Lipstick Rules to Live By - For Your Lips Only

 

10 Lipstick Rules to Live By

 

The perfect pout doesn’t have to be a one time thing. Follow these easy steps to keep your lipstick game top notch.

1. Treat your lips like you would your face. Remove makeup, exfoliate, moisturize. Repeat.

2. Timing is everything. If you’re having casual drinks or dinner with your friends before a big night out, wait to put on your lipstick. You won’t constantly be worrying about messing it up while you eat (which is the worst).

3. When playing up your lips, keep your eye makeup minimal. Makeup is like a balancing act, pick one feature and go big.

4. Find the right color. Not all hues are created equal, at least for you. Different skin tones work better with different shades, so try a bunch on and choose wisely—a good lipstick is a forever kind of thing.

5. Use a primer. Think super staying power through your meetings, lunch, and happy hour drinks. We recommend NARS Instant Line & Pore Perfector.

6. Liner can be your best friend or your worst enemy. Find the right lip liner and it’ll stop your lipstick from feathering throughout the day. Choose the wrong color, and you’re channeling Gwen Stefani circa 1997. Our advice? Go for a clear lip pencil—it’s silky smooth and compliments every lip shade. We recommend Merle Norman Clear Lip Pencil.

7. Start in the middle. Begin applying lipstick at the center of your lips and move outward. That way, you’ll be less shaky when it comes to the outer lines of your lips. Less shaky = less mistakes.

8. Highlight along your cupids bow. As well as along the middle of your lower lip. The small touch will reflect light and make your lips look nice and plump. We recommend YSL Touche Eclat.

9. Take it off before you go to sleep. The only bad thing about having a clean, white pillowcase? That baby is a lipstick magnet.

10. Always give yourself a day off. Let your lips stay au natural for at least one day a week and so you can slough off dead skin cells, moisturize, and have one glorious morning to sip coffee sans lipstick stains.
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Fermented Foods You Should Eat

Fermented Foods You Should Eat

 

Every food expert on the planet will tell you that the healthiest foods are usually the freshest. But the latest beneficial food group isn’t a bit farm to table—it’s fermented—meaning ingredients like cabbage and cucumbers have been left to sit and steep until their sugars and carbs become bacteria-boosting agents.

Wellness experts are currently enthralled by how these pungent, probiotic powerhouses, which boost the good bacteria in your digestive tract, can help heal a multitude of health issues, like leaky gut and IBS, and can even lead to weight loss, better skin, and boosted immunity.
One of the reasons? “The gut is the largest part of our immune system,” explains Drew Ramsey, M.D., author of The Happiness Diet and 50 Shades of Kale. So it matters what you put in it. “Sugar and refined carbohydrates cause damage, while fermented foods heal.”
Ready to see what these (somewhat skunky) superfoods can do for you? Here are seven to try now.

1. Kombucha

A fizzy, fermented black tea that’s no stranger to New Yorkers, kombucha gives you a bang for your bacterial buck because of the variety of microorganisms it contains. “When you drink a bottle of kombucha, you’re drinking four to seven microorganisms all at once, building a really strong gut,” explains Michael Schwartz, the fermented-foodie founder of BAO Food And Drink. Just watch the sugar.

2. Sauerkraut

Turns out you should put sauerkraut, AKA fermented cabbage, on way more than your tofu dogs. It has a powerful impact on brain health, including depression and anxiety. “There’s a tremendous connection between gut and brain health,” explains Dr. Ramsey. If you’re the DIY type, try making your own. (Here’s an easy recipe!) Unlike non-refrigerated, store-bought varieties, homemade ‘kraut has no chemical preservatives or added sugar.

3. Pickles

Pickles are the gateway ferment. Not only do they provide a healthy dose of probiotics, they’re a familiar food item and have a taste that many people already love—including those who may hold their nose at the idea of eating fermented foods.

4. Coconut Yogurt

Kimberley Snyder, celebrity nutritionist and author of The Beauty Detox Foods, loves coconut yogurt, because it’s a delicious, dairy-free way to work plenty of enzymes and probiotics into your diet. Though Greek and regular yogurt are also fermented foods, Snyder is less enthusiastic about them. “Dairy is extremely acid-forming in the body and difficult to digest,” she explains.

5. Miso

Jeff Cox, author of The Essential Book of Fermentation, loves miso for its nutritional profile. The paste made from fermented soybeans and grains is “full of essential minerals, like potassium, and consists of millions of microorganisms giving us strength and stamina,” he says. To make miso soup, just add a dollop to boiling water, along with some favorite vegetables, like onions, bok choy, or mushrooms.

6. Tempeh

Tempeh (fermented soybeans) is a complete protein with all of the amino acids, says Cox. He suggests using it as a yummy substitute for bacon in BLTs. Try flavoring organic tempeh with some tamari (also fermented), then add it to a sandwich with tomato, lettuce, and toast. Or eat it tossed in a bowl of steamed veggies.

7. Kimchi

Think of this spicy Korean dish—typically made from fermented cabbage—as a beauty food, as well as an energy-booster, says Snyder. It can help “enhance digestion and nutrient assimilation,” she explains. “You may also notice, with improved digestion, an improvement in the look of your skin.”
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Acne Problem ????? Follow the steps

8 Home Remedies for Acne

 

Everyone wants clear skin, but it’s way easier said than done. Although we don’t always have time for a mile-long list of skincare products to use on a daily basis, cleanser and moisturizer should be the two constants. But, when your cleanser and moisturizer fail, there are a few home remedies that can do the trick. Below, we’ve rounded up eight home remedies for acne that actually work. Read on and enjoy your clear skin!

1. Tomatoes/Tomato Pulp: The acidity in tomatoes helps skin dry up acne. Not only this, but inside of the tomato are vitamins (A,C and K) and lycopene, which can be found in many acne healing medications. For a simple take on the tomato for clear skin, slice one open and simply place it on the problematic areas of your face. You can also grind or mash up the tomato into a pulp consistency and apply like a facial mask, repeating the process regularly and you’ll see the difference.

2. Honey and Cinnamon: Honey is an unprocessed antibacterial agent that kills bacteria and eliminates acne. Cinnamon has beneficial properties from essential oils in cinnamon bark, allowing it to be an anti-clotting and anti-inflammatory agent to the skin. Combine the two and create a face mask to aide your skin in repairing damage.

3. Potato: One potato can provide 70% of vitamin C (which boosts collagen production in the body and helps prevent and heal damage from the sun, stress and environment) and vitamin B (for healthy DNA production, skin cell regeneration and it actually penetrates the epidermis rather than sitting on top). Plus, potatoes contain niacin for skin-lightening due to hyper-pigmentation from acne or other skin conditions. Shredded, raw potato will not only act as an acne remedy, but help remove hyper-pigmentation, bright the skin and prevent wrinkles.

4. Lemon Juice: We all know that lemons are high in acidity. Not only does this allow pimples to dry out, but it also kills acne bacteria. Lemon is known to provide a calming effect to the skin and the vitamin C content maintains healthy and glowing skin. For direct application to the skin, take a cotton ball and squeeze fresh lemon juice on it and apply it to problem areas.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar: The lesser popular vinegar than balsamic, this regulates the pH of your skin and can help with detox. Malic and lactic acids are also found in the vinegar for assistance in softening and exfoliating skin, using as a toner and treating acne all over your body. Weaken the vinegar with water and apply to the face as a toner.

6. Garlic: Allicin, sulphur, zinc and calcium properties are all found in garlic and act as antibiotic and antifungals, helping to clean the skin. To use garlic, crush cloves, mix with water and apply to the skin.

7. Cucumber: Hydration! Cucumbers are 95% water, they remove dead skin cells and clean pores. They can be used as a face wash as they moisturize and remove extra oil. Grind cucumbers and mix with water for application to the face.

