Orange blossom face cream is a simple, homemade face cream that is ideal for adding moisture to dry skin. It is particularly useful in the fall and winter months when high winds and low temperatures sap moisture from the skin. Making your own cosmetics products has other benefits, too. Homemade cosmetics tend to cost much less than expensive store-bought products. They also do not contain unnecessary and potentially dangerous additives and preservatives. Orange blossom face cream will keep for about two months.
Instructions
1. Pour 2/3 cup of cold pressed sesame oil and 1/3 cup raw coconut oil into the top of a double boiler.
2. Add 1 tsp. of cocoa butter, 1 tsp. of shea butter, 1 tbsp. of beeswax and 3 tbsp. of dried calendula. Heat until the beeswax is melted, about two to three minutes.
3. Pour the mixture into a blender cup. Let cool for one hour at room temperature. Blend for 30 seconds.
4. Add 1/3 cup of orange flower water, 1/3 cup of distilled water, 1/3 cup of aloe vera gel, 20 drops of vitamin E oil and 10 drops of orange essential oil to the blender with the motor running. Process on high speed for about one minute.
5. Pour the final mixture in a sterilized wide-mouth glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store the jar in a cool, dry place.
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As you become older, it becomes even more important to eat a healthy, balanced diet. This diet will normally give you all the vitamins that you require. However, as you grow older, you can benefit from a multivitamin supplement that targets your specific needs. Consult your doctor to see if this is the case for your particular health needs.
Vitamin D
During your later years it is important to keep intake of vitamin D high. Men experience considerable bone loss as they age, according to the MayoClinic.com, and Vitamin D will aid in calcium absorption, which keeps bones strong. You can find vitamin D in foods including fish, milk and soy milk. A deficiency of this vitamin may lead to weakness in your bones.
B Vitamins
Your body's ability to absorb the B vitamins becomes less as you age, write Alan H. Pressman, and Sheila Buff in their book, "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Vitamins and Minerals." Four of these B vitamins are of particular importance.
Thiamine, vitamin B1, is concerned with energy production and important for your muscles, nerves and heart. MedlinePlus advises this vitamin is found in foods including cereals, pasta, whole grains, pork, dried beans, peas, and soybeans.
Riboflavin, vitamin B2, helps your body produce red blood cells and plays a part in nervous system function. You can find this vitamin in milk, eggs, meat, liver and green vegetables.
Pyridoxine, vitamin B6, helps maintain the health of the nervous and immune systems, according to the American Cancer Society. You can find this vitamin in foods including legumes, cheese, eggs, carrots, spinach, potatoes, milk and meat.
Cobalamin, Vitamin B12, plays a role in red blood cell production, nervous system function and folic acid use. You can find this vitamin in foods including fish, meat, cheese, eggs and shellfish. A deficiency of B vitamins may lead to ailments including tiredness, anemia, loss of hair and loss of appetite.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an important antioxidant and protects your body from the effect of free radicals as well as supporting the immune system and your metabolism. You can find this vitamin in foods including leafy greens, margarine, nuts and seeds. A deficiency of this vitamin may, in extreme circumstances, cause impairment of the immune system.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is necessary to help the body correctly form bones, cartilage, muscle, and blood vessels as well as being an antioxidant. You can find this vitamin in foods including fruits and vegetables, in particular citrus fruits.
A deficiency of Vitamin C may, in extreme circumstances, lead to scurvy.
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Macular degeneration is a chronic condition for which there is no known cure. It is a common cause of blindness. However, there are a variety of treatments and medications that can help patients ward off blindness and even improve vision. Macular degeneration occurs when the macula, found in the retina, deteriorates. Treating macular degeneration early can help, so if you notice changes in your vision such as blurriness or a blind spot, see your doctor as soon as possible. Eating a healthy diet may help protect your eyes.
Omega-3s
A diet rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids may help to prevent or slow the progression of macular degeneration, whereas a diet that is too high in omega-6 fatty acids may encourage the development of the condition. Omega-3s aid the retina by protecting the blood vessels, as well as enhancing nerve conduction. You can take an omega-3 supplement or eat cold-water fish such as mackerel, salmon and herring. Omega-3s also in flaxseed. Be sure to grind up the flaxseed, otherwise your body cannot absorb its nutrients.
Vitamins
Some vitamins may contribute to good eye health. Take plenty of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that can help with circulation. Circulation is necessary for the delivery of oxygen and other nutrients to the eye, as well as to remove waste products. Take vitamin E to maintain the integrity of cell membranes and encourage blood flow. Vitamins B2, B3, B6 and A can also help protect the eyes. Additionally, the antioxidant beta-carotene can help protect the eye from damage due to free radicals. If your diet does not supply these nutrients, take a daily multivitamin supplement. Otherwise, eat plenty of leafy green vegetables, tomatoes, citrus fruits, wheatgerm, peanut butter and whole grains.
Additional Nutrients
There are a few other nutrients that can promote eye health and help prevent or slow macular degeneration. Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids that naturally occur in spinach and collard greens. You can also find them in a supplement. Lycopene, found in tomatoes, watermelon, and guava, is a powerful antioxidant. And because having a zinc deficiency can encourage the macula to degenerate, make sure that zinc is listed on the label of your multivitamin. And finally, bioflavonoids such as quercetin and rutin can ward off damage to the eyes due to sunlight exposure. Natural sources include red onions, cherries and citrus fruits.
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Remember your baby can still over-heat even if it is a cold day.
Some cultures advise a mother and her newborn baby to stay in the house for the first month, sometimes longer, says Pediatrician Jennifer Shu for a BabyCenter website article. As long as your baby is healthy, there is no reason to not take her out for a walk. Walking has benefits for both of you. You get exercise while showing off your new addition. She will enjoy the new scenery, and the added stimulation will help her sleep.
Instructions
1. Make sure your baby has had any relevant immunizations. A newborn will usually have a checkup with the doctor around 2 weeks of age, and she should have routine immunizations by 2 months old, says a 2009 WebMD website article.
2. Plan the best time to take your baby out for the walk. A baby will be most content after eating and a diaper change. If your baby is relatively happy and content, she will take in what is going on around her and enjoy the walk, says Jennifer Shu for the BabyCenter website article.
3. Pack a diaper bag full of essentials. Even if you are only planning to be out a little while, it is always best to go prepared for every eventuality. Diapers, wipes, feeding items and a fresh set of clothes should all go in the bag.
4. Check the outside temperature. While a walk in the fresh air will do both you and your baby good, you are better off staying inside if the weather is too cold. Depending on the climate where you live, 20 degrees Fahrenheit is probably too cold for a young baby, says Jennifer Shu for the BabyCenter.
5. Dress your baby in layers. Air circulating between the different layers acts as insulation for baby, says an OneStepAhead website article. Ideally you will need to put her in as many layers as you are wearing with a blanket over her for added warmth. Do not be tempted to wrap her up too much; a young baby can still over-heat even when it is cold outside. Finish dressing her with a hat, mittens and a pair of thick socks.
