Can You Prevent Middle-Age Spread?

Middle-age spread - its inevitable as you get older. Or is it? The reality is the average male gains about a pound every year between age 35 and age 60 - and women gain even more. But theres a way to limit the damage from middle-age weight gain - by staying active. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily helps ward off an expanding waistline.

The Battle against Middle-Age Spread: Can You Win It?

Researchers used tracked over 2,500 healthy men and women for 20 years, taking note of their exercise habits and how much weight they gained as they transitioned from young adulthood to middle-age.

As might be expected, they put on weight as the years went by. But men who were active during this transition gained 5.7 pounds less than those who were more sedentary - and women lost 13.4 fewer pounds over the 20 year period when they were active. Both sexes gained less in their waistline too - the classic sign of middle-age spread.

Why Do People Get Middle-Age Weight Gain?

Middle-age spread is a product of declining growth hormone levels and the gradual loss of muscle mass that comes with age. Muscle is more metabolically active than fat, so loss of muscle tissue reduces metabolism. Many people become less active as they get older, which also contributes to middle-age weight gain.

What does this mean? You may not be able to completely prevent weight gain as you age since even the most active people gained small amounts of weight over the 20 year study, but you can limit the amount by doing at least 30 minutes of exercise a day.

The best kind of exercise to reduce middle-age spread? This study didnt address that issue, but a combination of aerobic and resistance training effectively burns fat and preserves lean body mass, which benefits metabolism. Adding intervals of high-intensity exercise boosts growth hormone levels and prevents adaptation to exercise, where the body becomes so efficient that it burns fewer calories during a workout. Changing a routine every 4 to 6 weeks also helps.

Middle-Age Weight Gain and Middle-Age Spread: The Bottom Line?

Dont let those extra pounds of body fat sneak up on you as you age. Make time for 30 minutes of exercise a day. Its worth it when you can still fit into your "skinny" jeans when you turn 55.

References:

Family Practice News. January 2011. Page 6.

The Transforming Power of a Button Store

Have you ever visited a button store? These are shops devoted exclusively to buttons and other related items. The selection at many of these button stores is overwhelming with buttons made from a variety of materials from every corner of the world. Button stores are usually found in large cities such as New York and Chicago, although occasionally youll find one in a smaller metropolitan area. If youre touring a city on your next vacation, check the yellow pages and see if theres a button store nearby and pay them a visit. Youll be glad you did.

When you walk into a button store, prepare to be overwhelmed by the selection. Youll be greeted by a stunning array of buttons in as many colors, shapes, and materials as you can possibly imagine. Youll feel your mind and body relax as the shapes and hues of the buttons both entice and calm you. Theres something mesmerizing about being in the presence of so many gorgeous buttons.

Some button stores carry a selection of vintage buttons. You cant help but be in awe of the beauty of these buttons from yesteryear and wonder what story they have to tell, whose jacket they may have held closed or blouse they may have decorated. A button must have been made no later than 1918 to be considered vintage, although there are many more recently produced buttons that are considered collectible due to their rarity or some distinctive characteristics they may have.

Yes, buttons are beautiful but what can you do with them? If youre a seamstress, you can envision the possibilities of incorporating buttons from a button store into your latest garment designs. Unusual buttons can take an ordinary clothing design and turn it into something truly special. If youre a quilter, unique buttons can become part of your quilt designs to give a true one-of-a-kind, mixed media quilt creation .Some other ways buttons can be used are to decorate wreaths, boxes, picture frames, napkin rings, a Christmas stocking, among others.

Interesting enough, a man exists whos so fascinated with buttons that he completely covered a hearse from fender to bumper with unique buttons. Inside lies his coffin completely covered in, you guessed it, buttons! When asked, he gleefully proclaims he wants to be carried out of this world in his buttoned treasures. Such is the power of buttons.

So, the next time you pass a button store, dont be so quick to pass it by. Step inside and you may discover youve been bitten by the button bug.

Are Rice Cakes Healthy?

Rice cakes are a popular snack food among dieters intent on watching their calorie intake. These crunchy snack treats are often used as a low calorie substitute for potato chips, crackers, and other unhealthy treats that are "off limits" to those who are counting calories. Although theyre often considered a diet food, are they really as good snack option? Are rice cakes healthy?

Are rice cakes healthy?: Whats Good About Them?

The average rice cake is low in calories - averaging about thirty-five calories per cake; and theyre also very low in fat. The primary advantage of eating a rice cake is that its filling - making it less likely youll reach for something higher in calories and fat such as potato chips or cookies. Rice cakes provide a satisfying "crunch" that some people look for in a snack food - without all the calories.

Are rice cakes healthy?: Whats Bad About Them?

The down side of eating rice crackers is they dont offer much in the way of nutritional value. Even brown rice cakes are pretty devoid of substance. They have very little in the way of vitamins, and the only mineral of any significance in brown rice crackers is manganese. Theyre even devoid of fiber - despite the fact that theyre made with brown rice. Theyre also relatively high in carbs and have a high glycemic index which wont work well for diabetics or anyone whos watching their carbohydrate intake. Rice cakes may be fun to crunch on, but theyre not supplying significant nutritional value and they certainly arent a good option for a low carb eating plan.

Are rice cakes healthy? The Bottom Line?

Rice cakes certainly arent impressive in the nutrition department, but theyre not a bad snack option if used as a substitute for chips and cookies. One way to make them more nutritious and filling is to top them with a thin layer of peanut butter to add heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Sprinkle on a little cinnamon to boost insulin sensitivity and further stimulate weight loss. You can also spread rice crackers with almond butter, tahini, or hummus to make them tastier and more nutritious. All-in-all, youre better off eating a piece of fresh fruit or a cup of sugar-free yogurt in lieu of these overly processed treats, but if you like the taste and they keep you from eating junk food, they serve a useful function.

References:

http://www.nutritiondata.com

The Powerful Health Benefits of Swing Dancing

Are you looking for a unique way to improve your health and have fun at the same time? Swing dancing is a great way to burn some calories, socialize, and have fun at the same time. Swing dancing is a rather fast paced form of dance thats performed to swing music and its becoming quite popular across the country as people seek fun and unique ways to stay in shape. Here are some of the advantages swing dancing has to offer:

Swing dancing can help control your weight.

If youre tired of burning off your calories on the treadmill, swing dancing offers a unique and effective alternative to crowded gyms and boring, redundant exercises. Instead of wearing a gym outfit to burn your calories, you can dress in flirty dresses and cute skirts as you spin around the room. Best of all, swing dancing burns around 260 calories per hour. When you consider that swing dancers often dance for several hours at a stretch, this can result in some serious weight loss.

Swing dancing helps relieve stress.

Dancing is a great stress reducer, possibly even better than more formal exercise since you tend to have fun while doing it. The only stressful part may be learning the swing dance moves which can be easily done by attending one of the many swing dance classes available nationwide. When you throw yourself into the swing dance moves, you can almost feel your stress melting away as you dance.

Swing dancing is a great way to socialize.

Swing dancing is all about friendship and swing dancers tend to be a close knit group, enthusiastically welcoming traveling swing dancers warmly into their groups. Dancing classes can be a great way to meet new people as you learn the swing dance moves in a friendly and supportive environment. There are also a variety of swing dance clubs across the country with enthusiastic dancers eager to dance and socialize.

Swing dancing is good for your heart.

A lively evening of swing dancing can get your heart rate up to aerobic levels and that means benefits for your heart. The fast paced dance moves can really get your cardiovascular system pumping. Contrast this to an evening spent at home watching television and you can clearly see the benefits of this fun and effective form of exercise.

So put on your dancing shoes and join in the fun by making time to schedule a little swing dancing into your weekly schedule. Youll love the camaraderie as well as the health benefits.

The Benefits of Walking Poles

Are you looking for a way to spice up your walking routine? If youve been walking for awhile, you may not be getting the same benefits you were when you first started out. Over time your body adapts and becomes more efficient - so your workout is less challenging. If you always walk at the same pace you may stop seeing results. One way to make walking more effective is to use walking poles. Using poles for walking helps to bump up the intensity of your workout so youll get more benefits - and more results.

Start Walking Harder with Less Effort with Walking Poles

Walking with poles burns more calories. A study carried out at the Cooper Institute in Texas in 2001 showed that using poles for walking boosted calorie burn by twenty percent - without significantly increasing the perceived effort. Most people would like to burn a more calories without feeling like theyre working harder - and walking poles can help with that.

Other Benefits of Walking Poles

Walking with poles has another benefit. It gives the upper body a workout including the chest, upper, back, shoulders, and arms, while youre still working your lower body by walking. If you sit hunched over at a desk all day, using walking poles helps to stretch out the upper back and neck muscles that tighten up after a long day hunched over in front of a computer screen.Walking with poles turns a walking workout into a total body experience.

How to Get Started Walking with Poles

Walking poles come in a variety of weights, materials, lengths, and grips - and its important to choose a pole thats right for you. Its best, especially if youre a beginner, to choose poles that are lightweight with a comfortable grip. Buy them from a local sporting goods store rather than online so you have a chance to try out different poles and make sure they feel right. Its important to use good form when walking with poles to get the most benefits. Consider getting a DVD that illustrates the proper technique before heading out to show off your new sticks.

The Benefits of Pole Walking: The Bottom Line?

Walking with poles will add a whole new dimension to your walking routine - and burn calories at the same time. Why not give it a try?

References:

Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2001 Jan;33(1):142-7.

Is Lettuce Healthy?

What would a salad be if it werent resting on a crispy bed of fresh lettuce? When most people think of a salad, lettuce is the first ingredient that comes to mind as well as the first item they see when they travel down the line at the make-your-own salad bar. Although lettuce is green like other notably healthy leafy greens such as spinach and kale, does it have any real health value? Is lettuce healthy or just a pretty addition to your salad plate?

