Archive for July 2009

The Anti-Aging Meal Plan

Use these first 3 days as your guide, then mix and match.

Day 1

Breakfast
# 8 oz fat-free yogurt mixed with 1/2 c raspberries
# 8 oz green tea

Lunch
# 2 c mixed greens, 1/4 c tomatoes, 1/4 c carrots, 1/4 c red cabbage, 1/3 c chickpeas, 1/3 c red beans, 1/3 c edamame, 1 oz slivered almonds, tossed with 1 Tbsp olive oil and as much red-wine or balsamic vinegar as you'd like
# 1 plum
# 8 oz sparkling water mixed with 1/4 c pomegranate juice and a twist of lime

Snack
# A mini-sandwich: 1 slice whole-grain bread with 1 oz low-fat cheese and 1 tsp mustard
# 3/4 c blueberries

Dinner
# 3 oz grilled wild salmon
# 1 c brussels sprouts and 1/2 c thinly sliced beets sautéed in 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
# 1 small sweet potato, baked
# 1 glass red wine

Snack
# 1/2 c high-fiber cereal
# 1 c fat-free milk

1,710 cal

Day 2

Breakfast

# 1 slice toasted whole-grain bread, spread with 2 Tbsp peanut butter (or other nut butter, like almond)
# 3/4 c strawberries

Lunch
# 2 oz white turkey, 3 spinach leaves, 2 slices tomato, and 1 Tbsp mustard on 2 slices whole-grain bread
# 1 c red grapes
# 8 oz green tea

Snack
# 6 oz or 100-calorie pack low-fat popcorn, sprinkled with 2 Tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Dinner
# 5 oz grilled albacore tuna
# 1/2 c whole-wheat pasta tossed with 1/2 c broccoli and garlic to taste (about 1 clove) sautéed in 1 tsp olive oil
# 1 c red-leaf lettuce & 1/4 c shredded fresh beets topped with 1 Tbsp chopped pecans & 1 Tbsp dried cranberries, tossed with 1 tsp olive oil
# 1/2 pink grapefruit
# 1 glass red wine

Snack
# 3 graham crackers, topped with 2 Tbsp low-fat whipped cream cheese and 1/4 c sliced berries of your choice

1,730 cal

Day 3

Breakfast

# 3/4 c high-fiber cereal
# 1 c fat-free milk
# 1/2 banana

Lunch
# 4-egg-white omelet with 5 spinach leaves, 1/2 c diced red peppers, & 1 slice low-fat cheese
# 1 small whole-wheat pita
# 3/4 c grape tomatoes mixed with 1/4 c diced avocado
# 3/4 c blackberries

Snack
# 1 Tbsp peanut butter on 2 whole-grain crackers
# 8 oz raspberry iced tea

Dinner
# 1 veggie burger on a whole-wheat bun
# 1/3 c cooked brown rice
# 1/3 c black beans
# 1 c sautéed yellow and green squash
# 1 c mesclun greens with 1/4c shredded carrots, topped with 1 Tbsp chopped walnuts and 1/2 c diced apple
# 1 glass red wine

Snack
# 1/2 c low-fat frozen yogurt with
# 5 c fresh berries of your choice

1,740 cal

--------------------------------------------------------
DISCLAIMER: All material on this Blog is provided for your information only & may not be construed as medical advice(s) or instruction(s). No action(S) or inaction(S) should be taken based solely on the content(S) of this information(S). Instead, readers should consult appropriate health professional(S) on any matter relating to their health & well-being.

The information & opinions expressed here are believed to be accurate, based on the best judgment available to the author; and readers who fail to consult with appropriate health authorities assume the risk of any injuries.

In addition, the information & opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the Blog author. Blog author acknowledges occasional differences in opinion & welcomes the exchange of different viewpoint(S). The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions.

Combat Cancer - Veggies In Diet

BROCCOLI
How it combats cancer: Research has revealed that a chemical component called indole-3-carbinol can combat breast cancer by converting a cancer-promoting estrogen into a more protective riety. The phytochemical sulforaphane raises the levels of certain cancer-fighting enzymes that defend the body from cigarette smoke, fumes, pesticides & other known carcinogens.

Diet Tips: Broccoli leaves actually contain more beta-carotene (i.e. pre-Vitamin A) than the florets - use leaves in purees, soups, stir-fries. To preserve broccoli's valuable nutrients, steam or microwave, being careful not to overcook. Avoid garnishing broccoli with fatty cheeses and creams instead, squeeze on some lemon juice or sprinkle with toasted bread crumbs.