6. Try to avoid going to crowded places while out on your walk. Your baby is more likely to get sick following exposure to other people than she is from being out in the cold, says a 2009 Kids Health website article. If you plan to visit other people, politely ask them to wash their hands before they hold . This will protect your baby's still immature immune system.
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Vitamin B has positive effects on a woman's body, including transporting oxygen through our bodies. Taking a vitamin B complex supplement will prove beneficial to your overall health but, as with any other medicine or supplement, talk to your doctor first.
Biotin
Biotin is a B vitamin that is considered "food for hair," because it is the best vitamin for hair health and growth. If you are a middle-aged or older woman and discover that your hair is thinning or falling out, take biotin. Biotin reportedly fends off gray hair, helping you maintain the pigmentation (color) of your natural hair longer. Bioton is found in egg yolks, bananas, carrots, mushrooms, sardines, yeast and cauliflower.
Pregnancy/Lactation
Vitalnutritionals.com notes that pregnant women should have sufficient amounts of vitamin B, particularly B12, in their system, because vitamin B12 is integral in producing healthy red bloods cells, DNA and nerve cells. Most prenatal vitamins contain B12. Foods rich in vitamin B12 include liver, fish, mollusk and fortified breakfast cereals. Also boasting good quantities of B12 are shellfish, poultry, milk, eggs and poultry.
Nursing mothers should have enough B12 in their system, because it passes to the baby via the breast milk, and the mother needs her own vitamin B12 for regeneration and healing after she has given birth.
Osteoporosis
A study led by epidemiologist Katherine Tucker with the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (HNRCA) at Tufts University in Boston, Mass., discovered that women with lower vitamin B12 concentrations had less bone mineral density, which puts them at risk for osteoporosis. A B12 vitamin deficiency can cause disturbances in balance, cognitive decline and anemia.
Stress
Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is beneficial for anyone under stress, which can exhaust the adrenal glands. It plays an important role in the formation of adrenal hormones and cortisol. In addition, it is essential to brain neurotransmitter production. Get vitamin B5 by eating egg yolks, whole grains, potatoes and milk.
The Role of Other Bs
Vitamin B6 is important for women, because it helps maintain the female reproductive cycle as well as the nervous system. It is beneficial to our heart and helps maintain skin integrity. Vitamin B6 comes from potatoes, white rice, acorns, squash, spinach, broccoli, watermelon and chicken breasts.
Vitamins B1, B2 and B3, also important, are found in green peas, tomato juice, lean ham, mushrooms, clam's milk, lean ground beef, chicken, sunflower seeds, soy milk, pork chops, oysters and shrimp. B1, B2 and B3 improve your vision and benefit your digestive and nervous systems, as well as support your metabolism and energy, according to healthchecksystems.com.
B3, which is niacin, assists in the synthesis of estrogen, testosterone and progesterone, and helps with cognitive clarity. B2 is riboflavin and boasts antioxidant properties. B1 is thiamin, which supports our muscle function and our heart, and regulates our appetite.
Diseases & Vitamin B
If you have Addison's disease, which is hypoadrenalism, you may benefit from extra vitamin B1. On the other hand, if you are suffering from Cushing's disease, hyper-adrenalism or are sensitive to sodium, vitamin B2 and folic acid may prove beneficial, because of their sodium-lowering results.
Keep in mind that individuals who have Type A blood type do not absorb vitamin Bs sufficiently from food sources. In this case, a vitamin B supplement should be considered.
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Low blood pressure, contrary to many beliefs, can actually be associated with many health issues. Low blood pressure can cause poor circulation, chronic fatigue, weak arteries, dizziness and even vertigo and fainting. Generally speaking, low blood pressure is characterized by blood pressure readings of 100/70 to 69 or below. It is caused by many factors such drug side effects, nerve disorders and poor diet. Hyping the blood pressure with natural remedies and herbs is quite simple. A 30-day program is recommended.
Instructions
Dietary Changes and Supplements
1. Remove all fried foods, caffeine, foods high in cholesterol, and large amounts of read meat from your diet. These foods tend to slow down the adrenal system which, in turn, can cause other body systems to slow down.
2. Drink a 12-ounce glass of spring water with a lemon squeezed into it 30 minutes before eating breakfast. For low blood pressure, lemon juice hypes the liver and helps you digest foods so they can properly energize the body. Lemon juice is also a wonderful all-around tonic.
3. Eat 1/4 cup of oatmeal for breakfast. Oatmeal is an inexpensive and good source of complex carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates are essential for healthy blood flow and energy. If you don't like oatmeal, foods like farina, grits and whole grain cereal will suffice. For flavor, add a banana. If you have low blood pressure, refrain from eating table sugar.
4. Drink a potassium drink with lunch for one month. Making a potassium broth is simple. It can be done by juicing 2 large carrots, 2 stalks of celery, 4 cloves of garlic, 2 radishes and a few pinches of parsley. If you don't have a juicer, drink 10 to 12 oz. of low-sodium vegetable juice. V-8 Juice is among the top brands. Potassium is an essential electrolyte that the body needs for healthy blood flow. A potassium deficiency is often at the forefront of low blood pressure.
5. Eat a leafy salad between lunch and dinner. Include onions, sea greens, organic beef chunks, carrots, peas and broccoli. This mixture contains very important macrobiotic ingredients that will help alkalize your body and balance your hormones and other chemicals, which is essential for healthy blood pressure.
6. Eat 6 ounces of lean, chemical-free beef and 1 cup of brown rice for dinner. Lean beef is wonderful source of protein if not over-consumed. Brown rice is a natural detoxifier and a good source of carbohydrates. Drink a 12-ounce glass of pure pineapple juice with dinner. Pineapple juice is high in bioflavonoids that are essential for strengthening the blood vessels and hyping the metabolism.
7. Eat 2 cloves of garlic 1 hour before bed time. Garlic, among its many health benefits, helps stabilize the blood pressure. Also, drink 1 cup of ginseng tea. Ginseng tea stimulates the circulatory and adrenal systems and is a safe and natural way to boost your body's energy while getting a comfortable amount of sleep.
Body Care and Exercise
8. Get a chiropractic adjustment once a week during your 30-day program. Misaligned joints, bones and muscles are often at the roots of many of the body's health issues, including low blood pressure and fatigue.
9. Do deep breathing exercises at least once a day. Concentrate on inhaling slowly for 3 to 5 seconds. Hold your breath for 3 seconds. Exhale slowly. Doing these exercises while taking a brisk walk is recommended. Walking and breathing exercises promotes healthy blood flow, essential for proper blood pressure. Take a brisk walk once a day for 20 minutes if you can.
10. Meditate for 30 minutes at least once a day. Meditation is wonderful way to allow the body to rest while awake. By resting and meditating, you give your body the opportunity to naturally recharge itself for optimum function.