8. Olive Oil: For scarring treatment, use olive oil. Although you may cringe at the thought of olive oil helping with any aspect of acne, when you have acne, it may cause the skin to lose its expansion properties. The oil helps rejuvenate your skin and bring it back from its damaged and dry texture that acne brought on. Apply a salt and olive oil mixture on the skin and rinse with warm water.
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33 Home Remedies for Canker Sores

Canker sores (also called as “aphthous ulcers” or “aphthous stomatitis”) are minute lesions or ulcers generally found at the bottom of the gums in the mouth. They make talking and eating painful. They can also be seen on the tongue, internal lining of the cheeks, and inside the lips. Canker sores can be categorized into 2 types- simple canker sores and complex cancer sores.

Simple sores come into view 3-4 times a year in people between the age of 10 and 20 years, and may last up to a week. Complex sores appear less frequent in those people who have previously had them.

Causes of Canker Sores

Generally, any of the following causes can be a reason for canker sore:

For simple canker sores:

Tissue injury.

Certain foods such as acidic or citrus vegetables and fruits which includes lemons, pineapples, oranges, figs, apples, strawberries, and tomatoes.
Sometimes a dental appliance or a pointed tooth surface, for example, ill-fitting dentures or braces might also set off canker sores.
A slight injury caused by eating coarse foods such as nuts and chips or by biting the internal portion of the mouth.

Menstrual period.

Food allergies.

Trauma to the mouth.

Bacterial infections.

For complex canker sores:

An impaired immune system.

Nutritional imbalance, such as lack of iron, vitamin B-12, folic acid, zinc.
Gastrointestinal tract disease which includes Crohn’s disease or celiac disease.
Symptoms of Canker Sores

Canker sores are accompanied by the following symptoms:

An itchy or burning sensation in the mouth approximately 24 hours prior they appear.
A gray or yellow crater appears in the mouth with a red border neighboring it.
The sore or sores are quite painful and one experiences great difficulty while eating or drinking.
Sore is generally white in color.
Some people may also perceive the following less common symptoms:
Lethargy and sluggishness
Distended lymph nodes
Fever
Home Remedies for Canker Sores
Are you exasperated of those monstrous canker sores in your mouth? Here are some of the amazing and easy-to-use home remedies. You can find most of the ingredients available at your home. Use them to get rid of canker sores.

1. Alum Powder
Alum powder, an ingredient commonly found in most of the kitchens can be used to treat canker sores naturally. Place a little quantity (about size of a pea) of alum powder directly on the canker sore. Let it sit for 60 seconds. It is generally bitter in taste. Do not swallow the powder. After 60 seconds, spit your saliva as well as the alum. Do not wash your mouth with water. Within 24 hours the pain will decrease.

2. Essential Oils
Put one drop of any of the 2 essential oils right onto the ulcer- oregano essential oil or melaleuca essential oil.

3. Salt Water Method
It may be a very painful procedure, but it is one of the best methods to cure canker sores. Add one teaspoon of table salt in a cup of warm water and mix it well. Use it to rinse your mouth multiple times. Thereafter, take a pinch of salt and put it directly on the canker sore. You may also use baking soda in place of salt to mix it with water.

4. Baking Soda and Aloe Vera
This remedy is not as painful as others, but then, comparatively, it takes longer time to heal the sores. Make use of aloe juice to clean your mouth. After rinsing it, apply baking soda directly on the canker sores.

5. Using 3% Hydrogen Peroxide Solution
Pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide solution in a plastic soda cap and dilute it by adding similar quantity of water. Immerse a Q-tip into the peroxide solution and apply it on the canker sore. Repeat it two times a day to heal the canker sore will in 2-3 days. Do not swallow hydrogen peroxide.

6. Milk of Magnesia
Apply milk of magnesia on the canker sores multiple times in a day. The antacid present in it counteracts the acidic environment and alters the pH which, in turn, reduces the activities of sore-causing bacteria.

7. Antacid or Antihistamine Mix
Mix one part of diphenhydramine (sold as Benadryl) and one part of antacid such as Kaopectate or Maalox. Place and swish it around your mouth and spit it out.

8. Lemon
Squeeze a lemon with the help of a lemon squeezer. Apply it on the sore with a clean finger. Leave it for about 1-5 minutes. If needed, you may rinse it off. Repeat it a number of times. You can also squeeze 1-2 drops of lemon on the ulcer directly.

9. Ice Cubes
Put an ice cube on the canker sores and let it melt over the sores.

10. Coriander
Coriander is one of the finest ingredients for curing canker sore. It comprises antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties which effectually lessens the pain and uneasiness. Boil some coriander leaves in a glass full of water. Strain the solution and let the water cool down. Rinse your mouth with this water 3 to 4 times a day.
Alternatively, take 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds and boil them in 1 cup of water. Let the mixture sit for a short time and then strain. Gargle with it 3 or 4 times a day.
You may also drink the juice made from fresh coriander leaves multiple times a day. Instead of gulping the juice completely, keep it in your mouth for a couple of minutes, so that, the juice could heal the inflated area.

11. Honey
Honey is a soothing substance and has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Put 1 teaspoon of honey around the canker sore. It may hurt for a couple of minutes, but gradually it will ease the pain as well as inflammation. Try this 2-3 times a day.
Or else, combine ¼ teaspoon of turmeric powder and 1 teaspoon of honey to make a fine paste. Apply this paste on the canker sore and leave it for some time. Gargle well with tepid water and repeat this process twice a day.

12. Cayenne Pepper
Another commonly used ingredient for curing canker sore is cayenne pepper which contains capsaicin that can momentarily numb the nerves, resulting in immediate relief from the pain and inflammation. Get small amount of cayenne pepper and mix it with a little water. Apply this paste directly onto the canker sore. Initially, you might sense some irritation, but in a little while, you will feel much relieved. Repeat it a couple of times daily, for some days until the sore totally disappear.
As an alternative, you may also eat a few candies that contain cayenne pepper as one of the chief ingredients. This will provide respite from the discomfort caused by the canker sore.

13. Onion Juice
Onions have sulfur which helps treat canker sores. Cut half an onion into small pieces. Crush a few pieces and apply on the affected skin for a few minutes. Ensure that the juice of the onion is absorbed by the canker sore. Perform this 3 or 4 times a day.
Or else, you may also make a paste of one medium-sized onion or extract the juice of an onion and apply it directly on the sore. Carry this out a couple of times every day.
Canker sores can also be healed and prevented by eating at least 1 raw onion daily.

14. Topical Creams
Topical pastes such as Lidex, Anbesol (Benzocaine), Aphthasol or Vanos may aid easing the ache caused by canker sores. For quick respite, apply the cream on the affected area as soon as it appears. Use it 2 to 4 times a day until the sore completely disappears.

15. Papaya
Eat papaya or drink its juice to clear the canker sore. Allow the juice or pieces of papaya to linger for some time in the mouth so that it could make direct contact with the sores. You may also use papaya tablets to get
rid of sores. These tablets will work in the same way as the papaya juice or fruit does.

16. Moist Tea Bag
Used tea bag contains tannic acid which is a type of an astringent and it reduces uneasiness and speeds up the healing process. You can use either green tea bag or black tea bag. After making a cup of tea, put the wet tea bag inside the refrigerator for a couple of minutes. Press the ice-cold, wet tea bag softly over the canker sore for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Repeat it 2-3 times a day for effective results.

17. Grapefruit
Mix a teaspoon of grapefruit seed in a glass of water. Rinse your mouth with it twice a day.

18. Plum Juice
Use plum juice as a mouthwash to alleviate the sores. Another way is to soak a cotton ball in plum juice and place it on the canker sores.

19. Clove Oil
Pour a few drops of clove oil directly on the sore. Let it sit on the sores for some time and then rinse.
Herbal Remedies to Cure Canker Sores

20. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is one of the natural and easy-to-use home remedies for healing canker sores. It has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and remedial properties that reduce sores in a few days. Cut open a fresh aloe vera leaf and get the gel. Apply it directly onto the canker sore.
Or else, you can rinse the interior of your mouth with fresh aloe vera 3 or 4 times a day.
Alternatively, you can also intake a minimum of 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel 3 times a day for positive outcome.