PAPAYA
How it combats cancer: Its plentiful store of vitamin C works as an antioxidant and may also reduce absorption of cancer-causing nitrosamines from the soil or processed foods. Papaya contains folacin (also known as folic acid), which has been shown to minimize cervical ysplasia and certain cancers.

Diet Tips: Choose papayas that are at least half yellow in the store - fully green ones were probably picked too soon and won't ripen properly. You can serve papaya in fruit salad, add it to a garlic-and-spinach pasta mixture, or just eat it on its own, letting the juice dribble down your arm.

GARLIC
How it combats cancer: Garlic's immune-enhancing allium compounds block carcinogens from entering cells and slow tumor development. Diallyl sulfide, a component of garlic oil, has also been shown to render carcinogens in the liver inactive. Studies have linked garlic - as well as onions, leeks, and chives - to lower risk of stomach and colon cancer.

Diet Tips: Add raw garlic to salads, use it fresh in marinades and sauces; rub freshly cut garlic around the insides of salad bowls and over chicken and fish fillets. Avoid dried or powdered garlic, which is less concentrated, and less effective.

KALE
How it combats cancer: Research has shown that indoles, nitrogen compounds found in kale and other leafy greens, may help stop the conversion of certain lesions to cancerous cells in estrogen-sensitive tissues. In addition, isothiocyanates, phytochemicals found in kale, are thought to suppress tumor growth and block cancer-causing substances from reaching their targets.

Diet Tips: A cruciferous vegetable, kale requires quick cooking - blanching or steaming - to preserve its nutrients. When you're done, save the nutrient-rich cooking liquid for soups or sauces. You can also use whole large leaves to wrap fillings or to layer in lasagna.

SWEET POTATO
How it combats cancer: This nutrient-dense food contains many anticancer properties. It's loaded with beta-carotene, which may protect DNA in the cell nucleus from cancer-causing chemicals outside the nuclear membrane.

Diet Tips: Go for freshness when picking potatoes - canned arieties contain less beta-carotene and vitamins C and B. Naturally sweet and creamy, mashed sweet potatoes can be enhanced with a little apple juice. Or whip the cooked tubers with orange zest or orange juice and season with cinnamon,nutmeg, and ginger.

GRAPEFRUIT
How it combats cancer: Grapefruits, like oranges and other citrus fruits,contain monoterpenes, believed to help prevent cancer by sweeping carcinogens out of the body. Some studies show that grapefruit can inhibit the proliferation of breast-cancer cells in vitro. It also contains vitamin C, beta-carotene, and folic acid.

Diet Tips: Grapefruit can be sweetened with brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup or honey; vanilla extract, fresh mint, and almonds also accent the fruit's flavor. Grapefruit juice will give you the antioxidants and phytochemicals that fight cancer, but it's missing the fiber that fresh,whole grapefruit offers.

AVOCADO
How it combats cancer: Avocados are rich in glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that attacks free radicals in the body by blocking intestinal absorption of certain fats. Ounce for ounce, avocados also supply 60 percent more potassium than bananas and are a strong source of beta-carotene.

Diet Tips: Store avocados at room temperature until they soften. If you don't eat the fruit immediately after cutting, sprinkle on some lemon or lime juice to keep it from darkening. Add chunks or slices to salads and sandwiches or spread mashed avocado on bread.

SEAWEED
How they combat cancer: Seaweed and other sea vegetables contain beta-carotene, protein, vitamin B12, fiber, and chlorophyll, as well as chlorophylones - important fatty acids that may help in the fight against breast cancer. Also, many sea vegetables have high concentrations of the minerals potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, and iodine.

Diet Tips: Sea vegetables come fresh, dried, or powdered. Both the Japanese & the Irish regularly use them as flavorings for broths & soups,stir-fried over rice, or as a wrap for fish and other seafood. Varieties such as dulce, wakame, kombu, and hijiki even appear in pancakes,salads,puddings, and sandwiches.

TOFU
How it combats cancer: Soy contains several types of phytoestrogens -weak, nonsteroidal estrogens that could help prevent both breast & prostate cancer by blocking & suppressing cancerous changes. Genistein, one type of phytoestrogen, also lowers breast-cancer risk by inhibiting the growth of epithelial cells & new blood vessels that tumors require to flourish.

Diet Tips: Tofu is made by coagulating the protein in soybeans - much the way cheese is produced. While bland on its own, tofu absorbs other flavors when cooked, making it perfect for stir-fries, dips, spreads,shakes, even cheesecake. It's also a good high-protein substitute for meat, whole milk & mayonnaise.