Losing weight can be such a frustrating battle that it's tempting to give up on food altogether. Many citrus fasts, cleanses and quick weight-loss diets have focused on lime juice as the next miracle ingredient that will melt that fat away in no time. Lime juice is a healthy addition to any diet, but, unfortunately, weight loss miracles really don't grow on trees.
Nutritional Value of Limes
The fresh raw juice of one lime has about 27 calories, 0.44g protein, 0.1g fat, 0.24g ash, 9g carbohydrates, 0.4g dietary fiber, and 1.69g sugar. Nutritionally, they are an excellent source of vitamin C, with an even higher concentration than lemons, oranges or grapefruits.
Lime Juice Diets
You can find several lime juice diets around the Internet and through books and word of mouth. One diet recommends you drink 1 tbsp. honey and the juice of half a lime at intervals through the day. Another adds 1 tsp. sea salt to the mixture. The Master Cleanse calls for a 10-day fast of lime (or lemon) juice, water, cayenne pepper and maple syrup. Another popular citrus fast calls for lime juice, cinnamon and vinegar.
Claims
The different diet claims about lime juice include that lime juice will help detoxify the body, speed digestion, act as a "fat burner" and speed up metabolism.
Reality
Your body detoxifies itself by breaking your food down with stomach acid, moving it into the small intestine where the nutrients are absorbed, passing the remaining material into your large intestine and colon, and forming it into solid stool that is naturally eliminated. Liquid toxins are cleared by the liver and kidneys and washed out in your urine. Lime juice has never been proven to have any effect on these processes.
As for aiding digestion, your naturally produced stomach acid is at least 10 times stronger than lime juice. There is also no proof that affects metabolism or the way fat is burned.
Healthy Use of Lime Juice
Lime juice is an excellent source of vitamin C. Here are some ways you can use lime juice effectively in a weight-loss program:
• Soak lime slices in water overnight, or squeeze lime juice into sparkling water for a healthy, calorie-free alternative to soft drinks.
• Squeeze fresh lime juice over chicken, fish or vegetables as they cook to add flavor, cutting down on the need for salt.
• Slice a cucumber and sprinkle it with lime juice and chili powder for a tangy, healthy snack.
• Mix lime juice, ginger, black pepper and soy sauce (in the proportions that taste best to you) and use as a marinade for lean beef.
• Add lime juice to olive oil, chopped cilantro and freshly grated garlic for a zesty salad dressing.
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To properly function, the body needs proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. The body requires large portions of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, which are also known as macronutrients. Vitamins and minerals fall under the category of micronutrients because the body requires smaller portions of these (see References 3). Choosing the right vitamin and mineral supplement can be overwhelming with all of the options on the market, but when armed with the right information the decision is a cinch.
Vitamins for Men
A basic vitamin and mineral supplement plan keeps men at optimum health. Men age 25 to 35 years should make sure to include 500 IU vitamin D3, 150 mg pantothenic acid, 500 mg calcium, 200 mg magnesium, 100 mcg selenium, 7.5 mg zinc in supplements twice daily. Also get potassium from four servings of fruit and vegetables. Men age 35 to 50 require almost the same regimen, replacing the 500 mg of calcium with 600 mg of calcium. Men age 50 and up follow the same program as men age 30 to 50, only they remove zinc from their regimen. These supplements may be taken individually or included in a multivitamin (see References 1).
Vitamins for Women
Women should consume certain vitamins and minerals each day to keep the body functioning in top condition. Keep in mind that women of childbearing age need a few extra supplements to ensure healthy reproduction, and older women need extra supplements to avoid osteoporosis. Women 20 to 40 require 500 IU vitamin D3, 400 mcg folate, 15 mg niacin, 150 mg pantothenic acid, 500 mg calcium, 200 mg magnesium, and 100 mcg selenium twice daily. Four servings of fruits and vegetables provide the daily dose of potassium. Women 40 to 50 should follow the same program as women 20 to 40, with the exception of decreasing the dose of folate to 200 mcg and increasing the dose of calcium to 600 mg taken three times daily. Women age 50 and up remove folate and niacin from their program and increase to 300 mg magnesium taken twice daily, but otherwise follow the same program as they did in the 40-to-50 age group. These supplements may be taken individually or included in a multivitamin (see References 1).
Vitamins for Children
Children require specific vitamins and minerals to grow into strong and healthy adults. Vitamins required by children include vitamin A (found in milk, infant formula, or multivitamins), vitamin C (found in fruits, vegetables, or multivitamins), iron (10 to 15 mg daily depending on age), calcium (800 to 1,500 mg daily depending on age), vitamin K (found in green foods and multivitamins), vitamin D (found in fortified milk, formula, and in sunlight), fluoride (often found in tap water), and zinc ( 3 to 15 mg daily depending on age). A good multivitamin will meet most of these daily requirements, but a balanced, healthy diet is the best way to receive vitamins and minerals (see References 2).
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Blend together essential oils to make lifting and firming serums.
Skin serums are topical liquids made from concentrated ingredients that target a specific skin concern. Lighter, more potent and more easily absorbed than creams, only a small amount is needed to achieve quick and intense results. Making your own firming and lifting serum is a cheap and all-natural alternative to buying expensive over-the-counter products, and can be as simple as blending together the right combination of carrier and essential oils known for their skin care benefits.
Instructions
Eye Serum
1. Pour the jojoba oil into a sterilized dark glass bottle with a dropper top.
2. Add the chamomile and rose essential oils to the bottle using a clean pipette.
3. Stir with a toothpick or glass stirrer to blend the oils together.
4. Screw the dropper lid on tightly.
Face Serum
5. Combine the rosehip seed oil, camellia oil, evening primrose oil and vitamin E oil in a sterilized dark glass bottle with a dropper top.
6. Stir with a toothpick or glass stirrer to blend the oils together.
7. Screw the dropper lid on tightly.
Body Serum
8. Combine the hazelnut oil, jojoba oil and essential oils of cypress, grapefruit, cedarwood, orange, lemon and lime together in a sterilized dark glass bottle with a dropper top.
9. Stir with a toothpick or glass stirrer to blend the oils together.
10. Screw the dropper lid on tightly.
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Depression can cause a person to feel useless and worthless.
Dimethyl Glycine (DMG) is a natural supplement that has been used to help curve symptoms of depression. This supplement helps the body's natural production of energy, which in turn may help people who suffer from depression.
DMG
DMG is used as an antioxidant, anti-aging and anti-cancer agent, and to reduce cholesterol. It goes by other names such as Vitamin B15, Calcium Pangamate, N-Dimethyl Glycine and Pangamic Acid. DMG was first utilized by the Russians to improve athlete's performance and was called a superdrug. Dr. Thomas V. Pipes continued this researched and published an article in The Physician and Sportsmedicine. Pipes described that the athletes had an improvement in their ability to withstand exhaustion.
Side Effects of DMG
According to the Physicians Desktop Reference network, a provider of print and online pharmaceutical information to physicians, the side effects of DMG include breathing problems, tightness in throat or chest and chest pain. This supplement may also cause skin hives, rash, itchy or swollen skin.