21. Tea Tree Oil
Owing to its antiseptic and antibacterial properties, tea tree oil works wonders on canker sores. Add 9-10 drops of tea tree oil to a glass full of water. Utilize this solution as a mouthwash. Swish your mouth with this 3 or 4 times a day.
Or else, add 2 drops of tea tree oil in 1½ tablespoons of water. Apply it directly on the sore. Follow this procedure twice or thrice a day.

22. Sage
You may also use sage to effectively heal canker sores at home. The soothing properties of sage provide immediate relief from the symptoms related to canker sores. Boil 2 cups of tap water and add 3 teaspoons of sage leaves to it. Let the solution sit for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Cool it down to room temperature and then use it to clean your mouth 3-4 times a day.
As an alternative option, you may also apply sage leaves in a powdered form directly on the canker sore and leave it for a couple of minutes. Practice repeating this method multiple times a day to get rid of the sores.

23. Calendula Tea or Goldenseal Tea
 Canker sores can be easily cured if you gargle with goldenseal tea or calendula tea. For preparing this tea, take a teaspoon or two of this dried herb and add it to a cup of boiled water. Leave this tea for 10 minutes. Strain and use it as a mouthwash for 3-4 times a day.

24. Myrrh
Myrrh is well-off in tannins and is used as a traditional remedy for gum and mouth irritations. Powdered myrrh is helpful in easing mild inflammations of the oral cavity. Add 4ml of myrrh tincture in lukewarm water and swish it in the mouth 2-3 times a day. Or you can open up a capsule and apply it directly on the sore.

25. Tea
Prepare a tea by mixing various herbs that are rich in tannin, for example, eucalyptus, St. John’s wort, licorice, sage, blueberry, raspberry and peppermint.
Alternatively, you can also prepare a tea by mixing burdock root, oak, red clover, rest-harrow, calendula and red raspberry. And employ it as a mouth wash.

26. Cankerroot (Coptis Groenlandica) or Goldthread
This plant received its name because of its traditional use for healing canker sores. Cankerroot was used as a tea to treat both sore throat and canker sores by many American Indians. All you need to do is, simply, chew the raw root and your pain will diminish in a couple of minutes.

27. Licorice
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) has the power to heal wounds. Mix 200mg of powdered DGL and 200ml of warm water. Swish it in the mouth for 2-3 minutes and then spit out. Repeat this process every morning and evening for at least 1 week.

28. Wild Geranium (Geranium Maculatum)
Wild geranium was widely used as an astringent by the Cherokee Indians to stop the bleeding of open wounds and cure mouth sores.

29. Echinacea
Echinacea has immune-strengthening, antiviral, and wound-healing properties which are helpful in curing mouth ulcers. Swish about 4 ml of liquid Echinacea in the mouth for 2-3 minutes. Repeat this process three times a day. You can also use tablets and capsules containing Echinacea.

30. Chamomile
Tea prepared from chamomile can be used to cure canker sores. Chamomile has healing properties which gives a calming effect on inner lining of the mouth. Swish tea prepared from chamomile tincture in your mouth 3-4 times a day.

31. Fenugreek
Add 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in one cup of water. Boil and strain it. Use this liquid to gargle and swallow very little bit of it.

32. Nettle
Mix sage, nettle, and chicory in the ratio of 1:3:3. Add 1 quart cold water to this herbal mixture and leave it overnight. Next day, boil this mixture, steep for approximately 5 minutes and then strain. Drink one cup of this herbal solution 3 times a day.

33. Slippery Elm
Add a few drops of water in a tablespoon of slippery elm to prepare a paste. Apply it on the sore. Rinse it off after a few minutes. Or, get slippery elm lozenges from the nearby drug store and suck it.
Do’s
Eat a lot of whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.
Brush your teeth daily after taking meals. Use soft brushes in order to prevent irritation.
Eat food that can be easily swallowed such as soup or yogurt. Or you can choose to mash your food before eating.
Drink cold fluids like iced tea, water, or eat Popsicles. Use a straw, so that, the fluid does not touch the canker sore.
Don’ts
Shun eating foods such as nuts, pretzels, chips, salty foods, certain spices, coffee, chocolate, seeds, tomatoes, and acidic fruits like grapefruit, pineapple and oranges that may cause irritation in your mouth.
Avoid talking to anyone while chewing your food.
Do not use mouth rinses and toothpastes that have sodium lauryl sulfate.
Keep stress at bay by using varied number of stress-reduction techniques, for example, guided imagery and meditation.

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Why You’re Aging Your Skin

Ways You’re Aging Your Skin

Do you hop into bed still wearing your mascara? Try out every new skin product to hit the shelves? These common mistakes may not seem like a big deal, but over time they can take a toll on your skin and leave you looking prematurely aged.
Don’t worry: It’s not too late. Here, we break down your bad skin habits and show you how to avoid them—and look 10 years younger.

1. Skipping sunscreen

The No. 1 way you’re aging your skin? Not wearing sunscreen daily.
“The sun is the primary cause of skin aging,” says Neil Sadick, MD, a New York City–based dermatologist. The sun can reach you on cloudy, rainy, or snowy days as well. Plus, Dr. Sadick adds, “skin-damaging UV rays can penetrate through glass, so you need to apply sun protection even indoors.”
He suggests choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which blocks both types of UV rays, UVA and UVB, with an SPF of at least 30. Antioxidant-fortified formulas containing ingredients such as resveratrol, vitamin C, idebenone, or coffee berry can offer additional protection.

2. Neglecting your hands and neck

Your face isn’t the only area that needs a little TLC. Overexposure to sun affects your hands and neck just as much as your complexion. These areas show signs of aging, like dark spots, dryness, and loss of firmness, notes Dr. Sadick.
Treat your neck and the backs of your hands as you would your face by generously applying moisturizer and sunscreen. While you can buy body-specific products, they aren’t necessary. Those formulated for your face will work just fine, Dr. Sadick says.

3. Spot treating pimples

Thanks to fluctuating hormones, women over 40 routinely experience acne problems. But using a spot treatment to relieve red spots will only dry out the skin, leaving a raw and irritated area—and it won’t help heal the pimple either.
Instead, says Carolyn Jacob, MD, director of Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology, treat your entire face with an acne-fighting cleanser or moisturizer once a day. It’s your best bet for preventing future breakouts.

4. Going to bed without removing your makeup

You may find it tempting to fall into bed after a busy day—or a late night on the town—without cleaning your face. But skipping a cleanser at night can lead to breakouts later.
During the day, environmental toxins (like dirt and pollution) build up on skin and invade pores, which can cause complexion problems, says Dr. Sadick. So don’t hit the sack before you wash. Use a good cleanser and save your skin. Keep a box of cleansing towelettes bedside for added convenience—simply swipe and sleep.

5. Ditching products too quickly

If you’re frustrated that your new anti-aging moisturizer isn’t doing its job, stick it out longer before switching. Bouncing from product to product may leave you with the impression that nothing works for your skin.
Dr. Jacob recommends that you give a new product at least six weeks to produce a change in your complexion. “One skin cycle takes 30 days [for new cells to reach the top layer of skin], so in order to see a real difference in texture, tone, and clarity, you need to use it for more than a month,” she says. If the product contains anti-aging ingredients, wait even longer. Your skin takes about four months to regenerate collagen and elastin, she says.

6. Using too many products at once

If a new moisturizer is good, then the combination of a new serum, toner, and night cream must be better, right?
Not so fast. If your skin gets irritated after you use a handful of new products, you won’t know what’s causing the problem and assume they’re all irritating. Instead, “start with one at a time, and integrate a new product every two weeks,” says Dr. Jacob. That way, you’ll be better able to identify what’s aggravating you, or know what combination of them makes your skin go haywire. Plus, you’ll also save some cash by buying only what you need.

7. Skimping on sleep

Getting insufficient shut-eye can age skin prematurely—and, in the short run, result in dark circles and a lackluster complexion. During the day, our skin cells are battling against an onslaught of stressors, like UV rays and pollution. Sleep is vital because stress hormones drop to normal levels at night, giving cells time to repair and rejuvenate, says Dr. Jacob.
Plus, stress raises the levels of the hormone cortisol, which increases oil production and can lead to bouts of acne, according to Dr. Jacob. So make sure you’re not depriving yourself of the sleep you need
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How You Can Avoid the Deficiencies of Vegetarianism

 

Find Out How You Can Avoid the Deficiencies of Vegetarianism

I once tried (feebly) to become a vegetarian. It lasted about a week, then I gave up. I only eat chicken and fish to begin with, so it shouldn’t have been hard, but I didn’t do my research and I ended up eating a lot of bread and pasta. As much as I suddenly thought meat was a bad choice, carb-loading for the rest of my life was probably worse.
Years later, I have not made another attempt at vegetarianism. I’ve actually been ordered by my doctor to start eating red meat and supplementing with substantial quantities of iron—after learning I was severely anemic. Despite not currently being able to become vegetarian, I’m still curious about the correct way to go about it. I spoke to Andrea D’Ambrosio, a registered dietitian and owner of Dietetic Directions, to find out some of the deficiencies new vegetarians need to look out for and how they can prevent them.

What nutrients are vegetarians missing out on?

“A well-planned vegetarian eating pattern can meet your nutrient needs without deficiencies,” says D’Ambrosio. The nutritional considerations will be different for each person depending on the level of restriction they are planning to adopt: vegans will be more restricted than vegetarians, and vegetarians more restricted than pescetarians (those who eat fish). Vegetarians—and all healthy adults—need to make sure they’re getting enough dietary iron, vitamin B12, calcium, omega-3s and zinc.

Should vegetarians be using supplements?

Although it is possible to maintain healthy nutrient levels on a vegetarian diet, supplements can be useful to replace the key vitamins and minerals that can sometimes be lacking. “Vegetarians have almost double the iron requirements of a non-vegetarian since iron in plant food is less readily absorbed,” says D’Ambrosio. For example, a 30-year-old vegetarian woman requires 32 milligrams of daily iron rather than the standard 18 milligrams.
In addition, vegetarians (and vegans) are at a higher risk for a vitamin B12 deficiency because B12 is found only in animal products and fortified foods. Women over the age of 19 should have about 2.4 micrograms of vitamin B12 daily.

What foods should vegetarians add to their diets to replace the nutrients found in meat?

“I recommend my vegetarian clients include soy products like tofu, edamame or fortified soy beverages,” says D’Ambrosio. Vegetarians can also add textured vegetable protein, dried beans, peas, lentils, and nuts and seeds (like hemp, flax, sunflower and pumpkin seeds). High-quality whole grains are also an important part of a healthy diet for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Is there any reason a person might not be able to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle?

As long as the diet is well-planned, just about anyone can be happily and healthily vegetarian. Pregnant women should look for a multivitamin containing vitamin B12, iron and folic acid. Adults over 50 years of age require more calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B12 from either a supplement or fortified food. “A well-planned vegetarian or vegan diet is healthy for pregnant and breastfeeding women, babies, children, teens and seniors,” says D’Ambrosia. Just be sure you’re ready to make the change.
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Hair Mistakes that Make You Look Older

 

Hair Mistakes that Make You Look Older

Your haircut, style, or color may not be doing you any favors in the youthfulness department. Follow these tips to take years off your look.
You can pile on all the anti-aging skin care products you want, but when it comes to looking 10 years older—or younger—than your actual age, it’s your hair that makes all the difference. “Your hair is one of the first things people notice when they meet you,” says Brad Johns, Color Director of the Salon and Spa at Saks Fifth Avenue. Your crow’s feet? Not so much.
And we’re not just talking about grays. In fact, gray hair can be youthful when cut and styled the right way. Meanwhile, even if you have really pretty brown, blonde, or red color, a bad haircut will age you.
Here, we’re highlighting the biggest mistakes women make with their hair—from monotone color to severe styles. Follow our expert tips, and you’ll be well on your way to a younger-looking ‘do—and you.

1. The Wrong Haircut

If your haircut is too straight, too severe, or doesn’t flatter your face, it’s probably adding years to your look. “I don’t follow the rule of thumb that as you get older your hair should get shorter,” says Nick Penna, owner and lead stylist at SalonCapri in Boston.
“The cut and style are more important than the length.”
Whether your hair is long or short, Penna recommends a layered haircut that’s cut off the face—one that doesn’t fall in your face. “Your hair should frame your face in a soft way,” he says. If you’re stuck on the idea of bangs, he suggests long, sweeping pieces. “It’s a very youthful look,” he says. “And it can even cover some forehead lines.”

2. A Too-Tight ‘Do

Pulling your hair back into a tight ponytail or bun might make you look younger momentarily (think: instant facelift), but these styles also draw attention to every line and spot on your face. You can still wear your hair back, but keep it soft, suggests Penna. “Let some pieces of hair fall around the face.”
For an even more forgiving style, try putting only some of your hair up. “Half up, half down works well,” says Penna. “Simply pull pieces off the side of the face and pin them back.”

3. A Dated Look

If you’ve been sporting the same haircut for 20 years, it may be time for a change. The Farrah Fawcett and the Rachel were great cuts at the time, but now they’re stale and old-fashioned—the key word being old. “The styles that are dated are the styles that women shouldn’t hold onto,” says Penna.
However, if your look is classic, you can wear it forever. “I think of someone like Carolina Herrera or Anna Wintour,” says Penna. “Their haircuts are their signatures. When it’s classic and timeless, and you carry it well, it works.” Ask your stylist for his or her honest opinion, and consider an update.

4. Split Ends

The quality of your hair is just as important as the cut and style, says Penna. Frizzy, frazzled, damaged ends will make your hair—and you—look older. To keep split ends at bay, get a regular trim every six to eight weeks.
Between cuts, use a split end serum like Organix Coconut Milk Anti-Breakage Serum, $5.75, to protect your ends from heat-styling damage, keep your hair hydrated, and tame frizz.

5. Monotone Hair Color

I doesn’t matter what color your hair is—blonde, brown, red, or even gray—if it’s one solid color, it’s going to make you look older. “Monotone doesn’t work on anyone,” says Johns. “It looks like a wig or a helmet, and that’s aging.”
If you have your hair colored in a salon, Johns suggests bringing three pictures of hair color you like and three pictures of hair color you don’t like to your next appointment. “Colorists are visual,” he explains. “You have to treat them like you would an interior designer.” And if you color your hair at home, he recommends picking a shade that’s one shade lighter than the color you really want. “Different sections of your hair will pick up different amounts of color, giving it dimension,” he says.

6. The Wrong Color Around Your Face

Even if your hair has highlights and lowlights, they need to be strategically placed. “Hair color should be brightest around your face and on top, and darker underneath,” says Johns. The brightness makes your skin look warm and youthful, and the color mimics the variations that happen naturally. “It’s like the hair of a little kid who’s been at the beach for a month,” says Johns.

7. Cool-Toned Shades

Now that you know you need highlights, you’ll want to choose the right shade. “The warmer the shade, the younger the look,” says Johns. “If you’re blonde, white hair can be fun, but it’s not youthful—golden hair is youthful.” Similarly, he suggests brunettes opt for caramel tones instead of ashy ones, and redheads choose copper instead of burgundy. ‘Think of warm, spicy colors,” he says. “Cool is not youthful.”



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Benefits of Milk

Surprising Benefits of Milk

Appetite Suppressant

Believe it or not, milk can work as an appetite suppressant. In a separate study in the AJCN, researchers found that 34 participants consumed lower calories at lunchtime because they felt fuller and more satisfied for longer after drinking milk in the morning.

