability to store up to a year's worth of B12 in the liver, so there is no need to worry about having a deficiency of this substance. People over 65 years of age are at the most risk of developing a lack of it. You can get your daily requirement of B12 by eating such foods as chicken breast, raisins, or eggs.

Benefits

There are other vital benefits to vitamin B12 as it keeps megaloblastic anemia at bay, a disease where the red blood cells are too big and do not work correctly. A variety of neurological symptoms can accompany a B12 deficiency, including vision problems, muscle weakness, incontinence, and even dementia. Pernicious anemia will occur when B12 is not in abundance; a lack of intrinsic factor can precipitate this meaning you will need B12 supplements for the rest of your life to avoid the accompanying symptoms of fatigue and overall tiredness.

Size

One thing about B12 is that you cannot have too much of it. Your body will use what it needs, store some away, and the rest will leave your body via your urine.

Warning

A deficiency of vitamin B12 can result in what is known as B12 deficiency anemia, a condition which results in your body not making enough red blood cells. The body suffers from a lack of oxygen overall. This condition can come from not having enough of B12 in your diet or if your digestive system fails to absorb B12 from your food properly. Symptoms can include being tired, weak, constipation or diarrhea, numbness in your toes and fingers, and depression. This is a serious deficiency and can cause lasting damage to the brain and nerve cells if not attended to with supplements of B12.

Tags: blood cells, nerve cells, your body, Benefits Taking, Benefits Taking Vitamin, intrinsic factor

Benefits Of Taking Melatonin

Melatonin supplements have been available in the United States since 1996. Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. The neurotransmitter tryptophan is a precursor.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate the use of supplements and has issued a general warning regarding the use of supplements of any kind: follow the dosage on labeling and seek medical help if there are side effects.

Melatonin is generally used as a sleep aid or to help overcome jet lag more quickly. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) have done metanalyses of studies on melatonin. In several cases, the organization suggests that further studies be done to better understand the best and safest uses for melatonin.

Benefits

The NIH have found that generally, administering 0.5 to 50 mg of melatonin can help an individual fall asleep. Some studies suggest sleep latency (the time it takes to fall asleep) is reduced when melatonin is taken 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. This is true for adults over 18.

Significance

For people with chronic sleep disorders, melatonin may be a useful supplement. If you have a long-standing history of sleep difficulties, see your doctor. People may find that they are able to overcome jet lag more quickly by taking melatonin close to the time they would like to sleep, for several days. Elderly people with insomnia and those with delayed sleep syndrome (where sleep latency is longer) have found some relief from taking melatonin.

Melatonin supplements come in many dosages. Generally it is recommended to start with the smallest dosage possible and to not use any melatonin supplement for longer than three months.

Identification

Melatonin is made in the brain by the pineal gland. During darkness, melatonin levels are greatest. During brightness, these levels are low. For this reason, melatonin is believed to affect the body's circadian rhythms of waking and sleeping. People usually take synthetic melatonin supplements for sleep disorders or to reduce jet lag.

Considerations

If you have any chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure or any coronary heart diseases, see your doctor before taking melatonin.

Studies report that melatonin side effects include increased blood pressure that can occur with the use of melatonin. The NIH have analyzed many studies already completed on melatonin, but in many cases has called for more studies of its long-term effects.

Warning

Side effects include dizziness, headache, fatigue, irritability, vivid dreams and nightmares. As daytime sleepiness can occur when using melatonin, people are warned against its use if they operate heavy machinery. If you have a history of blood-clotting disorders, or are taking the medication Wayfarin or any blood-thinners, see your doctor before taking melatonin.

Abnormal heart rhythms and increasing blood pressure have also been reported with melatonin use in some people. If you have hypertension or any coronary heart diseases, consult your physician.

Tags: taking melatonin, blood pressure, your doctor, before taking, before taking melatonin