Depression
Depression is a serious illness that affects thoughts, mood and physical health. It is classified as a psychiatric illness, which is a general term that covers a wide range of disorders. This illness is a long-term condition involving overwhelming feelings of sadness, emptiness, worthlessness, and can effect a person's personal and professional life. According to the World Health Organization depression will be the second-leading cause of disability by 2020.
DMG and Depression
While studies have shown that DMG does improve the functions of the immune system, there is no published research concluding that DMG helps treat depression. Recently, Dr. Roger V. Kendall published his book "Building Wellness with DMG" which testifies to the healing qualities of DMG. Food Science of Vermont has released DMG vitamins titled Behavior Balance, which helps people to balance behavior patterns, increase social skills and help support immune system functions. There has been anecdotal evidence on Web sites that claim DMG does work, yet it is best to to use personal discernment until there is further research conducted and published.
Many women find that massaging skin with homemade stretch mark oil is a great way to prevent stretch marks, and can often alleviate stretch marks that are already present. The oil will also keep the skin smooth and supple and the delightful aroma is an added bonus. Read on to learn make stretch mark oil.
Instructions
Lavender Stretch Mark Oil
1. Place all of the oils in a spray bottle.
2. Shake until blended thoroughly.
3. Let the mixture sit for four days so the oils can blend.
4. Use the stretch mark oil twice daily. Shake before each use.
Aromatic Stretch Mark Oil
5. Place all of the ingredients into a spray bottle.
6. Shake to mix well.
7. Allow the mixture to sit for three or four days before using.
8. Massage into skin twice daily.
Extra-easy Oil
9. Pierce the vitamin capsules with a pin or needle.
10. Place all of the ingredients in a blender container.
11. Blend on low speed until thoroughly blended.
12. Store the extra-easy stretch mark oil in a sealed container.
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Vitamin D can help protect against , stroke and even cancer.
While artificial tanning beds, and tanning in general, have long been the subject of warnings from the medical world, new research is indicating some benefits that many doctors are reluctant to admit. Most recently, researchers are pointing out that tanning beds can elevate levels of vitamin D in people who use them frequently but safely.
Tanning and Vitamin D
Non-excessive exposure to sunlight or tanning beds has been shown to increase the body's natural amount of Vitamin D, according to a study conducted by the Boston University School of Medicine, as reported by alltanningbeds.com. Studies on this "sunshine vitamin" have found significantly higher amounts in those who use habitually use tanning beds compared to those who don't. This is a positive effect for those who enjoy tanning, but the jury is still out on whether the risks outweigh the benefits, as sun damage is a leading cause of skin cancer.
Positive Effects
Vitamin D has a major role in bone health and has been prescribed for patients with osteoporosis and other bone deficiencies. It also has been linked to fighting off depression, cancer and certain types of heart disease, as reported by alltanningbeds.com. Doctor's have long encouraged patients to "get out" more, as the benefits of natural sunlight have been known for some time. Only recently have tanning beds been shown to have the same effects.
A Year-Round Solution
Vitamin D deficiency is a major problem during the winter and in regions that do not have adequate year-round sunlight. Tanning beds and other forms of light therapy may be solutions to this problem, though the safety of frequent use of still is in debate.
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Proper nutrition is essential for muscle growth, regardless of your specific fitness goals. There are some vitamins and nutrients that women need to get in their diets in order to build muscle. Deficiencies in some of these are common among women, including those who are very active.
Multivitamins and Minerals
Women looking to grow muscle need an adequate quantity and quality of all vitamins and minerals. The best way to make sure you're getting the vitamins you need to grow muscle is to take a high-quality multivitamin and essential mineral product. Your best bets will be products that offer a separate pill for vitamins and for minerals. Pick a product that recommends you take it at least twice as day, since the body can't use all the vitamins it gets at once anyway. A quality multivitamin will help you get the nutrients you need to get through your workouts and recover properly between workouts. It is also important to have a well-balanced diet, including fruits, vegetables, protein and whole grains.
Calcium
Women are at risk of low levels of calcium. Calcium is needed for bone density and joint health, and to ward off osteoporosis. Women need at least 1,000 mg of calcium a day. If you are active--especially if you do resistance training--strong healthy bones and joints can help keep you from being injured.
Vitamin D
Awareness of the high rate of vitamin D deficiency among women is on the rise. Vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption. When there's not enough vitamin D, your body calls on the calcium stored in your bones, which further weakens the bones. Women who get too little of this vitamin can experience muscle pain, bone fractures, reduced stamina, compromised immunity and other problems.
Iron
Women need 15 mg of iron to meet daily minimum requirements. When iron levels are low, blood can't carry oxygen to the cells. This means muscles won't be able to function optimally. Athletes who don't get enough iron can experience headaches, decreased appetite, poor endurance, difficulty catching their breath and ongoing fatigue.
There are two primary reasons women can get too little iron. Women tend to eat less iron-rich foods like red meat than their male counterparts. And many active women consume too few calories, therefore not getting enough iron in their diet.
Amino acids
Glutamine is an amino acid used by some weight lifters to help their bodies recover from intense workouts. Glutamine boosts glutathione, an antioxidant that helps the body overcome the stresses of intense workouts and prevent the breakdown of muscle following weight lifting.
Creatine is another amino acid supplemented by some weight lifters. Creatine helps supply muscles with energy. There is creatine in red meat, but many weight lifters take supplements as well. There is also evidence that creatine helps increase strength and grow muscle mass.
Getting Your Nutrients
Most nutritionists and trainers will recommend a multivitamin. Others may recommend additional supplementation based on specific health and diet issues and goals. But remember, there is no substitute for a healthful diet rich in all the vitamins, minerals and amino acids the body needs.
It is frightening to have a child diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It takes a great deal of time to manage the behavioral, nutritional and medical needs of your child. There are some vitamins and herbs that can help improve your child's condition in conjunction with behavioral and nutritional treatment.
Behavior and Nutrition
Parents of an ADHD child must learn that their child is not acting out because of a choice. Parents of a child with ADHD need professional help to learn the best way to ensure that the child is learning and growing properly throughout development. It is important to provide an ADHD child with a healthy diet that avoids excessive sugar, chemicals and caffeine, which can aggravate her symptoms.
Herbs and Medicine
Not all doctors recommend herbal remedies for ADHD children. It's best to find a naturopathic physician or an integrative medicine practitioner. Even if herbs have positive effects on ADHD symptoms, reducing medication or stopping it altogether may end up causing withdrawal and heightened symptoms. Peter Breggin, author of the book "Talking Back to Ritalin," believes that these side effects are normal during withdrawal and that it takes time to determine the effectiveness of herbs without drugs.
Herbal Remedies
Try any one of these several herbs separately or together to improve ADHD symptoms. One cup of chamomile tea can relax tension and excitement when taken before bedtime or as needed. Skullcap can help calm a child's mind in a single dose taken daily for three months, though it should not be given to children under 6 years old. Ginkgo biloba can improve blood flow to the brain which may help improve concentration and cognition. Siberian ginseng helps reduce stress, improving physiological function and stimulating brain activity. Consult a naturopath for proper dosage dependent on the child's age.
Calming Oil and Homeopathy
A calming oil rubbed onto your child's feet and spine before bedtime can help relieve hyperactivity symptoms. Use a drop each of rosemary, sage, lavender and chamomile mixed with 8 cups of olive oil to improve concentration and relax the mind. Several homeopathic remedies can be used at a medium potency of 30c (where c is equal to 100 times the standard homeopathic potency) once a day for a week at a time to help with ADHD symptoms. Anacardium can be used for children who often waver between being very good and very bad. Try hyscyamus for children who act silly and crazy in public. If the child is constantly threatened, use stramonium; if restless, use sarentula; if extremely bright and overactive, use tuberculinum.
Brain Vitamins
Certain vitamins can improve mental function and may help an concentrate more effectively. The B-complex vitamins help reduce stress and improve memory recall and brain function. Vitamin C can reduce free-radicals that attempt to negatively affect cellular processes in the brain. Vitamin E can help similarly and helps improve blood flow to the brain. Gamma-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid, can help with neural function and is found in evening primrose oil. These can all be taken at the same time as the herbs. A child's dosage is dependent on his age and a naturopath or physician should be consulted for the proper amount.
Make Cocoa Butter and Vitamin E Moisturizing Cream
Cocoa butter and vitamin E moisturizing cream is a natural, homemade alternative to expensive commercial moisturizers, which often contain potentially harmful chemicals and additives to scent and stabilize them. Making your own skin care products will also allow you to scent them the way you want. If you wish, you can add a few drops of essential oil to the cocoa butter and vitamin E moisturizing cream. Store the cream in a cool, dark place between uses.
Instructions
1. Place the cocoa butter and apricot kernel oil in a small saucepan, and heat over low heat for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the cocoa butter is melted.
2. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
3. Add the vitamin E oil and mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon or glass stirrer.
4. Transfer the cocoa butter and vitamin E cream to a wide-mouthed glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Cheesy asparagus potato soup is an inexpensive, nutritional meal. It contains healthy green vegetables, protein from the Colby cheese and vitamin D from the milk. With so many families where both parents work, the need for meals that are nutritional and yet easy to make is on the rise. According to Dr. Mercola of Mercola.com, "Asparagus is a good source of vitamins A, C and E, B-complex vitamins, potassium and zinc. It is also high in glutathione, an important anticarcinogen a chemical that reduces the chance and severity of cancer."
Instructions
1. Dice the potatoes and onions, and slice the celery.
2. Put the vegetables in the stock pot and cover with water. Add margarine, bring to a boil and cook until slightly soft.
3. Turn the heat down to medium low, and stir the asparagus into the vegetables. Put the lid on the stock pot; cook until the asparagus is tender.
4. Mix together the cornstarch and milk in a separate bowl.
5. Stir the mixture into the cooked vegetables and simmer until thickened.
6. Shred the Colby cheese and add it to the soup. Let the cheese melt; add salt, pepper and garlic to taste.
Nutrition is a critical part of hair health. A poor diet is a common cause of brittle hair and hair loss. There is a wide range of vitamins and minerals that are good for hair. Some need to be supplemented, eaten on a daily basis, or incorporated into your meals a couple of times a week. Hair will show rapid improvement if you maintain the necessary nutrients.
Water-Soluble Vitamins
Vitamins that are not stored in the body and must be replenished daily are called water-soluble vitamins. A deficiency of these vitamins can cause hair loss. The most important water-soluble vitamins for the hair are all the B vitamins and vitamin C.
The entire B-vitamin complex is important for fostering healthy hair, and prevents hair loss and baldness. Whole grains, meats, and potatoes are excellent sources of B vitamins.
Vitamin C increases circulation in the scalp to encourage hair growth, and it also enables the body to absorb minerals important for healthy hair. The best food sources of vitamin C are citrus fruits and peppers.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins
Vitamins that are absorbed in the intestinal tract are considered fat-soluble vitamins. The fat-soluble vitamins that are best for healthy hair are vitamins A, D, and E.
Vitamin A prevents a dry scalp and brittle hair growth by regulating sebum production to create the correct amount of moisture for healthy hair to grow. The best sources of vitamin A are carrots, spinach, and liver.
Baldness is directly linked to a deficiency in vitamin D. Vitamin D can be found in fatty fish oils, but a more common source is sunlight for about 10 to 20 minutes a day. In addition to these sources, milk in the United States is fortified with vitamin D to boost calcium absorption.
Vitamin E heals damaged skin on the scalp to foster healthy hair growth. Rich sources of vitamin E are vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds.
Minerals
Minerals are vital for hair growth and health, but they work together. Each one is absorbed only when other minerals are present. Because of this, multivitamins along with a balanced diet are very important in ensuring that your body receives all necessary nutrients. The most important minerals for hair are calcium, zinc, and iron.
Calcium needs magnesium to be successfully absorbed into the body, yet a deficiency of calcium causes brittle hair. Those who believe they get enough calcium can still be deficient if their magnesium intake is insufficient. Dairy products are a good source of calcium, and green leafy vegetables such as spinach are an excellent source of magnesium.
The mineral zinc helps to create a healthy scalp, and without it, dandruff and flakiness can occur. Red meat, poultry, and fortified cereals are high in zinc.
Iron, which produces hemoglobin and is responsible for the oxygenation of red blood cells, is necessary for healthy hair. Lean meat and eggs are two good sources of iron.
Fresh Start is a campaign to assist smokers in giving up the habit and living a healthier life. Smoking has been linked to heart disease, cancer, emphysema and other illnesses and quitting means you reduce your susceptibility to such conditions. As the American Cancer Society outlines, "After five years of quitting, the risk of lung cancer almost decreases by half." Fresh Start consists of a series of group sessions and workshops to provide information and methods to help smokers succeed their efforts to stop smoking.
Instructions
1. Read the American Cancer Society's Fresh Start brochure. It is a two-page document highlighting the benefits of not smoking and it describes how the program works. Being informed by reviewing this information is the first step in quitting smoking.
2. Get your employer to sign up as a Fresh Start facilitator. Your employer, or a company representative, will need to attend training sessions to run a Fresh Start group at your workplace. Log on to the American Cancer Society's website to register.
3. Attend the four sessions run by your local Fresh Start facilitator over the course of a two-week period. The first part of the course teaches you stop smoking, while the second part educates you on continue to resist the temptation to smoke again.
4. Go to the meeting prepared with questions about quit smoking, the challenges you will face and overcome these. Your facilitator invites attendees to pose questions these at the beginning of each of the one-hour sessions. This is a positive support mechanism to help you deal with nicotine cravings.