When considering whether lettuce is healthy, its important to take into account what type of lettuce youre referring to. Lettuce comes in a variety of types ranging from iceberg to Bibb to romaine and theyre not all created equal from a nutritional standpoint. Although all lettuces are low in fat and calories, they can vary considerably in terms of vitamin and phytonutrient content.

The two most common lettuces found on salad bars today are the iceberg and romaine varieties. The paler colored leaves of the iceberg lettuce variety is the most popular choice of Americans seeking to get their five servings of fruits and vegetables. Unfortunately, the pale green leaves of the iceberg lettuce leaf is visual proof of its lower level of phytonutrients when compared to romaine lettuce. Although both forms of lettuce have the carotenoids beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin; romaine lettuce has ten times the quantity of these important phytochemicals. This means more anti-oxidant potential to protect your cells against damage.

Romaine lettuce also wins out when it comes to vitamin content. It has ten times the quantity of vitamin C, four times the concentration of folate, as well as higher quantities of vitamin K compared to iceberg lettuce. Although romaine lettuce may lack the nutritional punch of leafy greens such as kale or spinach, its a healthy and inexpensive addition to any salad. In contrast, although low in calories and fat free, iceberg lettuce comes up lacking when compared to its nutrient rich romaine relative.

Is lettuce healthy? Yes, if you choose the darker, more nutritious romaine lettuce leaves over its paler iceberg cousin. The good news is that both contain fiber and neither is likely to pad your hips or waistline, but if given the choice the romaine lettuce with its higher levels of phytonutrients will give you more nutritional bang for the buck. So the next you virtuously head for the salad bar for lunch, choose the romaine lettuce and be sure to go light on the dressing.

Does Marrying a Younger Woman Help Men Live Longer?

Most men dont choose to marry a younger woman solely for their health - but taking a younger bride could help a man live a longer life. According to a study published in the journal Demography, marrying a younger woman actually helps to increase a mans life expectancy.

How a Spouses Age Influences Life Expectancy

In a study done at the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, researchers found that men who had spouses who were five to seven years younger than them reduced their risk of dying by around eleven percent. Unfortunately, women with younger husbands didnt seem to benefit from a greater life expectancy. In fact, women who married men seven more years younger than they were increased their risk of mortality by twenty percent.

Why is a spouses age important when it comes to longevity? Researchers used to think that marrying a younger woman increases life expectancy because of a phenomenon called health selection. This means that men who are healthier and more vital for their age are better able to attract and marry a younger woman - and would have had a greater life expectancy anyway. But, researchers at the Max Planck Institute no longer think this is the major factor. They arent completely sure why a spouses age affects longevity.

Could it be psychological? Its possible that when a man has a younger wife, he gets a mental boost that keeps him happy and healthy. A man with a younger wife also benefits from having someone who can take care of him when hes ill and to help nurse him back to health.

Older Women with Younger Men: Reduced Life Expectancy?

Why do women who marry younger men have a shorter life expectancy? One hypothesis is that women marrying younger men goes against societal expectations which may mean the couple has fewer friends and social contacts which could indirectly increase the risk for health problems. In this study, any large discrepancy in age between husband and wife, reduced the wifes life expectancy - whether the man was younger or older.

The Bottom Line

On the positive side, marriage, in general, is good for health regardless of a spouses age. According to most studies, both married men and women live longer lives than people who are single. So, choose your spouse wisely - irrespective of age.

References:

http://www.demogr.mpg.de/en/press/1813.htm

Is Your Child Getting Too Many Empty Calories?

Theres an epidemic of childhood obesity in this country, and experts think they know why. Not only are kids getting eating too much and not exercising enough - theyre getting too many empty calories. A recent article in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association looked more closely at this disturbing trend.

Too Many Empty Calories for Kids

Empty calories is a term used to describe foods that are high in calories, fat, or sugar, but low in nutrition. Typical "empty calorie" foods are soft drinks, potato chips, candy, French fries, and other highly sweetened or over-processed foods. As it turns out, parents are allowing their kids to have too many of these sweet treats, which is contributing to the childhood obesity epidemic thats sweeping the country. Shockingly, fifty percent of a child or adolescents calories now comes from empty calories.

Where Are Kids Getting Their Empty Calories?

The types of empty calories kids and adolescents eat the most varies with their age. Kids between the ages of two and eighteen years get almost ten percent of their calories from sugar-sweetened drinks, including soft drinks. The rest of their empty calories came from desserts and pizza. Desserts that topped the list were ice cream, cookies, donuts, and cake.

Younger kids fared a little better from a nutritional standpoint. Children between the ages of two and three got most of their calories from fruit juice, milk, and pasta. Pasta and milk were also top choices for kids in kindergarten and elementary school.

Poor Diet in Children Leads to Health Problems Later

The diet a child eats early in life helps to shape their food preferences later in life. A child who develops a taste for foods high in calories, fat, and sugar will almost certainly make the wrong food choices later on in life. Plus, theres growing evidence that a poor diet in childhood increases the risk of health problems later in life, particularly obesity.

Empty Calories and Poor Diet in Children: The Take-Home Message

Parents need to look more closely at the types of food their kids eat. Its okay to enjoy a treat once in a while, but too many empty calories can lead to poor food choices and health problems later. The bottom line? More fruits, vegetables, and whole-grains - and fewer empty calorie foods.

References:

Eurekalert.org. "Flow of empty calories into childrens food supply must be reduced"

New Evidence that Crash Dieting Doesnt Work

Now theres new evidence that crash dieting doesnt work - at least not long-term. According to a new study published in the Journal of Neuroscience, crash dieting may reprogram how the brain responds to food and stress.

Crash Dieting Effects: Starving Yourself Isnt Smart

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania fed mice a diet low enough in calories to cause loss of 15% of their body weight over a three week time period. At the end of the three weeks, the mice were thinner, but they had elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol and showed signs of depression.

Even more compelling is the long-term effect crash dieting had these mice. It appeared to alter genes that control how the mice respond to hunger and stress, and these changes persisted even after they regained the lost weight. They had higher levels of hormones that stimulate appetite and ate considerably more high-fat food once they were allowed free access to food.

Are You Starving Yourself Thin?

Theres no guarantee that the brains of humans react in exactly the same way that mice brains do, but crash dieting may have long-term effects on people too. People who have the eating disorder anorexia and eat very low-calorie diets often have elevated levels of cortisol, the so-called stress hormone.

When researchers from the University of Glasgow placed fish on a binge diet followed by a crash diet, the lifespan of the fish declined by 25%. Crashing and binging isnt good for mice, fish - and not for humans either.

Crash Dieting Effects: The Bottom Line?

Starving yourself and following very low-calorie diets to lose weight isnt a safe way to get slim. You may lose weight in the short-term, but youll be more likely to binge and regain the lost weight. If these current studies hold true, it may also change the way your brain responds to food and to stress. It takes more patience to lose weight at a reasonable rate, one to two pounds per week, but theres a better change youll keep it off - and you wont be harming yourself in the process.

References:

Food Navigator USA website. "Crash Dieting Could Increase Stress-Induced Binge Eating, Suggests Study".

How to Apologize to a Friend!

Sometimes arguments start over the most silly things! They may seem important at the time, but after you cool off a bit and analyze the situation, you realize the source of your argument wasnt so important after all. All your want is your friendship back! The good news is a sincere apology can work wonders at healing an argument and getting you back into the good graces of your friend. Heres how to apologize to a friend:

1. If at all possible, apologize in person. You wont want to deliver your apology in the most personal way possible and you want your friend to be able to see your facial expressions. Avoid apologizing by phone or email if at all possible.

2. Apologize as soon as you can after the argument. Dont allow too much time for further anger to build up between you and your friend.

3. Practice what you plan to say in your apology until youre satisfied with it. You may only get one chance to say what you have to say. Make sure your apology is well thought out and clearly stated.

4. Be willing to accept the blame. Dont deliver a partial apology, it only comes off as insincere. If youre going to apologize, make sure its a complete heartfelt apology, not an insincere, partial one. Acknowledge your role in the argument.

5. Make eye contact when you deliver your apology. Dont look down out the ground, cross your arms or give other signs of being defensive or insincere. Let your friend know you mean it.

6. Be willing to listen to your friend after you deliver your apology. If your friend wants to discuss the issue further, listen without forming a judgment or escalating the argument any further. Your friend may feel better after she voices her feelings.

7. Have a plan for after youve delivered your apology. You might want to take your friend out for a cup of coffee so you can relax and renew your friendship.

8. Remember the purpose of apologizing is not to win the argument, its to reestablish your friendship. Resist the urge to make any final excuses or justifications to support your side of the argument.

9. If your friend doesnt accept your apology right away, give her some time and space. Sometimes it takes a little time for someone to come to terms with an apology. Dont rush her.

Hopefully, these tips will help you when you next need to know how to apologize to a friend! Remember, no argument is more important than friendship. Friends are truly lifes greatest treasures!

Can Omega-3s Reduce Loss of Lean Body Mass with Aging?

Most people begin to lose lean body mass around the age of thirty, and by the time they enter their senior years, theyve lost a substantial amount of muscle. This loss of lean body mass not only slows down metabolism but leads to increasing frailty. Fortunately, resistance exercise helps to offset some of this muscle loss. Now a new study shows taking omega-3 fatty acids helps to preserve lean body mass too.

Omega-3s to Prevent Loss of Lean Body Mass

The medical term for the loss of lean body mass with aging is sarcopenia. Older people with sarcopenia have reduced muscle strength and mass - and theyre at higher risk for falling. This reduces their quality of life, and many become frail from loss of muscle tissue and end up in nursing homes. Almost half of all people over the age of 65 are victims of sarcopenia.

Sarcopenia and Aging: Can Omega-3s Prevent Sarcopenia?

Researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine gave 16 senior adults four grams a day of a prescription omega-3 supplement or corn oil for two months. At the end of the two month study, they discovered that the seniors who took the omega-3 supplement activated a pathway needed for muscle cell growth, which would lead to the synthesis of new muscle proteins. From this they concluded that taking an omega-3 supplement could help seniors offset the sarcopenia associated with aging.

Because this is a small study, its difficult to draw firm conclusions about omega-3s and sarcopenia. On the other hand, there are few downsides to omega-3s - and most people dont get enough of them in their diet. These fats found naturally in fatty fish are heart healthy, reduce inflammation and, possibly, lower the risk of some types of cancer. But because they alter platelet function, people with bleeding disorders shouldnt take them.

Omega-3s to Prevent Loss of Lean Body Mass: The Bottom Line?

Resistance exercise to build strength and preserve lean body mass is still the best way to prevent sarcopenia, but combining strength training with omega-3 supplements could offer additional benefits. Most seniors can safely take part in resistance training under the watchful eye of a trainer, and it can improve the quality of their life. Dont underestimate the power of exercise combined with omega-3s to make life a little better for aging seniors.

References:

Nutra-Ingredients.com. "Omega-3s May Counter Degenerative Muscle Loss"

How to Get Wider Hips by Selecting the Right Clothing

Most, but not all women, have hips that are wider than their shoulders. This is because females usually put on weight in the hips and thighs during their pre-menopausal years when estrogen levels are higher. A smaller minority of women have a more masculine build with wider shoulders and narrow hips. This type of physique can be stunning. Why shouldnt a woman want to look strong and confident with well defined shoulders? But some ladies want their hips to look wider to balance their wider shoulders. Because it can be difficult to build hips through exercise, the best way to create balance is through clothing. Heres how to get wider hips by changing what you wear.

Get wider hips: Select the right pants

The pant style you choose can have a major influence on how wide your hips appear. One of the most effective ways to give the illusion of larger hips is to choose pants that taper towards the calves and ankles. The more tapered pants are in the leg region, the larger the hips will appear. Tapered pants will also draw attention away from the shoulders and down towards the legs and hips.

If you want to enhance the size of your buttocks, wearing pants with pockets or other detailing can make a narrow backside look more substantial. Hip huggers also give a similar effect and will balance out wide shoulders. Stay away from pants that flare at the ankles. They only make small hips look smaller. You can also create the illusion of fullness by wearing pants made of a bulkier fabric.

Get wider hips: Use color to your advantage

To give the illusion of wider hips, wear a lighter or brighter color on the lower half of the body and contrast it with a dark, solid color on top. Gals with narrow hips can wear print and patterned pants in bulkier fabrics that most have to women avoid due to excess padding in the hips and thighs. Take advantage of it! Wear a top in a dark, solid color to avoid looking overdone.

Get wider hips: Skirts

For dressier occasions when a skirt is appropriate, choose one in a lighter shade preferably in a bold, print fabric and balance it with a fitted top in a darker color. One skirt style that works particularly well for adding width to the hips is a tulip skirt with pleats around the hip line. This flirty, flouncy look can make a boyish figure look decidedly more feminine.

You can easily give the illusion of wider hips by subtly changing the way you dress. Why not give these fashion tips a try?

Why You Should Drink White Tea This Winter to Avoid the Flu

As the temperatures drop and people spend more time indoors, your chance of catching a cold or the flu rises significantly. Although there are a variety of things you can do to reduce your risk of developing a viral infection such as frequent hand washing, theres one you may not have considered. Warding off winter illness could be as simple as sipping a cup of hot and delicious white tea. Its just one of the many reasons youll want to drink white tea this winter.

Can white tea really help ward off colds and flu? Some studies have shown white tea has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties which could make it an inexpensive line of defense against the flu bugs that circulate during the winter months. One study carried out at Pace University demonstrated white teas ability to stop the growth of common bacteria that cause infection. Although colds and flu are caused by viruses as opposed to bacteria, theres increasing evidence that white tea is effective against viruses too. Although more research is needed to clearly define the role of white tea in preventing colds and flu, there are few drawbacks to drinking white tea as an inexpensive insurance policy against winter illness.

One problem when considering whether to drink white tea to prevent infection is how much is needed? This isnt an easy question to answer. The study carried out at Pace University used a white tea extract which makes it difficult to translate into actual white tea consumption. In general, the health benefits of green and white teas have been seen with daily intake of five cups or more, although a few studies have shown health benefits from only two or three cups per day. Its likely the more you drink the better in terms of cold and flu protection. The only limiting factor may be the caffeine which, fortunately, with white tea is fairly low at around twenty milligrams per serving.

Is it more effective to drink white tea or is green tea just as good? Although green tea has been shown to stimulate the immune system, it doesnt appear to have the same degree of anti-bacterial and anti-viral activity as white tea. White tea has also shown the capacity to defend against fungal infections.

In addition to its health benefits, to drink tea a hot, steaming cup of white tea on a frosty day is the ultimate in luxury. Its a great beverage to enjoy while relaxing by the window watching the snow fall against your window pane. Be sure to stock up on white tea this winter.

How to Clean a Microwave

Cleaning the kitchen is often described as one of the most burdensome housecleaning tasks exceeded only by that of cleaning the bathroom. While most people are fairly proficient at cleaning kitchen counter surfaces, and sinks, when it comes to cleaning the microwave, theyre at a loss. Something about cleaning this fast cooking little appliance leaves most people feeling intimidated. If youre a bit confused about how to clean a microwave, here are some pointers.

Clean a microwave step one: Remove superficial debris

If you use your microwave a lot, the interior probably has crumbs of various types on the glass turntable as well as underneath. The quickest way to eliminate these is to vacuum out the crumbs with your vacuum cleaner. Once youre free of crumbs, youre ready to start cleaning.

Clean a microwave step two: Loosen up food stuck to the sides and glass plate.

If your microwave gets a workout, chances are theres dried food attached to the sides of the microwave as well as the turntable. Instead of making your arm sore trying to scrape away the debris, place a bowl of water with a few drops of lemon juice on the glass turntable and allow the microwave to run on high for a minute and a half. This will soften those hardened crusts of food and make removal easy.

Clean a microwave step three: Clean the interior.

Now that youve softened up any encrusted food inside, you should be able to easily wipe it away with a soft sponge and a cleaning product. While some sources recommend using a multi-purpose cleaner for this purpose, its best to pick an organic, food safe based cleaner for the inside surfaces of your microwave. If you use a product with toxic chemical components for interior cleaning, it could contaminate your food the next time you turn on your microwave. Play it safe and go organic or try a vinegar and water solution you make at home. Apply the cleaning solution with a slightly damp sponge and wipe away any excess that remains before using the microwave. Its also wise to leave the door open to allow any fumes to dissipate after cleaning.

Clean a microwave step four: Clean the exterior.

This is the easy part. Clean the outer surface of your microwave using a glass cleaner, preferably an organic one. This will keep the exterior shiny and bright. Finish by buffing with a towel.

Your microwave is now clean and ready to heat your next culinary creation. That wasnt so hard now was it?

How to Get in Shape with the Help of Your Television

Lets face it. There are times that your fitness routine can be repetitious and boring. It doesnt have to be that way. Did you know you can use your television to add new vitality to your fitness routine? Heres how to get in shape with the help of your trusty television:

Tune in to an exercise show.

Most stations, particularly if you have cable, provide you with a variety of entertaining exercise shows that can help you get in shape. There are so many types of exercise shows available that youll never run out of variety. Check the local television listings in your area for a complete summary of fitness shows available.

Watch an old movie while riding your exercise bike or using your treadmill.

Theres nothing like a classic, old movie to take some of the boredom out of getting into shape. Youll be so engrossed by the characters and plots that 30 minutes will fly by in no time. You may find that you can last a little longer than usual and burn a few more calories if youre focused less on your burning muscles. Getting in shape can be a real joy when you watch a new movie each day.

Get inspired by infomercials.

If you want fitness inspiration, tune in to some of the many fitness related infomercials that are so commonly shown in the early morning. The buff, toned bodies of the smiling exercise demonstrators are sure to cause you to pedal faster. You may also get ideas for some new exercises to try in the future.

Take earphones to the exercise club.

Most fitness clubs have televisions available for viewing during your exercise routine. All you need to do is bring along a pair of earphones to tune into the action. It can be as simple as hopping up on the treadmill with your earphones in place. Youll be through with your fitness routine before the plot reaches its climax. You may even want to exercise a bit longer to see how your program ends.

Learn while you burn.

Why not let your exercise time pull double duty? Turn it into learning time by tuning into Jeopardy during your workout. As you record miles on the treadmill, you can keep a mental record of your correct answers to the challenging trivia questions on this popular game show. With any luck, theyll feature a health and fitness category.

Getting in shape doesnt sound quite so bad when you have your trusty television on. Why not regain your exercise enthusiasm with some good television?

How to Make a Natural Oily Skin Scrub

Oily skin can be a challenge to deal with. It seems no matter what products you use or how frequently you wash your face, it still looks shiny. Not to mention the periodic breakouts that seem to take weeks to clear. Although most people think of oily skin as being a problem of the young, it doesnt always resolve as you get older. In some cases, oily skin problems can even extend into the senior years.

If youre using commercial products to cleanse and care for your oily skin, you may be contributing to the problem. Some of these products contain large amounts of drying agents such as benzoyl peroxide which can irritate the skin and make the problem worse. Some of them also may contain additives that can clog the pores, causing an outbreak. One of the best ways to avoid this problem is to make your own, all-natural oily skin care products at home. Heres a recipe for a simple-to-make oily skin scrub that wont over dry your skin or clog your pores. Its a wonderful scrub for exfoliating your skin to give it that natural glow of good health.

Oily Skin Scrub Recipe

To make this scrub, youll need access to a blender or a food processor. The basic ingredients are easy to find in your local supermarket.

Ingredients needed:

One fresh orange

One fresh lemon

Cornmeal

Directions to make your oily skin scrub:

Remove the outer peel from the oranges and lemons. Place the insides of the fruit in a container to eat for breakfast or use later in a recipe. Place the peels into a blender or food processor.

Grind the peels in the food processor or blender until theyre fine in texture.

