Pure Water for Better Health

Pure Water for Health

Clean water is one of the most important needs of our bodies. Water makes up 2/3rds of our body weight. Without water in just a few days we will die. A drop of just 2% of the water in your body will cause signs of dehydration: short term memory loss, fatigue, and trouble focusing. Without water our bodies cannot function.

Water allows our bodies to work by:

Lubrication

Base for saliva

Regulates body temperature

Surrounds and protects your joints

Prevents constipation, thus cleansing the body of bad things

Regulates the metabolism

Simply drinking 8 glasses of water a day can decrease the risk of colon cancer by 45%, and bladder cancer by 50% and even possibly reduce the risk of breast cancer. That is the good news about water!

However, there is bad news too. Because water is the ‘universal solvent’ it is also the most easily contaminated substance on earth. Virtually every source of our drinking water has some contamination. Some of the contamination leaches from the soil or possibly even the pipes that bring your water to you. The air is another source for contamination. Also, more contamination is from man-made chemicals and by products such as: MTBE (a gasoline additive), pesticides, chlorine and even sewage. Many contaminants may be in the acceptable range but long-term exposure can cause severe illness such as liver damage and various cancers. There are 35,000 pesticides containing 600 chemical compounds. Cities and municipalities are only required to test for 6! The General Accounting Office has reported that 20% of our nations 65,000 municipal water systems are unable to meet the minimum standards set by the Safe Drinking Water Act. It is a funding issue.

In response, many have turned to bottled water. Those names are really appealing but may be false too. Ordering bottled water has become the “in” thing to do when going out to eat. However, bottled water may not be any better than most tap water. The National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) did a 4-year study and discovered that from 25-40% of all bottled water is merely bottled tap water. Just yesterday, July 27, 2007, Aquafina water was discovered to be just plain tap water!

Almost all these bottled waters are stored in porous containers. Look at the bottom of your containers and see what the number is in the triangle on the bottom. Most milk jugs have a 2 on them which is acceptable, but those with a 1 in the triangle are porous enough to leach plastics from the bottle into the contents as well as to allow contaminants into the containers too. That is a scary thought!

What can we do? Home filter systems could be one answer. However, too many times the filters are not changed often enough and then the water is dirtier than before. Also, most filters just cannot get out all of the contaminants. It appears that ionic water treatment does a much better job.

You can go one huge step further and change the pH level of your water too making your body a hostile environment for all the toxins that are there or ingested from the fast food restaurants and any other source of contamination. Purified, ionized-alkaline water is the best source of this healthy alternative. One company has even named this Kangen water. The Japanese word Kangen means back to source. Find the book, The pH Miracle by Dr. Robert Young. There are a few companies that make this type of water alkalizing-purifying machine and prices are the main difference. This water will help your body fight disease and to keep your health. How many more bad scallions or spinach outbreaks are you ready for? Make yourself well using Kangen water like that being used by the Hunza people who live long healthy lives, even bearing children in their 80s. Alkalize your body for your health!

Have a Great Day!

Nancy

http://www.bestnaturalhome.com

Some Feel Good Secrets from Hollywood

Look younger! Boost energy! De-stress! Thousands of products promise to make you look and feel like a Hollywood star. So what do the celebrities actually use? As it turns out, many A-list beauties forgo expensive pills and potions for old-fashioned natural remedies. Here, 10 stars share their secrets for staying healthy – naturally…How wonderful that the stars see ways to improve without just throwing money at the problem! Read On:

Debra Messing:
“I like looking at images of fashion. They help relax me and put me in a good mood. To me, fashion is just another outlet for creative expression.”

Why it works: Experts reveal that art takes you out of your left brain, which deals with linear, calculated thinking, and into the image-centered, free-flowing right side of the brain.

Michelle Pfeiffer:
“I put fragrant sachets in my dresser. Whenever I open a drawer, the scent drifts out and energizes me.”

Why it works: Numerous studies prove aromatherapy’s power, and it doesn’t take much to reap the benefits. Simply placing sachets around your home exposes you to their subtle scent. For instant energy, choose citrus or peppermint fragrances.

Jennifer Garner:
“During a spa trip, I got a mineral mud rub to draw impurities out of my pores. It did a great job of revitalizing my skin and giving me renewed energy so now I use a mud mask at home to flush out the toxins in my skin.”

Why it works: “As mineral mud dries, it causes skin to release impurities and excess oil, which are absorbed into the mud,” explains an aesthetician at La Costa Spa in Carlsbad, California. “Plus the massaging application increases circulation, [which] energizes the body and leaves skin glowing.”