--------------------------------------------------------
DISCLAIMER: All material on this Blog is provided for your information only & may not be construed as medical advice(s) or instruction(s). No action(S) or inaction(S) should be taken based solely on the content(S) of this information(S). Instead, readers should consult appropriate health professional(S) on any matter relating to their health & well-being.

The information & opinions expressed here are believed to be accurate, based on the best judgment available to the author; and readers who fail to consult with appropriate health authorities assume the risk of any injuries.

In addition, the information & opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the Blog author. Blog author acknowledges occasional differences in opinion & welcomes the exchange of different viewpoint(S). The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions.

Salt The Cure Of Pain

I believe that most of your moms always tell you to drink a glass of salt water/rinse your mouth with salt water if you have a sore throat because salt can reduce inflammation.

This method has actually been proven (medically) to be really effective & it really can help to reduce inflammation.

They have also tested on other medical values of salt and found out that:

If you have pain in your joints/spine/body, you can simply try out this method which can help to relieve the pain (especially for old people who have rheumatism). Simply fry the salt let it settle down for a while before applying on affected areas. And if you have a problem of Hair Loss, you can simply prepare a pail of salt water and rinse your scalp/hair with it (it takes about 2 weeks to a month). It will not help in growing of new hair but can prevent. After tedious/strenuous exercise, soaking your feet with salt water can help to prevent cramps and pain., and also prevent from skin irritation. Hope it will be of help to you.

--------------------------------------------------------
DISCLAIMER: All material on this Blog is provided for your information only & may not be construed as medical advice(s) or instruction(s). No action(S) or inaction(S) should be taken based solely on the content(S) of this information(S). Instead, readers should consult appropriate health professional(S) on any matter relating to their health & well-being.

The information & opinions expressed here are believed to be accurate, based on the best judgment available to the author; and readers who fail to consult with appropriate health authorities assume the risk of any injuries.

In addition, the information & opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the Blog author. Blog author acknowledges occasional differences in opinion & welcomes the exchange of different viewpoint(S). The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions.

Avoid MEAT/PORK

A message from the Health Corporation of Singapore about the bad effects of pork consumption. Pig's bodies contains MANY TOXINS, WORMS and LATENT DISEASES.

Although some of these infestation are harbored in other animals, modern veterinarians say that pigs are far MORE PREDISPOSED to these illnesses than other animals. This could be because PIGS like to SCAVENGE & will eat ANY kind of food, INCLUDING dead insects, worms, rotting carcasses, excreta including their own, garbage, & other pigs.

INFLUENZA (flu) is one of the MOST famous illnesses which pigs share with humans. This illness is harbored in the LUNGS of pigs during the summer months & tends to affect pigs & human in the cooler months. Sausage contains bits of pigs' lungs, so those who EAT pork sausage tend to SUFFER MORE during EPIDEMICS of INFLUENZA.

Pig meat contains EXCESSIVE quantities of HISTAMINE and IMIDAZOLE compounds, which can lead to ITCHING and INFLAMMATION; GROWTH HORMONE which PROMOTES INFLAMMATION and growth; sulphur containing mesenchymal mucus which leads to SWELLING and deposits of MUCUS in tendons and cartilage, resulting in ATHRITIS, RHEUMATISM, etc. Sulphur helps cause FIRM human tendons and ligaments to be replaced by the pig's soft mesenchymal tissues, and degeneration of human cartiliage. Eating pork can also lead to GALLSTONES and OBESITY, probably due to its HIGH CHOLESTEROL and SATURATED FAT content.

The pig is the MAIN CARRIER of the TAENIE SOLIUM WORM, which is found in it flesh.

These tapeworms are found in human intestines with greater frequency in nations where pigs are eaten. This type of tapeworm can pass through the intestines and affect many other organs, and is incurable once it reaches beyond a certain stage. One in six people in the US and Canada has RICHINOSIS from eating trichina worms, which are found in pork. Many people have NO SYMPTOMS after having pork. When they do have any sickness in long term, they resemble symptoms of many other illnesses. These worms are NOT noticed during meat inspections.

--------------------------------------------------------
DISCLAIMER: All material on this Blog is provided for your information only & may not be construed as medical advice(s) or instruction(s). No action(S) or inaction(S) should be taken based solely on the content(S) of this information(S). Instead, readers should consult appropriate health professional(S) on any matter relating to their health & well-being.

The information & opinions expressed here are believed to be accurate, based on the best judgment available to the author; and readers who fail to consult with appropriate health authorities assume the risk of any injuries.

In addition, the information & opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the Blog author. Blog author acknowledges occasional differences in opinion & welcomes the exchange of different viewpoint(S). The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions.