Place the ground fruit peels in a bowl and add an equal quantity of cornmeal.

Store the mix in a glass container until youre ready to use it.

How to use your oily skin scrub:

Pour a small amount of the mix into a bowl and slowly add warm water while stirring to create a very thick paste. Avoid adding too much water.

Dampen your face slightly and rub the paste into your skin using a circular motion. Continue to massage the skin with the paste for a minute or so.

Rinse with cool water.

Admire your glowing skin!

When you make your own oily skin scrub, you not only save money, but you also know everything youre applying to your skin. Its the safest way to avoid those questionable chemicals found in most cosmetic products.

Exercise at Work with an Under-Desk Pedal Machine

Do you sit at a desk all day wishing you could exercise at work? Heres a solution for you. Get a portable pedal machine to put under your desk - and pedal while you work. According to a new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, pedal machines help to offset the effects of too much sitting - a common problem among people with office jobs.

Exercise at Work: A Portable Pedal Machine Makes It Easier

Researchers tested under-desk pedal machines out on 18 full-time employees. These machines were equipped with a tracking device to monitor how fast the participants pedaled, how many calories they burned and how much distance they covered.

The results were gratifying. Employees who used a portable pedal machine during the day pedaled as far as 13.5 miles and burned up to 500 extra calories daily. More importantly, they thought the under-desk pedal machines were easy to use, and they didnt think it caused them to be less productive. Instead, it offered them a way to exercise at work instead of sitting all day.

Of course, not everyone in this small study pedaled 13.5 miles and burned 500 calories, but even 20 minutes of pedaling during the day would have benefits. According to a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, sitting too much can have serious health consequences - even if you work out at a gym an hour or more before or after work. This study showed the more time a person spends sitting each day, the higher their mortality rate. Sitting too much also increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and obesity - making people with office jobs at high risk for these conditions.

The Bottom Line?

You can buy an under-desk pedal machine for around $30.00, but itll probably be light-weight and may shift on the floor when you pedal it. Spend a little more and buy a heavier one that stays in place. Until then, take breaks to avoid sitting too long. Walk up and down the hall every 30 minutes or do a set of jumping jacks in your office. If you have a private office, bring a jump rope to work - or jog in place a few minutes every hour. Whatever you do, dont let your body go into hibernation mode during the day.

References:

Eurekalert.org. "Portable Pedal Machines May Help Counter Harmful Effects of Sedentary Jobs"

Capsaicin in Chili Peppers to Lower Blood Pressure?

Good news for spicy food lovers! According to a new study, an ingredient in chili peppers called capsaicin could help to lower blood pressure - naturally. Capsaicin is the red hot ingredient that gives chili peppers its fire - and motivates Mexican food lovers to seek out another bowl of hot salsa.

Capsaicin in Chili Peppers to Reduce Blood Pressure

In this study published in the journal Cell Metabolism, researchers found that capsaicin in chili peppers lowers blood pressure in rats by causing their blood vessels to relax. It does this by activating special channels called TRPV1 channels. When these channels are activated, cells lining the arteries called endothelial cells release more nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps to open up blood vessels - so the blood can flow more easily through the vessels. Nitric oxide is the same chemical thats responsible for the blood pressure lowering effects of dark chocolate. How about a spicy hot chocolate with that salsa?

Other Health Benefits of Capsaicin

Capsaicin in chili peppers has other health benefits as well. Research shows that the capsaicin in hot, spicy foods not only suppresses appetite, but boosts metabolism too - so the body burns more fat.

Eating capsaicin-rich foods also helps to prevent oxidation of LDL cholesterol - and lowers triglyceride levels. It also keeps platelets from clumping together, which could increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Anyone whos ever bitten into a hot chili pepper knows how quickly it clears the sinuses. Plus, recent studies show that the capsaicin in chili peppers increases insulin sensitivity - and may help diabetics better control their blood sugar levels. Its even being researched as a treatment for prostate cancer.

Should You Take a Capsaicin Supplement to Lower Blood Pressure?

Capsaicin seems to have positive health benefits, but its not a good idea to take it as a supplement at this point. This study was done in rats - and human research is needed to confirm the blood pressure lowering effect seen in mice. In addition, some studies show that high doses of capsaicin increase the risk of gastric cancer. Until more is known, its best to get the benefits of capsaicin from food sources - such as red chili peppers and hot salsa instead.

References:

Nutraingredients.com website. "Research links chili compound to lower blood pressure"
Worlds Healthiest Foods website.

Can You Lower Salmonella Risk by Eating Organic Eggs?

More people are paying the extra money to eat organic and free-range eggs instead of conventionally raised ones due to concerns about health - and the impact antibiotics given to factory hens might have. Some people also believe that eating organic eggs reduces their risk of getting salmonella food poisoning. If you eat organic eggs is your salmonella risk really lower?

Organic Eggs vs. Non-Organic Eggs and Salmonella Risk

All eggs can potentially harbor Salmonella. Organic eggs are no exception, although its true that organic eggs are less likely to contain Salmonella than conventionally raised ones. Salmonella risk is higher in factory farmed hens because the birds are kept in close, confined quarters where they have little space to move around. Conditions are overcrowded, which increases the risk of bacteria being transmitted from bird to bird and entering the egg supply. When hens are kept in clean, less crowded quarters, Salmonella risk drops substantially.

One study in Great Britain showed that hens raised in large industrial chicken farms, and confined to crowded cages, were more likely to harbor the Salmonella bacteria than birds raised free-range or organically. The higher Salmonella risk in conventionally raised hens and eggs can be blamed on the overcrowded conditions which allow bacteria to more easily spread from bird to bird.

Organic Eggs and Salmonella Risk

Organic eggs are less likely to harbor the Salmonella bacteria, but theres no guarantee - which is why its important to cook all eggs thoroughly before eating them. An egg needs to be heated to a temperature of at least 160 degrees Farenheit to kill Salmonella. Frying an egg may not take it to a high enough temperature to destroy bacteria, so its not the safest way to prepare eggs. This is particularly true of the "sunny side up" style of egg where the yolk is still partially raw. The chances of any one egg being infected are low, but Salmonella food poisoning can be serious, so its best not to take any chances.

Organic Eggs vs. Non-Organic Eggs and Salmonella Risk: The Bottom Line?

If youre concerned about the conditions egg producing hens are raised in, buy organic eggs - but dont assume theyre free of Salmonella. Practice good egg handling practices and cook all eggs thoroughly before serving them.

References:

Report of the Survey of Salmonella Contamination of UK Produced Shell Eggs. PDF file.

How to Have a Healthy Fast-Food Breakfast

Most fast-food restaurants arent known for their healthy breakfast offerings. But sometimes youre on the road in the morning - and youre hungry. Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day, so skipping its not an option. Is there a way to have a healthy fast-fast food breakfast that wont make your hands greasy and leave you feeling guilty? Fortunately, there are ways to limit the damage.

Stay Away From "Deluxe" Breakfasts

If it says "deluxe", stay away. McDonalds Deluxe Breakfast with pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs, pancakes, bacon, and a biscuit is going to set you back almost 800 calories. Its okay to eat more early in the day, but this is overkill. A better option is to order the Egg McMuffin with 300 calories or the yogurt parfait, which will set you back only 180 calories. Enjoy it with a cup of hot McDonalds coffee, and you can start the day satisfied.

Have a Healthy Fast-Food Breakfast at Starbucks

Head to Starbucks, but dont be tempted by the muffins or coffee cake. Enjoy their healthier breakfast options instead - such as their "perfect oatmeal" (140 calories), chewy fruit and nut bar (250 calories), or their Spinach Roasted Tomato, Feta & Egg Wrap. (240 calories). They also offer a Starbucks power protein plate that has 330 calories. Just dont wash it down with a Frappuccino. Choose a skinny latte instead.

Eggs Are Your Best Friend

For a healthy fast-food breakfast, think eggs. Most fast-food restaurants have some form of egg they can put on a sandwich. Get it on an English muffin, not a high-calorie biscuit. Dunkin Doughnuts has an Egg White Veggie Flatbread Sandwich and an Egg White Turkey Sausage Flatbread Sandwich that are both under 300 calories.

Subway has the competition beat when it comes to low-calorie options. They offer a Western, Egg White & Cheese Muffin Melt that has 160 calories and 4 grams of fat. You can also order a custom-made breakfast wrap made from the vegetables of your choice.

How to Have a Healthy Fast-Food Breakfast: The Bottom Line?

Of course, its best to prepare breakfast yourself since many of these options are still high in sodium, but, in a pinch, you can still enjoy a relatively healthy fast-food breakfast.

References:

Nutrition Data website.

The Health Benefits of Crab

Are you getting enough seafood in your diet? Most Americans arent. Despite studies that show the benefits of putting seafood on the dinner table, more families choose to eat red meat or poultry instead. This is unfortunate since seafood is rich in nutrients and, generally, low in calories. One form of seafood thats particularly low in fat and calories is crab. Although crab meat is an important staple in some forms of cuisine such as Chinese food, its not eaten as often in the United States. Maybe it should be. What are the health benefits of crab?

Health benefits of crab: Its very low in calories and fat.

Crab is a calorie counters dream meat. A four ounce serving of crab meat has only 98 calories, and with under two grams of fat per serving, its heart healthy. Despite its low calorie content, crab meat can be a filling and satisfying main course.

Health benefits of crab: Its high in protein and has no carbs

Despite its low calorie and fat content, a serving of crab has a whopping twenty grams of protein. This makes it an excellent high protein alternative for the athlete or body builder whos tired of tuna fish. Its also carb free which makes it a good choice for diabetics.

Health benefits of crab: Its high in omega 3 fatty acids

Crab is a good source of heart healthy omega 3s which help to lower triglycerides and blood pressure along with reducing the risk of heart disease. Omega 3s are also thought to reduce the inflammation, enhance immune function, and even lower the risk of certain types of cancer. Most Americans dont get enough omega 3s in their diet and adding crab meat to the table is a good way to start.