Muscle Growth

As we age, we tend to get saggy skin. Thats because we are losing the muscle mass we had in our youth. A great way to combat the sag is to gain back that muscle thanks to the proteins, whey and casein, which promote muscle growth. Additionally, milk is a leading source of Vitamin D deficiency of the vitamin leads to poor muscle strength and weakness.

Sleek and Shiny Hair

Keep your hair shiny and soft with milk. Vital nutrients contained in the drink help maintain a strong and healthy head of hair. The proteins and lipids in milk work to strengthen hair, while the calcium promotes hair growth and aids in preventing hair loss. Milk also contains other hair-friendly nutrients like Vitamins A, B6, biotin and potassium, all of which work to keep hair soft and shiny.

Hangover Remedy

Had too much fun during your night out with the girls, or threw back a few while watching the game with the guys? Next time, drink milk beforehand! Milk is said to line and protect the stomach from alcohol. Also, drinking milk after a night out is thought to settle the stomach because it neutralizes the acidity in alcohol.
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Healthy Cooking Oils you should know

 

Healthy Cooking Oils you should know

If you already pan-roast your chicken in canola oil and adorn your salad greens with Italian olive oil, way to go. But just like your workout routine, when it comes to culinary oils, you should shoot for variety. By using an assortment of oils in your kitchen, you’ll be exposed to a wider range of healthy fats and disease-fighting nutrients and antioxidants.
It’s not as simple as drizzling a new bottle into the pan the next time you stir-fry, though. Certain oils are better for sautéing or baking, while others should be used exclusively for dressings and dips. Here’s the lowdown on what to add to your kitchen (store them in a cool, dark place such as a pantry cupboard away from the oven to prolong shelf life) and how to use each to keep your body a well-oiled machine.

Avocado Oil

Buttery avocado oil is chockablock in monounsaturated fat, the kind considered to be heart-healthy because of its powers to improve cholesterol numbers. This über fruit oil also supplies lutein, an antioxidant that improves eye health, and the white coats at Ohio State University determined that the oil can goose salad’s potency by improving the absorption of fat-soluble antioxidants such as beta-carotene present in vegetables.
Best Uses: With what is considered to be highest smoke point of any plant oil — about 520 degrees — ultra-versatile avocado oil can be used for all your high-heat cooking needs such as grilling and pan-roasting. It’s also stellar when added to salad dressings, as a garnish for soups like gazpacho or drizzled over homemade pizza, crusty bread or even slices of watermelon.

Hemp Oil

Greener than Al Gore, this earthy-tasting oil pressed from hemp seeds abounds in essential fatty acids such as omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid, which may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, according to studies. Hemp oil also delivers gamma linolenic acid, an omega 6 that emerging research says can improve skin health by reducing conditions like roughness and dryness. Though hemp may bring to mind peace, love and tie-dyes, the variety of hemp grown for food production contains virtually none of the psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana.
Best Uses: Hemp oil is too delicate to be heated, so save it for dips, pestos and dressings — anywhere you would use extra-virgin olive oil.

Hazelnut Oil

Toasty, richly flavored, aromatic hazelnut oil provides vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that appears to keep your mind and hearing sharp. What’s more, nearly 80 percent of the fat in hazelnut oil is the ticker-boosting monounsaturated kind. As with hemp oil, delicate nut oils like hazelnut should be stored in the refrigerator once opened to preserve freshness. Buy only the amount you’ll use within three to six months for peak flavor.
Best Uses: Skip the frying pan and use hazelnut oil to gussy-up cooked rice, quinoa or oatmeal. Whisked with lemon juice, it’s delicious strewn over pasta, roasted vegetables and steamed greens. Or work it into your chocolate sauces and slip a few drops into your morning cup of joe or bowl of ice cream.

Grapeseed Oil

This byproduct of winemaking has a clean, light flavor and is a good source of both vitamin E and oleic acid, a fat that may help slash stroke risk by up to 73 percent, according to a recent study in the journal Neurology. Further, scientists at the University of California found oleic acid may curb hunger pangs by being converted into an appetite-quelling hormone. Look for expeller-pressed grapeseed oil, meaning it was extracted by crushing the seeds in a mechanical press without the use of harsh chemicals such as hexane.
Best Uses: A neutral flavor makes grapeseed oil a jack-of-all-cooking-trades and is especially good if you don’t want to taste the oil in your recipe, such as when preparing kale chips, sautéing onions or baking sweet potato fries. It emulsifies very well, so use it for making mayonnaise and creamy dressings that won’t separate when chilled. Grapeseed oil can also substitute butter or shortening in most baked good recipes.

Almond Oil

Made by pressing the oil out of ground almond paste, almond oil has a mild nutty flavor and pale yellow hue. It’s plush in monounsaturated fat (like olive and avocado oil), vitamin E and phytosterols, plant compounds shown to improve cholesterol numbers. Doing double-duty as vanity fare, it’s also lauded as a topical skin moisturizer. Buy all your fruit or nut oils packaged in dark containers to help stymie deterioration from light sources.
Best Uses: Add subtle almond nuances to a range of baked goods, including cookies, quick breads and muffins. Homemade granola goes gourmet when made with almond oil, or whirl up your own nut butter by blending together whole almonds with almond oil in a food processor. Roasted almond oil has a more robust nut flavor, so it can add rich taste to salad dressings, pasta dishes and soups.

Tea Seed Oil

This up-and-comer hails from China and is made by pressing the seeds of the Camellia sinensis plant — the same one that brings forth your green tea and Earl Grey, but instead of the astringency the drink can sometimes have, tea seed oil has a subtle lemony flavor. While it’s a bit scarce, it’s worth seeking out, as research shows it’s abundant in cholesterol-reducing sterols and unsaturated fatty acids that make your heart happy, and has strong antioxidant activity.
Best Uses: Tea seed oil performs great at high temperatures, so use it when preparing Asian-inspired dishes (here’s looking at you, stir-fry) with less worry of smoking yourself out of the kitchen. Its light and smooth flavor won’t cover your food’s taste, so also try it in marinades and dips or with roasted vegetables.

Red Palm Oil

Poised to give its popular tropical cousin coconut oil a run for its money, this brightly colored oil is laced with antioxidants, including vitamin E and carotenoids such as beta-carotene and alpha-carotene. In the body, beta-carotene can be converted to vitamin A, which is used to promote eye, bone and immune health. Higher intakes of alpha-carotene, on the other hand, may be protective against mortality from heart disease, according to research out of the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Look for brands that source their red palm oil sustainably, such as taking steps to avoid destroying animal-friendly rainforest for palm plantations.

Best Uses: Palm oil is heat-stable, so it’s a good choice for your frying pan or as a replacement for butter when baking. Its buttery flavor works well in curries, rice and fish dishes, sauces and spreads, as well as in smoothies or drizzled over popcorn and roasted potatoes.

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Important Nutrients to Boost Your Health

Important Nutrients to Boost Health

As people strive to improve their health and evolve their food choices to a more plant-based diet, it is easy to get lost along the way. When you transition to a healthier diet, it is important to educate yourself about the nutrients your body will need on a daily basis.
It’s important to learn how to create a balance of protein, carbohydrates and quality fats with each meal. There are eight essential nutrients including protein, iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium, B12, iodine and Essential Fatty Acids which are necessary to boost and optimize our health.

1. PROTEIN

A crucial part of any diet, the average RDA for women is 45 grams and for men 55 grams, which you can easily consume in the form of:

• Beans, legumes, lentils and peas
• Free range eggs
• Raw milk, cheese and yogurt.
• Nuts and seeds, which benefit from soaking in water or sprouting first
• Non-dairy nut and seed milks

NOTE: Pseudo-meats and other pretend protein foods should be avoided if possible, as they are highly processed foods. In an article by Sally Fallon and Mary G. Enig, Ph.D. they write that, “Phytic acid remaining in these soy products greatly inhibits zinc and iron absorption; test animals fed soy protein isolate develop enlarged organs, particularly the pancreas and thyroid gland, and increased deposition of fatty acids in the liver.”