Catherine Zeta-Jones:
“When I need to recharge, I dab my face with water mixed with a little witch hazel and lavender oil. It makes my skin look fresh and smooth and the lavender is so soothing.”

Why it works: “Lavender and witch hazel both work to calm inflamed skin, creating a healthy glow,” says Dr. John E. Hahn, a specialist in naturopathic medicine. “And lavender offers a bonus benefit because its aroma has a sedative effect on the mind that eases you into a more relaxed state.”

Gwyneth Paltrow:
“Getting massages really helps relieve my tense muscles and overall stress. And that, in turn, helps me sleep better so that I get around 7-8 hours of sleep.”

Why it works: Massage therapists say that massage reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol while raising levels of the feel-good chemical serotonin. Research has shown that the sense of calm a massage generates improves sleep quality. No masseuse around? Try inducing the same effects by rubbing your feet for five minutes before bedtime.

Gabrielle Union:
“Pilates is great for energizing and relaxing all at once. Plus, the breathing patterns that are central to the exercise really help me concentrate.”

Why it works: “Deep breathing floods your body with energizing oxygen,” says certified Pilates instructor Brooke Siler, owner of re:AB studio in New York. “Your muscles unclench and your pulse slows, so you feel focused and refreshed without feeling wired.”

Mariska Hargitay:
“When I feel stress, I shut off the phone, lie on the floor and meditate for five minutes. It gives me the release I need to get through a long day at work.”

Why it works: If you focus on a word or image while deeply breathing, it turns off the part of the brain that controls the fight-or-flight response. Your heart and respiration rate slows, calming you physically and mentally.

Lucy Liu:
“Sitting down to fresh sushi is always a mood lifter. Maybe it reminds me of my childhood or maybe it’s just the great taste.”

Why it works: The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish make it easier for feel-good chemicals like acetylcholine and serotonin to penetrate cell membranes.

Drew Barrymore:
“I love going to little bookstores and reading Shel Silverstein books – the ones with kids’ poems. They have great vibes, and I always leave the store in an upbeat mood.”

Why it works: According to Dr. Steven Sultanoff, a psychology professor at Pepperdine University, “The brain’s limbic system can process only one emotion at a time. Reading something funny causes a cognitive shift in the brain that crowds out anxiety and stress.”

Jaime Pressley, pre-pregnancy:
“I take echinacea every day. It helps build up my immune system so that even if I get a cold, it’s less severe.”

Why it works: Echinacea enhances the activity of the immune system’s virus-killing white blood cells. The result is you’ll either nip a cold or flu in the bud or decrease its duration.

Recently, one of the morning shows did a report on the wrinkle removing creams and discovered that the most improvement was in the area of 10%! One cream had a $300/ounce price tag and did no better than some of the much cheaper lotions. Hydrating your body with good water is the easiest solution around to look younger. Yes, drinking that 6-8 glasses of water has a huge impact on your youthful looks. It can also be energizing as usually when we think we are hungry, it is just thurst that is the problem. Once you go drink a glass of water, you are fine again without the calories! How simple!

Most of the article is from a daily health newsletter called LifeScript.

Have a Great Day!
Nancy Washburn

Look younger! Boost energy! De-stress! Thousands of products promise to make you look and feel like a Hollywood star. So what do the celebrities actually use? As it turns out, many A-list beauties forgo expensive pills and potions for old-fashioned natural remedies. Here, 10 stars share their secrets for staying healthy – naturally…

Debra Messing:
“I like looking at images of fashion. They help relax me and put me in a good mood. To me, fashion is just another outlet for creative expression.”

Why it works: Experts reveal that art takes you out of your left brain, which deals with linear, calculated thinking, and into the image-centered, free-flowing right side of the brain.

Michelle Pfeiffer:
“I put fragrant sachets in my dresser. Whenever I open a drawer, the scent drifts out and energizes me.”

Why it works: Numerous studies prove aromatherapy’s power, and it doesn’t take much to reap the benefits. Simply placing sachets around your home exposes you to their subtle scent. For instant energy, choose citrus or peppermint fragrances.

Jennifer Garner:
“During a spa trip, I got a mineral mud rub to draw impurities out of my pores. It did a great job of revitalizing my skin and giving me renewed energy so now I use a mud mask at home to flush out the toxins in my skin.”

Why it works: “As mineral mud dries, it causes skin to release impurities and excess oil, which are absorbed into the mud,” explains an aesthetician at La Costa Spa in Carlsbad, California. “Plus the massaging application increases circulation, [which] energizes the body and leaves skin glowing.”

Catherine Zeta-Jones:
“When I need to recharge, I dab my face with water mixed with a little witch hazel and lavender oil. It makes my skin look fresh and smooth and the lavender is so soothing.”

Why it works: “Lavender and witch hazel both work to calm inflamed skin, creating a healthy glow,” says Dr. John E. Hahn, a specialist in naturopathic medicine. “And lavender offers a bonus benefit because its aroma has a sedative effect on the mind that eases you into a more relaxed state.”

Gwyneth Paltrow:
“Getting massages really helps relieve my tense muscles and overall stress. And that, in turn, helps me sleep better so that I get around 7-8 hours of sleep.”

Why it works: Massage therapists say that massage reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol while raising levels of the feel-good chemical serotonin. Research has shown that the sense of calm a massage generates improves sleep quality. No masseuse around? Try inducing the same effects by rubbing your feet for five minutes before bedtime.

Gabrielle Union:
“Pilates is great for energizing and relaxing all at once. Plus, the breathing patterns that are central to the exercise really help me concentrate.”

Why it works: “Deep breathing floods your body with energizing oxygen,” says certified Pilates instructor Brooke Siler, owner of re:AB studio in New York. “Your muscles unclench and your pulse slows, so you feel focused and refreshed without feeling wired.”

Mariska Hargitay:
“When I feel stress, I shut off the phone, lie on the floor and meditate for five minutes. It gives me the release I need to get through a long day at work.”

Why it works: If you focus on a word or image while deeply breathing, it turns off the part of the brain that controls the fight-or-flight response. Your heart and respiration rate slows, calming you physically and mentally.

Lucy Liu:
“Sitting down to fresh sushi is always a mood lifter. Maybe it reminds me of my childhood or maybe it’s just the great taste.”

Why it works: The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish make it easier for feel-good chemicals like acetylcholine and serotonin to penetrate cell membranes.

Drew Barrymore:
“I love going to little bookstores and reading Shel Silverstein books – the ones with kids’ poems. They have great vibes, and I always leave the store in an upbeat mood.”

Why it works: According to Dr. Steven Sultanoff, a psychology professor at Pepperdine University, “The brain’s limbic system can process only one emotion at a time. Reading something funny causes a cognitive shift in the brain that crowds out anxiety and stress.”

Jaime Pressley, pre-pregnancy:
“I take echinacea every day. It helps build up my immune system so that even if I get a cold, it’s less severe.”

Why it works: Echinacea enhances the activity of the immune system’s virus-killing white blood cells. The result is you’ll either nip a cold or flu in the bud or decrease its duration.

Nail Bed Irregularities – Should You be Concerned?

You can tell a lot about your own personal health by the condition of your nail beds - more than you probably think you can. Fingernail disorders are not only an embarrassment; they may also indicate that something more serious is wrong with your health. Take a look at your nail beds – are they a healthy pink color, with a smooth, perfectly curved surface? Or do you see some discoloration, dents, white spots, lines, ridges, hangnails, or irregular shaping of the nails? While some of these marks are not cause for concern, others can indicate fungal infections, heart disease, anemia, diabetes and more. Plus: Find out if your hygiene is heinous… The Shape of Healthy Nails A healthy body supports the growth of healthy nails, which should curve to the natural shape of the finger. If you look at the end of your nails you should see a rainbow-type curve, or half-moon shape, if you will. This shape is due to the fact that your finger is round and the nail naturally curves around it. If you have short nails, it may be more difficult to tell if your nails are shaped well. If your nails do not have a nice natural curve to them, you may have an underlying health problem. If your nails: - Curl under at the tips, you may have heart or respiratory problems. - Are raised at the base, this may also indicate respiratory trouble. - Are square and wide, you may have a hormonal disorder. - Are flat and thin, you may have a vitamin deficiency, particularly vitamin B12. The Texture of Healthy Nails The texture of the nail bed and the surrounding skin can also give you important hints about your health. The nail bed should be smooth and without indentations, pock marks or fingernail ridges. If your nails have: - Dents, you should not usually be concerned, as they simply indicate a nail injury that is growing out. - Vertical fingernail ridges, you could be deficient in iron, have poor nutrient absorption, poor overall health, or even kidney trouble. - Bumps and vertical fingernail ridges, you may be prone to developing arthritis. - Horizontal fingernail ridges, this can indicate mental or physical stress. - Cracks or are brittle or dry, you may be deficient in calcium or essential fatty acids. - Hangnails on the side of the nails, you may have a folic acid or vitamin C deficiency. The Color of Healthy Nails Finally, if your nails are anything other than a soft rosy pink or peach color, you might want to take a closer look at this: - White spots on your fingernails may mean you are deficient in iron or zinc. - White lined bands across the nail bed indicate a protein deficiency. - White lines in or across the nail bed may indicate fever, heart disease, kidney disorder, liver troubles, or lack of iron or zinc. - Pale color on the nail bed can indicate anemia, which develops from iron or vitamin B12 deficiency. - Greenish hue can indicate an infection. - Bluish nail bed can be a sign of lung trouble, such as asthma or emphysema. - A dark blue line in the nail bed may be a result of skin cancer. - Tiny black streaks in the nail bed may indicate heart problems. - Reddish-brown spots show a deficiency in folic acid, vitamin C or protein. - Yellow nails are indicative of diabetes, liver problems or respiratory trouble. If your nails are telling you that something worse than a vitamin deficiency may be happening, consult with your physician right away. Your doctor can run the proper tests to tell you if you really need to worry or not. If you think you may have an iron or zinc deficiency, have your doctor test your blood levels of these minerals before supplementing with either of them, as too much iron or zinc can cause toxicity, leading to other health problems. Is Your Hygiene Heinous? When it comes to your hygiene habits, would those who know you praise your penchant for cleanliness or cry foul over your questionable ways? Good hygiene cannot be underestimated - your health, not to mention reputation, depends on it. Find out where your habits rank on the hygiene meter. Take this hygiene quiz. By Jennifer Gruenemay, ACE-Certified, LifeScript Staff Writer

Colon Health and Constipation

Constipation results when food moves too slowly through the
> gastrointestinal (GI) tract. About 80 percent of people suffer
from
> constipation at some time during their lives. Brief periods of
> constipation are normal. Constipation is usually diagnosed when
bowel
> movements occur fewer than three times per week on an ongoing
basis.
> Other signs of constipation occur when the stool is hard, dry or
> there is excessive straining. The stool can often be described
> as "rabbit pellets" or like "toothpaste squeezed from the tube".
> Sometimes it is painful to pass. Sometimes the patient does not
feel
> complete after a bowel movement.
>
> There is widespread belief that everyone should have a bowel
movement
> at least once each day. There is no "right" number of bowel
> movements. Each person's body finds its own normal number of bowel
> movements. It depends on the food you eat, how much you exercise
and
> past history. This kind of thinking has led to the overuse and
abuse
> of laxatives.
>
> Constipation can arise from lack of enough fiber and water,
> inadequate exercise, advanced age, muscle disorders and poor diet.
> Pre-menstrual and pregnant women can suffer from constipation also
> but, the most common cause is usually dietary. However,
constipation
> can be a component of irritable bowel syndrome or can result from
a
> wide range of causes, such as a drug side effect or physical
> immobility.
>
> many medications, including pain killers, antidepressants,
> tranquilizers, and other chiatric medications, blood pressure
> medication, diuretics, iron supplements, calcium supplements, and
> aluminum containing antacids can cause or worsen constipation.
>
> Constipation can sometimes have an unknown or idiopathic cause.
Some
> people have a good diet, drink plenty of fluid or do not have a
> disorder, which can cause constipation, yet become constipated.
Their
> bowels are said to be 'underactive' . This is rather common. Most
> cases occur in women. This condition tends to start during
childhood
> or in early adulthood and persist throughout life.
>
> Transit Time is the amount of time it takes for a meal to go from
the
> mouth to the rectum. A healthy transit time is less than 24 hours.
> Constipation is the result of poor digestive and bowel habits,
which
> slow down the transit time, allowing waste materials to sit longer
in
> the intestines. Stool (waste products) builds up along the wall of
> the colon preventing healthy absorption of nutrients. Our stool is
> made up of our body's waste including undigested food, toxic waste
> from the liver and billions of bacteria. As the stool sits longer
in
> the intestines a metabolic process continues. The intestines
continue
> to absorb water, making the stool harder and fermenting the
bacteria.
> This starts the waste to rot creating toxic by-products, which are
> then absorbed into the bloodstream. This absorption of toxins is a
> form of self-poisoning, called autointoxication.
>
> Symptoms of autointoxication include: headaches, brain fog,
> depression, obesity, diverticulosis, PMS, bad breath, foul
smelling
> gas, bloating body odor and include some autoimmune diseases.
>
> Serious diseases, including colon cancer, can sometimes first
appear
> as bowel blockage leading to acute constipation. Therefore,
> particularly constipation of recent onset should be diagnosed by a
> physician. Dietary and other natural approaches should be used by
> people with constipation only when there is reason to believe no
> serious underlying condition exists.
>
>
> Constipation Self Test
>
> 1. Do you feel fatigued, have low energy or muscles aches? (yes =
> 1/no = 0)
> 2. Do you have a bowel movement fewer than 3x/week on an ongoing
> basis? (yes = 1/no = 0)
> 3. Do you strain to pass stool? (yes = 1/no = 0)
> 4. Do you pass dry hard pellets or stool that looks like
toothpaste?
> (yes = 1/no = 0)
> 5. Do you have an abundance of foul smelling gas? (yes = 1/no = 0)
> 6. Do you eat 25-30 grams of fiber per day? (yes = 1/no = 0)
> 7. Are you unable to loss weight even though you eat "healthy"?
(yes
> = 1/no = 0)
> 8. Do you take anti-depressants or pain medication? (yes = 1/no =
0)
> 9. Do you drink 8 glasses of water per day? (yes = 1/no = 0)
> 10. Do you exercise at least 3x/week? (yes = 1/no = 0)
>
>
> Total Score______
>
> A score of 4 or higher may indicate that you are suffering from
poor
> colon health.
>
>
> Signs of Good Elimination
>
> 1. Color: Stool color should be a walnut brown. Given temporary
> variations with dark green leafy vegetable or beets.
>
> 2. Consistency: Stool should be smooth with the consistency of
paste.
> This shows the bowels are well hydrated. The length of stool
should
> be the length of a banana or longer.
>
> 3. Frequency: As discussed above, this depends on the individual,
but
> in the natural health community, one movement per day is good, but
> two-three per day is healthiest!
>
> 4. Gas and Odor: A normal amount of gas is the by-product of
> digestion. An abundance of foul smelling gas indicates poor colon
> health.
>
> 5. Sink or Float: Healthy stool tends to leave the body easily, is
> well formed, floats in the water then gently submerges. In some
> natural medicine beliefs, if the stool floats, this may indicate
> undigested fat in the colon.
>
>
> Tips for Good Colon Health
>
> 1. Peristalsis and Hydration: Peristalsis is the natural waves of
> contractions produced by the digestive tract in order to move food
> through the colon. There are many ways to stimulate peristalsis,
but
> the most important way is through hydration. Constipation is often
> caused by dehydration. Hydration of the colon is key to making
> peristalsis happen naturally. (see Traditional Chinese Medicine)
>
> 2. Bulk: The colon requires bulk for it to achieve healthy
movement.
> Optimal intake of fiber is about 25-30 grams per day. The ideal
> combination of soluble fiber (psyllium husk) and insoluble fiber
> (flax oil, fiber) helps to absorb water and toxins and adds
roughage
> to bulk up stool and sweep away built up debris in the intestinal
> tract.
>
> 3. Lubrication: is essential for the smooth flow of stool out of
the
> intestines. Essential oils such as flaxseed oil, borage oil and
fish
> oil are ideal.
>
>
> Nutritional Advise
>
> Water and other liquids such as fruit and vegetable juices and
clear
> soups are essential in any healing process. Liquid helps keep the
> stool soft and easy to pass, so it's important to drink enough
> fluids. Distilled water is the best. 6-8 eight ounces glasses per
> day. Try not to drink liquids that contain caffeine or alcohol.
> Although a little caffeine works well as a diuretic, excess
caffeine,
> dependency on caffeine for a bowel movement, as well as alcohol
tend
> to dry out your digestive system.
>
> Prunes are one of the best natural remedies for constipation! A
> simple handful of prunes will make all the difference. Today,
prunes
> actually come in different flavors! You can find them infused with
> natural cherry, grape and apple essence!
>
> Apples contain naturally-occurring chemical compounds known as
> phytochemicals, polyphenols, or flavonoids, some of which have
been
> proven to have antioxidant activity that inhibits, or scavenges,
the
> activity of free radicals in the body. Cell damage from free
radicals
> can be a factor in certain cancers, heart disease, strokes, and
other
> conditions such as diabetes and constipation.
>
> A diet combined with both insoluble fiber (fiber that doesn't
> dissolve in water) will keep most people regular. You get fiber
from
> eating lots of vegetables, wheat bran, whole-grain breads and
cereals
> and fruit.
>
> Foods high in fiber are fruits such as apples peaches, raspberries
> and tangerines. Vegetables such as acorn squash, raw broccoli,
> brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, spinach, black-
eyed
> peas, cooked zucchini, kidney beans and lima beans. Also cooked
whole-
> grain cereal, cold (All-Bran, Total, Bran Flakes), whole-grain
> cereal, hot (oatmeal, Wheatena) and whole-wheat or 7-grain bread.
>
> Juice Therapy is a great way to take advantage of the eliminative
and
> cleansing capacity of the organs. This cleansing capacity is
greatly
> increased and accumulated metabolic waste and toxins are quickly
> eliminated. It affords a physiological rest to the digestive and
> assimilative organs. After the juice fasting or juice therapy, the
> digestion of food and the utilization of nutrients is improved.
>
> Powdered psyllium is a quality source of supplemental fiber. Be
sure
> to drink plenty of water, otherwise the fiber will form an
> obstructing mass, adding to your condition. Start with one rounded
> tablespoon of the powder stirred well into a glass of water or
> diluted juice.
>
> Acidophilus: The normal, healthy colon contains "friendly"
bacteria
> (85% lactobacillus and 15% coliform bacteria). It is the friendly
> bacterial flora found in yogurt and is essential to the digestive
> system. When these bacteria are not in balance, then the person
may
> experience bloating, flatulence, constipation, and malabsorption
of
> nutrients. Acidophilus taken as a dietary supplement may help to
> detoxify and to rebuild a balanced intestinal flora. Acidophilus
aids
> the digestion and helps to replace the "friendly" intestinal
flora.
>
> The power of Green Whole Foods is essential for all day energy,
> greater focus under stress, sense of well-being, strengthened
immune
> system, fewer food cravings and optimum synergistic balance of
> essential nutrients for total health. Green Whole Foods is a
powder
> that contain antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, active
> enzymes, bioflavinoids, chlorophyll and other phytonutrients
> necessary for optimial cellular metabolism, repair and protection!
> These ingredients contain the most powerful combination of
nutrients
> ever known in any grain, herb or food. They contain almost all of
the
> vitamins, minerals, proteins and enzymes necessary for the human
> diet, plus chlorophyll.
>
> Spirulina Blue Green Algae: Spirulina possesses a complete protein
> richer than steak, abundant organically complex minerals, a wide
> variety of essential vitamins, and many beneficial enzymes.
Spirulina
> is more than just a food. As with Chlorella it has been shown to
be
> valuable with almost every aspect of health. These necessities are
> bio-available which means that they are easily assimilated
throughout
> the digestive tract, giving instant access to vital nutrients.
> Because of algae's high chlorophyll and high nutritional content
it
> is an excellent part of a cleansing program.
>
> Chlorella Green Algae: Chlorella's tough cell wall protects the
> valuable nucleus inside. When it is harvested it is instantly
dried
> and the cell walls are gently cracked open. The nutrients inside
> retain full potency. Once in your body, the cracked open cells
> release their valuable nutrients. Because it is so easy to digest,
> your cells get the full benefit of this nutritional powerhouse.
These
> necessities are bio-available which means that they are easily
> assimilated throughout the digestive tract, giving instant access
to
> vital nutrients. The algae provides intestinal nourishment and has
a
> soothing and healing effect on the mucous lining. It works to
> detoxify and purify our system.
>
> Barley Grass and Wheat Grass: Eating barley and wheat grass is
like
> eating a plate of green vegetables. These cereal grasses, are
> harvested young and are ecologically grown in nutrient rich soil.
> They are approximately 25% protein and contains all the essential
> amino acids, concentrated vitamins, minerals and fiber. They have
> been shown to increase our overall health by reducing intestinal
> putrefaction and maintaining healthy blood another important
> component of cleansing.
>
>
> Klamath Lake Blue Green Algae: This remarkable plant grows 100%
> organically in the Upper Klamath Lake of Oregon. Blue Green Algae
has
> more protein and chlorophyll by weight than any other plant or
animal
> on earth. Klamath Lake algae is considered to be the most nutrient
> rich of the algaes.
>
> Lecithin: Lecithin is produced naturally and is one of the main
> substances that digests cholesterol in the human body. Lecithin
> supports the liver and aids in the metabolism of fat. Lecithin is
> used to strengthen the heart as it clears the blood vessels of
> cholesterol. It also useful as part of a weight loss programs to
help
> dissolve fat.
>
> Fiber (water-soluble) , psyllium, seed husks, or oat bran are
> suggested. Take 1 to 2 teaspoons of fiber supplement at night
before
> bed.
>
> Magnesium: The supplement magnesium has been found to aid in the
> management of symptoms. Taking 200-300 mg of magnesium 2 to 3
times
> daily has been shown to help.
>
> Omega-3 : This fish oil has been shown in many studies, to reduce
> your bad cholesterol levels and reduce plaque buildup in your
blood.
> By reducing your bad cholesterol, you are helping your body to
fight
> off stress and relieve anxiety, tension and even prevent heart
> disease! Fish that are high in Omega-3 are excellent ways to help
> your blood stream.
>
> Psyllium Husks: A natural plant source of dietary fiber essential
for
> the proper functioning of the digestive system. Fiber
significantly