Health benefits of crab: Its low in mercury

One of the big concerns with eating a seafood rich diet is exposure to mercury. The good news is that mid-Atlantic blue crab is very low in mercury, making it a good seafood choice for the whole family. In fact, crab is considered to be on of the safest forms of seafood in terms of mercury levels.

Crab meat is also rich in vitamins and minerals with particularly high levels of vitamin B-12, a vitamin thats critical for healthy nerve function. Its also a good source of the minerals zinc and copper.

Where can you find it? Crab meat is available fresh from most seafood markets, and can be found frozen or in cans from your local supermarket. Either way, youll enjoy the wonderful health benefits that crab has to offer.

The Best Food Sources of Choline

You may have heard little about choline and how it relates to health, but dont confuse that for lack of importance. Choline is an essential nutrient the body needs to function - and not everyone gets enough of it. What is choline - and what are the best choline food sources you need to get this nutrient naturally?

What is Choline?

Choline is often classified as a water-soluble B vitamin, because it works closely with other B vitamins. It has the important function of keeping cell membranes fluid and, it helps cells communicate with each other more effectively. It also allows nerves to interact with muscles by forming part of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. Choline is particularly important for a healthy liver and nervous system.

Food sources of choline are critical during pregnancy and early childhood since it plays a role in brain development. Choline also reduces inflammation and helps break down homocysteine, an amino acid linked with heart disease and stroke.

What Are the Best Food Sources of Choline?

Now that you know choline is an essential nutrient that needs to come from diet, how can you get more choline? One of the best sources of choline is eggs. A large egg has around 110 milligrams of choline - but be sure to eat the yolk since thats where all the choline is concentrated.

Other good food sources of choline are soybeans, flaxseed, sesame seeds, quinoa, oats, barley, spinach, chicken, peanuts, lentils, butter, potatoes, cauliflower and bananas. Most women need around 450 milligrams of choline per day, while men should get about 550 milligrams daily.

To take advantage of food sources of choline, start the day with a large egg and a bowl of oat or barley cereal with ground flaxseed and milk. Eat a snack of peanuts and make bananas your dessert of choice. Enjoy a dinner of grilled chicken with cauliflower and spinach. Whip up a meal with this combination of choline-rich foods, and youll get more than enough of this overlooked essential nutrient.

What is Choline: The Bottom Line?

If youre not getting enough choline, make some changes to your diet, especially if youre pregnant. Choline has many important functions in the body, and you can get it naturally through foods.

References:

Worlds Healthiest Foods website.

2 Minutes to Younger Looking Skin! Antiaging Trick!

We all want soft, smooth, younger looking skin! Unfortunately, we tend to loose that beautiful, translucent skin glow we had in our youth as our skin matures. What if I told you your skin could look younger in two minutes?

Well, it can! Through the magical power of exfoliation!

One of the easiest and most effective ways to create younger looking skin is to remove the dead skin cells on the surface of your skin. This can be done quickly and easily through the simple process of exfoliation. Heres how to exfoliate your skin at home:

1. Visit your local drugstore and purchase a special loofah or exfoliation pad designed specifically for the face. You dont want to use one made for the body as this would be too rough for your facial skin. Pick up an exfoliating cleanser designed made for the face. Again, avoid body formulations.You need something gentle.

2. Moisten your face lightly with warm water.

3. Apply a small amount of the exfoliating cleanser to your exfoliation pad.

4. Gently rub your face with the exfoliation pad using a light, circular motion. This should always be done in a gentle manner to avoid irritating the skin and to avoid rupturing the tiny blood vessels under your skin which can result in permanent facial flushing requiring laser treatment.

5. Do 3-5 rounds with the exfoliation pad on your face continuing to use a light, gentle circular motion. Avoid the eye area as the skin is quite thin there.

6. Rinse with warm water and apply a light moisturizer.

7. Admire the glow of your freshly exfoliated face in the mirror.

This one quick, simple procedure can really make your skin look younger. After exfoliating, your skin will have a more radiant look and a smoother feel. You makeup will go on more smoothly. Theres actually some thought that regular stimulation of your skins surface through exfoliation may help to promote collagen production which can promote skin firmness and reduce the signs of aging. Just dont overdo it!

How often should you exfoliate your skin?

Most dermatologists recommend once of twice a week. If you have thin, sensitive skin, start by exfoliating once a week. If you tolerate this well, you can try increase the frequency to twice a week. Always remember to use an exfoliating cleanser made for facial skin and be gentle with your motions.

Give exfoliiation a try! Youre going to love your "new skin" when you look in the mirror!

Tumeric Cream to Reduce Signs of Skin Aging

Most people dont put the spice curry on their face - but maybe they should. A new study presented at the American Academy of Dermatology meeting shows that an extract of tumeric - one of the healthy spices found in curry - may reduce signs of skin aging.

Researchers have developed a tumeric cream - made of tumeric extract thats purified to remove its pungent smell and bright orange color. They tested this tumeric cream on 89 middle-aged women. The women were instructed to apply the cream to their faces twice a day for two months. Another group of women used a cream without tumeric as a control. Photos were taken before starting the cream and then every four weeks.

Did the group who used tumeric cream show any improvement in signs of aging? After experts reviewed the photos, the tumeric users were found to have reductions in fine lines and wrinkles. In a second study involving 105 Asian women, these women experienced lightening of pigmented age spots on their face. In these studies, tumeric skin cream reduced two of the most common signs of skin aging - wrinkles and pigmented age spots.

Its not surprising that tumeric could reduce signs of skin aging. This powerful spice has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation of the dermis, the skin layer that contains collagen, plays an important role in skin aging. When skin is exposed to ultraviolet light from the sun, it causes free radicals to form which leads to an inflammatory response. This inflammatory reaction causes enzymes to be activated that break down the collagen protein that helps keep skin firm and youthful. Tumeric may offset the effects of these free radicals and block skin damaging inflammation.

This new tumeric cream for reducing signs of skin aging is already being marketed under the name "Doctors Dermatologic Formula" and is available online. These products to improve the signs of skin aging are expensive - as you might expect. The DDF tumeric firming cream sells for $130.00. Unfortunately, it may not be as effective to put raw tumeric to your face and the orange color would certainly be a deterrent - but it does go to show what this Indian spice is capable of.

References:

http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/718563

How to Treat Sore Hand Muscles Due to Computer Work

As much time as the average person spends on their computer typing away on a keyboard and playing games, it should come as no surprise that sore hand muscles are the result. In fact, some of the most common workplace injuries are due to overuse of the hands. If your fingers and hands are a sore from punching a keyboard, here are some treatments you can use to soothe those sore hand muscles.

Treat sore hand muscles: Hand massage

One way to work some of the pain and tenderness out of sore fingers and hands is to massage the painful areas. Using the opposite hand, rub the sore spots with firm circular movements for several minutes at a time. Repeat on the other hand. This will help to release some of the muscle spasm in the same way a back massage helps to relieve back pain and stiffness.

Treat sore hand muscles: Perform hand stretching exercises

Do stretching exercises on sore fingers and hands several times a day by opening and closing your hands repeatedly. To target the fingers, hold your fingers straight, then gently bend the middle joints of your fingers down towards the inside of your hands. Do this repeatedly several times a day. This is a good exercise to perform throughout the day to prevent future sore fingers and hands, particularly if you work on a computer most of the day.

Treat sore hand muscles: Soak your hands in warm herbal water

Soak your hands in a vat of warm water to which youve added a small amount of mint essential oil. The combination of the warm water and mint will increase blood and oxygen to the affected areas which can help relax muscle strain. Do this three times a day for fifteen minutes at a time. You can also follow up by applying a soothing, mint hand cream.

Treat sore hand muscles: Take anti-inflammatories or sour cherry juice

If you dont have a history of ulcers and can tolerate anti-inflammatories, pop two Advil several times a day for a few days until the pain subsides. If you want to take the natural approach, drink a glass of sour cherry juice three times daily for several days. Sour cherries are rich in anthocyanins which are known to block the inflammatory response that causes pain. Dont substitute sweet cherry juice which has lower concentrations of anthocyanins.

If you hand and finger pain persists or if you develop numbness or tingling in the fingers or hand, see your doctor as you may have early carpel tunnel syndrome.

Being in a Good Mood Could Make You Forgetful

Being in a good mood could make you more charming to be around, but it doesnt do much for your memory. According to new research from the University of Missouri, people are more likely to be forgetful if theyre in a good mood - and less likely to forget when theyre "down in the dumps".

Mood and Memory: Is There a Link Between the Two?

Researchers at the University of Missouri showed a group of volunteers video clips. Some of these clips contained stand-up comedy, while other volunteers watched an instructional video. Not surprisingly, the volunteers who watched the comedy video were in a better mood after the video clip, while the other video viewers experienced no mood change.

Both sets of volunteers then took a memory test to see how well they could remember sequences of numbers they listened to through headphones. The volunteers who were in a good mood after viewing the comedy video did more poorly on this task compared to those who watched the instructional video that didnt make them laugh and lift their mood.

So, how does being in a good mood make it harder to remember things like number sequences? Researchers dont have the answers, but they speculate that being in an upbeat mood reduces the amount of storage space in the brain available for short-term memories. Thats not good news if youre overjoyed to see someone you havent seen in years, and you cant remember the email address they gave you when you get home.

Another Reason Why Being in a Good Mood Reduces Memory

It may be that being in a good mood makes a person more distracted and reduces their focus so they dont process the information they hear sufficiently to remember it later. It could also be that being in a good mood alters the levels of brain neurotransmitters that are involved both in mood and processing memories.

On other hand, the news may not be all bad. Being in a good mood improves cognitive skills in some areas. Some studies also show that meditation improves thinking skills, possibly by clearing the mind and reducing stress.

Good Moods and Forgetfulness: The Bottom Line?

Being in a good mood may lead to forgetfulness. Take along a pen and pad and write things down on those days youre feeling on top of the world - just to be safe.

References:

Eurekalert.org. "Being in a Good Mood May Lead to Poor Memory"

Science Daily. "Brief Meditative Exercise Improves Memory"

How to Remove a Tick Safely!

Its tick season again and if you spend any time outdoors, you could find one buried into your skin or scalp. If this happens, whats the best way to remove it? Tick removal can be a relatively simple process if approached correctly.

Its important to remove a tick as quickly as possible after it attaches to reduce the risk of transmission of tick borne disease. Unfortunately since a tick bite often causes no pain, a bite may not be noticed for several days which could increase the risk of contracting a serious tick born illness. For this reason, its important to check you, your loved ones, and pets regularly for pets immediately atter spending any time outdoors. If you do find a tick, heres how to remove it:

1. Locate a big, sturdy pair of tweezers.

2. Put on a pair of latex gloves.

3. Use the tweezers to grasp the ticker firmly at its head.

4. Pull back firmly with steady pressure until the tick is dislodged from the skin.

5. Place the tick into a jar of alcohol.

6. Preserve the tick in the jar in case you should need to seek medical attention for the tick bite later.

7. Gently clean the affected area with alcohol.

Caution! Avoid doing the following:

1.Never handle a tick with your bare hands.

2. Never apply a hot match to the body of the tick. This is a commonly performed practice which should be avoided.

3. Never cover the tick with any substances such as gasoline, alcohol, or nail polish. If you do so, you may cause the tick to regurgitate infectious material into your bite resulting in an increased risk of tick borne disease.

4. Never manipulate or twist the head of the tick. This movement, too, can cause infectious material to enter the bite site.

5. Always make sure the tick has been completely removed. If parts remain under the skin, it can increase your risk for secondary infection.

After tick removal, its a good practice to call your family doctor. Certain groups of people are at higher risk of tick borne disease including those who live in areas where theres a high incidence of tick related illness, people who have immune systems disorders, and women who are pregnant. These groups may need to be placed on antibiotics to prevent secondary infection.

So get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather! Just be sure to check yourself and your family frequently for the presence of ticks and be sure to practice safe tick removal.

Eat This Green Fruit to Prevent Blood Clots

Whats green and fuzzy - and helps to prevent blood clots? If you said the kiwi fruit youre right on target. Heres why eating more of this exotic fruit could benefit your health.

Prevent Blood Clots With the Kiwi Fruit?

Researchers at the University of Oslo discovered that the kiwi fruit, an exotic green fruit native to New Zealand, helps to reduce blood clots. This furry fruit acts as a natural blood thinner in the same way aspirin does without the risk of stomach irritation. They discovered that eating two to three kiwi a day not only reduced the risk of blood clots but lowered triglyceride levels as well. Triglycerides are fats carried in the bloodstream that are linked with heart disease and stroke.

Unfortunately, scientists dont know what compound in kiwi is responsible for the blood-thinning effect of this luscious fruit. When you eat kiwi, you not only get a healthy amount of natural antioxidants called polyphenols, but you benefit from a whopping dose of vitamin C. In fact, the kiwi fruit tops the list of vitamin C rich fruit with1.5 times the daily requirement of this antioxidant vitamin.

Eating kiwi is also good for your vision since it contains lutein, which helps to filter out blue light that can damage the eyes by causing free radicals to form. These free radicals increase the risk of macular degeneration, a common cause of age-related visual loss.

The Green Fruit with Many Health Benefits

Eat kiwi fruit to prevent blood clots and protect your heart and vision - but eat the outer skin whenever possible. Many of the vitamins and antioxidant compounds are concentrated just beneath the skin, and if you peel the kiwi fruit you lose some of them. Its okay to bite into a kiwi whole just as you would an apple. The skin is a bit tangy, which is a nice contrast to the sweet interior. Another option? Wash it and toss it into the blender with other fruits to make a super nutritious smoothie. Dont forget that the outer skin is a good source of fiber too.

The Bottom Line?

The kiwi fruit has some surprising health benefits, and its chock full of nutrition. Look for it the next time youre shopping for produce.

References:

Food Navigator website. "Kiwi Lowers Blood Clot Risk"

Worlds Healthiest Foods website

A New Dietary Source of Vitamin D?

Most Americans are deficient in vitamin D - and its little wonder. There are few good dietary sources of vitamin D and people arent spending enough time outdoors where theyre exposed to direct sunlight. Sunlight is the best source of vitamin D since light converts a vitamin D precursor on the surface of the skin to a form that can be processed and used by the body. The only decent dietary sources of vitamin D are fortified foods such as cereals and milk and natural sources such as eggs and fatty fish. Now, a company called Monterey Mushrooms is adding to the list of good food sources of vitamin D by offering vitamin D enriched mushrooms.

Food Sources of Vitamin D: Mushrooms?

The folks at Monterey Mushrooms made the discovery that mushrooms respond to sunlight similarly to human skin. They contain a natural vitamin D precursor thats converted to vitamin D when exposed to ultraviolet light. Its very similar to the vitamin D conversion that occurs when human skin is exposed to light from the sun. The company found a way to expose the mushrooms to enough light to provide 100% of the RDA for vitamin D in a single serving which is the equivalent of four of five mushrooms.

These vitamin D mushrooms give a person at high risk of vitamin D deficiency a convenient way to boost vitamin D levels without taking supplements. Many people fall short of getting the vitamin D they need - yet hesitate to take vitamin D supplements. Four or five mushrooms a day is a food prescription that most people can handle.

The Health Benefits of Vitamin D: You Dont Want to Miss Them

The health benefits of vitamin D are just starting to be documented. It may play a role in the prevention of a variety of diseases from multiple sclerosis to cancer. Low levels of vitamin D can cause muscle weakness, low energy levels, depression, and fatigue. Some studies show that over three-quarters of the population is deficient in vitamin D - which could be putting them at higher risk for certain diseases.

A New Dietary Source of Vitamin D?

Are vitamin D enriched mushrooms a way to boost vitamin D levels? For people who arent able to get enough sun and dont want to take supplements, they could be an alternative dietary source for vitamin D. Look for them at a grocery store near you in the near future.

References:

http://www.montereymushrooms.com/

Five Ideas for Dog House Decor

Could your dogs dog house use an update? If your dog is living in drab, uninspiring surroundings, maybe its time to give his dog house a fresh, upbeat look. Not only will your dog appreciate his new home, but an updated dog house will give your whole backyard a lift of color. Need some inspiration? Here are some ideas for dog house decor to consider:

Dog house decor: A fresh coat of paint.

Lets face it. The walls of most dog houses are painted in gloomy grays, browns, and other dull, uninspiring colors. Chances are Rovers house will look more vibrant if painted in lively, eyecatching shades. Why not paint that dull gray roof a bold shade of red; or paint the roof and walls in soft shades of oranges, reds, and yellows? This will add a casual Southwestern look to your dogs surroundings. Get color inspiration from home magazines and create a dog house that will stand out among all of the greenery in your backyard.

Dog house decor: Personalize it.

After youve added color to your dogs house, make it truly his by painting his name above the entrance. You can use a stencil to do this or freehand it, if you feel comfortable. You can also buy wooden letters at the craft store corresponding to your dogs name and paint them with interesting colors and patterns that coordinate with the rest of the color scheme. These can then be mounted above the entrance of the dog house.

Dog house decor: Decorate the entrance.

To add a little personality to your dogs house, decorate the front panels with wooden dog bones, hearts, or paw prints that youve painted or decorated with waterproof markers. You can buy wooden shapes at your local craft store or cut them out of wood with a scroll saw before decorating them.

Dog house decor: Show your artistic talent.

If you have real flair with a paint brush, why not go all out and paint the walls of the dog house with a vibrant abstract design? You can also personalize it by painting the likeness of your dog all over the exterior. What more could a dog ask for?

Dog house decor: Dont neglect the interior.

A dog house with a beautiful exterior should feel good on the inside too. Add a stack of fresh quilts and blankets in colors that complement the exterior decor so your dog will be comfortable in his updated lodgings.

Decorating a dog house is a great way to exercise your latent design talents while making your dog happy at the same time. Have fun!

Do You Really Need to Alternate Shampoos?

Its a common belief in the beauty industry that its necessary to change shampoos periodically to revitalize your hair. This stems from the idea that hair "adapts" to a shampoo and your hair no longer gets the same benefits that it did when you first started using it. Many sources will tell you to alternate shampoos periodically to keep hair looking fresh, clean, and shiny.

Although it may seem that using the same shampoo over a long period of time leads to reduced performance, this isnt due to adaptation to the shampoo. If you use any hair product, over a period of time, some of the ingredients will build up on the hair and reduce the natural shine and body you experienced when you originally started using the product. If you alternate shampoos for a short period of time, youll probably wash out some of the build-up left over from the previous shampoo and experience renewed body and shine.

To reduce the need to alternate shampoos, pick a shampoo formulation that doesnt have added conditioners or other ingredients that build-up easily on the hair shaft. Keep in mind that its not just shampoo ingredients that build up over time, but also conditioning and styling products. In fact, these products are more likely to be the culprit when hair starts looking dull than build-up of shampoo ingredients.

One alternative to alternating shampoos is to keep using your old shampoo and use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove all the "gunk and junk" thats weighing down your hair. Clarifying shampoos are essentially shampoos with extra surfactants that help remove residue. The problem is these shampoos can dry hair out and change the color of color treated hair by slowly stripping away the tint. Thats why its important to use a clarifying shampoo no more than once a week and even less if you can get by with it.

The best way to avoid the problem of having to alternate shampoos is to limit the use of hair styling products, particularly ones containing silicone which can be difficult to remove even with a clarifying shampoo. Use conditioner only where its needed such as on the ends of the hair. Hard water can also cause buildup that can lead to dull, lifeless hair, so consider having your water tested if your hair is difficult to manage.

The bottom line? Theres no need to alternate shampoos. Keep a bottle of clarifying shampoo around and use it when your hair starts to look dull. Meanwhile, keep using the shampoo you enjoy.

The Magic of Green Tea Baths

If the affairs of the day have taken their toll on your nerves, it can be therapeutic to escape from the madness with a warm, fragrant green tea bath. If you enjoy the natural, grassy odor and taste of green tea, there are a variety of ways you can incorporate it in to your bathing experience. Here are some ideas:

Ideas for Green Tea Baths: Green tea for your bath water

Place fresh green tea leaves into a piece of cheesecloth and tie it with a ribbon. Draw your bath water and drop the cheesecloth in to the warm water. Allow it to remain in the water for a few minutes before removing. You can also use green tea bags in place of fresh green tea leaves. To make your bath even more luxurious, add a few rose petals and a few drops of rose essential oil to your green tea bath water.

Ideas for Green Tea Baths: Add some green tea bathing accessories

You can find a variety of green tea soaps and body sprays online. Cleanse yourself with the soft, natural scent of the green tea soap and lightly spray yourself with the body spray when you emerge from your bath. Youll feel mellow and relaxed. Theres something therapeutic about the scent of green tea products.

Ideas for Green Tea Baths: Sip green tea during your bath

To further relax and unwind, sip a glass of decaffeinated green tea as you soak in your green tea bath. Decaffeinated green tea tends to have a calming, soothing effect which makes it an excellent stress reliever. If you dont have decaffeinated green tea at home, you can remove 80% of the caffeine from regular green tea by discarding the water from your first steep after thirty seconds. You can reuse the bags by adding more hot water and allow it to steep normally. The result will be green tea with a reduced caffeine content.

Ideas for Green Tea Baths: Add green tea candles

Before drawing your bath water, light several green tea candles. The scent of a green tea candle can be quite therapeutic as you lie in the tranquil waters of your green tea bath. Youll feel like youre at a fancy spa rather than the privacy of your own bathroom.

In addition to its stress relieving properties, the components of green tea are good for the skin which is an added bonus. After experiencing the luxury of a green tea bath, youll want to make green tea bath products a part of your every day bathing routine. Why not discover the joys of adding green tea to your bath experience?

How a Personalized Baby Doll Can Brighten Your Childs Christmas This Year

Although most people enjoy the cheer and festivities that come with the holiday season, no one enjoys the hustle and bustle of Christmas more than a young child. Is there a special little girl in your life youd like to surprise with a unique gift? Imagine the look of delight on her face when she opens your beautifully wrapped gift box and finds a personalized baby doll that looks just like her! This idea can become a reality thanks to the internet.

A website called My Twinn will allow you to create a personalized baby doll crafted in the likeness of your child. Instead of giving a generic doll found in so many stores, you can give a doll a child will treasure all her life and may even become a family keepsake.

Making a personalized baby doll at My Twinn is as simple as going to the site and selecting the "create a doll" tab. Youll first be asked to select a sex for the doll, either boy or girl and then an outfit for the doll to wear. You have your choice of dressy or casual. You can then select hair length, hairstyle, hair texture, and hair color. Youll be asked to select skin tone and eye color. You can even choose to have freckles and birthmarks painted on to look exactly like your child. Youll then be asked to upload a photo of your child so her personalized baby doll can be created.

The cost of having a customized baby doll created for your child is surprisingly affordable for such a time intensive creation, costing $149.00. You also have the option of purchasing a variety of different accessories for your childs doll including clothing, furniture, and accessories to further personalize the experience. It could be the start of a fun tradition for your child. Each year you could purchase additional items for the baby doll created in her likeness.

When you order your childs personalized baby doll, you can choose to have a letter addressed to your child describing her dolls journey to her home. This will really bring the gift to life for her and make it even more special. You can also choose to hide your childs new doll in a special location. From the website, you can enter where the doll is to be hidden and your child will receive a series of instructions for a treasure hunt which will lead her to her new doll.

What child wouldnt appreciate a personalized baby doll crafted in her likeness? This is one present that wont end up in the back of the closet. Why not surprise your little girl with this unique gift?

The Dangers of Chewing Ice

Do you find yourself frequently chewing on ice? Although the act of chewing on ice cubes may seem to be a harmless pastime, the constant need to chew ice may signal more serious problems. On top of that, the ice chewing can do serious damage to your pearly whites.

Why are some people so fond of ice chewing? The desire to chew ice is considered to be a form of pica which is medical problem where a person has the strong need to chew on substances that have no nutritional value. This can include the desire to chew on such strange things as rocks, clay, soil, and even feces. When compared to these crunchers, chewing on ice cubes doesnt sound so bad!

The desire to chew ice can sometimes be a sign of iron deficiency anemia. Because of this, you most often see ice chewing in younger women who happen to be at the highest risk for being iron deficient. The correlation between chewing ice and iron deficiency anemia is so strong that its recommended that you see a doctor for a blood test if you find yourself chewing on ice frequently. No one knows exactly why people with iron deficiency anemia have the need to chew ice cubes, but it may be due to the mild tongue and mouth soreness that sometimes go along with iron deficiency. Occasionally, chronic ice chewing can be a sign of other nutritional deficiencies.

Even if your blood tests for iron deficiency come back normal, chewing ice cubes can have negative health consequences in the form of injury to your teeth. Just as biting down on nuts and other hard objects can cause damage to your teeth so can a hard piece of ice. Chomping down on one too many ice cubes can cause a tooth to chip or fracture which can result in formation of an abscess and a trip to your dentist for a root canal. This is especially true if you have fillings in your teeth which weakens their structure making a fracture or crack more likely. Keep in mind that root canals can be expensive and uncomfortable. Is it worth it?

If you find that despite your best efforts you cant overcome an ice chewing addiction, try substituting something a softer that you can suck on more slowly such as a popsicle or other frozen treat. Another option is to continue to enjoy ice cubes by allowing them to melt in your mouth rather than biting down on them and risking a painful tooth fracture. If you cant overcome your addiction, youre not alone. Theres even an online forum dedicated to ice chewing at icechewing.com. Who would have known?

Does Sweating Remove Toxins from the Body?

We are, no doubt, assaulted by a barrage of pollutants in air, water and food every day - and some people think we can sweat out these toxins through brow-dripping exercise - or while sitting in a hot sauna or going to a hot yoga class. The idea of sweating out toxins has become trendy recently with an increasing number of people signing up for yoga classes where people pose in very hot environments to encourage sweating and release of toxins. Does sweating remove toxins-or not?

Sweating and Toxins: Does Sweating Remove Poisons?

Before signing up for a hot yoga class, consider this. Sweating is a mechanism the body uses to release heat. If you were to analyze sweat in the laboratory, you would find it consists mostly of water with small amounts of minerals, such as sodium and chloride, lactate and urea. Sweat may contain tiny amounts of lead along with other trace metals, but this amount is small enough to be almost insignificant. Toxins from any source cant be removed by sweating.

Fortunately, you do have a way to remove toxins - as long as you have a healthy liver. The liver is the main detoxifying organ in the body, although the kidneys and intestinal tract help too. The liver has the important job of filtering the blood to remove toxins and converting fat-soluble toxins into water-soluble ones that can be excreted by the kidneys.

Its your liver and kidneys that have the job of detoxifying and removing poisons from your body - and sweating keeps you healthy another way - by preventing overheating. You cant sweat out toxins by spending time in a hot room, a sauna or exercising vigorously in the heat - but you could end up dehydrated if you dont drink enough water.

Does Sweating Remove Toxins: The Bottom Line?

Sweating out toxins isnt an effective way to remove toxic substances from your body. To detoxify better, keep your liver healthy by not drinking too much alcohol and avoiding unnecessary medications. Maintaining a healthy weight helps to reduce the risk of fatty liver disease, another cause of reduced liver function. On the other hand, sweating is good for you if it means youre exercising, but be sure to stay well-hydrated.

References:

Merck Manual. Eighteenth edition. 2006.

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science 8 (4): 270-5.

How to Make Homemade Peanut Butter

If you worry about unhealthy ingredients in your peanut butter such as trans fats, and even worse, contaminants such as bacteria, you have choices. You can make your own, all-natural peanut butter at home using a food processor. When you make your own homemade peanut butter, youll not only get a healthier product but youll be saving money at the same time. Heres how to whip up a batch of fresh peanut butter in your food processor or blender.

Make homemade peanut butter: Buy your supplies

To make peanut butter, youll need access to a blender or food processor as well as a source of peanuts and oil. You have the choice of either using peanuts that have already been roasted or roasting the nuts in your oven at home. Roasting your own peanuts is as simple as placing the nuts on a cookie sheet and heating them for fifteen to twenty minutes in an oven at 350 degrees Farenheit. Both roasted and raw peanuts can be found in most grocery stores. Youll also need to pick up a bottle of peanut oil.

Make homemade peanut butter: Make the butter

Once you have the roasted nuts, place two cups of nuts into your food processor. Add two teaspoons of peanut oil to the processor along with a pinch of salt. Turn on the food processor or blender and allow the nuts to grind for two minutes. Stop the processor and check the consistency of the butter. It will likely still be clumpy at this stage. Turn the food processor back on and allow it to grind until you see a smooth paste form. This usually takes an additional two minutes or so. If you want creamier peanut butter, you can blend a little longer.

Make homemade peanut butter: Store your peanut butter

Once you have your fresh, homemade peanut butter, place it into a glass container and refrigerate it. Because it doesnt have any added preservatives, it wont last as long as store bought peanut butters. It should be good for about two weeks if kept refrigerated, but it will taste so good, dont expect it to be around that long!

Keep in mind that you dont have to use peanuts. Try substituting almonds, cashews, macadamia nuts, pistachios, or hazelnuts instead. You can even use a mixture of roasted nuts to make homemade nut butter. Try adding chocolate chips to the food processor along with the nuts to create chocolate nut butter. You can also add dried fruit to freshly made peanut butter to add additional flavor. Bananas are a particularly good choice. Have fun experimenting!

What Are the Best Fruits for Low Carb Dieting?

Its important to eat healthy if youre trying to lose weight, and, for some people, that means limiting carbohydrates. Although extremely low carb diets arent always the healthiest option for weight loss and arent a realistic long term solution, avoiding foods that are high in sugar can be an important part of a successful longer term eating plan. Most vegetables are relatively low in carbohydrates, but some fruits can be a problem for a low carb dieter because of their high fructose content. Still, fruits are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and phytonutrients which are important for overall health. If you want to eat fruit, but limit sugar and carbs, which should you choose? What are the best fruits for low carb eating?

Fruits for Low Carb Dieting: Fruits to Avoid

Certain fruits shouldnt be on your list if youre trying to limit carbohydrates. Dried fruits may sound like a healthy snack option, but the drying process turns them into a very concentrated source of sugar. Its far better from a carbohydrate and calorie standpoint to eat fresh fruit instead. Its also important to avoid canned fruits that are packed in syrup and to stay away from fruit juices as well, especially ones that have added sugar. Head for the fresh produce aisle instead.

Other fruits that arent good for low carb eating are bananas, grapes, cherries, and pineapple. Bananas are a particularly rich source of carbs with almost 24 grams in a single serving. Other fruits to avoid if youre looking for fruits that are low in carbohydrates include oranges, mangos, plums, and pears because of their concentrated sugar content.
Fruits for Low Carb Dieting: Better Choices

The best option when selecting fruits that are low in carbohydrates is to choose from the berry family. Blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and cranberries are all low in carbs and are an excellent source of flavonoids which are good antioxidants. Berries have so many other additional health benefits that theyre an easy choice to make. Peaches are relatively low in sugar and carbs; and if youre looking for something more exotic, papaya and guava are good options. The all-American summertime favorite, watermelon, is also relatively low in carbs and high in heart-healthy lycopenes.

Yes, you can enjoy the health benefits of fruit even if youre on a low carb eating plan. Simply look for fruit options that are low in carbohydrates and enjoy them in moderation.

The Risks of Laxative Teas

The benefits of drinking tea are well known, but theres one type of tea thats best left on the store shelf. Laxative teas or dieters teas as theyre sometimes called can have serious side effects if consumed in large amounts. These teas have become popular, particularly among young people, as a way to "detoxify" and lose weight and have been made popular by celebrities who use them as a way to shed pounds quickly without dieting. The public seems to be responding by buying boxes of laxative teas in record numbers.

The popularity of laxative teas arises from the belief that they cleanse the body of toxins and help to prevent weight gain. Most of these teas contain a variety of herbal ingredients including senna, buckthorn, rhubarb root, licorice root, cascara, aloe, and other natural ingredients derived from plants. Some types of laxative teas may be labeled as detox or dieters teas on store shelves to de-emphasize their laxative effects.

Although these teas stimulate more frequent bowel movements, theyre unlikely to cause real weight loss since they act at the level of the large intestine and colon, while fat and calories are absorbed by the small intestine. People who use these laxative teas are often grateful to see the numbers on the scale drop, not realizing that the weight loss is mostly water weight due to the frequent diarrhea.

Even more disturbing are the potential side effects of laxative teas. Not only do these teas cause diarrhea, but they can also be associated with significant abdominal cramping and digestive disturbances including vomiting. Using large amounts of laxative tea for long periods of time can actually cause long term problems with constipation as colon function becomes sluggish due to excessive laxative use.

An even more serious side effect of laxative teas is the potential for potassium levels to drop in response to the excessive diarrhea caused by these teas. When potassium levels drop, it can affect the function of the heart resulting in heart rhythm abnormalities which can be life threatening in some cases.

The bottom line? Use of laxative teas isnt recommended for either weight control or detoxification. Theres little evidence that they promote safe weight loss or that they provide any kind of detoxification benefits. The side effects of laxative teas arent worth the limited benefits they may have. As always, the best way to lose weight is through a healthy diet and exercise plan.

Jewelry Designers! Heres a Market for Your Handmade Jewelry!

If youre a jewelry designer who markets your own handmade jewelry, youre always on the look out for new markets for your creations. Heres an interesting jewelry marketing outlet that you may not have considered. Do you have any day spas or medical spas in your local area that provide relaxation and rejuvenation services? These facilities that cater primarily to women can be an excellent market for your handmade jewelry.

Women come to these spa facilities to look and feel relaxed and rejuvenated. They want a sense of freshness and renewal. Why not

help them brighten up their newly rejuvenated face with a new pair of handmade earrings? It may be just what the antiaging doctor ordered!

Why not give some of these spa facilities a call and see if they would be interested in carrying your handmade jewelry? They may not have considered selling jewelry before, so you may have to sell the idea to them. Stress the benefits that adding jewelry to their spa can bring such as increased profits, adding a decorative touch to their spa, giving customers something to look at while they wait etc. Emphasize they can carry your jewelry on consignment at no risk to them if this is workable from your perspective. If youve had success in other spas or hair salons, let them know this but emphasize you wont be selling your jewelry in any other spas in your local area so as not to compete directly with them. Once the spa realizes the benefits to them, theyll be more likely to give your jewelry a risk free trial.

Set up an arrangement with the spa where you can come in and replenish their stock of handmade jewelry on a regular basis to keep sales brisk. Once youve proven theres a market for your jewelry, suggest that they purchase wholesale from you as opposed to selling on a consignment basis. This will mean less paperwork for them and more efficient cash flow for you. You may also want to consider approaching other spas outside your immediate area for sales of your handmade jewelry.

Rejuvenation salons are an example of an excellent niche market for handmade jewelry. They are growing in numbers. giving you more facilities in which to sell your jewelry. They also tend to attract a customer who appreciates higher quality, handmade jewelry. Why not see if this is a viable market for your own jewelry designs?

Should a Non-Specialist Do Your Colonoscopy Screening?

There are lots of good reasons to get a colonoscopy - to screen for colon cancer. Colon cancer is a disease thats preventable if suspicious polyps are picked up early and removed - before they have the chance to develop into cancer. Theres little doubt that screening colonoscopies saves lives. Thats why doctors recommend that a person at average risk for colon cancer get a colonoscopy screening starting at age fifty - and continue up through age seventy-five. People at higher risk for colon cancer may need to get a screening colonoscopy even earlier. When the time comes to get a screening colonoscopy, should you let a surgeon do it, or a specialist?

Whos the Best Doctor to Do a Screening Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopies to screen for colon cancer were once the exclusive domain of gastroenterologists. Now, surgeons can undergo special training to learn to do them on patients - but choosing a surgeon or other non-specialist to do this procedure may not be a smart idea. A recent study sheds a disturbing light on screening colonoscopies performed by non-specialists.

Researchers looked at the outcomes of over 110,000 individuals who had colonoscopies to screen for colon cancer - and made note of how many of these individuals went on to develop colon cancer over a fifteen year period. The results? More people who had their screening colonoscopy performed by a non-gastroenterologist went on to develop colon cancer, than those who had their procedure carried out by a trained gastroenterologist.

A Colonoscopy Screening is Best Done By a Gastroenterologist

This isnt the first study to show these results. Two previous studies showed that more non-gastroenterologists fail to diagnose colon cancers on colonoscopy, than gastroenterologists who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and colon.

The Best Doctor to Do a Colonoscopy Screening: The Bottom Line?

Gastroenterologists undergo extensive training to learn colonoscopy screening, and theyre better qualified to screen for colon cancer. General surgeons who do these procedures also have training, but they dont have the opportunity to do as many colonoscopies as a gastroenterologist does. Thus, they may not have the same level of expertise. When it comes time to get a screening colonoscopy, ask for a gastroenterologist.

References:

Journal Watch. Volume 30, Nos. 9 & 10. May 2010. page 74.

Eat This Fat to Reduce Your Cholesterol Level

Fat has always been the "bad guy" when it comes to heart health - and your cholesterol profile. But theres one kind of fat that not only reduces LDL cholesterol but raises HDL levels too. Its the kind of heart-healthy fat your cardiologist wants you to eat more of. Monounsaturated fats are the "good guys" when it comes to heart health. Heres why.

The Heart-Healthy Fat That Reduces Cholesterol Levels

Most studies show that monounsaturated fats in foods like nuts and olive oil reduce LDL cholesterol and raise HDL levels (good cholesterol). This was recently confirmed by a new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal. When researchers substituted monounsaturated fats for carbohydrates for 13% of the calories older men and women ate for two months, it lowered their LDL cholesterol levels by 35% and raised their HDL cholesterol by 12.5%. This reduction could have significant benefits for the heart.

Heart-Healthy Fat That Lowers Your Cholesterol

Its not surprising that monounsaturated fats reduce cholesterol and raise HDL levels. Theyre the backbone of the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet that many health-conscious people recognize and embrace. The Mediterranean diet emphasizes olive oil and nuts that are high in monounsaturated fats as well as fruits and vegetables, fish, whole grains, and moderate amounts of wine. The Mediterranean diet is one of the healthiest diets in the world.

Olive oil and nuts arent the only foods high in monounsaturated fats. Other good sources of these fats are avocados, olives, and seeds of all types. Substituting nuts for a high-carbohydrate snack could be beneficial not only for heart health but for your waistline too. Some studies show that monounsaturated fats help to reduce unwanted belly fat. Using olive oil in place of butter reduces saturated fats in your diet too.

Lower Your Cholesterol Level with Monounsaturated Fats: The Bottom Line?

Replacing less healthy fats and oils with ones that contain monounsaturated fats helps to reduce cholesterol levels while raising HDL. Also, substituting monounsaturated-rich snacks, such as nuts, for ones high in carbohydrates, such as potato chips, could give you a healthier lipid profile. Make the right choices when it comes to choosing your snacks - and your fats.

References:

Medical News Today. "Adding Monounsaturated Fats To A Low-Cholesterol Diet Can Further Improve Levels"