Winter Tips

Winter is just not about warm clothes, fireside reading, snuggling close to the pillows wrapped from head to toe with a comfy quilt. It is time to battle the cold winds that hampers your body & hair. A little care will keep the wintry troubles at bay.

Hair...
Before the winter winds can wreck havoc with your hair, expose your hair to deep conditioning. Since the cold weather causes to dry your hair, massage your hair in Aloe Vera juice for a few minutes. This will restore its softness.

You can also treat your hair with oil massage once or twice a week Olive oil can work wonders in reinforcing moisture to your hair. Heat the oil before using & allow it to soak for a time lesser than the time you allot for the summer season. Too long a period of soaking hair in oil can get you ill. If you are used to treating your hair with herbal extracts or herbal oil do not soak it for a long time. Herbal ingredients are mostly cooling agents that are more suitable for the summer. Keep away from washing your hair too frequently.

Woolen clothing like hats, scarves, & turtlenecks can cause damage to your hairline. Since they can cause breakage, first cover your hair with a silk scarf before exposing it to winter wraps.

It is the appropriate time for split ends to work their way up to the hair shafts. Hence trim your split ends.

Style your hair with a braid, twist, or a knot. Try Keeping away from letting your hair open & wild, as the cold winds can play rough on your hair.

Avoid exposing your hair to frequent coloring, streaking, or ironing as they can rob your hair off its moisture and it is advisable to avoid heating appliances on your hair.

Expose your hair to natural drying. Keep away from blow dryers. If you have to use, use one with a hood.

Always cover your hair with a silk fabric to guard it from the chill winds.

Skin...
Your skin texture depends not only on external treatments, but also on the intake. A proper nutritious intake helps in rejuvenating the skin from within. Water plays an important role in keeping your skin alive. A good amount of water helps in retaining the moisture of your skin as well keeping skin disorders at bay. Fruits and vegetables in your daily diet release a lot of water to your system. Primrose syrup and olive oil in your diet also aids in softening your skin.

Use the paste of ground green gram powder instead of soap to work your way to a soft and supple skin.

Pamper you skin with a little coconut oil before bath to heal dryness and chaps. Use a creamy soap that renders that extra suppleness to your skin.

Moisturizers and cold creams are a must in the winters. Apply some good cold cream on your face before going to bed. Moisten your skin with a good moisturizer or a creamy hand and body lotion. My best buy is ' Jergens' hand and body lotion.

Add a few drops of oil to the water that you are using to bath. This will help retain the moisture lost when bathing. Avoid using very hot water during winter as it can decrease the natural oils of your skin. Instead shorten your bath time.

Hands, legs, & nails...
When treating your legs add a few drops of oil in the water that you use to soak them. With regards to hands, try using rubber gloves while immersing them in water. Use a base coat over your nails against the cold weather.

Lips...
A good petroleum jelly will be an effective cover over your lips against the cold weather. Butter is effective in curing chapped lips and renders an extra softness.

So get ready to shield your body against the winter threats.

--------------------------------------------------------
DISCLAIMER: All material on this Blog is provided for your information only & may not be construed as medical advice(s) or instruction(s). No action(S) or inaction(S) should be taken based solely on the content(S) of this information(S). Instead, readers should consult appropriate health professional(S) on any matter relating to their health & well-being.

The information & opinions expressed here are believed to be accurate, based on the best judgment available to the author; and readers who fail to consult with appropriate health authorities assume the risk of any injuries.

In addition, the information & opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the Blog author. Blog author acknowledges occasional differences in opinion & welcomes the exchange of different viewpoint(S). The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions.

For Your Eyes Only

Eyes are the most complex organs you possess except for your brain.

Eyes are composed of more than two million working parts.

Eyes can process 36,000 bits of information every hour.

Eyes under the right conditions, can discern the light of a candle at a distance of 14 miles.

Eyes contribute towards 85% of your total knowledge.

Eyes utilize 65% of all the pathways to the brain.

Eyes can instantaneously set in motion hundreds of muscles and organs in your body.

Eyes in a normal life-span, will bring you almost 24 million images of the world around you.

The external muscles that move the eyes are the strongest muscles in the human body for the job that they have to do. They are 100 times more powerful than they need to be.

The adult eyeball measures about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Of its total surface area only one-sixth is exposed -- the front portion.

The eye is the only part of the human body that can function at 100% ability at any moment, day or night, without rest. Your eyelids need rest, the external muscles of your eyes need rest, the lubrication of your eyes requires replenishment, but your eyes themselves "never" need rest. But please rest them!

Eyes are your most precious sense... care for them properly!