> lowers total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels.
>
> Add protein and carbohydrates to your diet: Incorporate protein
into
> your diet. Protein helps to keep sugar levels stable. You can find
> protein in nuts, yogurt, beans, fish, chicken, tofu and lentils.
>
> What You Should Avoid:
>
> Limit foods that have little or no fiber such as ice cream,
cheese,
> meat, snacks like chips and pizza, and processed foods such as
> instant mashed potatoes or already-prepared frozen dinners. Too
much
> white flour and refined sugar, two major constipation causers,
means
> you need more fiber.
>
> What you don't eat may be even more important than what you do
eat.
> Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugar, because they tend to worsen
> constipation. If you can't avoid them, then at least cut down.
>
>
> Reduce Processed and Refined Foods:
>
> Processed food can rob your food of nutrients and vitamins that
your
> body needs to fight off stress and promote good health. Try to buy
> whole foods, unprocessed foods and try and stay away
from "instant"
> foods, preservatives, artificial flavors, saturated fat and MSG.
>
> Reduce Sugar Intake:
>
> Too much sugar can rob our body of essential nutrients. Yet don't
be
> so fast as to replace the sugar with Stevia the natural sweetener
> from the Stevia plant. Artificial sweetener can also cause anxiety
as
> well as other health concerns.
>
> Reduce Alcohol Intake:
>
> In small amounts, alcohol can be good for your heart but too much
> alcohol is not a good thing for your body and too large of an
intake
> increases your body's need for extra vitamins. The body has a
harder
> time using oxygen. As a result, you can become more sensitive to
> stress - which in turn can cause constipation.
>
>
> Managing Your Constipation
>
> 1. Eating a diet that focuses on fresh vegetables and fruits.
>
> 2. Eat whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds.
>
> 3. Adopt a healthy lifestyle including regular exercise.
>
> 4. Avoiding drugs, excessive coffee and alcohol.
>
> 5. Taking a high potency multiple vitamin and also consider flax,
> fish or borage oil and mineral supplements.
>
> 6. Take nutritional/ herbal supplements to promote and enhance
colon
> function.
>
> 7. Fasting is one of the best ways to increase elimination of
wastes
> and enhance the healing process of the body.
>
> 8. Allow yourself enough time to have a bowel movement. Sometimes
we
> feel so hurried that we don't pay attention to our body's needs.
Make
> sure you don't ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
>
> 9. Drink plenty of liquids and stay hydrated.
>
> 10. Consider clearing your mind and "let go of what you are
holding
> on to".
>
>
>
> Herbal Remedies
>
> Burdock is a tonic herbs and have been used in the treatment of
skin
> conditions. Burdock is an herb that boosts immunity and purifies
the
> blood. It's a traditional liver tonic and a mild, natural
diuretic.
> Burdock's laxative and diuretic properties help remove toxins from
> the system. The Chinese utilize it against tumors, inflammation,
> fungal and bacterial infections. It is often recommended for dry,
> scaly skin. You can take burdock in capsule form (follow the
> directions) or make a acne fighting tea. Burdock root tincture may
be
> taken in 2?4 ml amounts per day. Dried root preparations in a
capsule
> or tablet can be used at 1?2 grams three times per day.
>
> Cascara Sagrada: Supports the colon, stomach, liver gallbladder
and
> pancreas and is considered one of the very best and safest
laxatives
> in the plant kingdom. Has an antibiotic effect on harmful bacteria
in
> the intestine. Promotes peristalsis and tones relaxed digestive
> system muscles.
>
> Dandelion is a leading remedy for detoxing the liver. It
stimulates
> the flow of bile, a fluid that aids fat digestion, which is why
it's
> used for liver and gallbladder disorders. Dandelion has
> scientifically documented potent diuretic properties. It relieves
> constipation and eases bloating and swelling. Dandelion should be
> used for 4 to 6 weeks at a time. For it's liver benefits,
dandelion
> is helpful for detoxing.
>
> Hawthorne Berry may help strengthen the heart, help increase blood
> flow, encourage healthy blood pressure levels and maintain healthy
> arteries. Useful for anemia, and circulatory disorders, high
> cholesterol and lowered immunity. High in Vitamins B &C, it is
also
> used as a kidney tonic. Often used as a digestive aid.
>
> Milk Thistle is the great liver detoxer! The importance of milk
> thistle in cleansing your liver, may decrease your chances of
> developing cirrhosis, chronic fatigue, PMS, and cancer. The
fruits,
> leaves, and seeds in any form, contain some of the most potent
liver
> protecting substances known. Protects the kidneys and is good for
> adrenal disorders, bowel disorders, and weakened immune systems.
>
> Plantain Herb: Psyllium is a soluble fiber used primarily as a
gentle
> bulk-forming laxative. It comes from a shrub-like herb called
> plantain that grows worldwide. There are many species of plantain
> that can each produce up to 15,000 tiny, gel-coated seeds. The
> plantain herb that produces psyllium seed is not the same plant as
> edible plantains, which is a staple in Caribbean and South
American
> diets. Psyllium husk is derived from these odorless, tasteless
seeds.
>
> Senna Pods are milder than the leaves since the do not contain the
> resin. It is the resin in the senna leaves that causes griping in
> your colon. It is the chemicals anthraquinones that provide its
> strong action on your colon walls. Senna is the second best herb
to
> use for chronic constipation because it creates strong peristaltic
> action. It is not healthy to use it for a long time, since its
action
> moves fecal matter through your colon quickly. This quick action
> prevents absorption of nutrients by your colon depriving you of
> necessary minerals and vitamins. Use senna only in amounts that
> produce the required bowel movement and stool softness to relieve
> your constipation. Start with small amounts and increase your
amount
> slowly. Caution: Only use senna for a short time, 1- 1? weeks.
Senna
> leaves may cause some cramping. Do not drink senna if you have any
> type of colon disease, stomach pain, diarrhea, or are pregnant.
>
> Tamarind is the only important spice of African origin. Today, it
is
> a much-valued food ingredient in many Asian or Latin American
> recipes. The sour and fruity taste of tamarind merges well with
the
> heat of chillies and gives many South Indian dishes their hot and
> sour character as well as their dark color. The fruit pulp is
> digestive, antiflatulent, cooling, laxative and antiseptic. It's
> seeds are also astringent. Pulp of the ripe fruit is beneficial in
> the treatment of bilious vomiting, flatulence and indigestion. It
is
> also useful in curing constipation.
>
> Triphala is a traditional Ayurvedic Indian herbal compound used
for
> constipation and poor bowel tone and is designed to support the
> body's natural cleansing process. It is one of Ayurveda's most
> important herbal formulas for thousands of years. Triphala is a
> balanced blend of three Indian Herbal Fruits: Harada, Amla,
Behada.
> This combination of fruits is unique because the astringent
qualities
> of the fruits serve to tonify the colon therefore promoting
internal
> cleansing naturally. This is highly recommended for anyone doing a
> detox program.
>
>
> Andrew Pacholyk, MS,L.Ac
> Peacefulmind. com
> Therapies for healing
> mind, body, spirit

Zits are Gonna Happen!

Sometimes you are just going to get a zit. No stopping that. But here are some things you can do to help. These helped clear up my acne pretty well.

1. Put a water filter on your shower. This works wonders for your skin and hair. I will never go back to unfiltered water, I bring a water filter with me when I travel, even.
2. Stop using harsh acne treatments. They destroys the skins natural defenses against acne, making you dependent on them. Opt for an olive oil or natural lard based soap (I prefer olive oil but I've heard people swear by the lard), wash once a day.
3. No alcohol or petrolium products on your skin, ever. This includes mineral oil. Be careful with moisturizers and toners. Opt for something all natural. I love Burts Bees products and Kiss My Face.
4. Make sure you get your weekly Essential Fatty Acids. The best way to get these is from fish. If you don't like fish, take a supplement.
5. Make sure you are drinking enough water. Make it a goal to drink a cup an hour. Limit soda to no more than one a day, if that.
6. If you get a zit, don't stress. It just makes it worse.
7. Don't wear makeup every day, and if you do, for gods sake rinse it off with warm water before you go to bed.

These things wont cure acne, but it will make it a hundred million times better! Check out the book The Truth about Beauty by Kat James for more ideas.