5. Use the materials handed out during the first session to control your stress and weight gain management. Fresh Start identifies these two issues as two major obstacles to success, and the kit provides information on deal with these.
6. Go to each one of the sessions, and practice the methods Fresh Start describes to effectively kick your smoking habit. Use the group sessions for motivational support and a chance to share other smoker's success stories. Speak to other attendees of the meetings. Give and receive encouragement to maintain your momentum to quit.
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You can calculate your daily essential vitamin and mineral requirements.
The RDA, or "Recommended Daily Allowance," is the daily amount of nutrients sufficient to maintain health for 97 percent of the population. Originally compiled in the 1940s by a committee established by the United States National Academy of Sciences, the RDA was replaced in 1997 by the DRI (Dietary Reference Intakes) by the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine. RDA is a general standard for population subgroups, and is not individually calculated. DRI is calculated based on an individual's height, weight and gender.
Instructions
1. Go to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's online DRI calculator, located at http://fnic.nal.usda.gov/interactiveDRI/.
2. Enter your gender, age, height, weight and activity level into the DRI calculator.
3. Scroll down the page and click on the nutrients whose essential daily consumption levels you're seeking to calculate. You can find the DRI for macronutrients, vitamins and minerals.
4. Submit your information to receive your personal daily recommended intake of vitamins and minerals. You will also be shown your tolerable upper level intake, or UL.
Every expectant mother wants her baby to have the healthiest start in life possible. The best way to achieve this is by maintaining a proper diet--one packed with all the vitamins that are essential to a developing baby. The vitamins you ingest during pregnancy affect the strength of your baby's bones and teeth, the healthy development of the brain, spinal cord and organs, and could impact your baby's long-term health.
Vitamin A.
This vitamin affects many aspects of the development of your baby. Vitamin A is critical for the healthy growth of cells, skin, teeth, bones, and eyes. On the flip side, deficiencies in vitamin A have been linked to premature births, skin disorders and slow-growing fetuses. The American Pregnancy Association recommends that you take 700 mcg of vitamin A while you're pregnant. Vitamin A-rich foods include spinach, kale, carrots, sweet potatoes and pumpkins. Take care not to consume excessive amounts of vitamin A, however, as it is believed that too much of the vitamin can cause birth defects.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is crucial in helping your body use protein to build the baby's tissue. Pyridoxine also helps the formation of the baby's red and white blood cells, and the brain and nervous system. It also has important benefits for the mother--vitamin B6 helps reduce morning sickness and clears up the acne that pregnancy hormones can cause. You should consume 1.9 mg of vitamin B6 daily. It can be found in foods such as bananas, tomatoes, watermelon, avocados, brown rice, beef, veal, and lamb.
Folic Acid
This B vitamin is so essential to a fetus's health that doctors recommend that women begin taking folic acid three months before they start trying to conceive. Having sufficient levels of folic acid in your body during the first three months of pregnancy is essential to preventing neural tube defects in your developing baby. It is recommended that a pregnant woman take 600 mcg of folic acid daily. Foods high in folic acid include leafy green vegetables such as kale, spinach and collard greens. It can also be found in asparagus, beans, peas, bananas, and avocados.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to produce collagen, a protein vital to tissue repair. It is also critical to the development of a fetus's muscles, cartilage, bones, skin and eyes. Vitamin C also helps an expectant mom's body to absorb iron, which is necessary for the production of red blood cells. Pregnant women should take 85 mg of vitamin C per day. And as most of us know, it can be found in citrus fruits such as oranges, lemon, grapefruit, kiwi and tomatoes, but it is also present in vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, raw cabbage and sweet potatoes.
Vitamin D
This vitamin is important to the developing bones and teeth of a fetus, but also gives significant health benefits to the mother. MayoClinic.com reports that taking vitamin D while pregnant reduces the risk of pre-eclampsia, lengthens the gestation period, and contributes to healthy birth weights. Sufficient levels of vitamin D during pregnancy may also reduce health problems in your baby later in life. Such health problems may include asthma, schizophrenia, brain tumors and autoimmune disorders. Vitamin D can be produced by the body through exposure to sunshine, or consumed by eating butter, fortified milk and eggs. If you take a supplement, ingest no more than 10 mcg of vitamin D per day -- an excess could harm the cardiovascular system.
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One A Day is a line of multivitamins. The One A Day brand features several different types, all targeted at a different demographic. The vitamins are meant to supplement a healthy diet and are not to be taken in place of eating right.
Types
One A Day vitamins come in specifically for men or women, since vitamin needs differ for men and women. Vitamin needs also differ based on age and the condition of a person's body. The women's vitamins include formulas designed for women going through menopause, for women over age 50 and another for pregnant women. The men's vitamins include a formula for older men and one for more active men.
Function
Vitamins can provide a boost of certain nutrients that a person needs to function properly but may not get enough of from her food. For instance, some pregnant women may take a One A Day prenatal vitamin in order to ensure that they get enough folic acid and omega-3s to support the healthy development of their babies.
Risks
There are some risks involved in taking One A Day vitamins. A person can overdose on certain vitamins, such as vitamin A, according to the FDA, which can lead to liver problems and other side effects. Taking too much vitamin C can cause digestive trouble. If a person has any health concerns, he should talk to his doctor before taking a One A Day or any other vitamin.
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Vitamin E can be found in vegetable oils, margarine, nuts, seeds, soybeans, avocados, egg yolks, whole grains and green leafy vegetables. An antioxidant and immune system component, vitamin E provides many vital health benefits. It works to protect and maintain cells and certain organs, and is beneficial for improving some health conditions.
Antioxidant
As an antioxidant, vitamin E intercepts free radicals and prevents cell damage. It particularly protects red blood cells.
Vitamin Maintenance
Vitamin E also assists in the maintenance of vitamins A and C in the body.
Skin
Vitamin E supports healthy skin and assists in cell production. It protects against scar tissue and skin inflammation.
Immune System
As part of the immune system, vitamin E enhances antibody formation and benefits people suffering from a cold or other viruses.
Organ Functions
Vitamin E is essential for cardiovascular health and for sex organ functioning.
Specific Conditions
Vitamin E may provide some relief for menstrual pain, pre-menstrual syndrome, menopausal symptoms and muscle and joint pain.
If you've had or are planning to have bariatric surgery such as RNY, gastric bypass, gastric sleeve or Lap-Band, you need support through your journey. The changes made to your gastrointestinal tract will require you to make permanent adjustments to your eating habits. You must stick to them to achieve weight loss. Bariatric food and supplies will help you as you make this adjustment.
Food
Bariatric surgeons have varying post-surgery dietary guidelines. These guidelines depend on a patient's health history and condition. It is essential to follow your doctor's recommendations. However, there are some basics -- a diet rich in protein, with several low-calorie meals per day. Your doctor should arm you with paperwork detailing what to eat and prepare it. There are also many online resources designed to help you with this. BariatricEating.com provides instructions for preparing your meals along with a printable food journal (see Resources). The site helps you learn blend protein and eat healthy meals that will help you achieve your ultimate weight loss goals. Focus28 Bariatric Bootcamp (see Resources) sells meal plans based on how many daily calories you can consume. These meals take the guesswork out of the planning process.
