The Healing Power of Honey

When you go to the grocery store, you probably see an entire shelf or several shelves dedicated to various types of honey. When we're talking about honey as a healing remedy, though, it's important that raw honey is used. Raw honey has not been "sterilized" with high heat, and it has not has anything added to it. 

Raw honey varies quite a bit, too. There's wildflower honey, tupelo honey, organic honey, and clover honey. A good middle road is raw wildflower honey. It tends to contain the medicinal qualities of a variety of wildflowers, and when you're trying to kill germs, the more germ-fighting constituents, the better. 


How Is Honey Used?

One of the great things about honey is how good is tastes. Children (over 1 year of age) respond well to honey as a treatment. Here are some of honey's healing uses.

* Burns - Honey has been shown in various studies to be an extremely effective burn treatment. It has various antibacterial compounds that have yet to result in bacterial resistance, and its moist nature helps keep burned skin supple and reduces moisture loss. If you use honey to treat minor burns, simply spread honey over the burn and cover lightly with gauze. Honey does not need to be refrigerated, but it feels good on a burn if it's chilled. 

* Coughs and colds - Studies have shown that regularly eating raw honey helps prevent colds. It also helps soothe coughs and sore throats. Its viscous texture coats the throat, and has a cough-suppressing effect. Its antibacterial properties help fight throat infections and upper respiratory infections. By gently heating raw honey and mixing in healing herbs such as sliced ginger, steeping for a few hours, and straining out the herbs, you can create a healing cough syrup. 

* Cosmetics - Honey is good for dry skin due to its high moisture content, and its antibacterial qualities may help with skin infections like acne. Plain yogurt mixed with honey makes a soothing cleanser or facial mask. Sugar mixed with raw honey and sweet almond oil makes a moisturizing exfoliant. 

* Allergies - Interestingly enough, regularly eating raw honey may prevent allergic symptoms, particularly those of hay fever. Because raw honey contains residual pollen and other plant components, the theory is that the low levels of exposure - such as occurs with allergy shots - may reduce sensitivity to common allergens. 

* Wound healing - Some interesting studies have shown that honey is a remarkable wound healer, especially for diabetics who have trouble with minor wounds developing into ulcers. It may even reduce scarring and tends to be less painful than conventional antiseptics.  

Arthritis Remedies For A Much More Active Life

Most, if not all, sufferers of arthritis have been exposed to the medical pills, ointments and treatments for arthritis.  All of which might or might not have worked to varying degrees and so searching around for arthritis remedies that will bring some relief has become central to their lives, which is no surprise really because arthritis is a painful condition to try and live with.

As well as trying to live with the pain, there is the added knowledge that arthritis can ravage the body and leave the sufferer with debilitating and disabling joints that will severely affect a persons standard of living and ability to do everyday things.

Arthritis remedies then usually begin in how to effectively manage and eliminate the pain associated with this condition.  One of the main methods of managing arthritis is to look at the diet of the sufferer.  It is widely held that switching the diet from one that is high in animal proteins and processed foods to a diet that closely resembles a vegan diet is highly effective in treating arthritis.  Foods such as red meats, rich dairy products such as cheeses and eggs etc. should be replaced by nuts, whole grains and fruits and vegetables.

Arthritis remedies that involve reducing the swelling that this disease causes in the joints of the sufferer are highly thought of and suggested.  Ice packs applied to a newly affected joint is a proven method to ease pain and reduce painful swelling.  However, what needs to be added to this point, is that icing a joint can often lead to the joint stiffening and becoming inflexible.  It is for this reason that icing of an arthritic joint is usually suggested at the end of the day.

Alternatively, applying heat to the affected joint also works well as arthritis remedies go.  Heat works the opposite way to ice and so the best time to often use a hot water bottle or heat pack is at the beginning of the day.  The joints have been stiffened throughout the night and a warm heat pack can often loosen up the joints and give more flexibility for the rest of the day.

It might sound counter-intuitive, but exercise is also a proven remedy for arthritis.  Of course depending on the level of mobility that a suffer might have, exercise in its full range might not be possible.  However as soon as arthritis is diagnosed, exercise should be placed at the top of the list.  Without exercise, the bones and joints quickly become stiff and immobile and any hope of reclaiming the flexibility needed to live an independent and active life might disappear for good.

Massaging the affected joints with soothing oils, incorporating exercise and adjusting the diet are all proven and worthwhile arthritis remedies that can effectively offer relief and a much better quality of life to anyone struggling with arthritis.

Binge Eating Success-It Is Possible With Support

For those who have a tendency to binge, this is a clear indication that something may be terribly wrong.  This is a condition that can spiral out of control until the individual experiences a host of both physical and emotional complications.  In order to be a binge eating success story, you have to be willing to accept that there is a real problem and that you want help for it.

As with other conditions, denial is a problem with bingers.  They may feel as if things are not quite right, but they retreat into their own world where food takes over and does the reasoning for them.  That’s why it is imperative that friends and family notice subtle changes in a person’s demeanor and appetite, as well as any physical changes that seem to be occurring.  

It is possible to get treatment for this condition as long as the person is confronted in the right manner.  They are going to feel lonely, depressed and an overall sense of being an outcast.  They will also often put on weight even though their eating patterns may not seem to have changed.  That is because they are hiding food and eating in private.  Since these foods are often the wrong types of foods high in fat, calories and sugar they cause significantly more damage.

Once a problem has been spotted it is imperative that the individual be persuaded to talk to a professional.  There are a number of ways that treatment can be rendered but since different individuals respond differently to various methods it might be necessary to try several different options to determine which one will work best for their particular case.

The most common treatments are medications and psychotherapy.  Sometimes, it is necessary for the two to be combined- depending on the severity of the condition.  Both have proven results in treating the condition.

Something else that goes with these treatments is that the individual not be left alone with food.  This condition is also known as compulsive eating for a reason.  For sufferers, once they begin eating they are not able to determine when to stop.  That’s why all meals should be eaten around others so that the person can be monitored.  Having accountability is the key to stopping the condition from escalating even further.

It will also be necessary for the individual to have routine searches of all of their private locations such as their room, locker, car, etc.  Anywhere that food can be stashed is a potential opportunity for them to backslide.  In order to become a binge eating success story, it is necessary to implement all of these practices.

3 Easy Ways To Relieve Insomnia Starting Tonight

If you are one of the millions of people that are suffering from insomnia, then you should know that there are some things you can do to make it less of a problem. While many turn to prescription medications, they don't always work and they can have a big impact on your health and your pocketbook. Not to worry, there are other ways to combat sleeplessness and we will look at some of the best ones in this article. 

There are many causes of insomnia, with hormonal imbalance and stress being two of the biggest culprits. While the items below will help in a lot of cases, your case may be more severe. If so, then see your doctor as a prescription may be your best alternative. But, before you go that route, try these things first: 


1. Loosen up - Okay, I'll be the first to admit that this is easier said than done, but it is the first step to beating insomnia. We all have things to worry about, but you have to find a way to let those things go before bedtime. In fact, by purposely forgetting them before retiring for the evening, you may actually solve those problems while you sleep. 

However, if you go to bed with the intention of solving a hard problem, then your subconscious will work differently by trying to keep you awake to solve. It all sounds counter-intuitive, but you have the best chance of solving your problems by not worrying about them before bed. At the same time, it's vital that you don't worry about how much sleep you will or won't get. Focusing on your insomnia is about the surest way to have insomnia. The key is to do things to help you unwind, to help you shift from the cares of the day to preparing to sleep. 


2. Stay healthy - Exercising too close to bedtime will only serve to make it harder to fall asleep. However if you exercise several hours earlier, your body will be more ready to sleep. Eating well is important to your overall health, and this extends to how well sleep. The healthier you are, the better you will sleep. Also, sleeping well is part of being healthy, so you will see a difference if you maintain a healthy lifestyle.


3. Learn relaxation techniques - There are many different techniques designed to help people relax and sleep better. You can purchase audio programs that use a form of guided meditation to help you drift off into a deep and restorative sleep. You can also try the following technique on your own: As you lie in bed start at your toes and release all of the energy from them, letting them melt right into your mattress. Then move up to your feet, ankles, calves, knees, and all the way up to the top of your head. As you do this, you will be letting go of the tension you have built up over the course of your day and drifting off to sleep before you know it.

A Natural Approach to Headache Relief

Headaches can be debilitating at worst and a nagging inconvenience at best. They can affect work and school productivity, and a bad headache can simply put you out of commission, no matter what your vocation. Taking medications can help relieve pain, but some of these pain relievers have side effects (such as stomach pain) and, if taken over too long a period, pain relievers can cause a rebound effect (in the form of another headache) when you stop taking them.

Some of the common causes of headaches are muscle tension, dilation and constriction of the blood vessels in the brain, food sensitivities, and hormone fluctuations. Once you've seen your health care practitioner and have ruled out anything serious, there are some natural approaches to headache relief that you can try.

1. Cramp Bark (Vibernum opulus)

As the name of the herb suggests, Cramp bark helps alleviate muscle tension and cramps. Vibernum prunifolium is also sold as "Cramp bark," but it is generally used to relieve uterine cramping. Cramp bark (Vibernum opulus) is touted as a prevention and treatment for muscle tension headaches. It is generally taken in capsule form, but a tea made from the bark can also be taken. 

2. Massage 

The relaxing effect of massage can help ease muscle tension and increase circulation, both of which might help a headache. There are massages you can do yourself in your own home or ask someone else to do them, or you can go to a professional for headache relief and prevention.

3. Chiropractic

Muscle tension can cause bone and joint misalignment, say chiropractic practitioners, and then the misalignment exacerbates the muscle tension as muscles work to pull the bones back into alignment. Getting an adjustment at a chiropractor can bring almost instant headache relief, and seeing the chiropractor regularly (say once a month) can help stave off future headaches.

4. Feverfew

This daisy-like little flower is considered by some herbalists to be a very effective remedy for headaches, particularly migraines. While there are many ways to take it, capsules are probably the easiest and have the fewest side effects. You can take feverfew regularly to prevent migraine attacks.

5. Willow

You might have heard of white willow for pain relief; but actually, various willow (Salix) species can help relieve pain. The precursor to aspirin, the inner bark of the white willow can provide pain relief for headaches. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect. White willow (and other willow bark) is usually taken in capsules. 

6. Stress Management

It's generally understood that stress and headaches are interconnected. Engaging in regular stress relief may help prevent the onset of headaches. Stretching, meditation, Yoga, Pilates, and other methods can help align the body and reduce stress.   

25 Natural Ways To Relieve Back Pain Today

There are many more than 25 natural ways to relieve back pain, however this will be a good starting point. The 25 natural ways to relieve back pain can be broken down in to several categories. The first is stretching then strengthening and then by drinking and eating. The third area when looking at the 25 natural ways to relieve back pain is to use good posture when sitting and standing. 

The first group of the 25 natural ways to relieve back pain will involve stretching. To do this you will need to hold each position for 5-8 seconds and do not bounce or make any swift movements. Do not move beyond the pain. If you feel pain, you need to stop.

Stretching Moves: 

1. Lie face down on an exercise ball and move your shoulders forward slightly. 
2. After sitting for some time, stand and place your hands upon your lower back, then push your shoulders back and hips forward. 
3. Lay on the ground facing up. Pull one knee up towards your chest and then pull your other leg up to your chest. 
4. While holding the above position, twist the bottom half of your torso to your left and point your knees to the 10 o'clock position, then point them to your right at the 2 o'clock position. Remember to hold each position for 5-8 seconds. 
5. While lying on the ground face up, bend your legs at the knees and place your feet flat on the ground. Slowly push up your hip area until you form a bridge. The second group of 25 natural ways to relieve back pain includes back strengthening. 
6. Do Hindu style squats. This will strengthen your lower back so that you are able to deal with every day rigor. 
7. Do sit ups. Sit ups strengthen your abs but also takes the pressure off of your back muscles.
8. The Superman position. Lay face down and lift your upper torso and legs so that your body forms a bowl and hold the position for a few seconds. 
9. The Reverse Fly. Lean over at about 90 degrees, use a 5- 10 pound weight in each hand, then raise both arms straight out. 
10. Opposite arm and leg raise.Get on all fours, extend one of your arms completely and then raise the opposite leg and then switch to the other arm and leg.

Eating And Drinking To Rellieve Back Pain:

11. Drink lots of water.
12. Avoid too much sugar and carbonated drinks.
13. Eat vitamin B-12 rich foods.
14. Increase your calcium levels.
15. Eat foods that are rich in magnesium.

Good Posture While Satanding or Sitting:

16. If you sit for a long time use some type of lumbar support for your lower back. 
17. If you are sitting or standing sit with your back pushed toward your tummy and your shoulders pushed back.
18. When standing or sitting prop a foot on a step stool.
19. If you have to stand for a long period keep your chest elevated,shoulders pushed back and your body straight to the ground. 
20. If you have to sit at a desk for a long time, raise your computer monitor to a higher setting so you do not have to look down. Be sure to keep your head level. The fifth and final group of 25 natural ways to relieve back pain involves moving. 
21. If you sit for long periods, lean to the right and left. Make sure to keep adjusting yourself. 
22. Walk more. Walking strengthens your back muscles.
23. Bend down to touch your toes.
24. Be sure to move your head around.
25. Give yourself a giant hug. 

The 25 natural ways to relieve back pain that I mentioned are only a few suggestions, there are so much more that will help with back pain.

Learning to Cook Vegan Successfully

Plenty of people every year decide to switch to a Vegan lifestyle.  This means that you certainly are not alone when it comes time to break in some new dishes that you have been drying to try.  However, it does mean that you are going to be rather amazed at some of the great unique dishes that are available to try out.  Looking for several ways to get started cooking Vegan successfully is not always easy, but if you have some patience and a bit of time to really plan out a game plan you will find that it does not have to be as difficult as it might sound.

The very first step you need to take is a good accurate assessment of your current cooking skills.  If the idea of walking into the kitchen to cook has you sweating profusely then you are again not alone, but it will mean that you need to come to terms with the kitchen.  If your idea of cooking is running to the local take out and putting food on plates or even eating straight out of the box you will again need to come to terms with the kitchen.  A vegan diet is possible, but while eating out is also possible it is not as healthy, nor will you find the same amount of options as you can prepare yourself at home.

Your next step is to determine how well you can actually cook vegetables.  Many people think that vegetables have to be limp, boring and bland.  This is actually far from the truth.  Using several different cooking techniques, it is possible to make vegetables that actually taste good!  Strange as it may sound, it really is possible and if you do not already know these methods you will need to learn them quickly.

You should also dedicate a bit of time to learning a few of the simplest recipes.  These will serve you well when it comes time to throw a fast meal together so you are not late for a teacher’s conference or you have unexpected guests coming over.  Of course, everybody wishes they had time to prepare a full three course meal but alas, this rarely happens so knowing a few fast delicious recipes is sure to safe you at some point or another.  Just be very careful to stick to ingredients that are common in your house for these recipes so you do not have a collection of useless recipes with no ingredients.

Look into a couple of cooking classes.  This will help you to really master the Vegan cooking lifestyle.  Giving up meat is certainly not easy and while there are some great animal product substitutes available on the market learning how to properly cook them as well as ensure that they are prepared correctly is some valuable information.  There is certainly no reason to sign up for dozens of lessons though, most people can easily get by on just 2 or even three fast lessons.  Just enough time to really cover some basics without getting completely lost.  Looking at this as a great learning adventure will allow you to get the biggest benefit possible, and you may even decide that you want to take some additional classes and further expand your vegan cooking skills.

Choosing the Cellulite Treatment That's Best for You

Are you looking to rid yourself of cellulite, or reduce its appearance? 
If so, you might be overwhelmed by the treatments available out there. What works? 
What can you afford? Does exercise help? Following is an evaluative list of some cellulite treatment options to help you choose what's right for you.

Exercise

There are exercises that are reputed to help reduce cellulite. Some kind of cardiovascular exercise is considered the best start; it boosts your metabolism and helps circulation (more about circulation's role in cellulite later). Cardiovascular exercises like jogging, brisk walking, swimming, etc. get the muscles warmed up and ready for toning.

Following cardio, target toning may help reduce cellulite. Exercises that work the back of the arms, buttocks, inner thighs, backs of the legs and belly are best, as this is where cellulite tends to occur. Wherever you tend to have cellulite, use light weights and toning exercises on that area. 

Exercises to reduce cellulite can be done in your home via DVD, video, or online tutorials. Or, you can join a class or gym. The exercise option is perhaps the most individualized approach, and a large or small budget can accommodate some form of anti-cellulite exercise.

Diet

It could be said that combining exercise (see above), with diet is the best combination for combating cellulite. Experts say that a diet high in unhealthy fats (fats that are solid at room temperature, trans fats, and so forth) can contribute to cellulite, but a diet rich in healthy fats (Omega 3s, Omega 6s, and other essential fatty acids) may actually help reduce cellulite and prevent its formation. Apparently, when you consume healthy fats, you contribute to the healthy appearance of the skin and the fat cells beneath it. 

Lean protein, whole grains (for fiber and key nutrients), and lots of plant-based foods is probably your best bet for an anti-cellulite diet. Just changing your diet is probably not going to make all you cellulite magically disappear. However, it may contribute significantly to an overall regimen to reduce cellulite.

Massage

Poor circulation may contribute to cellulite formation. As noted above, exercise is a good way to boost your cardiovascular system, and target toning can enhance circulation right where the cellulite is. Massage may have a similar effect, bringing blood to the affected area and enhancing skin tone. 

