10 BEAUTY BENEFITS OF COCONUT OIL

Coconut oil is everywhere right now. You don’t know whether to eat it, drink it, or bathe in it. Are you going cuckoo for coconut oil? Let us help break it down for you in simple terms so that you can try these great uses for coconut oil tonight!

Note: For any at-home treatment the best kind to use is certified organic, RAW, virgin coconut oil and stored at room temperature. You don’t want to use any coconut oil that has been extracted with heat or refined in any way because that strips the oil of its powerful antioxidants and healing properties.



HAIR CARE
Oil Treatment
Coconut oil can work wonders for dry, damaged, and frizzy hair. Its fatty acids soften hair. The best way to apply it is to rub a small amount between your hands, so you’re moisturizing them at the same time. Then, apply it to your hair from roots to ends, one section at a time, and comb through. The longer you can leave it in the better! Wrap your hair in a towel for at least 15 minutes and then follow with a gentle shampoo. If you are feeling extremely bold, consider sleeping with it and shampooing in the morning.

Dandruff Treatment
Dandruff and dry scalp go hand in hand. So send moisture right to the roots with a nightly coconut oil treatment. Just apply lightly to roots and massage in, which will also stimulate hair growth. Leave in for a few minutes, then shampoo.

Frizz Tamer
This is one of the most popular coconut oil beauty uses because its natural oils repel water and prevent frizz. Smooth a tiny amount of coconut oil onto the ends of your hair to add a little shine, or lightly coat over the top of your hair, smoothing loose strands. Remember that a little goes a long way.

ORAL CARE
Coconut oil has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. Gargling and swishing (about a tablespoon amount) for 20 minutes with a spoonful of oil (a.k.a. oil pulling) can help clear up germs in the mouth and plaque, which can lead to fresher breath, whiter teeth, healthier gums, and can even help prevent tooth decay.

SKIN CARE
Eye Makeup Remover
Yes, coconut oil even works on waterproof mascara! Put a little on a cotton ball and gently sweep it over your eyes, paying attention to your under-eyes as well. The oil does a great job breaking down waxy, inky eye makeup, and leaves the delicate area hydrated too. Once you’re done, wash your face as usual.

Cheekbone Highlighter
Nothing perks up a tired face like a little highlighter. Simply sweep a small amount of coconut oil on top of your makeup. It gives your skin a glowing, dewy look. You can dab directly on the inner corners of the eye and on the apples of the cheeks for a fresh-faced look.

Night Cream
Although coconut oil can be used alone as a moisturizer, I always recommend cleansing the skin and applying a serum that penetrates the skin. Coconut oil can be mixed in with your favorite moisturizer because the fatty acids help reinforce the skin’s natural lipid barrier. This process helps lock in moisture, promoting hydration, while the antioxidants are great for smoothing fine lines and wrinkles.

Lip Balm
Coconut oil is the ideal remedy for chapped lips because it’s semisolid at room temperature. Pack a bit in a miniature jar and smooth over lips throughout the day.

Shaving Balm
Due to the lubricating nature of coconut oil, it makes for a great shaving balm. Conventional shaving cream is an expensive cocktail of chemicals that you don’t need to get a nice clean shave on your legs or underarms. As an alternative, coconut oil is inexpensive, naturally antimicrobial, and smells divine. Plus, its skin-soothing properties will leave your legs looking hydrated (but never greasy)!

Miscellaneous
Coconut oil provides so many benefits for the skin. It can promote faster healing for wounds, provide comfort for burns, and even increase hydration and reduce water loss in dehydrated skin.

DIY BEAUTY PRODUCTS
Just finished making breakfast for the kids and don’t have time to get to the spa? Here are some quick and easy DIY uses for coconut oil that will leave you soft, smooth, and feeling pampered!

Body Scrub
Heat 1/2 cup of coconut oil on very low heat. Remove from heat, then add 1 cup of brown sugar. (If you want a scrub that will stimulate the muscles and detoxify the body, substitute for 1 cup of coffee grounds.) Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil.
Healing and Hydrating Face Mask
Combine 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Apply directly to dry, clean face and neck. Let mask set for 15-20 minutes. Then remove with a warm washcloth.
Anti-Aging Body Lotion
Mix 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1 cup shea butter, and a few drops of vanilla extract.
source:https://www.babble.com/

Ibuprofen Kills Thousands Each Year, So What Is The Alternative?

The 2004 Vioxx recall, as you may remember, was spurred by the nearly 30,000 excess cases of heart attacks and sudden cardiac deaths caused by the drug between 1999-2003. Despite the fact that scientific research had accumulated as early as 2000 linking Vioxx to increased heart attacks and strokes, the drug's manufacturer Merck, and the FDA, remained silent as the death toll steadily increased.



The Reuters report focused on new research published in Lancet indicating the risk of heart attack increases as much as a third and the risk of heart failure doubles among heavier users of NSAID drugs.

INFLAMED: Our Default Bodily State
Why are so many folks taking NSAID drugs like ibuprofen anyway?

Pain and unhealthy levels of inflammation are fast becoming default bodily states in the industrialized world. While in most cases we can adjust the underlying pro-inflammatory conditions by altering our diet, and reducing stress and environmental chemical exposures, these approaches take time, discipline and energy, and sometimes we just want the pain to stop now. In those often compulsive moments we find ourselves popping an over-the-counter pill to kill the pain.

The problem with this approach is that, if we do it often enough, we may kill ourselves along with the pain...

Ibuprofen really is a perfect example of this. As mentioned above, this petrochemical-derivative has been linked to significantly increased risk of heart attack and increased cardiac and all-cause mortality (when combined with aspirin), with over two dozen serious adverse health effects, including:

Anemia[1]
DNA Damage[2]
Hearing Loss[3]
Hypertension[4]
Influenza Mortality[5]
Miscarriage[6]
Ibuprofen is, in fact, not unique in elevating cardiovascular disease risk and/or mortality. The entire category of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) appears to have this under-recognized dark side; cardiovascular disease and cardiac mortality score highest on the list of over 100 unintended adverse health effects associated with their use. See also our analysis of the rarely acknowledged dark side to aspirin: The Evidence Against Aspirin And For Natural Alternatives.