Support
Even though you've made the decision to have bariatric surgery, you still need support as you make permanent lifestyle changes. The surgery is not enough on its own to solve your weight and health issues. You need the emotional guidance to know that you can do this! You can succeed. Online resources such as BariatricEating.com and Focus28 Bariatric Bootcamp provide professionals to motivate and inspire patients. There are online support groups and tough love to help you successfully adapt to the life change.
Supplies
Supplies that you need following bariatric surgery include supplements. Most patients take multivitamins, vitamin B, zinc, fiber and iron. You want a multivitamin that offers a broad spectrum of amino acid chelates and essential vitamins. B vitamins are good to take because they help your body break down carbs into glucose, which gives you energy. Iron aids in the production of hemoglobin, which brings oxygen to your cells. It also helps your body use energy. A fiber supplement will keep you regular. Instead of buying generic supplements formulated for everyone, there are some that are specifically designed to meet the demands of a post-operative bariatric surgical patient. Bariatric Advantage (see Resources) and Bariatric Choice are just a couple of several websites that sell a complete line of nutritional supplements for patients.
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Lactobacillus is referred to as the "good" bacteria inside of our bodies. It's produced naturally in the intestinal tract and in the vagina. Lactobacillus produces vitamin K and has anti-microbial properties. One of the greatest benefits is that it takes the sugar in our system and converts it to lactic acid, and lactic acid helps stop the growth of "bad" bacteria. Many people take lactobacillus supplements for this reason. Unfortunately, if you're sensitive or allergic to supplemental lactobacillus, you can develop an irritating and unsightly rash. Treating this rash is fairly simple, and it should improve within a few days.
Instructions
1. Discontinue the use of lactobacillus supplements. This is the first and most obvious way to begin healing. Also, limit your intake of natural yogurt until the rash has disappeared. Yogurt contains natural lactobacillus, and while the amount found in yogurt may not upset your system, you won't know that until you go without it and let the rash heal.
2. Apply 1 percent hydrocortisone cream to stop the itch. Hydrocortisone cream is available over the counter, and helps reduce the swelling and inflammation associated with a rash. It stop the itch.
3. Apply an ice compress to the rash. This is a natural way to reduce swelling, as it constricts the blood vessels and slows blood flow to the area. The coolness of the ice pack also helps temporarily stop the itch.
4. Take an antihistamine. Histamines are substances that cause allergic reactions by attaching to your cells and irritating them. An antihistamine prevents the histamines from connecting to the cells. There are many different antihistamines available over the counter. Some examples are diphenhydramine, brompheniramine and loratadine. Ask your pharmacist which over-the-counter medicines contain these antihistamines, and which one would be best for your rash.
5. Drink extra water. Water helps flush toxins from the system and speeds healing.
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For those who suffer from dry skin, the irritation, unsightliness and discomfort associated with it can be extremely frustrating. There are vitamins that can help with many other ailments, but is there one that can help with this condition, too? Fortunately, the answer is yes. Here's a closer look.
Causes
The first step to answering the question of whether vitamins can help your dry skin is determining why your skin is dry. For example, it could be that it is a harsh weather season, that you don't moisturize enough after a shower or, in extreme cases, that psoriasis is to blame. However, if these are ruled out, a vitamin deficiency actually could be the cause of your dry skin.
Vitamins
Certain vitamins are essential for the health of your skin, and once replaced, they can heal and repair your dry skin, helping it become more smooth and moisturized. Vitamin A, for example, is very important to the regeneration of skin cells. Vitamins B, D and E, as well as potassium and sodium, have been found to help reverse the signs of dry skin. These vitamins achieve this repairing skin cells, improving blood circulation and helping retain moisture in the skin.
Warnings
There are usually very few side effects of an intake of excess vitamins and minerals. There are, however, things to watch for when taking supplements to dry skin. For example, it is possible to overdose on vitamin A. Also, vitamin E is considered to be a blood thinner, making it potentially dangerous for those with heart conditions or those who are free-bleeders. In addition, pregnant women should be extremely careful; what is good for mom is not always good for baby, particularly in excess amounts.
Sources
Taking vitamins as a supplement generally is suggested only if your skin is especially dry, cracked, red, sore and itchy. Usually, finding these vitamins in your daily food supply is recommended as a first resort. A wide variety of foods can give you these vitamins in every meal, including leafy green vegetables (kale), squash, oranges, peas, tomatoes, asparagus, potatoes, tuna, olives, liver and carrots.
Expert Insight
A professional dietitian or nutritionist, or even your family doctor, may be able to help aid you in your quest for healthier, moisturized skin. If you plan to begin taking supplements, it is important that you discuss it with a professional so you can get a recommended dosage. A doctor can help identify psoriasis or another chronic skin condition that may not be helped by diet and vitamins, keeping you from wasting time and money on a regimen that will not work.
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The explosive increase in skin cancers and melanomas in the past 70 years has led to greater interest in things you can do to prevent this malady. You probably know that you should apply sunscreen before going out in order to minimize UV damage, but you might not know that certain vitamins can aid your skin's ability to handle sunlight. According to dermatologist Nicholas Perricone, ingesting certain antioxidant vitamins can offset free radical damage that leads to aging and diseases such as skin cancer.
Skin cancer and vitamins
Because studies of specific foods and supplements that prevent one type of malady often directly contradict later studies about other illnesses, the best advice to prevent skin cancer (beyond applying sunscreen) is to eat a varied and healthy diet. Dermatologist Nicholas Perricone said that around 80% of your body's vitamin stores are depleted by 40 minutes of sun exposure and he recommends applying a topical vitamin-infused skin cream as extra protection along with sunscreen. Regarding supplements, he tells patients to take vitamins C and E along with alpha lipoic acid and coenzyme Q10. A 2008 study found no significant difference in skin cancer levels in participants who were taking selenium and vitamin E supplements as compared to those on placebos.
Any effects that supplements may have could be reduced by their overall absorption levels in the body, which is why eating foods rich in antioxidants may provide added protection for your skin when combined with supplements. Consume vitamin E rich foods such as almonds and avocados, vitamin C rich foods such as oranges, and fish, which are known to have high levels of fatty acids. Drinking milk fortified with vitamin D could help you replenish levels of this important vitamin if you are not getting enough sunlight to naturally fulfill dietary requirements for vitamin D.
Perricone suggests that inflammation in the body is a primary cause of skin cancer and he believes that diet does make a difference in rates of the illness. In order to maximize your odds, make sure you avoid foods with trans fats and those that are overly processed, while getting enough of vitamins A through Zinc in your diet and supplements. And apply sunscreen even if you are doing all of the right things.
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Conception can be a tricky thing. Some people are able to conceive a child quickly, without any trouble at all. Other couples have a harder time and turn to infertility treatments to try to have a baby. Clomiphene citrate, also called clomid, is a drug women can take to induce ovulation. Clomid also normalizes hormone levels that are crucial to conception.
Instructions
Jump-Start Your Reproductive System With Clomid
1. Schedule a full examination with your ob/gyn doctor after several months of trying to have a baby. He will do some tests to see whether you are ovulating and have appropriate hormone levels. He may test your partner's semen to determine whether the sperm count is at a normal level and the sperm are functioning properly.
2. Fill your prescription before your next menstrual cycle starts so you will be ready to start taking it on the specified day. Clomid is usually taken for five days, starting on the third or fifth day of your cycle.
3. Mark your calender with "day 1" on the day your period starts. This will make it easy to know when to start taking the clomid and will help you determine your conception and due dates if you become pregnant during this cycle.
4. Follow your doctor's instructions for your dosage of clomid. Most women start off with 50 mg per day. Jot down on your calendar which days you are taking the drug.
5. Wait patiently for a few days after taking clomid. The medication is starting to adjust hormone levels in an attempt to make you ovulate around day 14 of your cycle.
6. Start to use an ovulation predictor kit around day 11 or 12 of your cycle. Similar to a pregnancy test, this test will show a spike in the LH hormone right before ovulation occurs.
7. Have intercourse with your partner when you get the "green light" from the ovulation predictor kit. Keep at it for the next few days for the best odds of hitting the narrow window of conception.
8. Keep your mind off baby-making for the next 2 weeks by going to movies, immersing yourself in a hobby or getting together with friends.
9. Take a pregnancy test if your period has not arrived when it is due. If you do get , call your doctor and see what she suggests for the next step toward conception.
Tags: hormone levels, , your cycle, your doctor, your period, around your, around your cycle
You don't have to leave the house and go to a fast food restaurant to get a tasty strawberry shake. Instead, satisfy your sweet tooth with a strawberry and banana smoothie at home and cut down on the fat calories. This smoothie is also a good way to get rid of any very ripe bananas you may have in the freezer. This makes two servings.
Instructions
1. Take one large ripe frozen sliced banana and place it in a blender container.
2. Wash 1 cup of fresh strawberries and slice them. Add to the blender container.
3. Add 2/3 cup low fat or skim milk to the blender. Add 1 teaspoon honey. Allow the mixture to sit a few minutes if the are very hard frozen.
4. Put the cover on the blender and blend the mixture on high. If the frozen bananas stick in the bottom, stop the mixture periodically. When blender stops completely, remove the cover and stir the mixture with a rubber spatula. Be sure to replace the cover before restarting the motor.
5. Blend until completely smooth. Taste for sweetness. You may add a little more honey and blend briefly if you want a sweeter smoothie.
VIT B5 is an abbreviation for vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid. Vitamin B5 naturally occurs in almost every food, but a manufactured form is available as a dietary supplement.
Functions
assists the body in properly metabolizing carbohydrates, proteins and lipids. It plays an important role in generating energy from foods and is an essential element for healthy skin.
Symptoms of Deficiency
Deficiencies in pantothenic acid are rare. Symptoms of a deficiency would include headache, fatigue, sleeplessness, appetite loss, abdominal pain and tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.
Uses
Vitamin B5 is promoted as being useful for a long list of ailments, including acne and skin disorders, stress, diabetic nerve pain, headaches, muscle cramps and fatigue. Many believe that vitamin B5 may slow the aging process. There is not enough scientific evidence to support these claims.
Cautions
Vitamin B5 is safe for most people when taken in the recommended dosage of five to 10 mg per day. Taking more than the recommended amount may cause diarrhea. People suffering from hemophilia should not take vitamin B5 because it will increase the time it takes to stop bleeding.
Vitamin E is a popular and beneficial vitamin for the skin. It can be used topically as a moisturizer or internally as a food source or supplement. Nutritionists recommend taking 30 IU (International Units) of Vitamin E every day for overall health. There are two types of Vitamin E--synthetic and natural. The natural form is twice as effective as the synthetic.
Acne
Vitamin E is known to prevent acne breakouts in some people.
Scars
Vitamin E oil used topically reduces and fades scars on the skin.
Moisturizer
Although Vitamin E is thick oil, if used sparingly it is a natural skin lubricant and is excellent for dry skin.
Immune System
As an anti-oxidant, Vitamin E strengthens the immune system by eliminating free radicals. With a healthier immune system this decreases the likelihood of skin diseases.
Vitamin A
Vitamins A and E are both fat soluble. Vitamin E helps to regulate the use of Vitamin A in the body. This is important because Vitamin A helps with skin growth and repair.
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The pineapple is one of the most sought-after juices on the market today. Used widely in alcoholic drinks for its sweetness and in various cooking dishes to accentuate other fruits, it is high in vitamins and minerals and is one of the most popular of all grocery store fruits. The tree is an exotic symbol and has been the focus of many vacations, tourist parties and beach luaus.
History
The pineapple has been a desirable fruits for many years in the United States. It has been used for trade, food and in tribal feasts. The European use of the pineapple can be traced to 1493, when Christopher Columbus and his crew were sailing in the Caribbean. Columbus and his crew discovered piles of the harvested fruit near human body parts on a volcanic island now known as Guadeloupe. The crew ate and documented the fruit.
Medicinal
Pineapple juice has laxative and tonic effects on the body. It can help to soothe gastric irritability. It has also been used for jaundice and fevers. Folk remedies use all parts of the fruit, including the peel and juice. The juice provides the same immune building properties as orange and papaya juice. When sipped, the juice can relieve bronchitis and a sore throat. It's also used to aide in the recovery of tuberculosis by dissolving mucus.
Studies
Pineapple contains bromelain, which has anti-inflammatory benefits for the body. According to a study published in Volume 58, Issue 9 of "Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences," bromelain can help with sinusitis, bronchitis and trauma from surgery. Bromelain also enhances the absorption of antibiotics. In the study, bromelain was given to subjects with mammary tumors to complement their tumor therapy. The growth of tumor cells was inhibited. Bromelain was also found to speed wound healing.
Nutrition
Pineapple contains a high amount of thiamin and manganese. Thiamin helps to prevent depression by maintaining a healthy nervous system. Manganese is an important mineral that is used in the production of energy. There is also a high amount of vitamin C in pineapple. Vitamin C is beneficial for the prevention of many diseases because it acts as an antioxidant. The Vitamin B6 in pineapple helps to control hormone levels and to nourish the nervous system to prevent emotional disorders.
Warnings
Although the pineapple is delicious and sought after for its unique sweetness, the juice of the unripe fruit can be dangerous. If large quantities are consumed, vomiting, skin rash and diarrhea can occur. If the pineapple juice is consumed by pregnant women, it should be in small quantities. Pineapple can cause a uterine contraction that might cause an accidental abortion.
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