Because cellulite is said to be an issue of skin as well as the fat layer beneath, massage can address both of these areas. Many home cellulite massagers are available on the market - perhaps the least expensive is a hand-held device meant to be used in the shower on wet, soapy skin. There are also electrical massagers available, and even spa treatments with professional massage. 

Creams and Scrubs

Whether you go with homemade creams and scrubs or commercial ones, such topical treatments are said to be most effective when combined with other approaches. Anti-cellulite scrubs can help enhance circulation, as can "wraps," where you apply a cream to the area and wrap it in plastic wrap. Creams often contain caffeine which is said to tighten up the skin.  

What Is Cellulite?

A great many people have cellulite - some sources say that it occurs in 90 percent of women. That's a lot of lumps! What is cellulite, anyway? Does it mean you're unhealthy? Can you get it if you're not overweight?

Cellulite was not always considered unattractive. In days past, lumpy skin on the buttocks and thighs was considered feminine and was depicted favorably in paintings. But today, most of us consider cellulite unsightly and want to get rid of it. Regardless of how it's viewed, many of us are not sure just what cellulite is.

Directly under the skin, there is a fat layer, particularly in women. This subcutaneous fat layer can become pitted and bumpy in appearance. Why it does so is subject to debate. But the fact that this fat layer is more predominant in women than in men has a lot to do with why women are more subject to cellulite.

What Causes the Bumps?

The jury is still out on this one. Nearly all sources agree that the lumps occur in the subcutaneous fat layer, but opinions differ as to how they get there.

* Hormones may play a role, which would also help explain women's tendency to develop cellulite. In this day and age of synthetic hormones and chemical hormone disruptors (such as some pesticides), it's no wonder that hormonal imbalances are becoming more prominent. Hormones influence all sorts of body systems, including how the body stores fat.

* Poor circulation is another possible cause of cellulite. When the circulation in a certain body area is poor, it may result in poor skin tone, "stagnant" fat cells and inadequate lymphatic drainage. These factors may come together to form the bumpy appearance of cellulite.

* Heredity may also play a role. Your genes determine your skin thickness and overall body structure, which conspire to make you more or less vulnerable to cellulite.

* A tight tissue "network" under the skin may also contribute to cellulite. The shape, placement, and flexibility (or lack of it) in the subcutaneous tissue plays a significant role in how lumpy the fat under the skin looks.

Is It Unhealthy?

Cellulite is not considered unhealthy per se. But it may be a sign of poor health if it results from excess body weight, poor exercise habits, or a build-up of toxins.

Is Cellulite Just Fat?

While cellulite is subcutaneous fat that appears lumpy, it's not "just fat." In fact, healthy subcutaneous fat can give you a youthful, smooth appearance, especially in the face. Some people will even have fat injected under the skin in a cosmetic procedure to "plump" certain areas of the body! So cellulite is not just fat; it's a particular manifestation of body fat. Not all body fat looks lumpy.

Body Detoxes and Their Benefits

Are you considering a body detox?  If so, you may have heard that there are a number of health benefits to undergoing one, but is this true?  Yes and no.  In all honesty, it depends on who you ask.

Before further discussing whether a body detox does have benefits, it is important to familiarize yourself with the detox process.  There are a number of ways for you to detoxify your body.  Three popular approaches include the Master Cleanse, water fasting, and juice fasting.  Water fasting and juice fasting involves only consuming water and juice respectively.  On the Mater Cleanse, you mix a drink with about 8 ounces of water, 1/10 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of grade b maple syrup.  The cleanse also includes a nightly senna tea and a morning salt-water flush.

When on the Master Cleanse, a water fast, or a juice fast, solids are eliminated from your diet.  Many healthcare professional state this is very risky.  Most of the risk assumed is associated with water fasting.  When fasting, your body receives no nutrients.  On a juice fast or the Master Cleanse, your body will not receive all needed nutrients, but some.  For that reason, many professional state that if you are going to cleanse, use either the Master Cleanse or juice fasting.

Although there is some concern about the lack of nutrients while on a detox fast or cleanse, there are benefits.  One benefit is weight loss.  When you do not eat solid foods, your calorie intake decreases drastically.  This will result in automatic weight loss, even without exercise.  Medical professional advise against fasting for the sole purpose of losing weight, but it can be a benefit to undergoing detox.

The greatest benefit of a body detox is that it does what it is supposed to do.  That is eliminating stored toxins and waste from your body.  These toxins enter our body through water, food, and the environment.  Although a small buildup is not uncommon, a large one can hurt your body.  When these toxins are expelled through bowel movements, urination, and sweat, you will notice a significant improvement in your health.  Many report an increase in energy, regularity, as well as better skin.

As previously stated, the Master Cleanse, water fasting, and juice fasting are three common and popular ways to detox.  Unfortunately, some find it difficult to go a week without solid foods.  If you are one of those individuals, you can detox in other ways.  Although not as full-proof, switching to organic foods, exercising, getting a full body wrap at a spa, or 5-day visits to the sauna can help your body expel toxins.

Since there are benefits to detoxifying the body, you may wish to get started right away.  Before doing so, review each of your detox options and find the approach that works best for you. 
 Also, decide on a plan of action for after your detox.  At the conclusion of your cleanse, you will have a cleaner and healthier body.  You can keep it that way by switching to organic foods, maintaining a healthy diet, and by exercising.

Although the above mentioned claims are widely disputed in the medical field, there are many men and women who will tell you to try a cleanse or body detox.  These individuals have seen success.  While each body varies, you will likely see those same results.  As a reminder, those results include weight loss, increased energy, an improvement in the skin’s appearance, and an overall feeling of healthiness.

Is a Detox Diet Right For You?

In recent years, body detoxification and cleansing has increased in popularity.  At one time, many just believed that detoxification was for those dependent on drugs and alcohol.  Now, detoxification is being promoted as a health benefit.  A number of well-known celebrities have brought the process to light.  Although body detoxification does have a number of benefits, is it right for you?

Health conditions.  Do you have any diagnosed health condition?  For example, do you have a thyroid condition or diabetes?  If so, you should never detox your body, especially if water fasting is involved, without first speaking to a healthcare professional. Yes, detoxification and fasting does have many benefits, but those with certain health conditions may do more harm than good.

Excessive weight.  Are you overweight?  If so, that may be on the reason why you chose to detoxify or cleanse your body.  As previously stated, many celebrities have brought cleansing and detoxification into the forefront.  Along with that, came the realization that cleansing and detoxification can lead to weight loss.  Although you are advised against detoxing your body just for weight loss, you are likely to lose weight.  

Ability to stay on track.  Are you able to set goals and stick with them?  If so, you may be able to successfully complete a detox diet.  Unfortunately, many do not realize how difficult these diets can be.  Participating in the Master Cleanse, a water fast, or a juice fast can be very hard to adjust to, as all solid food are eliminated from your diet.  Even just limiting your food intake to organic foods can be difficult if you are dependant on caffeine, which should be eliminated from your diet.

Lack energy.  A lack of energy can be something as simple as not getting enough sleep.  It can also be the sign of an underlying medical condition, such as a thyroid problem.  Also, it can be due to the consumption of unnatural chemicals and additives.  For example, caffeine helps to give us energy, but did you know that too much caffeine can have an adverse effect, leaving you fatigued?  Detoxifying your body may help to restore your energy.

Desire.  Do you want to improve your health?  Are you tired of not looking your age or are you just tired all the time?  If so, a detox diet may be able to help.  Over the years, you may have consumed many foods and drinks with unnatural chemical and additives.  Yes, these are regarded as being “safe,” but not all are expelled from our body.  A detox diet or cleanse can help to rid your body of these toxins, leaving your body clean and pure again.

Drug dependency.  Do you have a dependency on drugs?  Whether those drugs are legal prescriptions drugs or illegal narcotics, you may be seeking help.  First and foremost, congratulations.  Asking for help and stopping drug consumption can be difficult, but it is an important step to take.  Unfortunately, wanting to detox your body to rid yourself of a drug dependency is different than doing so for improving your health or giving you more energy.  For that reason, speak to your healthcare professional.

Alcohol dependency.  Do you have a dependency on alcohol?  As with drugs, detoxification can help, but it is important to speak with a healthcare professional.  Overtime, your body will grow dependent on alcohol.  If you are at that point, the withdrawal symptoms may be too much for you and your body to handle on its own. Although you can detox at home, it is recommended that you do so under the care of a professional healthcare provider.

In short, a body detox or cleanse does have a number of benefits, but it is not the right choice for everyone.  If you opt for a detox diet, but find it difficult or painful to continue on, stop immediately and seek the advice of a trained healthcare provider.

Desktop Games To Relieve Stress During Your Day

Most of the stress we  accumulate is while we are at work. The never ending distractions and the deadlines and the emails you must reply to are taxing.It's no surprise we are stressed. There are several ways to relieve the stress and one of those ways is desktop games.Desktop games make it easy for you to relieve stress during your breaks at work and it can be done right at your desk. 

Playing games helps to relax people and take them out of the work mind state. Playing games is a great way to spend quality family time or with friends. With the many advances in technology we have,the variety of games we can play is staggering. Your options for games that suit your tastes increase and there’s a game out there for everyone. Desktop games like Desktop Destroyer and Online Paintball are a fun way to spend your breaks at work to help relieve you of stress. These action filled games are great for stress relief. 

If you don't want to just play but rather practice concentration or some other skill,games exist to fit this need too,such as Sudoku,cross words and Solitaire. These games are fun and keep you sharp. When you focus on the game you temporarily forget about deadlines and the problems,instead you are doing something fun and being challenged. 

You could also relax by taking some time off for yourself. Taking some time off to yourself for a few minutes and as long as your break permits can help balance your work load with fun. Everyone needs to relax at some point or another and desktop games enable you to do so. Physical exercise is a great stress buster but you may not have time nor be in the ideal situation to exercise at work,desktop games offer you stress relief. These games are great for taking your mind off things when things are tense and you want to explode.And can even keep you sharp in the process and you may learn something new. 

Desktop games helps you to relax and forget things so you wont lose control.You don't need to change into workout clothes or worry about getting sweaty with desktop games and you don’t need to go anywhere either.And best of all it’s at your desk,you don't have to get up and move. Relieving stress is beneficial to the quality of your life. We all know too much stress can cause health problems to rise and it’s important that we relax to help even out the work load. Playing desktop games enables you to relieve stress in a quick easy manner.

Foods Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Whats Right For You

It will take some trial and error to find out what foods irritable bowel syndrome is triggered by. Learning what your safe foods are will go a long way to calming the effects food has on your system and, therefore, help to control your symptoms.

Because everyone is different, your doctor may have a difficult time making any dietary recommendations for you to follow as it may be difficult to pinpoint exactly which food or foods are responsible for your irritable bowel syndrome. The smart thing may be to try eliminating whole categories of foods from your diet and then reintroduce them one by one so you get a clearer picture of what is causing your symptoms and then you can assist in any dietary discussions with your doctor to make some informed dietary decisions.

For instance, stop eating dairy foods for a week or so then the next week have some yogurt. If that goes ok for you then try milk or cheese. Keep doing this until you find out what, if anything, triggers a flare-up. Lactose intolerance is a big reason why some people have irritable bowel syndrome.

Next, give up anything you eat made with wheat, or has gluten, this includes apples. You may just have a gluten allergy. If your symptoms get better you can suggest to your doctor that maybe some allergy testing is in order to find out if a gluten allergy is the culprit.

If you have been suffering from this for some time you already have an idea of what foods irritable bowel syndrome is triggered by and now it is time to narrow it down because life is better when you can spend it with friends and family and not all alone dealing with excruciating pain and explosive diarrhea or any of the other symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome.

Learning more about how different foods affect your system, avoiding the trigger foods like those that are high in fat, and choosing foods that can calm your digestive tract will make your diagnosis easier to deal with and your life a lot better.

Some examples of things that act as calming agents are peppermint, fennel, and chamomile. Regular tea also calms your digestive tract and helps reduce the frequency of diarrhea.

Changing the way you eat and eliminating some of the foods you really like may not be the easiest thing you have ever done but anything that alleviates the worst of your symptoms will be worth it in the end (no pun intended).

Does this mean you can never eat out again? No, it doesn't. I will encourage you to learn as much as you can about your triggers before going out to your favorite restaurant again though, become your own best advocate and stop being your own worst enemy. By becoming informed and learning to make better choices you will realize that all you are really giving up is the anxiety related to foods irritable bowel syndrome is triggered by. How nice is that?

Antiviral Herbs

The virus is a different creature than the bacteria. Some people find viruses "scarier" because antibiotics have no effect on them. The interesting (and good) thing is that certain herbs do have antiviral action, and many of these are widely available. Here are some of them. 

1. Lemon Balm

In Germany, the antiviral effects of lemon balm are well-documented, and creams made from the herb are prescribed for herpes outbreaks and cold sores. Lemon balm is very easy to grow in your garden - a little too easy, in fact, as it tends to take over if not contained. 

Lemon balm makes a very good tea, and can be drunk to combat all sorts of viral infections, such as colds and flu. The tea or a cream can be applied to cold sores or other viral lesions, such as shingles or chickenpox. 

2. Astragalus

This lesser-known immune enhancing herb is known as huang qi in Chinese medicine. The root is sweet, not unlike licorice, to which it is related. It has been shown to be a very effective antiviral herb, particularly in the prevention of colds and flu, and may even be effective against the Coxsackie B virus (this virus can cause an inflammation of the heart). 

You can simmer slices of the root in water to make a healing decoction, or you can use the commercially-available tincture. It is generally agreed that astragalus should be taken as a preventative rather than once the illness is in full swing, so if you think you've been exposed, or you experience the very first twinges of illness, you can start taking astragalus. 

3. Garlic

No discussion of antiviral herbs would be complete without mentioning garlic, an herb that is antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal. It's not expensive, and you can use the whole herb or take capsules. However, many experts agree that "deodorized" garlic may not be as effective as the unaltered herb.

You can simmer minced garlic in chicken broth and sip it to stave off colds and flu. Raw, minced garlic can be sprinkled over salads and tossed with pasta. Be careful with consuming too much of it raw, though, as it can cause severe nausea when taken in this form. 

4. Ginger

Long ago, ginger was considered a "warming" herb that would prevent nausea from a "chilled stomach," which was said to occur when large amounts of cold water were consumed in hot weather. We now know that ginger has powerful anti-nausea action, and it is also anti-viral.

Teas made from fresh ginger are palatable and spicy. You can sweeten them with raw honey for added germ-fighting benefits and flavor. When you feel the very first stages of a cold or flu, try drinking some of this tea several times a day. You can even drink it as a preventative if you think you may have been exposed to any viruses. Ginger is considered quite safe, although it is not recommended for pregnant women.

Is Cellulite a Sign of Poor Health?

Many people look in the mirror and see cellulite, and assume that means they are overweight and out of shape. But this is not necessarily true. While cellulite can be unsightly, and healthy measures such as diet and exercise can help, cellulite is not necessarily a sign that your health is poor. 

The cause of cellulite is debatable. A poor diet is said to contribute to the formation of cellulite, particularly consuming unhealthy fats such as saturated fats. Some sources claim it results from a build-up of toxins in the fat layer just under the skin. These toxins are said to sabotage the suppleness of the skin and fat layer, causing pits and bumps that hold these toxins. 

Others claim cellulite has to do with poor lymphatic drainage or lack of circulation. Still other sources point to heredity as the primary cause. Hormones may also play a role. Heredity and hormones may be the causes best represented by clinical evidence. 

Depending on which school of thought you adopt, you could consider cellulite a sign that something is amiss with your health, whether it's circulatory health, poor diet, or hormone imbalances. 

When Cellulite May Indicate Poor Health

Sometimes, cellulite does indicate poor health, and this is when cellulite results from excess body weight. Of course it is not healthy to weigh too much; cellulite is simply a manifestation of excess weight in some people. However, some people who are not overweight have cellulite, and some overweight people do not have it; so, once again, cellulite does not automatically mean you are too fat.

When Cellulite Is Probably Just Cosmetic

For many, cellulite is primarily a cosmetic issue. It's important not to get discouraged and think you're "too fat" if you have a healthy lifestyle and still have cellulite. Even some teenagers who are not overweight have cellulite, and some older people who are quite overweight have smooth skin!  

Getting Healthy 

Perhaps cellulite is best considered a sign that you could improve your health. After all, adopting a healthy lifestyle may be the key to reducing cellulite's appearance. And if you adopt healthy measures such as exercise, healthy diet, and so forth and still have cellulite, then you know it's not a sign of poor health on your body. At that point, you might try something like massage or a cellulite cream to boost your efforts at reducing cellulite. 

Facial Exercises For A Firm Neck

Facial muscles will lose elasticity over time and soon you may begin to notice some wrinkles around the eyes and face.  Another problem that you may begin to notice is loose saggy skin around the neck and throat area as this area tends to show age faster than other areas of the face.  Many people will resort to expensive and invasive surgeries to reduce the sagging skin around the neck.  There are some great exercises that you can do to target the neck area and reduce the saggy skin and they are much cheaper than a facelift.

Let's take a look at some effective exercises to help tone the neck and throat and reduce sagging.

For this exercise you need to sit on the floor and have your legs folded comfortably and your back straight.  Slowly tilt your head backwards and hold this position for 10 seconds.  Return head to the forward position.  You should feel the stretch in the jaw line as you do this exercise.  Repeat this exercise for five sets.

Next, stay in the sitting position, relax your shoulders and look straight ahead.  Turn your head slowly to the right and have your chin even with your shoulder.  Hold this position for five seconds and then return to looking straight ahead.  Repeat on the left side so you are looking left and your chin is even with your left shoulder.  Hold for five seconds and then return to the facing forward position.  Repeat this exercise three times on both sides.

While still in the sitting position keep your head facing forward and your shoulders relaxed.  Tile your head to the right side and hold for five seconds.  Come back into the middle.  Tilt your head to the left side and hold for five seconds, then come back into the middle.  Repeat this on both sides for three sets.  You should feel the stretch in your neck during this exercise.

For the next exercise you want to be on your hands and knees.  Drop your head down toward the floor and keep your neck, spine and elbows straight.  Slowly inhale.  Exhale slowly and as you do so curve your back downward and lift your head upward.  Repeat this five times.

Sit on the floor again facing forward.  Tilt your head back slowly and move your jaw up and down.  Hold this position for ten seconds then return to the forward facing position.  Repeat this three times.

These simple exercises are very effective for toning and tightening the muscles in the neck and throat area.  If you do these exercises every day you will build stronger muscles that will give you a more youthful appearance.  Performing the exercises every day will start to give you results in a couple of weeks.

Try to stay in a calm, relaxed mood while doing these exercises so the muscles are relaxed and more flexible for the exercises.  Burning a candle or listening to relaxing music can help.
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Binge Eating Disorder-More Common Than You Think

It is often common for individuals to overeat on certain occasions, such as a special meal or during the holidays.  But what you ate every meal in this fashion?  That’s what occurs for those who suffer from a binge eating disorder.  To them, no special requirement is necessary in order to consume large quantities of food.

Approximately 2 million people from differing backgrounds have this condition.  It does not single out certain groups according to ethnicity or age.  In fact, an alarming fact is that it can even be found in children.
  
People with this type of affliction are often overweight, if not obese, although it is not a necessity in order to have the condition.  They find it necessary to consume massive quantities of food at every sitting, even though they are not hungry.  When a person begins to eat, it takes the stomach approximately 20 minutes to register what has been eaten and to notify the brain that it is full.  That’s why the recommendation is to wait this period of time between helpings to give the body time to signal that no more food is necessary. 

But in these extreme cases, there is no cutoff, nor does the brain intervene.  The individual is so adept to continuing in their eating that they pay no attention to the body or the brain as a way of stopping.  And not only do they consume large quantities of food, but they do so very quickly, which further complicates the matter.

Many times, others may think that these individuals do not care or that they might even wish to be overweight, but that is simply not the case. In fact, research has shown that those who suffer from this condition do so because of a loss of control, which is why the condition has also been known as compulsive eating.  The compulsion to continue eating is there, but not the will to stop. 

There is any number of triggers that can set off one of these eating sessions.  It can be anything ranging from guilt, to fear, anger, resentment, depression or even stress.  When one of these times occurs, the binger is looking for solace in the food, even though they typically feel guilty and upset while they are doing it.  

The treatment for a binge eating disorder is medication, psychotherapy, or even a carefully designed combination of both.  Regardless of the course of treatment, the main goal is to determine what the triggering mechanisms are and to learn to effectively deal with them without the use of food.

Fix Hangover Symptoms - Pounding Headache and Throwing Up

Need some advice on how to fix hangover symptoms quick and easy. Well, it may be easy but might not be as quick as you would like. The best thing you can do for yourself is take the time to rest and relax if you have over done it the night before. Yeah, yeah, we've all said it, "I'm never going to drink like that again." Uh huh, til next time that is. Why do we do it? Who knows. 

We think we are having fun but the next morning we wonder why we had so much fun and was it really worth what we have to deal with now. Headache, sensitivity to light and sound, sound especially, feeling like something has crawled in your mouth and died there, nausea and possibly the worst thing that the human body can do, throw up. Do ya really wanna to see everything you did last night for a second time? Blech! Icky, nasty, gross! I just don't think so.

When you wake up in the morning after a night of over-indulgence the very first thing you will want to do is clean your mouth. Brush your teeth and rinse with a strong mouthwash, preferably one without alcohol in it. This will not make you feel completely better but it is a good start to fix hangover symptoms.

After cleaning your mouth, drink a glass of cool water. Not too cold otherwise your stomach may cramp and cause you to vomit. Take only sips if you have to and do not slam this first glass of water or you may just be seeing it again very soon. You need to be very nice to your stomach right now or it will rebel against you.

Next, grab some caffeine, hot or cold it doesn't matter. You just need to wake up a little bit. Do not drink more than a couple of caffeinated drinks because caffeine, like alcohol, is dehydrating and you want to concentrate on hydrating yourself today. Drinking a glass of water every hour or so will be the best thing, along with time, that you can do for yourself today.

To become even more lucid, take a nice, long, hot shower and just let the water cascade over you. I guarantee that when you are done taking your shower you will feel like a human being again. Now it is time to dress in very comfortable clothes and either return to bed and take a nap or relax on the couch. Do not do anything too stressful or exert yourself in any way, if you do you will only exacerbate your symptoms and it will only take longer to feel better.

As soon as you feel hungry, try to eat just a little something. Have some tea with honey and some toast. The honey will help stabilize your blood sugar and the toast with some butter spread on it will help get rid of the nausea you may be feeling. If you are a little shaky it probably means your blood sugar is low so make sure you get that honey into your system to help fix hangover symptoms.

Blood Pressure Normal Range - Are You In It?

You would think your blood pressure normal range would depend on the person. You know, like your height, weight, and how tall you are. However it just doesn’t work like that.     

Truth be told, your normal blood pressure range should be between 110 over 75 to 120 over 80. If your Systolic and Diastolic numbers are out of the normal range you may ask, "What can I do to get my blood pressure in the normal range?" The very first thing you should do is beat a hasty track to your doctor to determine if there is a health problem causing the high numbers. However there a few things you can do on your own.


Cut Out Fried Foods 

You know the foods I’m talking about, like fried chicken, or, well anything fried for that matter. I know for some of us, that will be like cutting off our right arm. However, it’s not nearly as painful and it can save your life.      
   

Get Rid Of The Salt Salt  

I would say cut back the amount of salt you use, however we both know if you don’t stop using it all together, then you won’t stop at all.  You know it, and I know it, so cut it all out. But to make it easier for you use other healthy spices to enhance the flavor of your food.  


Limit Soft Drink Intake

Here is one that I think would be the toughest for most us.  We have been doing it since we were old enough to pick up a can of it. That is our wonderful soda pop. I know nothing is finer than drinking an ice cold Pepsi or Coke.  

However, take a look at the label and see the sodium in each can or bottle. It can be staggering the amount we put in our body.    


Eat Healthy Suggestions

Now for some of the good foods that are out there that we can eat to replace some of the bad stuff.  Apples are great, and you know that old saying “an apple a day will keep the doctor away” Well its true.  Try an apple instead of those chips.  For that matter any fruit will do.      


Stop Smoking

Now here is one that may affect some, however not all.  For smokers out there that have high blood pressure, YOU HAVE TO STOP!!!  There is no way around it, if you stop now then you can lower your blood pressure plus your lungs would be very thankful.   


Exercise  

Exercise is a very vital part to getting your blood pressure to the normal level.  This is more about will power then it is about some physical ailment. It is very important for you to pick regimen and stick to it.     

Not only will you get your blood pressure to a normal level. You can get your cholesterol down, it helps fight depression and overall you will just feel great.   

What it boils down to, is making a choice to do something which will benefit you, and the people who care about you.  If you want your blood pressure to be in the normal range then I say go for it!!

Cellulite Detox - How a Cleanse May Help Cellulite

You may have heard about doing a cleanse to help with weight loss and overall health. A cleanse is reputed to remove toxins from your body, which is why a cleanse is sometimes called a "detox" or a "detoxification cleanse." Many cleanses involve herbs, juices, and/or supplements that can aid in the process. Advocates of cleansing claim that it promotes overall health, increases energy levels, and makes digestion more efficient. But what does that have to do with cellulite?

Cellulite itself is not necessarily a sign of poor health. It may result simply from heredity or hormonal influence. It can indicate poor health, though, if the cellulite is the result of poor diet and exercise habits, or from other environmental factors. This is where a cleanse may be applicable in cases of cellulite. 

Some theorize that cellulite results from a build-up of toxins in the body. The fat cells are storage cells - they store fat - and many toxins, such as pesticides and other synthetic chemicals, tend to be fat soluble. That means they may end up being stored in the body's fat cells, possibly making those cells unhealthy in appearance and performance. A detoxifying cleanse may have a positive effect on the fat cells themselves, releasing the toxins and flushing out excess fat. 

Another way in which a cleanse may help cellulite is by increasing energy levels. When you feel more energetic, embarking on an exercise program seems a lot easier. And exercise may play a key role in getting rid of cellulite's dimpled appearance.

A detox is also reputed to enhance digestion. If you subscribe to the toxin theory as a cause for cellulite, then it makes sense that healthy digestion would help reduce cellulite. After all, efficient digestion is important for moving poisons and waste products out of the body. During the cleanse itself, you eat and drink only certain things, giving your digestive system a rest. 

Cleanses are said to reduce body fat as well, which may help get rid of cellulite if its cause is excess weight. 

Proponents of cleanses claim that they enhance skin tone. This makes sense, as overall health is supposed to be increased with a cleanse. Some cleanses that are specifically for treating cellulite, though, involve specific applications to the skin, either in the form of wraps, scrubs, or creams that are reputed to "draw out" toxins through the skin. Tighter, more supple skin tone is an important factor in diminishing cellulite. 

How to Avoid Cellulite

It's said that taking preventative measures before cellulite has a chance to form can help prevent its formation. Even if cellulite is already a fact of life for you, prevention tips can help stop more cellulite from forming and may even reduce the appearance of existing cellulite. Here are some suggestions and ideas.

Regular Exercise

Yes, you've heard this prescription before for overall health. But exercise may help prevent and reduce cellulite, too. Regular exercise like walking or cycling is good to incorporate into your routine, and if you want to get serious about cellulite-prone areas, target-toning may help a lot toward prevention and reduction. Some sources say weight training is a good remedy for cellulite.

Don't Smoke

Interestingly, sources suggest that smoking may play a role in the formation of cellulite. This is probably because smoking fills your body with toxins, and a build-up of toxins may promote cellulite. In fact, some sources say that cellulite is almost entirely due to toxin build-up. Smoking can also contribute to overall poor health, which can manifest as saggy skin and a tired appearance. 

Smoking also has a profound effect on the circulatory system, causing blood vessels to constrict and the heart to pump faster. It's been theorized that cellulite may be caused in part by poor circulation. So avoiding smoking may prevent cellulite by keeping the circulation from being adversely affected.

Healthy Diet

A low-fat diet may be an importance aspect of cellulite prevention, but only if the diet is low in unhealthy fats. Studies suggest that a diet rich in healthy fats (in moderation, of course) may help reduce cellulite and prevent its formation. 

Basically, healthy fats keep body fat healthy, and some body fat under the skin, especially in women, is perfectly normal and healthy. This fat layer may become saggy and pitted if the fat cells are being "fed" by unhealthy fats in the diet. Replacing the bad fats with moderate amounts of healthy fats may help keep this normal fat layer in top shape.

Massage

Massage is considered an important treatment for cellulite, but some regular massage to prevent cellulite may be in order. You can make a simple massage part of your daily routine with a hand-held, home massager specifically for cellulite.

Creams and Scrubs

Like massage, creams and scrubs can be used for prevention or reduction of cellulite. Their application can also be made a part of your daily routine; just apply them after showering and/or before bed. 

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