So, what does one do? Pain is pain. Whether it happens to you, or you witness it in another (which can be worse), finding relief is a top priority.
Research on Natural Alternatives To Ibuprofen
Here is some evidence-based research on alternatives to ibuprofen, sourced from the National Library of Medicine:

Ginger – A 2009 study found that ginger capsules (250 mg, four times daily) were as effective as the drugs mefenamic acid and ibuprofen for relieving pain in women associated with their menstrual cycle (primary dysmenorrhea). [7]
Topical Arnica – A 2007 human study found that topical treatment with arnica was as effective as ibuprofen for hand osteoarthritis, but with lower incidence of side effects.[8]
Combination: Astaxanthin, Ginkgo biloba and Vitamin C - A 2011 animal study found this combination to be equal to or better than ibuprofen for reducing asthma-associated respiratory inflammation.[9]
Chinese Skullcap (baicalin) – A 2003 animal study found that a compound in Chinese skullcap known as baicalin was equipotent to ibuprofen in reducing pain.[10]
Omega-3 fatty acids: A 2006 human study found that omega-3 fatty acids (between 1200-2400 mg daily) were as effective as ibuprofen in reducing arthritis pain, but with the added benefit of having less side effects.[11]
Panax Ginseng – A 2008 animal study found that panax ginseng had analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity similar to ibuprofen, indicating its possible anti-rheumatoid arthritis properties.[12]
St. John's Wort – A 2004 animal study found that St. John's wort was twice as effective as ibuprofen as a pain-killer.[13]
Anthrocyanins from Sweet Cherries & Raspberries – A 2001 study cell study found that anthrocyanins extracted from raspberries and sweet cherries were as effective as ibuprofen and naproxen at suppressing the inflammation-associated enzyme known as cyclooxygenase-1 and 2.[14]
Holy Basil – A 2000 study found that holy basil contains compounds with anti-inflammatory activity comparable to ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin.[15]
Olive Oil (oleocanthal) – a compound found within olive oil known as oleocanthal has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen16
source:http://www.greenmedinfo.com/blog/ibuprofen-kills-more-pain-so-what-alternatives

101 Essential Oil Uses & Benefits

Essential oils have been used for thousands of years in various cultures for medicinal and health purposes. Essential oil uses range from aromatherapy, household cleaning products, personal beauty care and natural medicine treatments.

The particles in essential oils come from distilling or extracting the different parts of plants, including the flowers, leaves, bark, roots, resin and peels. In ancient times, Jews and Egyptians made essential oils by soaking the plants in oil and then filtering the oil through a linen bag.



Essential oil benefits come from their antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. These healing oils are rapidly growing in popularity because they act as natural medicine without any side effects. Ready to harness the power of the world’s most proven therapeutic compounds? Then let’s talk about 101 ways to use these amazing essential oils.

source:https://draxe.com/essential-oil-uses-benefits/?

10 amazing uses for coconut oil

I’m going a little cuckoo for all things coconut oil


. It’s been a kitchen staple for a few years – and not just because it tastes good; it has outstanding health benefits, too!

Coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids, including lauric acid, which are metabolized differently. They can increase your energy expenditure, reduce your appetite and have been shown to fight bad bacteria. Coconut oil is also high in saturated fat, which raises the good cholesterol (HDL) and keeps your heart healthy. When shopping, look for pure virgin coconut oil.

Aside from the array of health benefits, coconut oil works wonders around the house. Here are a few unexpected uses for this affordable and versatile oil.

sourcehttp://blog.anytimefitness.com

How to be Awesome at Everything

Last year, I did The No Junk Food Challenge, and it went really well.  It was a good exercise in self-control and gave me a reason to say no, when I would have said, "Why not?"  I even lost like four pounds, just by cutting out junk for three weeks!  Not bad!  It was especially nice just before the holidays, when I knew I would be eating a lot more junk than usual.



So I'm doing it again this year, from November 1-November 21, which is the week before Thanksgiving.  Anyone care to join me?  If you do, let me know how it goes!

source:http://howtobeawesomeateverything.blogspot.com


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Lazy Way to Lose Weight: Cinnamon, Honey, and Water

This is an extremely lazy way to lose weight. It burns hundreds of calories even if you are just sitting down on your computer and doing nothing. It also increases gently boosts your metabolism which aids in weight loss.



Ingredients:
2 tsp Honey
1 tsp Cinnamon
1 cup 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 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 half before going to bed. The other half should be covered and refrigerated, drink it the following morning. Do not re-heat.

Do not add any flavors in this mixture as this recipe only works if you drink it on empty stomach.

This drink works great with our All-Natural Weight Loss Supplements listed below:
source:https://tidbitsfrommarcus.wordpress.com

LEMON GINGER MORNING DETOX DRINK

This Lemon Ginger Morning Detox Drink is something that I’ve been making for years.