2, 3. IRON AND ZINC

One of the most common deficiencies in the world, iron is an important nutrient, integral to many bodily processes. It is especially essential for pre-menopausal and pregnant women, who tend to have this deficiency. If you feel tired, low in energy, suffer from headaches or hair loss, a pale complexion and weak nails, you could be suffering from iron deficiency.
Strong, healthy blood requires proper amounts of Iron. Average RDA for woman 19-50 years is 18mg, women 51+ years is 8mg and adult male is 8mg.
Two billion people may have a zinc deficiency, yet it’s an essential mineral required by the body for maintaining a sense of smell, keeping a healthy immune system, building proteins, triggering enzymes, and creating DNA. Zinc also helps the cells in your body communicate by functioning as a neurotransmitter. A deficiency in zinc can lead to stunted growth, diarrhea, impotence, hair loss, eye and skin lesions, impaired appetite, and depressed immunity.
Because the human body does not store Zinc, it is essential to obtain it from the food you eat. The RDA for adult women is 8mg and for men is 11mg.

• Cocao, oysters, wheat germ (zinc)
• Green leafy vegetables: kale, collards, cabbage, spinach, and broccoli
• Nuts, seeds: almonds and cashews
• Beans, lentils, legumes, peas, in cooked and sprouted form
• Fruits and dried fruits: apricots, dates, and raisins
• Date syrup and molasses

4. MAGNESIUM

Magnesium plays a more important role than calcium in the body. It reduces your risk of cancer, and controls the entry of calcium into each and every cell–a physiological event that occurs every time a nerve cell fires! When it comes to building healthy bones, magnesium is as important as calcium and vitamin D are. Without adequate magnesium, too much calcium gets inside the cell. This causes cramping and constrictions in ways you many doctors never consider.
Earlier dietary surveys show that a large portion of adults do not meet even the RDA for magnesium (320 mg per day for women and 420 mg per day for men) which is below the level necessary for optimal health being 500mg+ per day for both men and women.

• Green, leafy vegetables, starches,
• Grains and nuts, and raw milk.

5. CALCIUM

In a nutshell, your body needs calcium to maintain strong bones and teeth, and for your nervous system to function properly. The RDA for adults is 1000-1200mg and can be found in a variety of foods, such as:

• Dark greens: broccoli, kale and Chinese cabbage
• Sea Vegetables: wakame, arame, dulse, hijiki, and kelp
• Dairy products: milk, yogurt and cheese

6. IODINE

Iodine is a mineral found mostly in seafood (including seaweed) that helps the body synthesize hormones, including thyroid hormone. This important mineral has been slowly but steadily leaving our food stream. The chemicals in fertilizers used in modern farming and chlorine added to water bind to iodine and prevent it from being utilized by our bodies. Iodine deficiency significantly affects the brain development of unborn babies and young children and is the main cause of preventable mental retardation and brain damage across the world. It also leads to underactive thyroid and may increase the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth, which could be a major problem given the numbers of women suffering from this deficiency. Iodine deficiency is not only common in developing countries, research has suggested that more than two thirds of teenage girls and 15 percent of adult females in the US have an iodine deficiency.
Caution: Too much iodine can also be harmful. although the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends 200-300 micro grams of iodine daily during pregnancy for normal fetal thyroid hormone production and neurocognitive development, 1,100 micro grams is considered to be the safe upper limit for daily ingestion by the US Institute of Medicine.

• Eggs, fish and seafood are good sources.
• Vegans can go for seaweed, cranberries, organic strawberries and himalayan crystal salt.

7. VITAMIN B12

Vitamin B12 is an important nutrient, especially for those following strict vegan lifestyles. It is required by your body to make new red blood cells and help keep your nervous system healthy. Without it, permanent damage can result. B12 can also lower homocystein levels, which is great news since elevated homocysteine levels may cause heart disease and strokes. A deficiency leads to anaemia and its symptoms include tiredness, pale complexion and breathlessness. It can also cause memory loss, confusion, mood swings and depression.
Vegans and vegetarians who do not eat eggs or dairy will need to take this essential nutrient in the form of a B complex supplement that includes the RDA for B12 of 1.5 microgram for adults. Shitake mushrooms, sea vegetables and algae contain something similar to B12, but it does not work in the body in the same way as B12 from animal sources. Some nutritional yeast food products contain some Vitamin B12. Meat and eggs are some of the best sources, however, if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, it may be essential to occasionally use a B12 patch or high quality B12 supplement in your diet.

8. ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS

Research says that eating more omega-3 fatty acids makes one live longer, look better and feel happier. A deficiency, on the other hand, can cause depression, mood swings and even aggressive behaviour. These fatty acids prevent heart disease, are good for your eyes, help you shed pounds and keep your skin and hair in good condition.
The body needs quality fats to help absorb the ‘fat soluble’ vitamins A, D, E and K, to regulate cholesterol, provide energy, maintain heart health and a number of other important functions. Saturated fats from animal sources is limited in a vegetarian diet, but hydrogenated and trans fats in baked goods and chips should be avoided for their harmful health effects. Recommended RDA for Omega Fatty Acids is 1-2 tablespoons.

• Extra Virgin Olive oil
• Sesame oil
• Raw butter and clarified butter
• Coconut oil: a saturated vegetable oil that has proven beneficial in the diet
• Omega-3 oils: Flax, hemp and walnut oils

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Yoga Process >> Weight Loss

Top Yoga Poses for Weight Loss

Can you use yoga for weight loss? Yes! Losing weight isn’t easy for anyone, but with the right attitude, you can make a real difference in how you look and feel.
These fat-burning yoga poses will help kick-start your metabolism and build up lean muscle tone.

1. Cobra Pose

• Even beginners can get good results from this simple yoga pose, which works to firm the buttocks and tone the abs.
• Lie face-down on the floor, with the tops of your feet flat against the ground.
• Press your legs and hips down. Place your hands under your shoulders, plams down and fingers spread apart.
• Press into your hands, lifting your head, chest and upper back off the mat. Keep your gaze forward and up and your shoulder blades down and back.
  Push back your shoulders and feel the stretch spread evenly along the length of your spine.

After a few deep breaths, relax to a prone position on an exhale.

2. Wind-Releasing Pose

This fat-burning yoga pose is great for targeting your abdominal area.

• Lie down on the floor and bring your knees up to your chest with your ankles together.
• Clasp your arms together over your knees as you bring your head up off the floor.
• Breathe deep as you feel the stretch work your abs, then relax slowly.

3. Bow Pose

This advanced yoga pose can really burn fat while toning your arms, legs and abdominal area.

Lie down on your stomach, bend your knees and reach around to grab your feet.

Pull in your stomach and extend your feet upward, raising your upper body at the same time. Keep your shoulder blades down and back.
Hold for several breaths, then relax.

4. Side-Stretch Pose

This yoga pose can help raise your heart-rate and burn calories.

• Stand with your feet slightly wider than hip width apart.
• Rotate your torso and turn both your feet to the right. Keeping legs straight, exhale and hinge over your right leg until your torso is parallel to the floor, reaching your hands to the ground (if you can’t touch the floor, you can rest them on a block).
• Hinge further with each exhale, moving your torso closer to your right thigh.
• Remember to keep breathing, then relax and repeat in the opposite direction.

5. Warrior I Pose

This yoga pose can work your abs, thighs and arms, and is most effective if used as part of a sequence like Sun Salutation.

• Standing straight, step your left leg 4-5 feet to the left, then rotate both feet and your torso toward the left.
• Bend your left knee over your toes while keeping your right leg straight.
• Raise both arms high above your head with your fingertips pointing upward, looking up at your hands.

How can you use yoga for weight loss?

With all the chanting and seemingly stationary poses, one might wonder how you can lose weight through yoga. But the truth is it can be an effective weight loss tool, if you practice it regularly and correctly.
The first factor you should consider is that not every type of yoga is conducive to consistent weight loss. Some types are better for reducing stress and helping relaxation but don’t provide the cardiovascular workout needed for weight loss. The second factor is consistency. As with any fitness plan, yoga needs to be done regularly and with intensity. Finally, it is important to remember to maintain a healthy diet in combination with any workout regimen.

Vinyasa: Flow yoga

One type of yoga that’s good for weight loss is Vinyasa, or flow yoga. This style of yoga is made up of a series of Sun Salutations that you move through quickly, allowing for the increased heart rate required for caloric burn and weight loss.
The best part about Vinyasa is that its popularity has led to the production of many yoga weight loss DVDs. With so many options, it’s easy to find a Vinyasa DVD that matches your skill level that allows you to begin losing weight in the privacy of your own home.

Bikram: Hot yoga

If you want more of a challenge, try your hand at Bikram yoga. Similar to Vinyasa, it takes you through a series of poses, but, instead of a cool yoga studio, you are in a heated studio that is heated up to 105°F.
As you move through the Bikram poses, you not only burn calories and fat but temporarily lose water weight while eliminating toxins. But note that Bikram yoga for weight loss is extremely vigorous, and should not be undertaken if you are pregnant or have certain medical conditions.

Power yoga

Nowadays, many gyms are offering power yoga, which combines yoga poses with a cardiovascular workout by pushing you through the poses faster and with less rest time in between. If your gym doesn’t offers such a class, the good news is that power yoga is also offered on DVD.
These yoga poses also strengthen your muscles and, subsequently, increased muscle mass will increase your resting metabolic rate, resulting in greater weight loss throughout the day.

Meditation

The final benefit of yoga is mental clarity. Yoga reduces stress and allows you to take a break from your busy lifestyle. This brief rest from the hustle and bustle of life can permit you to take a moment and reevaluate your lifestyle choices.
For instance, you may reflect on the health of your diet, as well as whether or not your activity level is sufficient to keep your body in good shape. Yoga’s meditative atmosphere can provide an opportunity for self-awareness, which is always the first step to a healthier and happier you

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Tips to Lose Weight Without Diet and Exercise

Tips to Lose Weight Without Diet and Exercise

Dropping a few pounds doesn’t have to involve deprivation or intense workouts. These tricks will help you slim down the easy way

1. Drink Enough Water

There are so many reasons why water is, among other things, good for your waistline. Drinking cold water can help up your metabolism, since your body will work harder to warm up the liquid, meaning more calories burned for you. Drinking water regularly also helps keep you feeling full so you don’t snack on empty calories, and hydrating before you exercise will help release muscle-building hormones in your body — which spells good news for not only your strength goals but also your metabolism.

2. Get Enough Sleep

Celebs and doctors alike can’t stop talking about their go-to weight-loss secret: one of the keys to losing or preventing weight gain is getting enough sleep. Why? Turns out we end up eating more when we’re sleep-deprived. A recent study, for example, showed that participants who got only four hours of sleep ended up consuming 300 more calories than when they were well rested.

3. Practice Portion Control

Even if you’re not on a diet, being mindful of how much you’re eating is good practice. It can take a few minutes for your brain to recognize that you’re full, so get in the habit of knowing how much an actual serving size is (and how much it takes until you’re full), and you’ll be less apt to pack on the pounds due to overeating.

4. Drink Green Tea

Water’s not the only metabolism booster in town. Studies have shown that drinking green tea can give your metabolism a tiny increase — which can add up to over 400 extra calories burned a week! Not only that, the beverage has got some major antioxidant power, so drink up.

5. Use Your Friends

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be much easier with the support and motivation of like-minded friends. Having a healthy support group can lead to better choices for yourself; you may find yourself moving more, skipping more calorie-laden happy hours, and making other lifestyle choices that can contribute to weight loss.

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How to Grow your Eye lashes

Natural Ways to Grow Your Eyelashes

Like the hair on your head, eyelashes follow a growth rate pattern. If your eyelashes fall out or are damaged by mascara, plucking or dyeing, you have to wait for them to regrow. While the length and health of your eyelashes is determined by genetics, there are certain natural ways to make your eyelashes grow.

Vitamin H (Biotin)

Vitamin H (Biotin) promotes faster hair growth and helps strengthen hair. Vitamin H is a B-complex vitamin that is found in numerous cosmetic products, as well as certain foods. This water-soluble vitamin is found in sardines, pecans, almonds, brewer’s yeast, bananas and whole grains. Additionally, it can be found in egg yolk; however, raw egg whites contain Avidin, a protein that prohibits vitamin H absorption.

Antioxidants

Vitamins C and E, two antioxidant vitamins, are important for normal hair growth and development. Without vitamin C, your hair can become dry and split. Additionally, vitamin C can block damage to hair from free radicals so it stays healthier and it helps healing and repair. Vitamin E increases scalp circulation for a healthy scalp. These vitamins are found in citrus fruits, avocados and leafy green vegetables.

Olive Oil

Dab a small amount of olive or castor oil on your eyelids at the base of your eyelashes every night to encourage longer, thicker lashes. You should start to see signs of new hair growth after a month or two. The new hair growth will be healthier and stronger than previous hair growth. If nothing else, olive oil acts as a conditioner to improve the health of your eyelashes.

Emu Oil

Emu oil conditions eyelashes and stimulates longer, thicker lash growth. Use a cotton ball or Q-tip to dab a small amount of the oil onto your eyelashes to condition the hair and stimulate new hair growth.

Vaseline

This alternative treatment works in much the same way as olive oil and castor oil. Dab a bit of it on the base of your eyelashes each night before going to bed. You can wash it off after 15 minutes if you prefer. You may see new hair growth after a few weeks.

Diet

Eating a healthy diet rich in protein and vitamins helps eyelash hair grow. Good foods to help your eyelashes grow include fish, eggs, beans and yogurt. Soy protein is also beneficial for simulating eyelash growth.

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How to lose your weight

Lazy Way To Lose Weight Juice

This is a lazy way to lose weight. It burns hundreds of calories even if you are just sitting down on your computer. It also increases your metabolism which helps in weight loss

For Recipe. You Need:
2 tsp Honey
1 tsp Cinnamon
1cup/ 8oz/ 237 ml Water
Directions:
1) Use 1 part of cinnamon to 2 parts of raw honey. 1 tsp cinnamon to 2 tsp honey is recommended.
2) Boil 1 cup/8oz/237 ml of water.
3) Pour the boiling water on cinnamon. Cover it and let it steep until it is warm enough to drink.
4) Add honey when the water is cool/warm. Never add honey when it is hot as the heat will destroy the enzymes and other nutrients in the raw honey.
5) Drink 1/2 of this before going to bed. The other half should be covered and refrigerated and drink it in the morning. Do not re-heat it in the morning.
Do not add any flavors in this mixture. And this recipe only works if you drink it on empty stomach.

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Natural Remedies for Stiff Neck

Natural Remedies for Stiff Neck

How many times have you woken up unable to move your neck? What is it that we are doing while we sleep that makes us feel as though we slept pushed up against a rock or with our head on backwards?
Although occasionally headstand adventures happen whilst we sleep, “locked neck” or “rigid neck” is usually the result of a bad pillow, or a previous injury.
Here are a few tricks that you can use to loosen that stiff neck and move on with your day as much as possible:

1) First and foremost, it is important to remember the huge role that applying heat has in relaxing muscles.

In between using ice packs to numb the pain and reduce inflammation, use heat to bring fresh healing blood to the area and make your pain dissipate more quickly. (This is a good opportunity to refreeze that bag of peas too – unless this happens a lot in which case you are probably fully stocked with frozen peas, sweet corn and, dare I say, frozen carrots!)

2) If you have been subjected to a cold or damp environment prior to your neck injury, you may want to try sipping cinnamon and turmeric in warm water to release the muscle contraction and bring down inflammation.

3) St Johns Wort, valerian root or vervain tea can be used to reduce pain.

The cooked herbs can then be prepared as a warm compress and used on the muscle (or just wrap the wet herbs in an old pillow case and press on your muscle). In a bind, try using chamomile tea bags.

4) Try applying fresh horse radish or mustard oil to the muscle to relieve stiffness, but only leave on for a few minutes at a time to prevent numbness and burning.

5) Arnica as a homeopathic remedy or a cream can really help heal the area quickly.

Keep some stocked in your first aid kit as it is good for all kinds of aches and pains!

6) Blending up celery and drinking the juice helps repair nerve damage (this is surprisingly great for stress relief and pre menstrual irritability too).

7) And finally, let’s not forget using the shower or bathtub with some essential oils such as rosemary, juniper, lavender, pine or nutmeg!

Muscles love to be warm, and they don’t like being kept stationary. Keep trying to move your neck, take deep breaths, and use heat pads, warm compresses and the bath tub as much as possible!

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11 Instant Mood-Boosting Foods

These Foods Will Make You Smile

The Modern American Diet—MAD—way of eating is throwing off our bodies’ natural feel-good chemistry, resulting in a miserable, moody, anxious, and agitated nation. Luckily, an instant jolt of happiness is just a forkful of brain food away. People should be focusing on brain foods and mood-promoting fats to best nurture happiness, says Drew Ramsey, MD, coauthor (with Tyler Graham) of The Happiness Diet: A Nutritional Prescription for a Sharp Brain, Balanced Mood, and Lean, Energized Body. “Just a few meals away from the modern American diet, and you’ll start to feel benefits like better energy and a more stable mood,” explains Dr. Ramsey. “The moment you make a better food choice you are instantly building a better brain.”

1.  Lemon Macaroons

Sugar is a known mood annihilator, but that doesn’t mean you have to completely give up on desserts. The authors of The Happiness Diet devised a citrus-rich macaroon recipe chock-full of brain-healthy coconut, a health food boasting medium-chain fats that fuel better moods. And the lemon provides not just a burst of flavor, but also brain-protecting flavonoids. Give their recipe for Mood-Boosting Lemon Macaroons a go this weekend.

2.  Pastured Eggs

Dr. Ramsey calls eggs the perfect food. They’re loaded with mood-promoting omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, B vitamins, and iodide, and they’ll keep you full and energized.
The problem is that these days, buying the best egg has become complicated, even for the savviest label sleuth. Egg carton claims promise all sorts of nutrients and living conditions for the laying hens, but many claims aren’t even regulated. The best egg for your brain is the kind your great-grandmother probably enjoyed: hens raised on pasture, where they can exercise and eat a diet of grass and bugs, supplemented with organic grains. Look for pastured eggs from local farmers you trust, and rely less on grocery store eggs advertised as “omega-3 enriched” or “free-range,” both claims that aren’t regulated.

3.  Cherry Tomatoes

All tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, a fat-soluble phytonutrient that helps protect vital brain fat, and a nutrient that actually stops the buildup of pro-inflammatory compounds linked to depression. Because lycopene lives in tomato skins, the best way to get it is through cherry tomatoes, whose smaller surface area means you’ll eat more skin than if you eat a full-size tomato, explains Dr. Ramsey. To maximize the amount of lycopene your body absorbs, drizzle some olive oil over the tomatoes, and enjoy!
Just be sure to always choose organic. Trials at University of California–Davis have found that organic tomatoes have higher lycopene levels.

4.  Honey

Eating sugar unleashes harmful free radicals linked to disease—even cancer—inside of your body. Honey—although sweet like sugar—is packed with beneficial compounds such as quercetin and kaempferol that actually help clean up the free radicals and reduce inflammation. “Honey helps reduce inflammation, which is very important to maintaining a healthy brain,” Dr. Ramsey explains. “Some depression actually stems from chronic, low-grade inflammation.”

5.  Asparagus

This vegetable is one of the top plant-based sources of tryptophan, which serves as a basis for the creation of serotonin, one of the brain’s primary mood-regulating neurotransmitters. High levels of folate also add to asparagus’s happiness-promoting profile; research has shown that up to 50 percent of people with depression suffer from low folate levels. Like tryptophan, it’s a necessary factor for creating neurotransmitters. It’s also good to add to the menu if you plan on drinking. The enzymes in asparagus are highly effective in breaking down alcohol in your system, preventing a hangover—and that can make anyone happy.

6.  Greek Yogurt

This dairy pick is packed with more calcium than you’ll find in milk or regular yogurt, and it can make you happy, too. Proper calcium levels give the “Go” command, alerting your body to release feel-good neurotransmitters. “Disturbances in calcium levels can produce anxiety, depression, irritability, impaired memory, and slow thinking,” says Dr. Ramsey in The Happiness Diet. Plus, the probiotics help aid in digestion and can even ward off colds.
If you find yourself nervous or agitated for an unexplained reason, try reaching for an organic Greek yogurt from cows raised on grass pastures. Pastured dairy is higher in healthy fats, and, like grass-fed lamb, often contain higher levels of CLA, the healthy fat that reduces the effects of stress on the brain.

7.  Dark Chocolate

Ever wonder why chocolate makes you feel so good? Sure, it tastes good, but it also provides an instant boost in concentration and mood and even improves blood flow to the brain, helping you feel more vibrant and energized. Skip the sugary milk chocolate blends and go directly for the darkest organic (highest percentage of cocoa) chocolate you can. A recent study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that just a few ounces of dark chocolate a day results in better mood. (We love organic, fair trade Theo chocolate.)

8.  Grass-Fed Lamb

Animals raised on grass pastures boast much higher levels of healthy conjugated linoleic acid, or CLA. This happy fat beats back stress hormones protecting brain cells and erases dangerous inflammation-promoting belly fat, Dr. Ramsey explains. Grass-fed lamb is also packed with mood-promoting heme iron, the type that your body most readily absorbs. Iron is vital for a stable mood—its highest concentrations in the brain are located in areas related to mood and memory.

9.  Blue Potatoes

Blue potatoes aren’t a common supermarket find, but they’re popping up as a unique offering at farmer’s markets all over the country. The color in blue potatoes is courtesy of anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that provide neuro-protective benefits such as bolstering short-term memory and reducing mood-killing inflammation.
Be sure to eat their skins, too. The potatoes’ skins are loaded with iodine, a diet-derived nutrient essential for life, and one that helps regulate the thyroid, what Dr. Ramsey calls one of our “master mood regulators.”
And always choose organic potatoes. Nonorganic spuds usually fall victim to multiple toxic chemical sprays that are absorbed into the vegetables’ flesh.

10.  Swiss Chard

This leafy green is packed with magnesium, a nutrient essential for the biochemical reactions in the brain that boost your energy levels. According to Dr. Ramsey, some of the first studies on magnesium involved its effect on depression. That could come in handy today, since the majority of Americans simply don’t get enough magnesium in their diet.
Green-thumb tip: Swiss chard is easy to grow in a home garden. If you plant it, harvest just a few outer leaves—not everything all at once—and the plant will continue producing all season long.

11.  Mussels

Mussels are loaded with some of the highest naturally occurring levels of brain-protecting vitamin B12 on the planet. That makes the mollusk an important food source, considering that a significant portion of the U.S. population is B12 deficient. So what’s the nutrient’s mood-saving trick? Maintaining a healthy level preserves the myelin sheath that insulates your brain cells, helping your brain stay sharp as you grow older.
Mussels also contain trace nutrients that are important to balancing your mood, including zinc, iodine, and selenium, things vital to keeping your thyroid, your body’s master mood regulator, on track. An added benefit? Mussels are a healthy choice for you and the environment, which isn’t always the case when it comes to fish. Just be sure to look for farmed—not wild—mussels raised in the United States.

 (collected)

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