--------------------------------------------------------
DISCLAIMER: All material on this Blog is provided for your information only & may not be construed as medical advice(s) or instruction(s). No action(S) or inaction(S) should be taken based solely on the content(S) of this information(S). Instead, readers should consult appropriate health professional(S) on any matter relating to their health & well-being.

The information & opinions expressed here are believed to be accurate, based on the best judgment available to the author; and readers who fail to consult with appropriate health authorities assume the risk of any injuries.

In addition, the information & opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the Blog author. Blog author acknowledges occasional differences in opinion & welcomes the exchange of different viewpoint(S). The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions.

WANT 2 Appear Thinner?

Step 1
If you are heavy on the bottom, wear a solid color on your bottom half. Stay away from patterns and bright colors. Wear patterns on top to detract attention from your lower half. You will appear more balanced and look thinner without having to lose weight.

Step 2
If you are heavy on top, reverse this. Wear bottoms that have more detail, and tops that are simple and plain. Again, this minimizes your top half, and makes you appear thinner all over.

Step 3
To give yourself the appearance of a waist, wear longer, fitted shirts that come just below the lower belly. Wear a wide belt or scarf around your waist area. You will give the appearance of a slimmer waistline.

Step 4
Do not wear clothes too loose. This does not camouflage, but only gives the appearance of sloppiness. Wear clothes that are form fitting to appear thinner.

Step 5
Do not wear clothes that are too tight either. We do not to overly accentuate bumps or bulges. This will only make you appear heavier than you actually are. You will look like you have lost weight if you wear clothes that fit your body.

Step 6
Wear heels. They make you taller and that makes you appear thinner without having to actually lose weight or diet.

Step 7
Spanx are great for slimming you down. They are comfortable and can make you appear 3-4 sizes smaller without diet or exercise.

Step 8
With pants wear a slightly flared leg so that you do not look thigh heavy. This will give your leg a balanced look all the way down which makes you look taller and thinner.

Step 9
Always choose dark jeans. A cut that goes slightly above the belly button, with a light flare in the leg will be most flattering. Darker jeans are instantly slimming.

Step 10
Pockets of pants should be high up on the rear to accentuate the buttocks. In order to appear thinner, avoid pockets that are low on the rear.

Step 11
To hide a variety of sins wear a skirt with a slight flare. Stay away from clingy fabrics which will accentuate areas of heaviness. This will make you appear like you weigh less.

Step 12
Wear a tank with another shirt on top for a layered effect. Tops that have a cut that tapers toward the waist give an hourglass effect which helps give you a shape.

Step 13
Wearing pants with vertical stripes are great. This can make you look like you have lost weight without ever having done any exercise or diet.

Step 14
Fitted suits that have vertical striping and a tapered waist are great. Make sure it fits. Wear a fitted top underneath. This is a very slimming look.

Step 15
Do not expose too much cleavage. Tops should fit, but not be overly tight. Tight clothing can expose bulges that may make you appear heavier. In order to appear like you have lost weight, be sure your clothes are fitted correctly.

Step 16
Do wear v-necks and oval shaped tops. These cut into the body to give a slimming effect.

Step 17
If you wear a baggier top, wear a fitted bottom. This will give you balance and contribute to a slimmer appearance.

Step 18
Wear half sleeves that are fitted to cover trouble spots such as heavy arms. This can make you look like you have lost 10 pounds.

Step 19
Shorts should be fitted and slightly flared. They should extend to the knee to create a look of length.

Step 20
A pencil skirt will work if there is a slight flare on the bottom, and the top is longer, belted and somewhat fitted, or flowy and soft.

Step 21
Try on many different styles. Be real with yourself. Look in the mirror in the department store and really be critical. Ask yourself if you would like this on someone else of the same size. Follow the guidelines listed above to choose clothes to make you appear thinner.

Step 22
Do not be afraid to go out of your style zone. Being up to date and stylish will detract from any perceived flaws you may have. Looking thinner without diet or weight loss is possible by using the guidelines listed above. You do not have to lose weight to appear thinner. Dressing the part can make you appear like you have lost 10 pounds overnight.

--------------------------------------------------------
DISCLAIMER: All material on this Blog is provided for your information only & may not be construed as medical advice(s) or instruction(s). No action(S) or inaction(S) should be taken based solely on the content(S) of this information(S). Instead, readers should consult appropriate health professional(S) on any matter relating to their health & well-being.

The information & opinions expressed here are believed to be accurate, based on the best judgment available to the author; and readers who fail to consult with appropriate health authorities assume the risk of any injuries.

In addition, the information & opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the Blog author. Blog author acknowledges occasional differences in opinion & welcomes the exchange of different viewpoint(S). The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions.