Health care, Acne , Cancer Article

TLR1- cluster of differentiation 281

2009-04-02T05:08:00.003-07:00

Toll-like receptor 1 (TLR1) often designated as CD281 (cluster of differentiation 281), a member of the Toll-like receptor family recognizes pathogen-associated molecular pattern with specificity for gram-positive bacteria. TLR1 is a 786-residue type I transmembrane protein with a 581-amino acid leucine-rich extracellular domain (ECD), a 23-amino acid transmembrane domain (amino acids 582 to 604), and a 181-amino acid cytoplasmic Toll homology signalling domain (1, 2). TLR1 maps to chromosome 4p14 with a calculated molecular weight of 84 kDa (3, 4). TLR1 is most closely related to TLR6 and TLR10 with 68% and 48% overall amino acid sequence identity, respectively. Among members of the TLR family, TLR1 along with TLR6 comprise the most highly conserved pair and appear to have arisen more recently during evolution through a gene duplication event. Different length transcripts presumably resulting from use of alternative polyadenylation site, and/or from alternative splicing, have been noted for TLR4.

In vivo, two different sized transcripts for TLR1 are observed suggesting that the mRNA is alternatively spliced to generate two different forms of the protein. TLR1 mRNA is ubiquitously expressed and found at higher levels than the other TLRs. Of the major leukocyte populations, TLR1 is most highly expressed by monocytes, but is also expressed by macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), polymorphonuclear leukocytes, B, T, and NK cells. While TLR1 expression is most significantly upregulated by autocrine IL-6, it is also elevated by IFN-γß, IL-10, and TNF-α. However, TLR1 level is unaffected by exposure to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

TLR1 along with TLR6 functions as a co-receptor for TLR2, which confers ligand specificity and enables cell signaling. Collectively, these receptor pairs mediate immune responses to a wide variety of acylated cell wall components derived from Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, mycoplasma, spirochetes, and fungi. TLR1 also heterodimerizes with TLR4, not to enhance its function, but to inhibit TLR4 activity (5, 6). Defects in the TLR1/2 signaling pathway may account for human hyporesponsiveness to OspA vaccination.

Through the reciprocal exchange of extracellular domains between the human TLRs 1 and 6, it has been revealed that TLR1/2 and TLR2/6 receptor pairs exhibit different specificities toward many microbial agonists including diacylated and triacylated lipopeptides, which is determined by the region comprised of leucine-rich repeat motifs 9–12 of these receptors. A recent finding suggests that three nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are located in this region of TLR1. A variant of TLR1 based upon the SNP P315L, located in the loop of LRR motif 11 (LRR11), is greatly impaired in mediating responses to lipopeptides. The P315L SNP may predispose certain individuals to infectious diseases for which the sensing of microbial cell components by TLR1 is critical to innate immune defense (7). Thus variation in the inflammatory response to bacterial lipopeptides is regulated by a common TLR1 transmembrane domain polymorphism that could potentially impact the innate immune response and clinical susceptibility to a wide spectrum of pathogens.

Reference:

1. Janeway, C. A., Jr, R. Medzhitov. 2002. Innate immune recognition. Annu. Rev. Immunol. 20: 197-216.
2. Takeda, K., T. Kaisho, S. Akira. 2003. Toll-like receptors. Annu. Rev. Immunol. 21: 335-376.
3.Beutler, B., Z. Jiang, P. Georgel, K. Crozat, B. Croker, S. Rutschmann, X. Du, K. Hoebe. 2006. Genetic analysis of host resistance: Toll-like receptor signaling and immunity at large. Annu. Rev. Immunol. 24: 353-389.
4. Rock, F.L. et al. (1998) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 95:588.
5. Ozinsky, A. et al. (2000) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 97:13766.
6. Wyllie, D.H. et al. (2000) J. Immunol. 165:7125.
7. Katherine O. Omueti The Journal of Immunology, 2007, 178: 6387-6394.

TLR10- cluster of differentiation 290

2009-04-02T05:08:00.001-07:00

Toll-like receptor 10 (TLR10) often known as CD290 (cluster of differentiation 290), is the most recently identified human homolog of the Drosophila TOLL protein. Human TLR10 is an orphan member of the Toll-like receptor family that recognizes pathogen-associated molecular pattern. Like other members of the TLR family, TLR10 contains a signal peptide, multiple leucine-rich repeats, a cysteine-rich domain, a transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic TOLL interleukin-1 receptor domain. The human TLR10 gene occupies 3,269 bases arranged in three exons on the short arm of chromosome 4 (4p14) and encodes an 811-amino acid protein, approximately 50% identical to TLR1 and to TLR6. TLR10 is most closely related to TLR1 and TLR6 with 48% and 46% overall amino acid identity, respectively. Multiple alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding the same protein have been found for this gene (1).

In vivo, TLR10 mRNA expression is highest in immune system-related tissues including spleen, lymph node, thymus, tonsil. TLR10 mRNA is most highly expressed on B cells. In vitro, TLR10 is moderately upregulated by autocrine IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α in PMA-differentiated THP-1 cells. TLR10 mRNA expression in THP-1 cells is elevated after exposure to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Ex vivo, monocyte TLR10 expression increases while granulocyte expression decreases on exposure to Gram-negative bacteria. (2, 3)

Due to absent of its rat homologue, the natural ligand for TLR10 has not been identified yet. Genomic studies indicate that TLR10 is in the same locus that contains TLR1 and TLR6 and are also structurally similar to each other. It has been speculated that, like TLR1 and TLR6, TLR10 may form a heterodimer with TLR2 and thereby be sensitive to similar pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). Recent studies have shown that TLR10 was not only able to homodimerize but also heterodimerize with TLRs 1 and 2. (1)

TLR10 has been identified as a potential asthma candidate gene because early life innate immune responses to ubiquitous inhaled allergens and PAMPs may influence asthma susceptibility and thus TLR10 genetic variation may often contributes to asthma risk. (4)

References:
1. The Journal of Immunology, 2005, 174: 2942-2950.
2. Chuang, T. & R.J. Ulevitch (2001) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1518:157.
3. Zarember, K.A. & P.J. Godowski (2002) J. Immunol. 168:554.
4. Hornung, V. et al. (2002) J. Immunol. 168:4531.

In Search of Putative FOXP3+ Cell Surface Markers

2009-04-02T05:07:00.004-07:00

Despite intense interest and scrutiny focused on FOXP3 as a key protein & master transcription factor, isolating and enriching for viable FOXP3 positive cells remains a challenge. Although cell separation/staining via CD4+CD25+ selection is commonly used, this technique has limited applications. Thus, surface markers specific for FOXP3 positive cells would be invaluable research tools as they would:

• Facilitate isolation & purification of viable
Treg cells
• Distinguish naturally occurring
CD4+CD25+cells from both naive and
recently activated CD4+CD25-
nonregulatory T cells
• Allow therapeutic manipulation of
Treg cells

As the search for putative FOXP3+ markers continue, Neuropilin-1, GPR83, & FR4 have emerged as potential candidates. IMGENEX is excited to offer a panel of flow cytometric characterized antibodies against:

• Neuropilin-1 (clone 211H6.01)
• GPR83 (polyclonal)
• Folate Receptor 4 (clones 12A5 & TH6)

Flow cytometric analysis of intracellular FOXP3 (IMG-5802D) and cell surface FR4 with clone 12A5 (IMG-6217C) (left) and clone TH6 (IMG-6218C) (right) at 0.06 ug/10^6 mouse splenocytes.

Flow cytometric analysis of Neuropilin-1 in CD4+CD25+ human PBMCs using A) an isotype control & B) DDX0440 at 0.5 ug/10^6 cells. These antibodies are available in multiple sizes and conjugates.

A Functional Contributor to Cancer Metastatic Potential

2009-04-02T05:07:00.003-07:00

Tumor metastasis plays a key role in assessing treatment strategies and an important factor in determining patient prognosis. Not surprisingly, significant effort has been focused on elucidating the molecular basis behind tumor metastasis. This understanding may allow development of diagnostic and prognostic tools and likely provide novel therapeutic targets.

In a recent study by Crawford et al. published in PNAS, it was shown that Brd4, a ubiquitously expressed 200-kDa nuclear protein broadly expressed in many tissues, significantly reduced tumor growth and metastasis when implanted into mice. Further, Microarray analysis performed by the same group identified a correlation between Brd4 activation and disease progression/patient survival.

Together, this evidence strongly suggests that Brd4 plays a key role in breast cancer progression and an underlying mechanism of many metastasis-predictive gene signatures.

Although it remains to be determined if Brd4's role is that of a proximal factor or an intermediary molecule of some other inherited factor that drives the progression of breast cancer, its functional importance is emerging as both a diagnostic and prognostic tool with therapeutic significance.

Neuropilin-1/BDCA-4/CD304

2009-04-02T05:07:00.001-07:00

Neuropilin-1 (Nrp-1) was recently identified as a possible surface marker for naturally occurring CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells and is constitutively expressed on the cell irrespective of its activation status. Nrp-1 is a type 1 membrane protein with three unique functions. In neuronal cells, Nrp-1 binds the class 3 semaphorins, which are neuronal chemorepellents, and plays a role in the directional guidance of axons. It also form complexes with the plexinA subfamily members and mediate the semaphorin-elicited inhibitory signals into neurons. Moreover in endothelial cells, Nrp-1 binds a potent endothelial cell mitogen, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)165 and thus regulates vessel formation (1). The protein is also described to mediate homophilic interactions between dendritic cells and T cells in human, which confirms its role in immune function. Amongst T cells, Nrp-1 is preferentially expressed on T regulatory cells (Tregs) (2). It has been suggested that Neuropilin-1 acts as glue between Tregs and dendritic Cells (4). Neuropilin-1 expression on Tregs has been shown to enhance their interactions with immature dendritic cells (iDCs) during antigen recognition (4).

Treg cells are potential components of the immune system controlling immune responsiveness to self and alloantigens. Apart from the expression of the two surface molecules, CD4 and CD25, Treg cells are also known to express the transcription factor Foxp3, which is essential for the development and function of Treg cells. Recently, several cell surface molecules, such as, CTLA-4, GITR, LAG3, GPR83, Folate receptor 4 have been shown to be expressed at high level on regulatory T cells. Besides the currently known other cell surface receptors for Treg cells such as the B7-family members PD1, and ICOS, are also up regulated in activated non-regulatory CD4+T cells.