 Sometimes I drink it warm and sometimes I fill a couple of mason jars with it to keep in the refrigerator and drink it chilled.  Years ago, a woman that I used to work with turned me on to this recipe.  She told me that she drinks it every morning, so I decided to take up her ritual and make it my own.  Today this woman is 78 years old and going strong.  She still works at a full-time demanding job, and she works because she wants to, not because she has to.  She does pilates every Saturday (she used to do ballet on Saturdays) and she’s as fit physically and mentally sharp as she was year

This Lemon Ginger Morning Detox Drink is something that I’ve been making for years.  Sometimes I drink it warm and sometimes I fill a couple of mason jars with it to keep in the refrigerator and drink it chilled.  Years ago, a woman that I used to work with turned me on to this recipe.  She told me that she drinks it every morning, so I decided to take up her ritual and make it my own.  Today this woman is 78 years old and going strong.  She still works at a full-time demanding job, and she works because she wants to, not because she has to.  She does pilates every Saturday (she used to do ballet on Saturdays) and she’s as fit physically and mentally sharp as she was year

Before I wrap this post up….I want to share something with you.  I received a call the other day from my good friend, Malcolm with some really bad news.  He has a 31 year old nephew who has just been diagnosed with Stage IV Stomach Cancer.  Stage IV!  His nephew is a paramedic so he’s physically fit. I’m sharing this news with you because I want you to know about Helicobacter Pylori.  It is a major risk factor in developing stomach cancer.  At any age.  If you or anyone you know has any of these symptoms… an ache or burning pain in your abdomen, nausea, loss of appetite, bloating or unintentional weight loss – you might want to get checked for Helicobacter Pylori.  BUT….often times a person can be infected with pylori and have NO symptoms at all.  They can test for it with a simple blood test during your next physical.  And the treatment is a simple one – antibiotics and a couple of other meds for 10 days or so.  You can read more about pylori here and here.   And yes, there are other causes of stomach cancer as well…. but I’m guessing if you’re reading this site – you’re not eating a bunch of pickled, salty, nitrate rich foods.  And I’m betting you don’t smoke either. I just want you to know about it in case you’ve never heard of it.  It’s worth getting tested for it at your next physical or if you’re having any symptoms.

LEMON GINGER MORNING DETOX DRINK
yield: 2 servings total time: 35 minutes
INGREDIENTS:

2-1/2 cups boiling water
1 organic lemon cut into slices (I like the taste of Meyer lemons best)
1 inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
1/8 teaspoon ground turmeric
2 teaspoons honey (optional)
DIRECTIONS:

Bring the water to a boil.
Turm the heat off and add the lemon, ginger and turmeric.
Let steep for 30 minutes.
Strain and drink at room temperature or reheat (but don't bring to a boil).
source:http://www.theharvestkitchen.com

Thieves Vinegar – Immune Booster & Germ Killer

No matter what you call it, thieves vinegar has a long history of use.  From Scientific American’s 1910 reference to  “medicated vinegar was invented by four thieves of Marseilles who successfully employed it as a prophylactic during a visitation of pestilence” to current references recommending it as an insect repellant and a popular essential oil company creating a product line based off of the blend, antimicrobial herbs have a well earned reputation for their usefulness.



History of Four Thieves Vinegar
Vinegar has been used as a health tonic for centuries.  It is mentioned in the Bible and the writings of Ancient Greece.  All of the four thieves vinegar stories that I read are set during the Bubonic plague, but there are a number of variations.  Some say that condemned criminals were sent out to bury the dead, but some survived by drinking large amounts of vinegar infused with garlic.  Other say that there were many thieves robbing the homes and corpses of those that had died, and most of them died, but one particular group of thieves survived.  They were granted leniency in court when they shared the secret of the herbal vinegar blend they used to protect them from the plague.  The name “Forthave’s Vinegar” was used to describe the vinegar tonic of Richard Forthave.

How to Make Thieves Vinegar
My friend, Chris, from Joybilee Farm, referred to Thieves Vinegar as a “folksy recipe”, and said that when she listened to Rosemary Gladstar, a well-known herbalist, Rosemary used the herbs she had on hand.  Mountain Rose Herbs offers this version of the traditional recipe, which uses dried bulk herbs that you can find at their online store:

Basic Four Thieves Vinegar Recipe
Ingredients

1 tbsp organic sage leaf
1 tsp organic lavender flowers
1 tsp organic rosemary leaf
½ tsp organic thyme leaf
½ tsp organic peppercorns
16oz raw organic apple cider vinegar
Directions

Place the herbs in a pint jar and fill to the top with gently warmed (not boiling) apple cider vinegar. Close with a plastic lid or place a piece of natural parchment paper under the lid to keep the vinegar from touching the metal. Allow to extract for four weeks. Strain the vinegar into a clean glass jar. Store in a cool, dark area.

Rustic Thieves Vinegar Recipe
My friend, Betty Jean, uses this homespun version:

I just throw a couple heads worth of peeled garlic into a 2 quart jar along w/ hot peppers (cayenne), a handful each of oregano, cloves, thyme, and other herbs with antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-fungal, antiviral properties such as

lavender blossoms
rosemary
cinnamon stick
lemon balm
sage
ginger
Pour apple cider vinegar over it to the top. Put on a lid and let sit for at least 2 weeks…  I usually steep for about 6-7 weeks. Gently shake the jar each day. Strain. Take 1-2 tablespoons with a tablespoon of raw honey several times a day when sick or take one tablespoon per day for immunity boosting.

I went out in the garden to see what was still fresh, snipped a bit from the herbs in the window sill, and dug around in the herb cabinet for a few other odds and ends.  (Top photo in the post.)

I ended up with:

Lemon Balm
Yarrow
Aloe Vera
Oregano
Sage
Rosemary
Mixed Hot Peppers
Garlic
Chocolate Mint
Calendula
Garlic
Plantain
Cloves
Licorice Root
Ginger Root

Licorice Root and Ginger Root are both specifically mentioned in the book Herbal Antivirals:  Natural Remedies for Emerging & Resistant Viral Infections, so I wanted to make sure to include them with all the nasty viral illnesses going around.

You can use the strained vinegar as a base for a vinaigrette.  You can also use wine as a base instead of vinegar, with complimentary herbs, so make it more pleasant to consume, or make an thieves herb blend in a vodka base to use as a tincture.

Ways to Use Thieves Vinegar
For illness or immune boosting.  Take 1-2 tablespoons with a tablespoon of raw honey several times a day when sick or take one tablespoon per day for immunity boosting.
As a surface disinfectant – put strained vinegar in a spray bottle, spray on surfaces and wipe clean.  Chris mentions that the pH will rise after steeping, so the spray will be milder on surfaces.
As a insect repellent – put 1/4 cup vinegar in a spray bottle and fill the rest with water.  Spray on skin, clothes, etc.  From Wellness Mama.
Diluted, as a topical treatment for dandruff, or as a foot soak for nail fungus.
Remember, in case of serious illness, always contact a trained healthcare professional.  This post is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any illness.

Have you ever tried thieves vinegar or do you plan to?  Do you have a favorite home remedy for cold and flu season?  I’d love to hear about it.*
source:http://commonsensehome.com/thieves-vinegar/

How to Make Lavender Oil at Home in 6 Simple Steps

Did you know that lavender oil was used to dress wounds during the First World War due to the shortage of antiseptics? This oil is used not just for aromatherapy, but for various healing purposes as well. So, try making lavender oil at home and enjoy its benefits.

Lavender oil is one of the most commonly used multipurpose oils. This oil can be added to the bathtub, some drops can be sprinkled on a pillow, or it can be used for a massage. It has relaxing properties and can also be mixed with a carrier oil and used over burns and cuts as it has antibacterial properties too.


Lavender oil not only heals the skin but also provides a scar-free healing! Lavender also helps in sinus problems, and this oil can be inhaled deeply to reduce congestion.

It is not possible to make lavender essential oil at home, but the process of making infused lavender oil is fairly easy and can be done at home. In this process, you just have to let the lavender herb soak in a carrier oil, and then strain it. A carrier oil is a base oil, which is usually used to dilute pure essential oils.
Mass Producing Lavender Oil
Commercial manufacturers use the steam distillation process to make lavender essential oil. This process is a type of distillation process used for natural aromatic materials, wherein steam or water is added to the aromatic compounds to lower their boiling point. They are then allowed to evaporate at lower temperatures, because such compounds tend to decompose at high temperatures.
Steps to Make Lavender Oil
Here are the things you require and the procedure you should follow:

Things you will need:

◆ One big bottle of carrier oil

◆ Bunch of lavender flowers

◆ A small glass jar

◆ Rubber band

◆ Plastic cling film

◆ Strainer

◆ Saucepan

◆ Spoon

Step #1: The process of making lavender oil from dried lavender plant is also possible in case you don't have fresh lavender flowers. Take the twigs of lavender and run your fingers along the stem to take out the flowers. Collect enough flowers in this way and then fill them up in the jar.

Step #2: Now, take the carrier oil in a saucepan. The quantity of the oil should be enough to fill the glass jar. Slightly warm this oil and then pour it slowly in the jar till it has nicely covered the jar. You can choose from a range of carrier oils available. The most suitable is olive oil, as it can be used for skin care and massage as well. My favorite choice of oil is jojoba oil, as it is non-greasy and gets absorbed by the skin easily. But, jojoba oil is not a preferred massage oil, as it doesn't have the slippery effect. Another good choice for a carrier oil is almond oil, as it is good for skin care and has a high amount of vitamin E in it.

Step #3: Take a piece of cling film and wrap it around the opening of the jar. Secure the plastic cling film using a rubber band.

Step #4: Let this essential oil mixture steep for a month. Keep shaking the bottle lightly everyday to let all the ingredients mix well. Store the bottle in a cool and dark place.

Step #5: After a month's period, take out the jar and strain the mixture and use a spoon to press the lavender flowers to completely separate the precious oil from the flowers.

Step #6: Pour this oil in an amber-colored glass bottle and close it using a cap. There you have it; your own homemade lavender oil.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab all the things you need and follow the above steps for making this essential oil, and enjoy all the benefits and uses of it!
source:http://www.buzzle.com/

Infographic: Nature’s 11 Most Powerful Antibiotics

Every day, millions of Americans swallow pills that endanger our entire population by making bacteria increasingly resistant to antibiotics. Scientists worry that one day soon, our antibiotics won’t work any more, leaving us vulnerable to all sorts of infections that will spread around the globe without stopping.




 To break this cycle, we need to be using fewer antibiotics — not just in our medicine, but also in our animal food supply.

source:https://www.dherbs.com/blog/natural-antibiotics/

Amazing Weight Loss Diet From Cardiologists – Lose 10 Pounds In Just 5 Days!

The breakfast is the same throughout the whole diet plan

    1 fruit (orange, pear, peach, melon, watermelon, but no bananas or any grapes)



DAY 1

Lunch

1 orange

1 boiled egg

1 cup yogurt (about 200ml)

 Dinner

 2 tomatoes or 2 dl cooked tomatoes

2 boiled eggs

1 small piece of lettuce or ½ cucumbers

2 pieces of rusk

 DAY 2

Lunch

1 orange

1 boiled egg

1 cup yogurt (about 200ml)

 Dinner

 125 gr boiled beef

1 tomato

1 orange

1 rusk

1 cup of tea or coffee without sugar

DAY 3

Lunch

1 orange

1 boiled egg

1 cup of yogurt (about 200ml)

1 piece of lettuce or 1 cucumber

 Dinner

 125 gr boiled beef

1 orange

1 rusk

1 cup of tea or coffee

 DAY 4

Lunch

125 gr cow milk cheese

1 tomato

1 rusk

 Dinner

125 gr boiled beef

2 tomatoes

1 apple

1 rusk

 DAY 5

Lunch

200 gr boiled meat or fish

1 tomato

1 rusk

 Dinner

½ kilos boiled vegetables (carrot, peas, potato)

NOTE

The meat and the vegetables are cooked with no or just a pinch of salt.

The 6th and 7th day you should stop the diet, and then continue it at day 8 in the same order.

You mustn’t consume any alcohol during this diet plan.

After the 5th day you’ll lose 5 to 10 pounds, and after the 2 days break, the diet plan should be repeated 3 times ( 5 days + 2 days break) and you’ll have no health consequences and still lose 30 pounds. If you continue eating regularly every day except Mondays, you won’t gain back the pounds. On Mondays, you should eat this:

Breakfast: 1 cup of lemon juice without sugar

Lunch: 1 apple, 1 rusk

Dinner: 1 boiled egg, 1 tomato, 1 rusk

All these foods can be taken hot or cold, but it’s important to be taken in the right order and not to omit any. If you don’t take them in the right order, or you just replace one food with another, you won’t achieve the desired effect.
source:http://www.tophealthylifeadvices.com/

This Exercise Is More Powerful Than 1,000 Sit-Ups: Spare 60 Seconds A Day And In Only A Month You Will Have A Flat Stomach

The belly is probably one of the most problematic areas of the body when it comes to losing weight. All of us dream about a flat and toned abdomen, but it seems that we all hate sit-ups.


However, we have some good news! Finally, fitness experts have found a solution which, they claim, can replace even a 1,000 sit-ups.

This amazing exercise is called “a plank”, and it is static, but all the weight of the body lays on the hands and toes, while the body is straight as a board. The body cannot move an inch, and this is the way to a flat and sturdy stomach, as well as to the painless back, because the strong abdominal muscles support the spine.


What is extremely important about it is that if you practice it several times a week for ten minutes a day, you will have better results than if you did 1,000 sit-ups.

Nevertheless, you need to make sure that your body is in the correct starting position, and respect these instructions:

Press your palms firmly on the floor and stretch your shoulders so that they are as distant from each other as possible. Your neck should be elongated. Moreover, you should feel your hands comfortable, not like they are about to loosen up.
Although the main focus is on the abdominal muscles, you should also feel “fire” in your legs. If not, set your heels further relying on the toes of the feet so that the quadriceps are more tensed, and then squeeze your buttocks in order to activate the muscles in the lower body.
Do not raise your buttocks, but hold them lower. Your body must be as a straight line, and not as a triangle.
You need to breathe in and out rhythmically, in order to hold this posture a bit easier.
Holding your body in the right position is essential and you can easily achieve this if you imagine a glass of water balancing on your lower back or a ball rolling from your nape to heel without being stuck in the lower back.
Now, you can start doing this exercise:

Press your hands and knees on the floor so that your wrists are in line with your shoulders and your back is straight.
Look up about 30 inches ahead of you. Your nose facing the floor, position the back of your head in a parallel position to the ceiling.
Stretch your right leg to back so that the fingers are bent and then extend your left leg. At this point, your entire body should be resting on your hands and toes.
Tighten your abdominal muscles and hold for about 20-60 seconds.
Bending your knees, sit on your heels so that the big toes touch while your knees are separated.
Lower your knees toward your thighs, while lightly touching the floor with your forehead. Stretch out your arms in front of you and relax.
Do this exercise three times in a row. Once you get used to doing it, extend the time for more than 60 seconds.
Source: www.yourstylishlife.com

Amazing Acne Cure: This Fruit Will Remove Them Forever

Surely no one wants to have a problematic skin, especially with spots or acne scars.amazing-acne-cure-this-fruit-will-remove-them-forever

In the treatment of scars left by acne, it is important to distinguish between the scars and dark spots because they are usually temporary. The dark spots are caused by infections and they cause redness on the face, which usually subsides in three to six months.



Acne scars are permanent and have a different shape and size. They appear after you squeeze the acne, and since the skin closes after it is healed, it leads to scars.

Many think that the only way to get rid of the pesky acne is to do some expensive laser treatments. But the secret lies in a very simple ingredient, which almost all of us already have it at home – a tangerine.

Tangerine, or any other fruit which has a high level of citrus, can be used in the preparation of a facial “oil”.

This fruit can permanently remove the appearance of acne and what’s more, in a few hours. Moreover, this mask moisturizes the hair, beautifies the complexion, gives freshness to the skin, leads to a youthful glow and has many other benefits.

To prepare the citrus “oil”, follow these steps:

First step: Peel your citrus fruits (tangerine, lemon, grapefruit …).

Second step: Pour some boiling water over the peel of the fruit and leave it thus overnight.

Third step: In the morning, strain the water, soak some cotton in it and dub it on the face or simply put it in a spray bottle and spray to the face.

Fourth step: Soak your skin nicely and that’s it. What you’ll get is a fully hydrated and radiant skin without acne.

Citrus fruits are not only incredibly good for the skin, but they can help the whole body. They are good for your hair, as they provide a fantastic shine, and if you consume this fruit, you will detoxify your whole body, you will improve the metabolism, increase your immunity, energize your body and it will even help you lose some excess weight.
source:http://www.naturalcuresandhomeremedies.com/

6 Tips For Better Sleep With Diabetes

When you have diabetes, poor sleep can disrupt your blood sugar, your mood and your health.

An estimated 40 to 50 percent of people with diabetes say they don't sleep well, according to Dr. Kingman Strohl, director of the Sleep Disorders Program at the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center.



Since quality sleep is so important to well-controlled blood sugar, making adjustments to get better shut-eye should be a top priority if you have diabetes.

Here are six ways you can improve your nighttime routine and get better sleep:

1. Lose the extra weight

Carrying too much extra weight can lead to sleep apnea - a condition that causes disruptions in sleep patterns and drowsiness during the day.

One study in 2009 found that 86 percent of people with diabetes experience sleep apnea, yet the condition can usually be quickly reversed once a person loses weight.

Shedding extra pounds will also correspond with better nutrition and exercise habits, which will both help to improve your sleep.

2. Have a routine

Having a routine for your blood sugar management is important for diabetes control, but it's just as important to have a regular sleeping routine.

Humans are habitual creatures that have set biological rhythms. Oversleeping, lack of sleep or an erratic sleep schedule are all factors that can disrupt your biological clock and affect the ongoing quality of your sleep.

3. Get tested for neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy - a condition characterized by numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands or feet - could also be disrupting your sleep quality.

Restless leg syndrome, which may have similar symptoms to neuropathy, can also be caused by high blood sugar.

Ask your doctor to be tested for diabetic neuropathy and alert him or her of any symptoms.

4. Manage stress

Stress can directly interfere with quality and duration of sleep (as well as blood sugar management).

In addition to creating a routine for sleep, aim to make bedtime a relaxing experience. Shut off electronics a few hours before bed, sleep in a dark room, and unwind with a relaxing activity before you sleep, like a hot bath or a cup of tea.

5. Avoid alcohol

While drinking a glass of wine may seem like a good way to induce drowsiness, drinking too close to bedtime can disrupt your sleep - and also your blood sugar levels.

Avoid alcohol unless it's several hours before you sleep, and try to have no more than one to two drinks.

6. Quit smoking

In addition to the stimulating properties of nicotine that can disturb your sleep patterns, smoking can lead to all sorts of health complications that prevent a restful night, including poor glucose control, headaches and restless leg syndrome.

Smoking cessation can help you not only better manage your health, but also drastically improve your sleep quality.
source:http://www.informationaboutdiabetes.com/

Sugar Free Strawberry Jam Recipe

Ingredients
1 lb fresh strawberries
3/4 cup water
1 (1.75 oz) package pectin 1
2 cups sweetener of choice (or to taste)
1/2 tbsp lemon juice

Preparation

Wash strawberries and remove stems. Mash them in a large bowl.


In a saucepan, bring the water and pectin to a boil and let stand for 1 minute. Add the mashed strawberries and stir for 1 minute on high heat. Turn off heat and stir in sweetener.
Spoon the jam into a sealable container and let cool to room temp. Cover and place in the refrigerator overnight to let it set. Will remain fresh in refrigerator for 3 weeks or in the freezer for up to 1 year.

Nutritional Information per Serving
6 Calories
0 g Fat
1.5 g Carbohydrates
0.5 g Fiber
1 g Sugar
source:http://www.informationaboutdiabetes.com/

The Artificial Pancreas: Final Tests Underway This Year

Final tests to measure the safety and efficacy of an artificial pancreas are set to take place in early 2016, according to researchers from the University of Virginia Health System.

If successful, the device could enable patients with type 1 diabetes to give up painful finger pricking for good. Designed to oversee the glucose response in the body and adjust insulin delivery as needed, the artificial pancreas would represent a huge advance in medicine and science.



"Our foremost goal is to establish a new diabetes treatment paradigm: the artificial pancreas is not a single-function device; it is an adaptable, wearable network surrounding the patient in a digital treatment ecosystem," said Boris Kovatchev, PhD, director of the UVA Center for Diabetes Technology.

NIH-sponsored trials planned
Two trials will take place this year, which are funded by the National Institutes of Health. In the trials, patients with type 1 diabetes will use the artificial pancreas while researchers measure how well blood-sugar levels are controlled and the patients' potential risk for hypoglycemic episodes.

A news release about the trials explained further how the artificial pancreas works:

At the center of the artificial pancreas platform - known as InControl - is a reconfigured smartphone running advanced algorithms that is linked wirelessly to a blood-sugar monitor and an insulin pump, as well as a remote-monitoring site. People with the artificial pancreas can also access assistance via telemedicine.

In addition to being tested at UVA, the artificial pancreas will also undergo examination by researchers at Harvard, the Mayo Clinic, Stanford, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, and a few international universities.



While the technology has been in testing for decades now, the challenge of the artificial pancreas is its reliability in the uncertain realm of the human body, said Francis Doyle III, co-investigator of the study.

“Day to day, hour to hour, the various stresses that impact the human body change the way it responds to insulin-controlling glucose," Doyle said. "Physical stresses, anxiety, hormonal swings will all change that balance. To be able to control for those factors, we need to see longer intervals of data. This is the first trial where we’ll be looking at multi-month intervals of time.”
sourcehttp://www.battlediabetes.com/

Keep Pressing This Point For 2 Minutes! Then See What Will Happen To Your Body!

The Chinese culture and medicine believe that our feet are full of different important locations, points, which are linked to various parts and organs of our body. The stimulation and massage of these points may bring relief and improvement of health conditions

One of these essential points is Tai Chong (LV3), which is located on your foot, between the big toe and the second toe, about two finger widths above the place where the skin of your big toe and the next toe joint.

keep-pressing-this-point-for-2-minutes-then-see-what-will-happen-to-your-body-600x320-compressor

It is suggested that the stimulation of this point can help in treating headaches, reduce stress, manage anger, lower back pain, high blood pressure, relieve menstrual cramps, limb pain, insomnia and anxiety and also you will help in the regulation and refreshment of the liver.

Moreover, according to Chinese texts, it can be extremely beneficial in the case of digestive issues, genital pain, headaches, canker sores, irritability and eye problems.

Furthermore, scientists prove that a randomized trial has yielded a positive result with acupuncture stimulation on Tai Chong (LV3) and other points, to manage post-stroke depression. On the other hand, animal studies discovered that this point can reduce blood pressure and plasma endothelin-1 levels in hypertension subjects.

In order to use all its benefits, you need to stimulate this point in the following manner: slide your finger along the space between the first and second toe to the tip of the joint. Tai Chong (LV3) is located in the depression before your finger touches the bone (metatarsal joint).

When you find it, apply pressure and massage for 2-3 seconds and make a break for 5 seconds. Do this massage for 2 minutes. Remember, you need to move your finger in a counterclockwise direction over this point.

Also, you need to note that you should not use it when you feel weak or low on energy.
source:http://tophealthylifeadvices.com/

Low-carb diet recommended for diabetics

A new study involving researchers from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and other institutions says patients with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes should eat a diet low in carbohydrates.

The study, accepted for publication in Nutrition and available on the journal’s website, offers 12 points of evidence showing that low-carbohydrate diets should be the first line of attack for treatment of Type 2 diabetes, and should be used in conjunction with insulin in those with Type 1 diabetes.



The study, conducted by a consortium of 26 physicians and nutrition researchers, suggests the need for a reappraisal of dietary guidelines due to the inability of current recommendations to control the epidemic of diabetes. The authors point to the specific failure of the prevailing low-fat diets to improve obesity, cardiovascular risk or general health, and to the persistent reports of serious side effects of commonly prescribed diabetes medications. By comparison, the authors refer to the continued success of low-carbohydrate diets in the treatment of diabetes and metabolic syndrome without significant side effects.

“Diabetes is a disease of carbohydrate intolerance,” said Barbara Gower, Ph.D., professor and vice chair for research in the UAB Department of Nutrition Sciences and one of the study authors. “Reducing carbohydrates is the obvious treatment. It was the standard approach before insulin was discovered and is, in fact, practiced with good results in many institutions. The resistance of government and private health agencies is very hard to understand.”

The authors say their review of the medical literature shows that low-carbohydrate diets reliably reduce high blood sugar — the most salient feature of diabetes — and at the same time show general benefit for risk of cardiovascular disease.

The 12 points of evidence, backed up by clinical studies, are:

High blood sugar is the most salient feature of diabetes. Dietary carbohydrate restriction has the greatest effect on decreasing blood glucose levels.
During the epidemics of obesity and Type 2 diabetes, caloric increases have been due almost entirely to increased carbohydrates.

Benefits of dietary carbohydrate restriction do not require weight loss.
Although weight loss is not required for benefit, no dietary intervention is better than carbohydrate restriction for weight loss.
Adherence to low-carbohydrate diets in people with Type 2 diabetes is at least as good as adherence to any other dietary interventions and frequently issignificantly better.
Replacement of carbohydrates with proteins is generally beneficial.
Dietary total and saturated fats do not correlate with risk of cardiovascular disease.
Plasma-saturated fatty acids are controlled by dietary carbohydrates more than by dietary lipids.
The best predictor of microvascular and, to a lesser extent, macrovascular complications in patients with Type 2 diabetes is glycemic control (HbA1c).

Dietary carbohydrate restriction is the most effective method of reducing serum triglycerides and increasing high-density lipoprotein.
Patients with Type 2 diabetes on carbohydrate-restricted diets reduce and frequently eliminate medication. People with Type 1 usually require less insulin.
Intensive glucose-lowering by dietary carbohydrate restriction has no side effects comparable to the effects of intensive pharmacologic treatment.
There are two major forms of diabetes. People with Type 1 do not make insulin, the hormone required for processing carbohydrates and other nutrients. People with Type 2 are capable of producing insulin, but their bodies do not respond adequately.

“We’ve tried to present clearly the most obvious and least controversial arguments for going with carbohydrate restriction,” said Richard David Feinman, Ph.D., professor of cell biology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center and lead author of the paper. “Here we take a positive approach and look to the future, while acknowledging this paper calls for change. The low-fat paradigm, which held things back, is virtually dead as a major biological idea. Diabetes is too serious a disease for us to try to save face by holding onto ideas that fail.”

There are two major forms of diabetes. People with Type 1 do not make insulin, the hormone required for processing carbohydrates and other nutrients. People with Type 1 require insulin to deal with high blood sugar, although the authors point out that too much carbohydrate in the diet makes it more difficult to find an appropriate dose of insulin.

People with Type 2 are capable of producing insulin, but their bodies do not respond adequately. They are said to be insulin-resistant, and as a consequence, they have deteriorating function of the pancreas, the insulin-producing organ that cannot keep up with the demands of an insulin-resistant body.

“For many people with Type 2 diabetes, low-carbohydrate diets are a real cure,” said Gower. “They no longer need drugs. They no longer have symptoms. Their blood glucose is normal, and they generally lose weight.”

Diabetes is the seventh-leading cause of death in the United States. An estimated 29.1 million American adults have diabetes, and another 79 million have metabolic syndrome, or pre-diabetes, meaning more than 46 percent of adults in the United States have diabetes or pre-diabetes. 2012 estimates place health care costs for diabetes at $245 billion.

The authors caution that people with diabetes who are already on drugs for Type 2 diabetes or are on standard amounts of insulin should undertake conversion to a low-carbohydrate diet only with the help of a physician. Because the diet may have a similar sugar-lowering effect, it is critical that drug doses be tapered off in order to avoid dangerous low blood sugar.
source:http://www.uab.edu/

5 Herbs and Spices that Fight Diabetes

Diabetes is a rising health concern in the Western world. For those who have been diagnosed with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes, maintaining normal blood sugar levels is both important and an ongoing struggle. But it is possible, so long as one keeps close tabs on their diet.

Thankfully, there are a number of herbs and spices that can help a diabetic keep their blood sugar levels normal while maintaining a healthy body weight…



1. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is one of the world’s most popular spices. This widely available spice makes an excellent addition to many common dishes, from pancakes to oatmeal to toast.

But cinnamon also contains bio active components that help diabetics lower their blood sugar levels. In fact, research has shown that consuming just a few grams of cinnamon each day can both normalize blood sugar and lower LDL (or bad) cholesterol. It can even help to raise HDL (or good) cholesterol levels.

2. Fenugreek

If you’re a diabetic, you should consider adding fenugreek, a relatively unknown herb, to your diet as soon as possible. That’s because fenugreek—which can be acquired in flour form—can help improve glucose tolerance, lower blood sugar levels, and improve one’s cholesterol.

Although fenugreek is often consumed in its flour form, it can also be acquired as seeds. If this is the case, soak the seeds in water and then drink the water on an empty stomach. Of course, consult a doctor beforehand.

3. Ginger

Ginger makes an excellent and flavorful addition to many popular dishes, like stir fry. But it’s also helpful to diabetics looking to control their blood sugar levels. In fact, research has shown that daily consumption of just three grams of ginger (in capsule form) can help people with type 2 diabetes lower their cholesterol, maintain blood sugar levels, and keep a healthy body weight.

If you’re not interested in taking ginger capsules, try adding two to three cups of ginger tea to your diet. Ginger also adds a unique flavor to many vegetable-heavy dishes.

4. Turmeric

Turmeric, the bright yellow spice that can often be found in Indian food, offers an excellent way to lower blood sugar levels. It’s also a proven anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that’s good for the heart and can even assist in weight loss. As if that isn’t enough, studies have shown that turmeric can help patients suffering from kidney-related issues.

Turmeric makes an excellent addition to justabout any savoury dish but it can also be taken as a supplement. Just talk to your doctor beforehand.

5. Garlic

Where would the cooking world be without garlic? This incredibly flavourful herb makes an excellent addition to many dishes from all around the world, including spaghetti, stir fry, even hamburgers.

But eating garlic is also an excellent way to lower blood sugar levels. That’s because garlic is a roven anti-diabetic that contains sulfur components capable of helping defend against oxidative damage. When consumed regularly, it can help people with diabetes maintain healthy blood sugar levels and even lower their cholesterol.

source:http://www.activebeat.com/

Common Symptoms of Type II Diabetes

Over 25 million people in the U.S. have type 2 diabetes, which means they don’t utilize insulin properly (a condition called insulin resistance) and blood glucose (or sugar) levels end up much higher than what is healthy.

However, the majority of individuals with diabetes are not aware they have the condition due to the fact that the symptoms, on their own, seem more like annoyances then signs of a dangerous condition. Your best hope is early diagnoses if you want to avoid serious diabetes complications—such as kidney disease, vision problems, and thyroid issues. Here are the ten most common early warning signs of type 2 diabetes…



1. Numbness

Numbness that starts as a tingling in the hands, fingers, legs, and feet is often an early warning sign of diabetes. This occurs due to an increase in blood sugar levels, causing blood vessel restriction to the extremities, and eventually damage to nerve fibers. For many, this numbness is often the first sign of any health issues.

Diabetes numbness presents in a prickly, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet that starts out minor at first, but as the nerve damage progresses over times, and sometimes years, mild tingling can become chronic and quite painful, involving motor function, sensory,  autonomic and involuntary nervous system response with a sudden and painful and numbness in the fingers, toes, feet, hands, legs, and arms, sometimes accompanied by muscle wasting of the hands and feet

2. Increased Urination

Typically, diabetes sufferers claim they had an overwhelming urge to urinate, and when they do urinate the amount is quite significant. This increased urination is what often spurs a doctor’s visit and a type II diabetes diagnoses.  This increased urination will often result in severe dehydration. So it’s vital to keep your fluid levels high. If the body becomes dehydrated, immune function decreases, leaving you susceptible to all sorts of illnesses and even damaged kidney function.

Polyuria is how doctors refer to increased urination. It characterizes a condition that causes the output of urine to increase more than usual and passes abnormally large amounts of urine (typically more than 3 litres per day compared to the average 1 to 2 litres per day) each time you go to the bathroom. Polyuria is a common symptoms of type II diabetes (and also type I diabetes).

3. Weight Loss

Rapid and unexplained weight loss is common to unmediated type 2 diabetes because the body can’t absorb glucose (sugars) properly. This occurs with unmanaged type I diabetes in particular. However, patients undiagnosed with type II diabetes who are getting insufficient insulin, which transports glucose from the blood into the body’s cells to use as energy, can also experience considerable and sudden weight loss with no obvious cause (no exercise or dietary changes).

When the body is unable to get adequate insulin, it will begin to burn off fat and muscle as a source of energy. Obviously, this will considerable eat into and reduce overall body weight. If you have suddenly and unintentionally shed between 5 and 10-pounds of body weight in less than 6-months, talk to your doctor immediately. Your doctor can conduct a blood test to determined undiagnosed diabetes and begin treatment immediately to manage insulin levels.

4. Increase in Appetite

With sudden weight loss often comes an increase in appetite, which might make you feel fortunate at first because you feel like you can eat anything you want without consequences. However, your body is in a diabetic state, robbing your cells of essential energy, which explains the increased hunger that often isn’t satiated for long after eating a meal.

Increased appetite, when you consume more calories than your body requires for energy expenditure may lead to weight gain. Although, it’s  normal to have an increased appetite after physical exertion, but this is generally alleviated after eating. However, a significantly increased appetite over a prolonged period could be a symptom of a serious illness, such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism. If you are experiencing excessive hunger that is ongoing, make an appointment to see your doctor.

5. Blurry Vision

You may already know that diabetes can lead to vision issues and even blindness if left untreated. It’s true; blurred vision is a common cue of type 2 diabetes. This occurs as glucose levels spike, damaging blood vessels and restricting fluid to the eyes. If a diabetes diagnoses isn’t made, the patient could suffer complete vision loss. According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes patients  a higher risk of minor eye disorders and blindness vs. those without the disease. This is why regular optometrist exams are important.

Diabetes patients are also have a 40-percent higher risk of developing glaucoma (a condition that causes pressure in the eye and retina nerve damage) compared to non-diabetic individuals. Statistics from the American Diabetes Association claim that the longer a patient has diabetes, the higher the glaucoma risk. Likewise, cataracts (the clouding over of the eye’s lens) risk is 60-percent higher in patents with diabetes
source:http://www.activebeat.com/