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5 Habits To Break Today, To Be Healthier

1. Soda- Soda can be very satisfying, but it's filled with sugar and empty calories. Try Zevia instead (available at Whole Foods). This "natural soda" has no calories and is sweetened with a natural plant based sweetener called Stevia. This is a much healthier alternative, and won't add extra calories to your diet.

2. Bland Food- Feel free to add flavor to your food, with various herbs and spices. These spicy wonders are not only tasty, but can actually make you healthier. Many herbs and spices boast benefits like lowering blood sugar levels (Cinnamon), and improving circulation (Cayenne Pepper.)

3. Getting Angry At Traffic- Reduce your stress levels during traffic by playing soothing music during a stressful drive. Try to focus on how the music makes you feel, and not the other drivers.

4. Avoiding The Doctor And Dentist- We all do it, but avoiding your health specialist is dangerous to your health. Seeing a doctor and dentist regularly is essential to your overall health. Schedule any appointments today! Don't hesitate any longer!

5. Staying Cooped Up- For many of us, work is very important. Staying cooped up, however, for days on end is just not good for your health. Enjoy your friends and loved ones, and take a moment to be thankful for them. You will be adding years to your life by doing so!!

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Should I Stick To One Skincare Line?

Have you ever been told you must stick with one skincare line at a time, and not mix and match? I was pretty much raised on that thought process, however, being in the industry I am in, it's hard to stick with just one.

Typically the ingredients in a skincare line are developed to work synergistically. This is so that you avoid any possible side effects, and maximise the effects of the product line. There is careful consideration when developing a skincare line. It is very important that certain ingredients do not mix. It's especially important to be careful with retinols, AHA's(alpha hydroxy acids), hydroquinone, and salicylic acid, because the skin will become overstimulated if these ingredients are used together.

The bottom line is, if you use more than just a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen, you should stick to one line. If not, feel free to mix it up!

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Breakout Mystery

Have you ever wondered why you breakout? We all have wondered this at some point or another, however, there are so many possibilities when it comes to how and why we breakout. It can be very hard to find the source, but here are some posibilities to consider.


1. Hormones: Ancient chinese medicine has linked breakouts around the mouth and jawline with hormones. If you notice cystic acne in this area, perhaps your hormones are out of balance. You can speak with your doctor about testing your hormone levels and birth control options to regulate your personal levels. You can also try natural approaches including reducing stress, getting plenty of sleep, and taking evening primrose oil.

2. Allergies: Typically when breakouts resemble very tiny bumps all over the face it can be an allergy to food or makeup. You can have your doctor check your blood for an intolerance to foods like gluten or dairy. You can also test food allergies by eliminating the food of question and bringing it slowly back into your diet. If you see a change in your skin during the elimination period, you may have solved the mystery. Keep your makeup very natural. Ingredients like talc can often cause problems to the skin. Try Jane Iredale, Stript, BareMinerals, or GloMinerals for the most natural makeup on the market.

3. Excess Sebum: Sebum is an oily substance secreted from the skin to protect and keep the skin hydrated. When you have excess sebum, you will most likely experience acne. Your doctor can prescribe you Retin-A to allow the skin to properly slough off dead skin cells and keep sebum levels regulated.

Always remember to keep your hands away from your face, keep the hair around your face clean, disinfect your cellphone, and clean your pillowcases regularly. Check if your shampoo or conditioner might be the problem by changing it and taking note if your skin improves. Always use good quality skin and hair products. They tend to have less fillers, and in my opinion are better for you overall.

Image Courtesy Of: http://www.squidoo.com/pimple-products

Get Sexy Legs By Summer

If you want to look hot it your bathing suit, and short shorts this summer, now is the time to start working on it. Here are a few tips to get those sexy summer legs:

1. Running- Running at a small incline, while focusing on the legs will really shape and tone your legs. Be sure you are doing this consistently. Focus on heel to toe movements. Keep in mind that running is not for everyone!

2. Stair Master- Ten minutes on this often dreaded machine, and you will feel those legs working. If you spend a short amount of time on a stair master consistently, you will be sure to feel that tush firm up in no time. If you don't go to a gym, always take the stairs instead of the elevator for a spontaneous workout.

3. Lunges- With two small weights in each hand, you can do regular lunges or alternating lunges. This exercise in particular yields great results when conducted consistently. Try walking lunges, for even more of a challenge!

If you haven't already, please check out CheckInTheMirrors' video on 'How To Reduce Cellulite By Summer" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSxy5Z_CUlE

Image Courtesy Of: freestockphotos.biz

Can Love Make You Younger?

Studies have shown that living a stressful lifestyle can age your body and skin. On the other end of the spectrum, managing stress in your life can significantly reduce aging. If you are in a meaningful relationship it can actually keep you younger! Now, if you don't have a love interest in your life, DON'T PANIC. Having good friends in your life is equally influential in keeping you young. The idea is to manage stress with deep, meaningful relationships and friendships. Sure, according to some studies a long term relationship is ideal in overall health, but don't stress out about it. Stressing out ages you!
Try nuturing your relationship or friendship this Valentines Day, it might just help you look younger!!



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1000 Year Old Diet ™

I was talking with a friend about diets the other day, and I told her "if we all only ate foods that were on the planet a thousand years ago, we would be so much healthier." Thus, the 1000 year old diet plan was born!! It's simple, and it cuts out virtually everything that is processed, preserved, and toxic for the body!! Here are some tips to follow my 1000 year old diet plan!! =)

1. Was It On The Planet 1000 Years Ago?- Obviously we have come along way in 1000 years, BUT, in regards to foods, studies are finding that we should stick with foods that are natural and whole. This is how I came up with the 1000 year old diet. Foods that were available 1000 years ago, were natural, whole and not processed. Obviously meats, veggies, fruit, seeds, nuts, grains etc. were all available. So in essence, this diet, or lifestyle change, is not much different than any of the other whole food diet/lifestyle change plans on the market. When grocery shopping or choosing to eat a food, ask yourself "Was this on the planet 1000 years ago?" If the answer is no, avoid it! SIMPLE!

2. 80/20- Obviously, in moderation, foods that weren't around 1000 years ago can be consumed. You just don't want to eat them regularly. Follow the 1000 year old diet 80% of the time, and eat more modern foods %20 or less of the time.

3. Shop Right- Shop at stores that have foods from the earth, and not overly processed and packaged quick munchies. Whole Foods is ideal, but Trader Joe's carries many whole foods also.

Image Courtesy Of: nutrition.preschoolrock.com

©2011 All Rights Reserved

Are Lash-Enchancing Serums Safe?

RevitaLash, MD Lash Factor, Enormous Lash, and Peter Thomas Roth Lashes to Die For— all contain a prostaglandin-like compound (prostaglandins are naturally occurring chemicals in the body). This ingredient is similar to one used in glaucoma drugs.These over the counter serums have shown some fabulous results in growing lashes, but how safe are they?

A potential side effect or complication from lash growing products is a darkening of light irises, though, so far this side effect has been observed only in patients using drops placed directly in the eye. A slight darkening or change in pigmentation of the skin along the lashline is also a possibility.In very rare cases, swelling of the retina (which results in slightly blured vision), has been reported in some patients using glaucoma drops. These reports are typically from people who already have eye problems.

I personally have been using eye-lash enhancing products for years, and never had a problem!

It's a personally choice of course, but overall, it seems the benefits far out way the possible negative side effects.

Image Courtesy Of: carefair.com

Juicing For Optimum Health!

If you follow me on Twitter, you have probably already noticed that I am a juicing advocate. I started juicing years ago, when my Aunt was diagnosed with cancer. She began the GersonTherapy, which consisted of juicing everyday day, multiple times a day. I was so intrigued by her self discipline, and I became more aware of my health at a young age. I truly believe that if most of us found out we had cancer, our eating habits would change drastically. My aunt was so bound and determined to heal her body through the discipline of proper diet, and it worked in extending her life for many years.

Juicing doesn't have to just be an action taken once diagnosed with a serious disease.

Not only is juicing great for your health, in regards to giving your body a very high dose of absorbable vitamins, it tastes delicious. Once you start juicing, you will notice that you feel better and look better. Many Americans are deficient in nutrients, because we are feeding ourselves nutrient deficient foods. You will see a world of difference when you start juicing, because you are getting the nutrients of multiple fruits and vegetables in one drink.

I would suggest investing in a juicer and starting to juice in the morning, and at night. It takes a couple more minutes a day, and a lot of fruits and veggies, but I personally don't find it to be overly time consuming or expensive. I will give you a couple of my favorite recipes, and I promise you will enjoy! Be sure to choose only organic fruits and veggies while juicing, and always wash before juicing.

My Favorite:

2 Organic Red Apples

4 Organic Large Carrots

1 Organic Whole Lemon *Just throw the whole thing in there ;0)

Alkaline Juice:

1 Cup Organic Spinach

1/2 Organic Cucumber (including skins)

2 Stalks Organic Celery (including stalks)

3 Organic Carrots

1/2 Apple

Kidney Cleanser:

2 Organic Apples

3 1/2 Organic Watermelon pieces with rind

Image Courtesy Of: healthyjuicecentral.info

Vitamin C, A Cure For Cancer?

Early clinical studies have shown that high-doses of vitamin C administered intravenously may improve symptoms, and prolong life in terminal cancer patients. The reason why vitamin C has been so effective, is because vitamin C is toxic to cancer cells, but not to healthy cells. Chemotheropy kills both healthy and unhealthy cells, which leaves the patient with no- energy, hair loss, nausea and a host of other symptoms. There are a lot of holisitic health institutes that administer vitamin C intravenously, especially in urban environments.

Although we do not recognize natural cancer treatments in America, I personally believe that there needs to be some sort of compromise. We know that modern medicine is important and necessary at times, but it has been proven that chemotherapy is more effective on a small range of cancers, and less effective on the rest. We must focus on prevention through diet and detoxification, and encourage a combination of holistic and modern medicines once disease is present in the body.

Approximately 6% of doctors have been taught nutrition upon graduatind from medical school. This is a sad statistic, because we are being bombarded with toxins that our body simply cannot handle, and our bodies are defficient in necessary vitamins to keep disease at bay. Take vitamin D for example. (Ask you doctor to run a blood test to check your vitamin D levels.) The majority of America is deficient in this vitamin, which can lead to anything from the common cold, to cancer. We should be feeding our bodies the proper fuel designed for it, and not toxins. Foods that are not grown organically contain toxins that the body must fight. Imagine if you purchased a fabulous sports car, and the manual specifically told you to use a high-grade gas to keep in running properly. Would you feed it the low-grade, cheepest gas you could find? That would be foolish, because you had made such a huge investment, only to feed it something it simply cannot run off of. Our bodies are like that sports car. This is your greatest investment, so feed it the best possible options. We should be feeding cancer patients fresh juices and organic salads while they are staying in the hospital, and not white bread and red jello! I personally believe a compromise should be reached! Don't you?

I am obviously not a doctor, and my writings are based on natural approaches that have not been found to be effective by the FDA. Please understand that this is an opinion based blog and not a diagnoses of any kind.

Image Courtesy Of: Topnews.ae

Sources:

*How To Live Longer In Good Health Through Nutrition

*CMAJ

Top Anti-Aging Tips

1. Passion For Protection- Become consistent and passionate about protecting your skin from the sun everyday. Choose a day moisturizer that contains antioxidants (Vitamin C, Vitamin E ect.,) and at least SPF 30 or higher. Be sure to apply at least a tablespoon for your face, neck and ear area.

2. Get Fatty- Essential fatty acids should be a part of your diet and daily supplementation. Include almonds and salmon into your diet, and take a Omega 3,6,9 supplement daily. Essential fatty acids help stop inflammation that can accelerate fine lines, sagging, and blotchiness.

3. Spray Throughout The Day- Keep an Evian or Rosewater spray in your purse to keep your skin hydrated whilst traveling, driving in your car, or throughout the day.

4. Control The Cortisol- When we stress out we produce cortisol. This hormone not only increases belly fat, it can slow down collagen production, cause breakouts, and make your skin look dull. Try taking 10 minutes a day to just relax and deep breathe. Make "Me" time a couple times a week, if you can, to just put a face mask on, get your nails down, or lay down for some peace and quiet. Every little bit helps!

5. Pair Potions- For optimum results with skin care products pair antioxidants and sunscreen in the A.M., and Retinol and Peptides at night. This will give you faster and more powerful results overall.

6. Quit The Impact- High impact exercise can weaken collagen and lead to sagging skin. Stick to cycling or elliptical, for firmer skin.

7. Cleanse With Care- Use a mild cleanser to avoid over-drying your skin.

8. Skip Sodium- Too much sodium can make your eyes and jawline puffy. Check cans and bottles to keep your sodium intake low, especially before bed-time.

9. Skip Sugar- The breakdown of sugars, called glycation, damages the collagen that keeps skin smooth and firm, according to prevention magazine. Stick to low-glycemic carbs, like whole grains; which are low in sugar. The body processes these low-glycemic carbs slowly to limit the loss of collagen.

10. Strength Train- Keep your body tones with strength training. Not only does strength training boost your metabolism, it is great for keeping your body looking young.

11. Antioxidant Alert- Keep your diet rich with antioxidants by adding Green Tea, Pomegranate, Acai, Resveratrol, and Vitamin C, to name a few.

Image Courtesy Of: YouModels.net

Christmas Beauty and Health Tips

FOR BEAUTY:
Hot Chocolate Mask- Antioxidants found in cocoa can help prevent sun damage. Enjoy this face mask at home. Ingredients: 3 tbsp cocoa (contains fatty acids to keep skin nourished), 3 tbsp plain yogurt (locks moisture in), 1 ½ tbsp raw honey (reduces inflammation and redness), and 1 ½ tbsp oatmeal (an exfoliant that is also good for sensitive skin). Leave on for 10-20 min and rinse.


FOR HEALTH:
1. Spend time with the ones you love- Try playing games or telling memorable stories. Studies have shown that laughter and time with friends and family can aid in reducing stress, boosting immunity, and keeping you young!

2. Spark some love- Make time for intimacy with your spouse to boost your immune system!

3. Pop supplements- Both Vitamin C and Echinacea are good for boosting immunity, but Vitamin D is essential! Keep a few of all three in your purse in-case you start to feel sick!

4. Cure a holiday hangover- After a big night of drinking, make sure you have Active Charcoal Pills on hand. Take two before you fall asleep, and be sure you don't take any other supplements or medications within two hours of taking charcoal pills. The charcoal will help soak up all the excess alcohol, but will also soak up any other supplements that may be in your stomach. In the morning, try a few sips of coconut water, and a couple crackers with a bit of honey on them.

Parts Of This Article Courtesy Of: DrOz.com
Image Courtesy Of: Myspace.com

SuperFoods To Add To Your Diet For Better Health

1. Goji- Goji is rich in the beta-carotene, which the body turns into retinol. Retinol is a form of vitamin A that may boost the immune system. Also, Goji berries burst with vitamin C, which aids in immune support and better skin. Vitamin C can aid in collagen production.

2. Pomegranate- Is rich in a variety of antioxidants and vitamins, and is said to protect against cancer. It also tastes great! Try eating the seeds or drinking a glass of the juice a couple times a week.

3. Spirulina- Is a blue algae that can be purchased in powder form and can be added to shakes and juices. Spirulina has loads of protein, which helps your body repair damaged tissues and build bones, skin, and muscle. It also contains vitamins and minerals such as iron, vitamin E, zinc, B-complex, copper, calcium, and magnesium. It is also rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and the essential fatty acid gamma linolenic acid (GLA).

4. Acai- Acai berries are a good source of antioxidants, fiber and heart-healthy fats. There are a a variety of juices that contains Acai and taste very good. Try mixing a little Pomegrante and Acai together for added benefit.

Image Courtesy Of: Pollynoble.com
Parts Of This Article Courtesy Of: Oprah.com

Be Healthier In 2011

We all set New Years resolutions, but committing your year to your own health is a great start. Here are a few tips to keeping that resolution.

1. If you are overweight- Commit to losing at least a pound a month in 2011. Studies show, being overweight increases your risk of heart attack, diabetes, and arthritis by 50 percent. Plan out your strategy for losing weight, and make sure you have accountability.

2. Sweat More- Try committing to some simple exercise regime. Keep it simple and easy at first. Try jumping jax or jumping rope during tv commericals, or walking with a friend a couple days a week!

3. Have More Sex- Studies show that regular intimacy with your spouse increases immune function, and reduces stress. Hit the sheets for a better mood! :)

4. Get Fishy- If you aren't already, start taking a fish-oil supplement. Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce cancer risk and lower your risk for depression. If you are a veggie, flaxseed oil is a good alternative.

5. Out With The Old, In With The New- Clean our your refrigerator, and throw out anything that contains hydrogenated oils, or high fructose corn syrup. Also, get rid of anything made with white flour (enriched, bleached, refined.) Generally you should consider removing all sweets and junk food. Commit to reading food labels this year and bringing in healthier options for both you and your family.

Image Courtesy Of: FoodFoodBodyBody.wordpress.com
Some information in this blogpost courtesy of: OprahMagazine

Benefits Of Coconut Water

Many of you may not know the benefits of coconut water, and you are missing out. Coconut water is low in carbs, 99% fat free, and very low in sugar and sodium. Coconut water also contains more potassium than a banana, and potassium aids in reducing water retention. Here are some of the other benefits of coconut water:

1. Re-hydrates your body with essential nutrients and electrolytes.
2. Carries nutrients and oxygen to cells.
3. Aids in weight loss.
4. Boosts immunity.
5. Helps fight against viruses.
6. Aids in digestion.
7. Balances PH levels.
8. Boosts circulation.
9. Benefits the kidneys and bladder.

Coconut water is a good alternative for sports drinks, and great for replenishing after a workout. It gives your body superior hydration, so it is a great beauty drink as well.

Image Courtest Of: zicococonutwater.org

Anti-Aging Through Stress Management

Stress is a huge factor in aging, and if you are a human being, you experience some level of stress. Managing stress is essential if you want to avoid internal and external aging. Here are a few tips to managing stress.

1. Glass Half Full- Try to see the positive in every situation. Thinking positively, and focusing on good things, can aid in keeping your "chin up" during tough times.

2. Exercise- Exercise gives you endorphins, which make you feel happy. Go for a walk with a friend, or a fun hike. Keep your body moving.

3. Spend time with friends- When you are experiencing stress, make a lunch-date with a good friend. Try to laugh and have a good time.

4. De-stress- Get a massage or a facial. Take a long hot bath, or lay in bed breathing deep and thinking positive thoughts.


Image courtesy of: marydeioma.com

Are you cocky or confident about your appearance?

In my opinion, being confident about your looks, in healthy dosages, is normal and important to having a successful career, marriage, and overall well-being. It is important to be comfortable in who you are, and maintain yourself according to your own personal appearance. We aren't all cookie cutter stick figures, and it is okay to except yourself and be confident in that. That being said, there is the girl we have all met who is beyond confident. Narcissism, is an unhealthy self-absorption that should be addressed. If you are constantly thinking about how things affect you, and/or constantly thinking about your looks, career, relationships ect. You may suffer from narcissim. Learn to balance by spending an allotted amount of time thinking about yourself, and your looks ect. Once you are done with "you" time, move onto other things.

Image courtesy of: allaboutyou.com

Trouble Losing Weight? Check Your Thyroid!

Have you tried everything and still can't manage to lose weight? You could potentially have a hypothyroid. When you're hypothyroid, the slowed metabolism and changes to your endocrine system can make losing weight seem like a losing battle. The Thyroid is like our bodies thermostat. It regulates our basal body temperature, the rate in which we metabolize fuel, and our overall metabolism. I highly recommend that everyone get yearly blood tests that include screenings of thyroid regulating hormones. You can ask your doctor to check your TSH ( Thyroid Stimulating Hormone,) Thyroxine (T4,) and Triiodothyronine (T3.) Be aware of your own body and let your doctor know if you have any symptoms or changes in your body.


Symptoms of a hypothyroid include:

• Fatigue


• Weakness


• Weight gain or increased difficulty losing weight


• Coarse, dry hair


• Dry, rough pale skin


• Hair loss


• Cold intolerance (can't tolerate the cold like those around you)


• Muscle cramps and frequent muscle aches


• Constipation


• Depression


• Irritability


• Memory loss


• Abnormal menstrual cycles


• Decreased libido

* I am not a Physician. Please communicate and check any symptoms or concerns with your personal Physician.

Parts of this post courtesy of EndocrineWeb.com