Recent research works to identify a specific cell surface marker for Tregs has led to identification of Nrp-1 as a cell surface molecule that is expressed by 80% of CD4+CD25+ Tregs but not on naïve cells. Further studies reveal the expression of the Nrp-1 gene to be regulated by the transcription factor Foxp3. Ectotopic expression of FoxP3 in CD4+ T cells lead to up regulation of Nrp-1 and increases interaction time between Tregs and iDCs, resulting in higher sensitivity to limiting amounts of antigens (5). Anti-Nrp-1 antibody treatment interferes with interactions between Tregs and iDCs. Moreover the expression of the protein is also significantly low in naive non-regulatory T cells (CD4+CD25- T cells) and is further down regulated after TCR stimulation. Thus Nrp-1 represents a novel surface marker on Treg cells with several important functions.

IMGENEX India Pvt Ltd. the only biotech company in Orissa and one of its kinds in Eastern India. IMGENEX India started in Oct as an outsourcing branch of IMGENEX Corporation, San Diego, USA. Find out more information about Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) .

Folate Receptor 4 (FR4)

2009-04-02T05:06:00.000-07:00

Folates play an important role in protein and nucleic acid biosynthesis and are particularly recognized for their roles in spinal canal and brain development during early pregnancy. FR4 is expressed at high levels on both natural and TGF-b induced Tregs. The majority of CD4+ Tregs express FR4 along with CD25 and FoxP3. FR4 antibodies (e.g. clone 12A5 and TH6) recognize a subtype of the receptor (35kD) for the vitamin folic acid also known as folate receptor d, and folate-binding protein 3. Additionally, there are functional similarities in regulating immune responses between FoxP3 and FR4 expressing CD4+/CD25+ Tregs. CD4+CD25+ FR4hi cells may be used as a functional immunosuppressor Treg population which would be expected to express FoxP3. Accordingly, anti-FR4 antibodies may be useful for cell surface staining of Tregs and easy isolation by FACS or magnetic bead separation while maintaining the cells viability for subsequent down-stream applications.

Key Publication Findings
• FR4 appears to be constitutively expressed in Treg cells at a higher level than other activated or naive T cells
• Not simply a marker for natural Tregs, but functionally essential.

TLR2- cluster of differentiation 282

2009-04-02T05:05:00.003-07:00

Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), often designated as CD282 (cluster of differentiation 282) is a type I transmembrane protein belonging to the large homologous family of Toll like receptors. TLR2 acts as functional receptor for both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Like all other members of the TLR family, TLR2 is composed of an extracellular domain containing multiple leucine-rich repeats (LRRs), a transmembrane region, and a cytoplasmic tail containing the conserved TIR domain. TLR2 maps to chromosome 4q31-32 and encodes a putative 784 amino acid protein with 19 N-terminal LLRs and a calculated molecular weight of 84 kDa (1, 2, 3). Comparison of the amino acid sequence reveals that TLR2, TLR1, and TLR6 form a TLR subfamily, which presumably diverged from one common ancestral gene. In humans, TLR10 is also a member of this TLR2 subfamily. Among all TLR, TLR1 and TLR6 have the highest identity of overall amino acid sequence, which is 66%, and a similar genomic structure and thus it is assumed that they are the evolutionary products of gene duplication.

In vivo transcripts for TLR2 are observed suggesting that the mRNA is alternatively spliced. TLR2 mRNA expression is observed in brain, heart, lung, and spleen tissues and is highest in PBLs, specifically those of myelomonocytic origin. In vitro PMA-differentiated THP-1, TLR2 is most significantly upregulated by autocrine IL-6 and TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-10. Further, TLR2 mRNA expression is elevated after exposure to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The increase in TLR2 expression in monocytes and granulocytes on exposure to Gram-negative bacteria is only very modest. Furthermore, TLR2 appears to be up-regulated on mononuclear cells during disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, influenza virus infections, and sepsis

TLR2 act as signal transducers for various bacterial components which include lipoproteins derived from M. tuberculosis, Borrelia burgdorfei, Treponema pallidium and Mycoplasma fermentans. In addition, TLR2 mediates cellular responses to a wide variety of infectious pathogens and their products which include yeast cell walls, whole mycobacteria, mycobacterial ara-lipoarabinomannan, whole Gram-positive bacteria, peptidoglycan (PGN), Treponema glycolipid and Trypanosoma cruzi glycophosphatidylinositol anchor. TLR2 forms heterodimers with TLR1, TLR6 and possibly TLR10, where each complex is particularly sensitive to subsets of TLR2-associated pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). It has been studied that TLR6 and TLR2 function together to detect Gram-positive bacteria, PGN and zymosan, whereas TLR2 functions either alone or with TLRs other than TLR6 to detect bacterial lipopeptides. More recent studies have suggested that, like TLR4, TLR2 complexes require CD14 and MD-2 for detection of PAMPs and signaling. (4, 5) Upon ligand recognition, TLR2 recruits both the TIR domain-containing sorting adaptor TIRAP and the signaling adaptor MyD88, and initiates the MyD88-dependent pathway. The MyD88-dependent pathway activates nuclear factor (NF)-κB, activator protein-1 (AP-1) and interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5), which induce inflammatory cytokine expression such as IL-6, IL-12, and TNFα. (6)

Aside from detection of non-self patterns, TLR2 complexes are also capable of detecting altered self patterns, such as those displayed by necrotic cells. Further, recent evidence indicates that TLR2 is recruited to phagosomes and may be directly involved in the internalization of microbial products by cells.

Reference:
1. Rock, F.L. et al. (1998) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 95:588.
2. Chaudhary, P.M. et al. (1998) Blood 91:4020.
3. Dunne, A. & L.A.J. O'Neill (2003) Sci. STKE 2003:re3.
4. Modlin, R.L. (2002) Ann. Allergy Asthma Immunol. 88:543.
5. J Endotoxin Res. 2000;6(5):401-5
6. Annual Review of Biochemistry Vol. 76: 447-480 (Publication date July 2007)

TLR3- cluster of differentiation 283

2009-04-02T05:05:00.001-07:00

Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) often designated as CD283 (cluster of differentiation 283) is a type I transmembrane receptor protein. It belongs to a family of evolutionary conserved innate immune recognition molecules and recognizes double-stranded RNA, a molecular pattern associated with viral infections. Like all other members of the TLR family, TLR3 is composed of an extracellular domain containing multiple leucine-rich repeats (LRRs), a transmembrane region, and a cytoplasmic tail containing the conserved TIR domain. The transmembrane domain consists of a single alpha-helix spanning the membrane, while the TIR domain is made up of a five-stranded beta-sheet surrounded by five alpha-helices. The human TLR3 ectodomain structure at 2.1 angstroms reveals a large horseshoe-shaped solenoid assembled from 23 LRRs (1). The TLR3 gene maps to chromosome 4q35 and its sequence encodes a putative 904 amino acid protein and a calculated molecular weight of 97 kDa. TLR3 is most closely related to TLR5, TLR7, and TLR8, each with 26% overall amino acid sequence identity. In vivo, two different sized transcripts for TLR3 are observed suggesting that the mRNA is alternatively spliced to generate two different forms of the protein.

TLR3 mRNA is expressed at highest levels in placenta and pancreas. There are conflicting reports regarding the expression of TLR3 in particular leukocyte populations. Some suggest that TLR3 is only expressed by dendritic cells while others find that TLR3 is expressed by T or NK cells. In vitro, PMA-differentiated THP-1 TLR3 is moderately upregulated by autocrine IFN-γ, IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α. Further, TLR3 mRNA is elevated after exposure to Gram-negative bacteria and to an even greater extent in response to Gram-positive bacteria. Ex vivo, TLR3 expression is elevated in both monocytes and granulocytes upon exposure to Gram-negative bacteria. TLR3 is usually localized intracellularly, perhaps to the lysosomal compartment or at the cell surface. However the localization of TLR3 is cell type dependent.

Human TLR3 recognizes foreign-derived double-stranded RNA of certain viruses like influenza, endogenous necrotic cell RNA and polyinosinic acid as ligands. Stimulation of the receptor by the ligand induces the activation of NF-kappaB and the production of type I interferons (IFNs) which signal other cells to increase their antiviral defenses (2). TLR3 relies on a TIR domain-containing adaptor inducing IFN-beta (TRIF)-mediated pathway for the production of IFN- in response to pathogen recognition. Trif contains a RIP homotypic interaction motif (RHIM) at the C terminus that is essential for binding of RIP1 and RIP3, two serine-threonine kinases linked to tumor necrosis factor (TNF)−mediated NF- B activation. (3, 4, 5). Activation of TLR3 leads to recruitment of receptor-interacting protein 1, TRAF3 and TRAF6, which activates TRAF family member-associated NF- B activator-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) andr inducible I B kinase (IKK-i), which directly phosphorylate IRF3 and IRF7 for the production of type-I IFN cytokines.(6)

TLR3 has been implicated in various viral infections of the respiratory tract and in central nervous system (CNS) diseases. On the contrary it positively contributes to the immune response to invading encephalomyocarditis virus. TLR3 has also been implicated in the protection against herpes simplex virus type 2 infection of the female genital tract. Recent work on TLR3 reveals its role in the immunobiology of skeletal muscle (7).

Reference:
1. J Endotoxin Res. 2006; 12(6):375-8
2. Nature. 2001 Oct 18; 413(6857):732-8
3. Nature Immunology 5, 503 - 507 (2004)
4.Rock, F.L. et al. (1998) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 95:588.
5. Science. 2005 Jul 22; 309(5734):581-5. Epub 2005 Jun 16
6.Oncogene (2008) 27, 181–189; doi:10.1038/sj.onc.1210906
7. Clinical Microbiology Reviews, January 2008, p. 13-25, Vol. 21, No. 1

TLR4- cluster of differentiation 284

2009-04-02T05:04:00.004-07:00

Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) often designated as CD284 (cluster of differentiation 284) is a class I transmembrane receptor belonging to the large homologous family of Toll like receptors. TLR4 expressed on the surface of immune system cells, is activated by exposure to lipopolysaccharides derived from the outer membrane of Gram negative bacteria and thus forms part of the innate immune response in mammals. (1) TLR4 was initially cloned as the human homolog of Drosophila Toll (dToll) and thus was first named hToll. Like all other members of the TLR family, TLR4 is composed of an extracellular domain containing multiple leucine-rich repeats (LRRs), a transmembrane region, and a cytoplasmic tail containing the conserved TIR domain. TLR4 maps to chromosome 9q32-33. It shows a high degree of similarity to dToll over the entire aminoacid sequence. The TLR4 sequence encodes an 839 aminoacid protein with 22 N-terminal LRR regions and a calculated molecular weight of 90 kDa. TLR4 is most closely related to TLR1 and TLR6 each with 25% overall aa sequence identity. Several transcript variants of this gene have been found, but the protein coding potential of most of them is uncertain.

In vivo, TLR4 mRNA is expressed as a single transcript, and found at highest levels in spleen and PBLs. (2, 3) Of the PBL populations, TLR4 is expressed by B cells, DCs, monocytes, macrophages, granulocytes, and T cells. Other reports suggest that TLR4 is only expressed in myelomonocytic cells and is highest in mononuclear cells. In vitro, TLR4 mRNA and protein expression is upregulated in THP-1 cells upon PMA-induced differentiation. TLR4 is moderately upregulated by autocrine IFN-γ, IL-1β. TLR4 mRNA expression in THP-1 cells is unaffected by exposure to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Ex vivo, granulocyte, and especially monocyte, TLR4 expression is upregulated upon exposure to Gram-negative bacteria. (4)

TLR4 is critical for host defense against gram-negative bacteria in both mice and humans. Upon recognition of its ligand LPS, TLR4 undergoes dimerization, and recent studies suggest that this causes concerted conformational changes in the receptor leading to self association of the cytoplasmic Toll/Interleukin 1 receptor (TIR) signalling domain. Ligand recognition by TLR4 requires the extracellular association of an additional component, MD-2 which together can initiate two major intracellular signaling pathways, MyD88-dependent and TRIF-dependent (MyD88-independent). The MyD88-dependent pathway requires the recruitment of TIRAP and MyD88 via homophilic TIR-TIR interactions and activates nuclear factor (NF)-κB, activator protein-1 (AP-1) and interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5), which induce inflammatory cytokine expression such as IL-6, IL-12, and TNFα. The TRIF-dependent pathway requires the recruitment of TRAM and TRIF and activates IRF3, in addition to NF-κB and AP-1, which induce type I interferon (IFN) expression. TLR4 can also activate various other signaling molecules, including phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI-3K) and MAP3Ks such as MEKK3, TPL2, and ASK1. (5,6) The TLR4 complex also recognizes a few other bacterial PAMPs including LTA. Further, the TLR4 complex recognizes viruses including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV). The TLR4 complex can also recognize endogenous ligands, for example, heat shock proteins, fibrinogen, fibronectin, surfactant protein A (SP-A), and β-defensins. TLR4 also forms heterodimers both with TLR5, which presumably enhances its activity, and also with TLR1, which inhibits its activity. (7, 8)

Mutations in TLR4 gene have been associated with differences in LPS responsiveness.
A recently discovered Asp299Gly TLR4 polymorphism has been identified that confer differences in the inflammatory response elicited by bacterial lipopolysaccharide and is associated with a decreased risk of atherosclerosis. (9)

Reference:
1. Ricardo et al. PLoS ONE. 2007; 2(8): e788.
2. Medzhitov, R. et al. (1997) Nature 388:394.
3. Rock, F.L. et al. (1998) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 95:588.
4. Zarember, K.A. & P.J. Godowski (2002) J. Immunol. 168:554.
5. Myeong Sup Lee Vol. 76: 447-480 Annual Review of Biochemistry
6. Yong-Chen Lu doi:10.1016/j.cyto.2008.01.006 Article in press
7. Spitzer, J.H. et al. (2002) Eur. J. Immunol. 32:1182.
8. Mizel, S.B. et al. (2003) J. Immunol. 170:6217.
9. N Engl J Med 2002; 347:1978-1980, Dec 12, 2002.

TLR5- cluster of differentiation 285

2009-04-02T05:04:00.003-07:00

Toll-like receptor 5 (TLR5), a member of the evolutionarily conserved Toll-like receptor family, has evolved to permit mammals specifically to detect flagellated bacterial pathogens. Like all other members of the TLR family, TLR5 is composed of an extracellular domain containing multiple leucine-rich repeats (LRRs), a transmembrane region, and a cytoplasmic tail containing the conserved TIR domain. The TLR5 gene has been mapped to chromosome 1q41-42. The gene encodes a putative 858 aminio acid protein with a calculated molecular weight of 91 kDa. It is most closely related to TLR3 with 26% overall amino acid sequence identity.

In vivo, TLR5 mRNA is expressed as a single transcript in ovary, prostate. In vitro, TLR5 is most significantly upregulated in PMA-differentiated THP-1 cells by autocrine IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α, but is also elevated by IFN-γβ. Further, TLR5 mRNA expression is elevated after exposure to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Ex vivo, however, granulocyte and in particular monocyte TLR5 expression is downregulated upon exposure to Gram-negative bacteria (1, 2).

TLR5 is expressed in epithelial cells of the airways, intestine, and urogenital tract, as well as on hemopoietic cells of the innate and adaptive immune system and has recently been shown to be involved in the transport of flagellated Salmonella typhimurium from the intestinal tract to the mesenteric lymph nodes. Like other described TLRs, TLR5 utilizes the adaptor protein MyD88 and IL-1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK) to activate a signal transduction cascade that results in the activation of the transcription factor NF- B necessary for flagellin-induced effects on gene expression (4). TLR5 forms a homodimer as well as a heterodimer with TLR4. Both complexes function to recognize the Flagellin protein of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and activation of the receptor mobilizes the nuclear factor NF-kappaB and stimulates tumour necrosis factor-alpha production. TheTLR5 recognition site on flagellin is conserved among a wide variety of flagellated bacteria although select bacterial species possess unique flagellin molecules that evade TLR5 recognition. These amino acids are located in the highly conserved D1 domain of the flagellin protein and cluster on the convex surface that contacts adjacent flagellin monomers in the flagellar protofilament. Mutating individual residues in the TLR5 recognition site significantly reduced or completely abolished bacterial motility, suggesting that evolving a functional flagellin that evades TLR5 would require a complex series of mutations (5).

Reference:
1. Zarember, K.A. & P.J. Godowski (2002) J. Immunol. 168:554.
2. Muzio, M. et al. (2000) J. Immunol. 164:5998.
3. Yimin Yu Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 285: G282-G290, 2003
4. Nature. 2001 Apr 26;410(6832):1099-103.

TLR6- cluster of differentiation 286

2009-04-02T05:04:00.001-07:00

Toll-like receptor 6 (TLR6) often designated as CD286 (cluster of differentiation 286), is a member of the Toll-like receptor family, a highly conserved series of ancient innate immune pattern recognition receptors. TLR6 was first described by Takeuchi et al in 1999 as a 91.9-kDa, 796 amino-acid polypeptide. The gene for TLR6 has been mapped to human chromosome 4p13. It has a single exon, and contains an N-terminal signal peptide, 20 tandemly repeated extracellular leucine-rich motifs, and a cytoplasmic domain homologous to interleukin-1 receptor (IL1R), similar to other TLRs (1). TLR6 is most closely related to TLR1, TLR10, and TLR2 with 68%, 46%, and 31% overall AA sequence identity, respectively. (2)

In vivo, TLR6 transcript is observed in thymus, spleen, and lung. TLR6 mRNA expression is highest in B cells and monocytes. In vitro, TLR6 mRNA expression is upregulated in THP-1 cells upon PMA-induced differentiation. Further, TLR6 is moderately upregulated by autocrine IFN-γ, IL-1β. However, TLR6 mRNA expression in THP-1 cells is unaffected by exposure to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Ex vivo, monocyte and, in particular, granulocyte TLR6 expression is down-regulated upon exposure to Gram-negative bacteria. (3, 4, 5).

Coexpression of TLR2 and TLR6 at the cell surface is crucial for recognition of diacylated lipopeptide and peptidoglycan and subsequent cellular activation in human cells. TLR6 was expressed, although at a lower level than TLR2, on the cell surface in monocytes, monocyte-derived iDCs, and neutrophils, but not on B, T, or NK cells. Confocal microscopic analysis revealed that TLR6 was colocalized with TLR2 at the plasma membrane of monocytes (6). Like TLR1, TLR6 is thought to specify or enhance the pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMP) sensitivity of TLR2 and contribute to its signaling capabilities through heterodimerization. TLR2/6 heterodimers recognize diacyl lipopeptides such as MALP2 (the Mycoplasma-derived macrophage-activating lipopeptide 2). CD14 was reported to enhance the responses of TLR2/TLR6 complexes to their ligands. CD36 helps TLR2/6 to further discriminate among their ligands because it contributes to the response to MALP2 and lipoteichoic acid (from gram-positive bacteria), but not to zymosan. Upon ligand recognition, TLR2/TLR6 complexes recruit both the sorting adaptor TIRAP and the signaling adaptor MyD88, and initiate the MyD88-dependent pathway, activating the transcription factors nuclear factor (NF)-κB and activator protein-1 (AP-1), leading to inflammatory cytokine production. (7)

Reference:
1. K Tantisira Genes and Immunity (2004) 5, 343–346.
2. O. Takeuchi Gene (1999) Volume 231, Issues 1-2, 29,pp 59-65
3. Takeuchi, O. et al. (1999) Gene 231:59.
4. Zarember, K.A. & P.J. Godowski (2002) J. Immunol. 168:554.
5. Hornung, V. et al. (2002) J. Immunol. 168:4531.
6. Yoshiya Nakao (2005) The Journal of Immunology, 174: 1566-1573.
7. Myeong Sup Lee (2007) Annual Review of Biochemistry Vol. 76: 447-480.

TLR7- cluster of differentiation 287

2009-04-02T05:02:00.005-07:00

Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7), is an immune gene possessed by humans, other mammals and additionally in avian species playing a significant role in initiating antiviral immune responses. It belongs to the evolutionarily conserved Toll-like receptor family. The TLR7 sequence encodes a 1049 amino acid protein with a calculated molecular weight of 121 kDa. Like all other members of the TLR family, TLR7 contain an ectodomain with multiple leucine-rich repeats (LRRs) and a cytoplasmic domain homologous to that of the human interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor. TLR7 is most closely related to TLR8 and TLR9 with 43% and 36% overall amino acid sequence identity, respectively and thus along with TLR8 and TLR9 constitutes a new sub-family of the TLRs.

In vivo, TLR7 mRNA is expressed in lung, placenta, spleen, lymph node, and tonsil. TLR7 mRNA expression is highest in monocytes, B cells, and DC. In vitro, TLR7 mRNA expression is upregulated in THP-1 cells upon PMA-induced differentiation. TLR7 is highly upregulated by exposure to IL-6 and to a slightly lesser extent by autocrine IFN-γ, IL-1β. TLR7 mRNA expression in THP-1 cells is elevated after exposure to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Ex vivo, expression of TLR7 is elevated after exposure to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in monocytes and to a greater degree in granulocytes. Like TLR3, it appears that TLR7 may be localized intracellularly (1, 2). In humans, TLR7 is expressed on a restricted range of cell types with the highest abundance found on plasmacytoid dendritic cells and B cells.

TLR7 is activated by infections with single-stranded RNA viruses, including influenza virus and vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV). Stimulation of TLR7 with the viral nucleic acids, causes a type I IFN response and secretion of a large quantity of IFNα and the production of inflammatory cytokines [including IFN-alpha, IFN-beta, interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-12, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)]. TLR7 activation also mediates up-regulation of costimulatory molecules (CD40, CD80, CD86), major histocompatibilty complex molecules and chemokine receptors (CCR7) (3). Two signaling pathways of TLR7 are thought to induce inflammatory cytokine expression: the MyD88- IRAK1-TRAF6-IRF5 pathway and the MyD88-TRAF6-TAK1-MAPK/IKK-AP-1/NF-κB pathway.(4) Following nucleic acid recognition, TLR7 recruit the TIR-domain
containing adapter called MyD88. MyD88 forms a complex with members of IRAK family
(IRAK1 and IRAK4) and TRAF6, which in turn activates TAK1 and results in the activation of NF-κB. In addition to single-stranded RNA, the synthetic imidazoquinoline, imiquimod, a low molecular weight immune response modifier, activates TLR7 in both humans and mice, whereas its derivative resiquimod (R-848) activates TLR7 in humans. Both imiquimod and R-848 elicit robust anti-viral and anti-tumor immune responses in vivo, which correlate with a strong induction of type I IFNs. As a consequence of this activity, imiquimod is used for the treatment of external genital warts caused by human Papillomavirus. (5) TLR7 has been implicated in recognizing guanosine and uracil-rich single-stranded(ss) RNA such as the U5 region of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 RNA and influenza U-rich ssRNA, leading to up-regulation of IFN-alpha.

Reference:
1. Heine, H. & E. Lein (2003) Int. Arch. Allergy Immunol. 130:180.
2. Dunne, A. & L.A.J. O'Neill (2003) Sci. STKE 2003:re3.
3. Victoria J Volume 114 Issue 4 Page 507-521, April 2005
4. Myeong Sup Lee Annual Review of BiochemistryVol. 76: 447-480, 2007.
5. Annett Schoenemeyer J. Biol. Chem., Vol. 280, Issue 17, 17005-17012, April 29, 2005.

TLR8- cluster of differentiation 288

2009-04-02T05:02:00.003-07:00

Toll-like receptor 8 (TLR8) often designated as CD288 (cluster of differentiation 288) is a member of evolutionarily conserved Toll-like receptor family which are critical parts of the evolutionarily conserved innate immune system. TLR8 has been identified as natural receptor for single-stranded RNA, and is thought to act as potent activator of innate immune responses upon viral infections. Like all other members of the TLR family, TLR8 is composed of an extracellular domain containing multiple leucine-rich repeats (LRRs), a transmembrane region, and a cytoplasmic tail containing the conserved TIR domain. The TLR8 sequence encodes a 1041 amino acid protein containing 26 N-terminal leucine rich repeats with a calculated molecular weight of 120 kDa. The gene for TLR8 has been mapped to chromosome Xp22. TLR8 is most closely related to TLR7 and TLR9 with 43% and 35% overall amino acid sequence identity, respectively and together they constitute one of the six major TLR clades. (1,2)

In vivo, TLR8 mRNA is expressed in lung, placenta, spleen, lymph node, bone marrow, and PBLs, with highest expression found in monocytes. In vitro, TLR8 mRNA expression is upregulated in THP-1 cells upon PMA-induced differentiation. TLR8 is highly upregulated by autocrine IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α, and is even more enhanced by exposure to IFN-γ. TLR8 mRNA expression in THP-1 cells is elevated after exposure to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Ex vivo, monocyte TLR8 expression increases while granulocyte expression decreases on exposure to Gram-negative bacteria. (3) Like TLR7 and TLR7, TLR8 is exclusively localized to intracellular
compartments like endosomes, suggesting that these intracellular TLRs recognize
nucleic acids following the internalization and lysing of viruses.

Human TLR8 preferentially mediates the recognition of human immunodeficiency virus, vesicular stomatitis virus, and influenza virus-derived guanosine or uridine rich ss RNA and a synthetic compound (imidazoquinoline compound R848) with antiviral activity R-848. Following nucleic acid recognition, TLR8 recruit the TIR-domain containing adapter called MyD88. MyD88 forms a complex with members of IRAK family (IRAK1 and IRAK4) and TRAF6, which in turn activates TAK1 and results in the activation of NF-κB and synthesis of type I interferons.(4)

A novel role for TLR8 as a suppressor of neurite outgrowth as well as an inducer of neuronal apoptosis has been found. Reports suggest that TLR8 functions in neurons through an NF-kappaB-independent mechanism (5). Recent studies also reveal that the human TLR8 signaling pathway is essential for reversing the function of Treg cells that play a critical role in suppressing immune responses and inducing immune tolerance to cancer and infectious diseases. Thus, the combination of peptide-based vaccines with a TLR8 agonist, may greatly improve the therapeutic potential of cancer vaccines. (4)

Reference:
1. Chuang, T.H. & R.J. Ulevitch (2000) Eur. Cytokine Netw. 11:372.
2. Dunne, A. & L.A.J. O'Neill (2003) Sci. STKE 2003:re3.
3. Heine, H. & E. Lein (2003) Int. Arch. Allergy Immunol. 130:180.

4. Oncogene (2008) 27, 190–199; doi:10.1038/sj.onc.1210913
5. Cell Cycle. 2007 Sep;6(23):2859-68. Epub 2007 Sep 4

TLR9- cluster of differentiation 289

2009-04-02T05:02:00.001-07:00

Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) often known as CD289 (cluster of differentiation 289), is a member of the Toll-like receptor family that recognizes pathogen-associated molecular pattern. TLR9 was first cloned and identified as a receptor for unmethylated CpG-DNA as well as for bacterial DNA. It is essential not only for pro-inflammatory cytokine production and other inflammatory responses, but it also plays a role in the induction of T helper 1 (Th1) acquired immune response and in the proliferation of B cells. Like all other members of the TLR family, TLR9 is composed of an extracellular domain containing multiple leucine-rich repeats (LRRs), a transmembrane region, and a cytoplasmic tail containing the conserved TIR domain. The TLR9 sequence encodes a 1032 aa protein containing 27 N-terminal LRRs with a calculated molecular weight of 116 kDa . The gene for TLR9 has been mapped to human chromosome 3p21.3. TLR9 is most closely related to TLR7 and TLR8 with 36% and 35% overall amino acid sequence identity, respectively and thus along with TLR7 and TLR8 constitutes a new sub-family of the TLRs.

In vivo, TLR9 mRNA is expressed in spleen, lymph node, bone marrow, and PBLs. (1) Specifically, TLR9 mRNA is expressed at the highest levels in B cells and dendritic cells (DC). In vitro, TLR9 is moderately upregulated by autocrine IFN-γ, IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α in PMA-differentiated THP-1 cells. TLR9 mRNA expression in THP-1 cells is unaffected by exposure to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Ex vivo, TLR9 expression in monocytes and particularly in granulocytes is downregulated in response to Gram-negative bacteria. (2, 3) TLR9 also appears to be localized internally, perhaps in lysosomic or endocytic compartments where it would more likely encounter PAMPs including unmethylated DNA.

TLR9 is expressed primarily on antigen presenting cells such as B cells and DC. In human DC, TLR9 is restricted to a subset of DC, plasmacytoid DC, responsible for production of high levels of type I IFN (IFNalpha). TLR9 recognizes synthetic CpG oligonucleotides and unmethylated CpG motifs in bacterial and viral DNA. Phagocytes endocytose microorganisms and lyse them in phagolysosomes, where their DNA is released and presumably interacts with TLR9, initiating an inflammatory response resulting in rapid secretion of a large quantity of IFNα and the production of inflammatory cytokines.(4) Two signaling pathways of TLR9 are thought to induce inflammatory cytokine expression: the MyD88-TRAF6-IRF5 pathway and the MyD88-TRAF6-TAK1-MAPK/IKK-AP-1/NF-κB pathway. Further TLR9 induce IFNα expression by activating IRF7 via TNF receptor-associated factor 3. The cytosolic TIR domain of TLR9 recruits the adaptor molecule MyD88 and other signaling molecules such as IRAK-4, and TRAF6 that are required for the signaling complex. The transcription factors such as IRF-1, IRF-5, and IRF-7 are also recruited to the complex and activated. The complex in turn activates other signaling cascades that lead to the activation of NF-κB and AP-1. These activated transcription factors induce diverse immunity-related genes (5).

TLR9 signaling is recently implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmunity, especially in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). TLR9 can suppress the pathology of autoimmunity in certain cases, although it may also act as a trigger and a center for a feedback loop of autoimmunity.

Reference: 1. Chuang, T.H. & R.J. Ulevitch (2000) Eur. Cytokine Netw. 11:372.
2. Zarember, K.A. & P.J. Godowski (2002) J. Immunol. 168:554.
3. Hornung, V. et al. (2002) J. Immunol. 168:4531.
4. Cynthia A. Leifer The Journal of Immunology, 2004, 173: 1179-1183.
5. Yutaro Kumagai doi:10.1016/j.addr.2007.12.004 Article in press 2008.

YOGA

2009-04-02T05:01:00.003-07:00

Yoga is a perfect practical system of self-culture. Yoga is an exact science. It aims at the harmonious development of the body, the mind and the soul. Yoga is the turning away of the senses from the objective universe and the concentration of the mind within. Yoga is eternal life in the soul or spirit. Yoga aims at controlling the mind and its modifications. The path of Yoga is an inner path whose gateway is your heart.
It helps in the co-ordination and control of the subtle forces within the body. Yoga brings in perfection, peace and everlasting happiness. Yoga can help you in your business and in your daily life. You can have calmness of mind at all times by the practice of Yoga. You can have restful sleep. You can have increased energy, vigour, vitality, longevity and a high standard of health. Yoga transmutes animal nature into divine nature and raises you to the pinnacle of divine glory and splendor.
The regular practice of Yoga will help you to control the emotions and passions and will give you power to resist temptations and to remove the disturbing elements form mind. It will enable you to keep a balanced mind always and remove fatigue. It will confer on you serenity, calmness and wonderful concentration. It will enable you to hold communion with the Lord.
However, to attain success in Yoga, it is very necessary to abandon all worldly enjoyments and practice Tapas and Brahmacharya. You will have to control the mind skillfully and tactfully. You will have to use judicious and intelligent methods to curb it. If you use force, it will become more turbulent and mischievous. It cannot be controlled by force. It will jump and drift away more and more. Those who attempt to control the mind by force are like those who endeavour to bind a furious elephant with a thin silken thread.
Yoga, therefore, presents a system of liberating the spiritual essence from this involvement, this entanglement in mental and physical processes. It achieves the effect of restoring the spiritual consciousness to its pristine state, pure original state. The thesis of Yoga is based upon the direct experience of those who became its expounders, is that your true nature, your real and essential nature, is pure bliss. It is pure peace. It is Ananda and Santi. Not sorrow. Not misery. Not grief. Not restlessness. Not agitation. Not tears. But peace and joy. It is necessary, at the outset, to clear certain misconceptions in regard to Yoga, prevalent especially among some sections in the West. Yoga is not magic or a feat of any kind, physical or mental. Yoga is based on a sound philosophy and deep psychology. It is an educational process by which the human mind is trained to become more and more natural and weaned from the unnatural conditions of life. Yoga has particular concern with psychology, and, as a study of the 'self', it transcends both general and abnormal psychology, and leads one to the supernormal level of life. In Yoga we study ourselves, while in our colleges we are told to study objects.
The purpose of Yoga is to try to restore to man his pristine state of perfect bliss; and this it
does by liberating the human individual from his involvement in body, senses and mind. This involvement itself is the prime cause for keeping him away from itself, is the greatest obstacle to his attainment of that experience which the Yoga science says lies right here, present at this moment. To become liberated from the bondage of pain, thus bringing to an end the union of man's nature with pain, is Yoga.

Yoga for Children: How to Get Your Kids on the Mat

2009-04-02T05:01:00.001-07:00

If you’re like me, I discovered yoga in college and haven’t been able to get enough since. I remember arriving at my first yoga class with my new yoga mat and no expectations. To my surprise, what I found was an invigorating source of exercise that stretched and strengthened my body in a way that no other exercise I’d tried had, combined with calming my body and mind so completely that I’d often nearly fall asleep during final relaxation. My love for yoga has only grown over the years, so when I had children, as soon as they could stand I started thinking of ways I could incorporate yoga into their lives. I believe that yoga for children offers as many benefits for my children as it does to me, if not more. Whether you’re planning on introducing your children to yoga with a kids yoga dvd or you’re planning on bringing yoga in the classroom using your own knowledge of the poses, the following are some tips I’ve found helpful in introducing yoga for children into the lives of my kids.

First, take your child shopping for their very own yoga mat and maybe even some additional yoga gear. Yoga mats today come in a variety of colors and sizes, and kids love having choices, so let them select the one that suits them best. You may even buy some comfortable clothing suitable for yoga practice, as well as a yoga bag if they’re planning on practicing yoga in the classroom and will need to transport their mat and yoga clothing.

Consider purchasing a kids yoga DVD. Marsha Wenig, creator of YogaKids DVDs, is an award-winning yoga instructor and an expert on yoga for children. If you purchase a YogaKids kids yoga DVD, she leads children through a series of yoga poses inspired by animals, including stretching like a puppy and perching like a flamingo. The original music encourages kids to sing along while they move through the yoga poses.

Doing yoga along with your children is a great way to keep them interested and to spend time together. They’ll appreciate you going through the yoga poses along with them on your own mat. Establish a certain time each day when you and your children can practice yoga together. Start with shorter spurts at first to keep attention, and you can always extend the session later.

Yoga for children is all about teaching the poses and having fun, so encourage your children to ask questions as they flow through the poses. Keeping it playlike and fun means letting them giggle when their body is twisted into silly positions and keeping the atmosphere light and fun. It doesn’t have to be quiet like your yoga classes, so prompt children to bark like a dog in downward dog and pucker their lips when they’re in fish pose, and they’ll likely have much more fun.

Finally, to help reinforce a consistent routine with your children, consider making a calendar and encouraging your child to add a sticker to the calendar every time they complete a yoga session. Every time they follow along with their kids yoga DVD, for example, they can add a sticker, and every time they accumulate a certain number of stickers they can get a reward.

The Secret to Living with Allergies Part 6: Allergy Relief Bed Encasings, Tips for a Healthier Night

2009-04-02T05:00:00.002-07:00

If you’ve ever wondered why you regularly wake up sneezing, with watery eyes or feeling congested, you may have dust mite allergies. Over a million dust mites can live in a single bed, and all night, you can be breathing in dust mite allergens while you sleep that cause allergy symptoms. Dust mites are microscopic, and unlike bed bugs, they cannot be seen by the naked eye. Dust mites thrive in warm, dark and humid environments such as your pillow, mattress, blanket, carpet and upholstered furniture. Allergies are not caused by the mite being inhaled.

Instead, you are reacting to allergens created by dust mite waste particles and their dead body fragments. The large number of dust mites in the bed create a high concentration of dust mite allergens, which in turn cause symptoms for allergy sufferers. Allergy encasings act as a barrier to trap allergens within the bed and keep you from inhaling these problematic allergens while you sleep.

Step 1: How are Allergy Bed Encasings Designed to Help You?

If you’re an allergy sufferer, you may be one of many people that don’t start the morning off right, after having inhaled allergens all night long from your bed. A stuffy nose, itchy eyes, sneezing and congestion are a few of the allergy symptoms that can occur regularly as allergens are inhaled from the bed. Zipping an allergy bed encasing completely around the pillow, mattress, box spring or any other stuffed bedding can protect you from these allergens as the encasing traps allergens within the bedding.

Allergens cannot become airborne, creating a healthier sleeping environment. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) outlines “Guidelines for Allergy & Asthma Prevention,” and these guidelines recommend encasing your pillow and mattress as one of the most important steps for allergen avoidance.

Step 2: Understanding the Basics of Allergy Bed Encasings

Encasings are simple to use on your bed, although many people may not understand the basics of how allergy bed encasings work. Today’s encasings are no longer the plastic or vinyl encasings that many people may think of. Quality encasings are made from highly effective and comfortable materials that can result in no loss of sleeping comfort.

Membrane or Membrane-Free Encasings: Choices in allergy bed encasings include membrane encasings, which feature a urethane membrane lining and an upper layer of fabric, or membrane-free encasings that are made from special, high-performance fabrics that are tightly woven to block allergen particles.

Pore Size: The pore size of an allergy encasing is important, as it indicates the size of the space between the tightly woven fabric threads. A higher pore size means that the encasing can only block larger allergen particles, while a smaller pore size provides more effective protection from much smaller allergen particles. Dust mite allergens can be approximately 10 microns in size, and therefore, an encasing should have a pore size lower than 10 microns for effective relief. Pet dander is a much smaller allergen particle, and a pore size below approximately 5-6 microns is essential for effective allergen protection of pet dander and dust mite allergens.

Membrane encasings with a full urethane lining do not have pores as the membrane is “monolithic” or uniform across each surface. Although membrane encasings are highly effective at blocking allergens, they lack the breathability, superior comfort and easy care of membrane-free encasings. High performance, Allergy Control membrane-free encasings are made from very tightly woven fabrics with small pore sizes to keep allergen particles contained within the bed.

Durable Construction: All encasings are not made the same way. Many are mass-produced and are poorly made. Encasings made with superior quality features include high quality zippers for extra durability and the prevention of allergen leakage. Flaps at the zipper trap allergen particles, and bound seams re-enforce edges for long-term durability.

Comfort and Easy Care: Allergen encasings made from special cotton or polyester fabrics offer superior comfort and often have the feel of fine linens. With no loss in sleeping comfort, these allergy bed encasings are simple to include on the bed and offer powerful allergy protection. To add to the convenience, allergy encasings only need to be washed once a year or when soiled and these fabric encasings can easily be machine washed and dried.

Allergy bed encasings offer one of the most effective steps for allergy relief and a healthier night’s sleep. Understanding the aspects of allergy encasings can help you make an informed choice as to the encasing selection that is right for you.

For 25 years, Allergy Control Products has been recommended by thousands of physicians as the most trusted allergy company for revolutionary products. Whether you’re looking for the highest quality air purifier, air cleaner, air filters, hypoallergenic bedding or more.

Seven Reasons to Choose Yoga For a Better Body and a Calmer Mind

2009-04-02T05:00:00.001-07:00

Yoga has been around for centuries. Embraced equally by film stars, rock stars, high powered CEOs and New Age gurus, yoga’s stress-relieving, strength-building, low impact poses appeal to a wide range of individuals and body shapes. Even beginners can see and feel a difference after just a few short weeks of practice. All arguments aside, yoga works. So why haven’t you tried it? Here are seven really good reasons why you should:

7.) Symptom Relief - Several scientific studies have proven that yoga practice can greatly reduce the frequency and duration of asthma attacks, as well as the amount of medication needed to control or prevent attacks. Yogic breathing, pranayama , helps to strengthen the lungs and build breath control while back-bending poses open the chest and help increase air flow. Carpal tunnel syndrome can be alleviated with certain yoga poses. The lengthening and strengthening of the tendons offered in many yoga poses aids in relieving the pain, and in restoring the grip. The slow, low-impact nature of yoga exercise lends itself perfectly to arthritis sufferers. Joint pain and swelling can be reduced from the gentle exercise and from the stress relief granted tight, tensed muscles. The stress relieving nature of yoga has been shown to reduce the severity and frequency of headaches for migraine sufferers, as well.

6.) Disease Prevention – The stress relief offered through yoga practice can reduce the risk of heart disease, the number one killer of women in the US and Canada. Of further interest to women is yoga’s ability to strengthen and build bone density, preventing osteoporosis. It’s believed that yoga may reduce cortisol, and thereby aid in keeping calcium in your bones. The meditative nature of yoga can help raise levels of GABA in the brain, preventing the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Lastly, yoga has been known to stimulate the pancreas in its production of insulin, lowering blood sugar levels and helping in the treatment of Type II diabetes.

5.) Good Form of Exercise – Not all forms of exercise are good for all of you. Yoga is low-impact, providing a safer way to stretch and strengthen. Yoga is non-competitive, allowing you a stress-free, introspective work-out. Yoga can be practiced indoors or out, so that it fits in with all climates and lifestyles. Beneficial yoga practice can be completed in as little as 10 minutes a day, making it the ideal exercise routine for today’s busy, on-the-go world. Yoga builds balanced muscle tone, strengthens the body’s core, and improves dexterity, hand-eye coordination and reaction time. It has also been clinically proven to increase joint range of motion and flexibility.

4.) Improved Body Chemistry – Yoga can have drastically good effects on your body’s inner workings. The increase in movement and blood flow offered in yoga practice can lower cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood stream. It is believed that yoga actually increases the amount of red blood cells in your blood, providing better oxygenation of the body, as well as increasing energy and reducing the risks of anemia. The lymphatic and endocrine systems also get a boost from yoga. The lymphatic system boosts immunity and raises your body’s disease fighting ability, while the endocrine system regulates hormones, and through yoga, both systems help increase the overall health and balance of your body.

3.) The Inner You – Much has been made of yoga’s effects on the psychological and emotional health of its practitioners. Yoga reduces stress through its slow movements and controlled breathing. It elevates and regulates your mood with its mind-body consciousness, its ability to improve your health overall, and its introspective nature. The attention required in yoga causes one to focus inwardly, reducing stress and anxiety, building a sense of calmness, alertness and even improving your memory.

2.) The Overall Inner You – Let’s recap a bit here. Yoga reduces stress, which lowers blood pressure. It stimulates your endocrine system, balancing hormone levels and lowering blood sugar. It helps increase the overall functioning and health of your circulatory and respiratory system. It lowers your heart rate. It raises your tolerance to pain. It relives certain chronic problems. It improves brain chemistry. Your internal organs receive a “yoga massage,” improving their functioning and disease fighting abilities. Your gastrointestinal health improves. Overall, there isn’t a body system not impacted positively by regular yoga practice.

1.) The Outer You – After examining all the things that yoga can do for the inside of you, let’s see what yoga can do for you that you can actually see. Yoga can reduce the signs of aging through its detoxification of the body. Increased blood flow and oxygenation can also improve skin tone and color. Yoga helps to induce better sleep, improving overall health, awareness and skin and muscle tone. Yoga poses build strength, lengthen muscles and get the body moving, all of which cause a reduction in weight, prevent cellulite from forming and improve posture. Lastly, yoga can boost your energy, and not just your everyday, running hither and thither and yon type energy. Yoga has been proven to improve your energy and performance in the bedroom, as well. You look better, you feel better, your body is more in tune with itself and you with it - all of which leads to an increased confidence that can’t be kept all to yourself.

Yoga may not be the cure of all ills, but it certainly can improve many. It’s an overall workout – inside as well as outside – that shows in your face, your eyes, the way you stand, the way you move, the way you live. What are you waiting for? Give yoga a try today!

Yandara.com offers yoga certification emphasizing yoga practice, teaching skills, organizing a class, creating confidence and making postural corrections. Visit us online to learn Hatha Yoga with Iyengar-based precision alignment, emphasizing heart-felt energy.

Romantic Ideas for Valentine's Day and History

2009-04-02T04:59:00.004-07:00

History:

February has long been a month of romance. February month connected with Valentine's Day merriment. We have, time and again, heard the name St. Valentine being uttered before us in this season of love. But just who is this St. Valentine? Why is this month associated with love and romance?. The origin of this lovers day goes back as early as 270 A.D and ongoing with the clash connecting a kindly priest and a mighty leader.

Some say the day is named after a bishop named Valentine, who was stationed in the Roman kingdom. Claudius II was the Emperor at that time. He thought that bachelor men made better soldiers, so he determined to make it a law that young men could not get married. Around 270 A.D., Valentine took pity on the ostracized soldiers who were not permitted to get married or see their sweetheart. Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons where they were often beaten and tortured.

A different story of the history of Valentines Day tells that Valentine fell in love with his jailer’s daughter. at this moment before his death, he sent her a note and signed it “from your Valentine.” An aura of romance bounded his finish and those who knew about it spread the tale. Bishop Valentine became Saint Valentine with his fame extending to England and France.

After his death, Valentine then became what is known as a “Patron Saint.” Some measured him the saintly overseer of an yearly festival in which young Romans would share out cards of friendliness to those they wished to formally see. This festival was held each 14 February.

Romantic Ideas for Valentine's Day:

One of the most popular ways couples celebrate 14 Feb Valentine's Day is by preparation a romantic getaway. Whether their romantic escape occurs accurately on Vzalentine's Day, the weekend before or after, anytime in the month of February the little extras that resorts add make getaways that much sweeter. Hotel Reservation India booking.

Other Some Romantic Ideas for Valentine's Day are following- Write a love letter or poem , Creatively use free flower petals, Surprise your significant other at times you usually do not see him or her, Cook a favorite meal at home, India Tour Packages.

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Sleep Disorder Tips

2009-04-02T04:59:00.003-07:00

Are you having trouble falling asleep at night? Most people that get to sleep at night usually have things in common. One of those things is being able to relax after a long day at work. This article will discuss the most common mistakes people make when they can't fall asleep. 1. They don't take the time for themselves to unwind at night. If your day is filled with work and other responsibilities with very little time for yourself, then you're not alone. There has to be time for you. Not just five or ten minutes. You need to make a conscious effort to set the last hour of your day for yourself. You should use this time for anything you want to do. For more details www.activities-little-fingers.com Choose relaxing activities, such as reading or listening to music. While you should schedule this time everyday, the time doesn't necessarily have to be constructive or productive. Make sure you are not using the time for working. You probably do enough of that during the day. 2. They don't talk to their spouses in the evening. Most people don't know that they have their best support system right in their own home. All you have to do is start talking to your spouse. Talking about your day and the challenges you encounter is very therapeutic and may help you start relax in a night. May also find you are reconnecting with your spouse and that's good thing. Make sure when you're talking in the evening. You keep the conversation away from money and family finances. This will help you avoid confrontation before going to bed. 3. They don't acknowledge or prepare for challenges of the day ahead. Let's face it, if you have to work to support a family, then you are faced with many challenges during your workday. This can range from your projects or your office politics. Anyway it can lead to stress, anxiety and sleepless nights. Sit down with a pen and paper and make a list of what you have to do for the next day. One thing this exercise does is release stress and also helps you prepare for the day ahead. While you're writing you should start feeling relief and hopefully be relaxed enough to get to sleep. After reading this article, you learned about some common mistakes that people make when trying to fall asleep at night and how you can avoid them. For more details www.tips-getting-healthy.com Once you correct these mistakes, you should be on the right path to getting some sleep at night again. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and reflects an opinion. This article is not a substitute for medical advice. You should consult a physician for medical advisement.

Health & Fitness Tips -Using Yoga to Promote Mental Health

2009-04-02T04:59:00.001-07:00

When suffering from a physical illness we have obvious symptoms of pain and discomfort and rely upon familiar medical practices or natural remedies to provide relief. But psychological disturbance does not necessarily carry with it such readily discernible symptoms. This can result in the disturbance becoming clinical over time, demanding the need for psychiatric care.

In order that we avoid any anxiety about our own mental health, we need to know what the early symptoms of mental disturbance are-symptoms that have the propensity to develop into mental illness. This will enable us to be aware of any problem should it begin to develop in ourselves.

Not only that, but we need to know how we can empower ourselves to change our psychological states and habits so as to improve our mental well-being, in the event that we do develop a concern about our on psychological well-being. for more detials:-www.insomnia-battle.com.Studies show that the majority of people in these circumstances have little confidence about identifying or embarking upon a self-help program. Few people are aware that a proven system of psychological and intellectual betterment is at hand in the teachings of Raja Yoga.

So then, what are some of the common symptoms of mental illness?

Aside from the well known and generally acknowledged disorders such as serious stress and clinical depression which manifest in varying degrees of intensity, we can readily observe other signs of mental and emotional problems, for example:

-Exaggerated emotional responses
-Sudden mood swings
-Nervousness and fears of all kind
-Irrational speech and behavior
-Anxiety (this can apply to a limitless range of concerns)
-Chronic Allergies
-Morose or negative moods
-Lack of enthusiasm for life
-Inability to demonstrate affection
-Cruel or selfish behavior
-Chronic insomnia
-Nightmares
-Lying, stealing and other unethical behavior
-Violent behavior
-Lack of creative activity
-Reluctance to talk in a one- to-one situation
-Extreme dependence
-Inability to relax
-Unhappiness

However it is important that people don't rush headlong into self-help situations should they be experiencing one or some of these symptoms, for they man well be the result of some malady that requires the care of a health professional. for visit detials:-www.bad-breath-secrets.com.In the event that such is not the case though, then some serious thought can be given to following a program of self-help; and one of the very best self-help programs a person could possibly follow-one that has stood the test of time over hundreds, even thousands of years, is Raja Yoga. People need to open their minds to the possibility that this ancient teaching can help them. They need to take a really hard look at it.

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Sally Janssen is a writer and educator who from an early age trained in Raja Yoga--that branch of the ancient science that deals with the mind and its complexities. She subsequently gained an international reputation for her skills and her wisdom in the training of the mind.

The Secret of How Massage Therapy Benefits your Overall Health

2009-04-02T04:58:00.000-07:00

Getting a professional massage just might very well be one of the best ways to relax the mind, body and spirit. These days, professional massage therapists are in high demand, and although the occasional massage from one of these highly trained practitioners may cost what the average person considers a good bit of money, it seems well worth it to many. Not only does it make you feel wonderful from head to toe, it also has many health benefits that many people (and you?) are probably unaware of.

The best way to describe what a massage can do for a person’s overall health is explaining how a therapist can manipulate the body’s soft tissues, which means the massage therapist has complete control of a person’s musculature. The most common areas of the body that a therapist focuses on are the back, neck, arms, legs and, at times, even the jaw and head. Massages can help to alleviate the most common types of stress that occurs in the body’s muscles, wherever they are located. Still, simply describing massage methods doesn’t quite answer the question of what massage therapy can do to benefit a person’s overall health.

Reduce stress, live longer

One key benefit to massages is that they help lower high blood pressure. This is important information for someone who might suffer from high blood pressure and the various secondary conditions it causes or contributes to. Massage therapy helps lower a person’s heart rate, which, of course, is directly linked to blood pressure. Since high blood pressure can lead to serious health conditions, like heart attack and strokes, the occasional massage might be a good thing to try as a preventative against such conditions.

Interestingly, massage therapy has been shown to help certain people with certain, specific kinds of mental health conditions. Many psychiatrists will recommend that their patients receive a massage regularly to help alleviate depression symptoms, anxiety and other mental health conditions. The mechanism by which it works is hardly mysterious, but it is amazing for its simple effectiveness and ability to affect all major systems of the human body. Massage clearly relaxes the body, as well as the mind, at the same time, which can stimulate the brain’s production of both endorphins (natural pain killers) and mood-enhancing serotonin.

Set and setting, game and match

The human mind being the powerful creative force that it is, many massage therapists set the mood with candles, music and sometimes by burning incense. In addition to bringing a more soothing atmosphere to the massage, there are some indications that aromatherapy has some testable effects on stress, too. Enhancing the mood, therefore, may be a more powerful technique than even massage professionals now realize.

Massage therapy can bring a wide variety of beneficial elements to a person’s life. Many professional and amateur athletes have been known to use massage therapy, quite often before they play in a game, take to the track or strap on the skis. The massages that pro athletes receive help to relax them before they play, at which time they will exert themselves far beyond the normal demands of life, with more force and potential pain than most people will ever experience. The massage therapist is ready to help relieve their pain after the game is over, too.

Good for one and all

Yet it is not just the athlete who can benefit. Massages can greatly reduce the pain and inflammation associated with such diverse conditions as osteoporosis, asthma, arthritis, diabetes and other inflammatory diseases. Massage therapy is also part of the toolkit for many physical therapists, who understand how important good blood flow is to healing muscles, organs, bones and, ultimately, every cell in the body. The oxygen that the blood takes to the cells is what keeps the various cogs and gears of the human engine running. Massage therapy can help deliver the fuel and sustenance that the body needs by facilitating blood flow and oxygenation.

Clearly there are many beneficial aspects to massage therapy that help to open wide the window of opportunity for people suffering from all different types of ailments. This article mentions only several of the rewards associated with massage therapy, but the benefits all share some things in common as do the methods. All the methods are natural, drug-free, noninvasive, chemical-free (except for simple lotion or oil) and based on the sciences of physiology and anatomy. All benefits are real, not based on mood-altering drugs and can be obtained exactly the same way time after time – you build no resistance as you do to a drug, and you have no side effects except a feeling of wellbeing, and that is one you will never complain about.

In fact, massage therapy has just as much right to say it is “good for every body” as milk does, and there is a simple way you can prove whether or not it’s right for you. There is probably a trained, licensed massage therapist within a short drive from where you are sitting right now. If you’ve never had the pleasure of experiencing a professional massage for yourself, what are you waiting for? Your local massage therapists are waiting for your call today, and are ready to introduce you to the original “natural health care.”

Visit Your Local Health Professionals.com to locate and compare fitness and nutrition professionals in your town. Offering a broad list of massage therapist nj, Atlanta, Chicago, Houston and San Francisco.

Learn the Seven Crucial Steps to Weight Loss

2009-03-31T10:50:00.001-07:00

Most people that you ask about losing weight would say you need to eat less and exercise more. This is a very simple explanation of how to be victorious with your weight loss. As anyone that has ever attempted to lose weight knows there are is an abundance of weight loss tips to help you in your endeavor. Here are some popular weight loss tips recommend to be successful in losing weight.

1.Many weight loss tips propose drinking plenty of water. Often people confuse being thirsty with being hungry. Try to drink a glass of cold water when you think you are hungry as it may be just what you require. Some individuals have a hard time drinking the amount of water that is needed for your body to work properly. Try adding some lemon or infuse with a flavored tea to add some flavor without supplying the calories.

2. Focus on contributing to your diet. Many times when people are looking for weight loss advice you only find what to eliminate from your diet. Even So, you should attempt to concentrate on supplying the necessary amounts of fruits and vegetables. It is advocated to have five to nine portions of fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. This may seem like a lot of food but it will help you achieve your fiber requirements while maintaining you feeling fulfilled.

3.An additional set of favored weight loss advice orbit around snacking. Commit particular attention to your empty snacking. Some people ingest way too many calories in the evening while they are mindless watching television and snacking. Experts recommend establishing a cut off time for eating approximately two hours before you are going to go to bed for the night. By doing so you will have time to work off any calories consumed. Another weight loss tips would be to have predetermined evening snacks such as a low calorie snack pack or low-fat ice cream.

4. Eat several small meals throughout the day. Many experts believe that having several small meals and snacks throughout the day helps to control appetite and assists in weight loss attempts. When opting to eat several smaller meals throughout the day you should strive to have your last meal be at supper.

5. Make sure you eat protein at every meal. Protein is now thought to be more fulfilling than carbohydrates and fat. Eating sufficient protein will help aid in conservation of muscle mass while it promotes fat burning. Try adding items like yogurt, beans, cheese and nuts into your meals to boost your protein ingestion.

6.Favorable weight loss tips include stocking your pantry with nutritious foods. Fundamental weight loss tips for those attempting to lose some extra weight would be to have nutritious foods readily accessible. You will be less likely to order out or hit the fast food restaurant if you have the ability to prepare a healthy meal in minutes. Try stocking up on frozen vegetables, canned tomatoes, whole-grain wraps and pre-cooked chicken breast.

7. Weight loss tips for those that do have to eat on the go would be to order a children’s meal. By doing so you learn to keep your portion size small. Another great weight loss tip would be to use a smaller plate as it makes the serving look like more and your mind and body will usually be fulfilled.

Joseph Carter writes on the topics of health and fitness. He is associated with the website of Houston Fitness Trainer Anu Morgan. If you live in the Houston area and want to get in the best shape of your life you need a Fitness Trainer in Houston like Anu Morgan.

10 Tips by Experts

2009-03-31T10:49:00.003-07:00

10 Tips for Weight Loss
People mostly do dieting to lose weight. While majority will say they are doing for health but in reality they want to be charismatic. This, however, is a perfectly acceptable and plausible reason for making the lifestyle changes that are necessary in order to diet. In fact, this reason might prove to be a far greater motivator than many of the other commonly stated reasons for dieting.
When dieting for weight loss one of the most common complaints is constantly feeling hungry. To overcome this you may want to take following strategies into your dieting. First of all, eat more high fiber foods. Whole grains, apples, pears, and lima beans are a great source of fiber as are many breakfast cereals.However fiber eating has some serious side effects. (remember that beans are a good source of fiber). Try using a product such as Bean-o when consuming larger amounts of fiber.
Another method for feeling fuller when dieting is to drink plenty of water while dieting.Water provides important service to the body by delivering nutrients where they are needed.. Water also helps regulate your metabolism, which is very important to the dieting and weight loss process.
Learn to control your portions. We live in a world where portions are over inflated and super sized so often that we no longer know what an appropriate portion looks like. Restaurant meals are quite often more than adequate for at least two full meals and that is before salads, soups, appetizers, or desserts have been ordered. Learning to portion correctly can save you from over loading your calorie intake for the day massively. It can also help you get extra helpings of the lower calorie foods such as lettuce and other vegetables rather than taking such large portions of calorie rich starches or fried foods.
Do not go "Gung Ho". There are limits to what the body and the mind can handle. When you go on a diet you are making a drastic change to your bodies caloric intake. If you go overboard you can lead to health risks along the way. Begin cutting calories a little at a time and incorporate changes as you go rather than going in with an all or nothing attitude. If you go overboard with your dieting plans chances are that you are dooming your diet to failure.
Take your diet one step at a time for the best results and be sure to incorporate extra physical activity into the mix. Even gardening when done on a regular basis can reduce calories, so can cleaning the house, and playing with the little ones. Take a walk to the park or the corner store rather than getting in the car and pull a wagon or push a stroller while you're at it. The added weight will be just enough resistance to burn a few extra calories.
To lose weight by dieting you need not give a lot but you will have to make a major change in lifestyle if you want to lose more weight
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Benefits Of Vitamin C

2009-03-31T10:49:00.001-07:00

Vitamin C is one of the most important vitamins for your body. It prevents a lot of diseases, and increases your body’s immune system. You can take this vitamin with or without any food, as it can be found in supplement form or in many different juices. Along with being found in supplement and vitamin form, you can find vitamin C in broccoli, peppers, oranges, lemon juice, mustard greens, cauliflower, papaya, and parsley.

Research in the past has shown that there really aren’t any advantages to taking excessive amounts of this vitamin. Even though you shouldn’t take excessive amounts of vitamin C, you shouldn’t have a deficiency in the vitamin either. The most common signs of a deficiency in vitamin C include swollen gums, an unexplained weakness, and nosebleeds. Deficiency is common these days, with the most common reasons being alcoholism and a poor diet.

Tendons and ligaments throughout your body need vitamin C in order to remain healthy and strong. Depending on your current health situation, it may be in your best interest to take vitamin C supplements along with vitamin E. Together, the combination of the two will work side by side, and enhance their overall impact on your body and your health.

Vitamin C is well known as an antioxidant, protecting your skin from the harmful damage of UV rays. If you skin suffers from radiation damage, vitamin C can actually help your skin to recover and reverse some of the harmful effects. If you include vitamin C in your diet and take it every day, you’ll notice that your skin will benefit. If you use vitamin E and C together, you’ll notice that scars and other harmful defects on your skin will start to heal as well.

You can find vitamin C in many fruits and vegetables, although oranges will give you the most amounts. Orange juice is a great way to get your daily dose of vitamin C, as all you need to do is drink a few glasses of it a day. Even if you drink a glass of orange juice in the morning with your breakfast then eat a few oranges during the day, you’ll get more than enough vitamin C.

If you want to get more vitamin C in your diet, you can use vitamin supplements. When you look for supplements at the store, you should read the labels and see how much vitamin C is in the supplement, and how it works. You should avoid time released supplements of vitamin C, as they haven’t been proven to work as well yet. As long as you monitor your intake of vitamin C and use it on a daily basis, you’ll find that your health and immune system will be better than ever.

Author Paul Mendel manages the glyconutrients online Information site called nutrients4health. At this website you will learn about an new and exciting health discovery of glyconutrition or glyconutrients and other essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals that humans need to maintain normal normal bodily functions.

The benefits of fantasy

2009-03-31T10:48:00.002-07:00

The benefits of fantasy

Sex generally starts in the brain. So an active imagination can mean you're ready for sex before anything physical has happened. Therefore, desire is heightened and arousal is much quicker.

Some people find an active fantasy life can add novelty to a long-standing sexual relationship. This can be particularly helpful if your partner is not as sexually adventurous as you are.

But conversely, if you find it embarrassing to experiment in bed, fantasy offers an opportunity to give your imagination free rein and to play out roles. It can be used as a practice arena where you can build confidence before embarking on something new.

In psychosexual therapy, fantasy is often used to block out negative thoughts. If you find during sexual encounters your mind wanders to unhelpful images or thoughts, fantasy can help you to refocus on your sexual pleasure.

The G-Spot is essentially a bean shaped area of nerve tissue, located about halfway between the back of the pubic bone and the top of a women’s cervix.

The size and location of the G-Spot will vary between women, but it usually lies about 1.5” to 3” inside the vagina.

This area inside the vagina has a different texture; it’s ridged, not smooth like the rest of the vagina, and when aroused has a spongy feel.

The G-Spot is not easily located. Sometimes even women have a hard time finding it and some don’t even believe it exists, but it does.

All you need to do is to locate it and arouse it and with a little trial and error between you and your partner you can.

For wide range of information on Vibrators and G spot Vibrators visit naturlinesex.eu.

Muscle Growth Products | Modeling Fitness | Best Weight Loss Routine

2009-03-31T10:48:00.001-07:00

Theses days I have new phobia of getting a body like model. That means if I succeed in this I will start fitness for models soon. I have started off with two muscle building products like bsn nitrix, bsn syntha 6; these work good to look like a model. It’s called a muscle stimulator and helps to grow maximum muscles. So I am on with this product to have most of it as I want to look like Arnold and why not I have many muscle building products to give me results. And I found it is giving me all good and positive signs of building muscles with also some weight lifting exercises. I found boring in spending lot of time in just doing weight lifting or doing best chest exercise. There is always a need for something more to boost you and give you more than your daily exercises.

Well to look like model it’s not a big deal. There is need for our body such as supplements known as proteins, vitamins, minerals, muscle products, weight loss products etc. The modeling fitness products have huge variety and are available for make your mind and body feel good. Go ahead and choose products for your skin to give moisture to your body after those excess sweating. The right daily nutrition advice can make you healthy and fit after exercise. Bodybuilding is getting a body to flaunt and feel strong and healthy.

The popular items for body building are strength steroids like Masteron, Anavar and Anadrol. It can be bought for few bucks as athletes’ use them for the fitness for models. They have first choice of buying this because energizes for work outs on muscles and you will soon be aware of the progress in the gym. The muscle growth products makes your body great for intensive workouts and Some bodybuilding items such as Lipotropic Protein, slin, psarm etc can work wonders. You can choose varieties of supplements, steroids and proteins and buy them for incredible prices. Go to nutrition or fitness store and try it to have a body which will amaze everyone.

Remember, the quality of supplements must be authentic and don’t go for QUANTITY. To enhance muscles give the body the power boosters and build healthy muscles with proper body functioning. It’s the golden rule of getting fit body or body building. Get muscles with healthy body and best chest exercise.

A relaxed body is athletes have in high demand nowadays. Last but not the least the weight loss products meet the best weight loss routine for your body to help you get in good shape.

So if you want to look like a model try out some of my tips and see the work will notice and appreciate your hard work with these products. Don’t tell them the secret or else tell them so that they see the wonders again with their body. Enjoy the workouts and the great body with big chest and huge muscles.

Women Belly Fat Problems - Will You Get Rid Of It?

2009-03-31T10:47:00.000-07:00

Look around you! You will find many women desperate to trim down women belly fat. Whether from having a child, or a physically non-demanding life, once it's put on, everyone knows how really tough it is to get rid of. But the belief that you simply have to live with it is wrong. Too much belly fat is a frequent problem that not really your fault, but instead the the world that we live in. Keeping fit was simple in a farmhouse economy, but is certainly more arduous in today's 'desk job' existence.

Food companies are also very much to blame - the regular Supermarket is filled with junk food camouflaged as honest food. Food companies wish for you to put on the weight - you'll end up eating more food, which makes them more profitable!

When I mustered out of the Marine Corps - I found that extra pounds came fast - no more 3 mile training runs everyday... no more month long field exercises. Belly fat isn't a pretty thing to see, and I'm convinced that you, just like I did, will be happy when it's gone!

Women belly fat is not only undesireable because you cannot wear your desired evening dress with a sexy posture but also it is unsafe for women's health. There are many different food supplements available in the pharmacy section that promise to help you to bring down your body weight, but there in fact isn't any 'magic pill'. Food supplements without help will not do the trick.

A combination of eating the appropriate foods, as well as fun and efficient exercises will quickly rid you of your unpleasant fummy bulge. It's important that you decide on the best exercise routine that will keep you interested, and burn calories and fat quickly - if you stop the routine because you don't see results, it's going to be useless to you! An exciting side-benefit is that many of the same exercises that work the best on tummy fat will also grant relief from back pain.

Choosing an exercise program that will efficiently and quickly burn the fat away is critical - if you choose the wrong exercises, you'll be wasting much of your time - and will without doubt not see results quickly enough to help you want to continue. This is crucial – you have to select a program that you will enjoy long enough to truly produce results!

The best way of choosing an exercise plan to reduce tummy fat is to retain a personal trainer who can guide you in the desirable direction. Unfortunately, for most of us this is an unreasonably expensive way to lose tummy fat. There are a number of exercise program DVDs that can be purchased in the market to help the people leading a busy life that are reasonably priced, and that can educate you to efficiently and quickly burn the fat away.

The greatest exercise routines are capable of 'scaling' upward in intensity and focus as you become stronger and healthier and lose your women belly fat. Naturally, you'll start at the beginning level, however, be sure to increase your exercises as quickly as you are able to. After completing the first phase of the exercise routine successfully, move to the next phase. Remember, you have to train with full determination and spirit if you really want to reduce belly fat. You have to follow the program until you eliminate that belly fat. Set a daily goal, and spend just thirty minutes to an hour every day, and you'll see results quickly!

I've been where you are! Waging his own battle after leaving the U.S.M.C., Ben Holmes managed an 80 pound loss - visit How to Lose Belly Fat for a no strings attached feature packed 63 page guide to demonstrate how!

Benefits of Wheat Grass - What you can Gain from it

2009-03-31T10:43:00.001-07:00

The Latin name for Wheat Grass is Triticum aestivum and is known for its various biological and health benefits. Wheatgrass is a commonly found herb in the region of South Asia, especially India where it has been used for its nutritional value since many years.

Benefits of wheat grass are many since it contains essential enzymes, vitamins, essential minerals, amino acids and some important flavonoids that the body requires for healthy functioning and for the overall well-being of an individual. Wheat grass is a nutritionally dense food and according to many health experts, probably its juice is the only form of wheat grass the human intestines can digest it. Drinking the juice of wheat grass may yield long term health benefits since it is full of nutrition and other compounds that have unique body healing properties.

Nowadays, when the allopathic or modern medications is no longer so safe and almost all the medicines, in long run, may cause severe damage to body system and organs, more and more people now prefer to go for some natural therapy. Natural therapy is composed of natural treatment using some formulas that contain natural herbal extracts potential to heal many health ailments. Wheat grass is one of such herbs that have powerful healing properties. One should adopt the natural way to live the life and should concentrate on diet and lifestyle modification to live healthy life without any troubles.

One of the major benefits of wheatgrass is that it contains living chlorophyll that is reported to help in stopping the growth and development of “harmful microorganisms”. In addition, it also helps to rebuild and replenish the bloodstream along with flushing out the body’s toxic substances. In this way, it helps in purifying the blood and also toning the vital organs such as liver and kidney. For skin, it helps in getting rid of acne and scars.

Let us look at some other benefits of wheat grass:-

· Wheat grass helps in preventing aging

· It also helps in maintaining shine on the skin.

· Wheat grass is reported to prevent the dark circles around eyes.

· It is very useful in nourishing skin and helps it to look beautiful and hence, it acts as a natural cure for skin disorder.

· It helps in rejuvenating the body cells and tissues.

· It helps in promoting blood cell production therefore helpful in boosting RBC (red blood corpuscles), WBC (white blood corpuscles), and blood platelets etc. that help in overall maintenance of the health.

· Wheat grass is helpful in improving vision of eyes therefore helps in poor eye sight.

· Wheat grass helps in alleviating the general body pains and any sort of mild inflammation due to various reasons.

· Wheat grass is reported to be useful in protein digestion.

· It also assists in starch digestion in body.
Simply having a glass of wheatgrass juice regularly may do wonders for one’s skin’s beauty and health. Therefore, more and more cosmetic products are now with wheat grass as their main ingredients. You may not stop the aging process but using wheat grass, you can certainly slower down the process and look much younger.

Acne Skin Care Treatment Products

2009-03-31T10:42:00.002-07:00

Many people suffer with the skin condition known as acne or Zits; fortunately, the problems it causes are being investigated. A great deal of effort is going into research for a cure; in fact many new remedies are proving very effective. The type of acne skin care product you might use would come under three general categories:

Drugstore: Preventative treatment

Over-the-counter

Prescription: Issued for specialized medication from a doctor etc.

General or preventative products form part of a large skin care market, they deal with skin creams, lotions and cleansers that can help to stop acne. This is a market where many people use this type of product every day to condition their skin. They use these products to protect their skin from the environment even if they do not have the acne condition.

Many of these cleansers act in almost exactly the same way as acne skin care products which have been formulated to limit the amount of oil or sebum forming in the pores. When the pores become clogged with this oil, bacteria which can cause the problem begin to grow. These skin care products are designed to prevent this from happening.

This type of skin care treatment also includes those which exfoliate such as skin peels. These can be bought over the counter or on the internet. These work towards removing dead skin cells, reducing the possibility of pore-clogging and bacteria development.

The growth of the skin care market has allowed even more specialized acne skin care products to be available without the need to visit the doctor. These include products like vanishing creams which extract the excess oil from the skin. Most of these are based on benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, both of which are the enemies of bacteria (and hence acne).

It is preferable when you first start using this type of product to keep the concentration of it low, around 5.5 percent is best. You can always try a cleaner or cream containing alpha hydroxy acid if this doesn't work. You might have to try a few different creams or lotions before you find the acne skin care product that is effective for you're skin. If nothing you try seems to work, you should contact a dermatologist.

There are benefits of seeing your doctor or dermatologist, they can prescribe you with a prescription for treatments not available over the counter, for example a course of antibiotics. In some case your doctor may suggest the pustules are drained of harmful contents under local anesthetic, this is a minor procedure which if carried out by yourself could result in skin damage.

Your doctor may even suggest a course of hormone therapy as a skin care treatment. Hormone changes are sometimes responsible for acne and can be very effective when used under prescription. Constant research has paid off, and whilst they cannot cure the condition, it is becoming easier to treat.

Author Suzie Goldie is the manager of a skin care products online store. She manages a great skin care products store. Suzie offers the best skin care products at the low prices.

Where to Buy Dermalogica Products Online

2009-03-31T10:42:00.001-07:00

As more and more information comes out about aging, skin cancer, and skin conditions, more and more products are introduced into the beauty and skin care markets. There are products for sensitive skin, for oily skin, for acne, and for sensitive and oily skin with acne. There are products for dry skin, large pores, sun protection, and wrinkles. And this, of course, is only a fraction of the list of skin care products available. The result of this product bombardment is overwhelmed shoppers. How are you to know which acne wash is the best? Or which brand of anti-aging cream will produce results? Luckily, there is a trusted name in skin care that can meet all of your skin care needs without the trial and error games you’ll play with your skin, and that name is Dermalogica.

Effective and safe products are the priority when it comes to skin care, and Dermalogica skin care products can provide both of these and more. The International Dermal Institute developed the Dermalogica line of skin care products in response to the slew of potentially harmful skin care products that researchers found in beauty aisles. Appalled by the use of known skin irritants and damagers like lanolin, S.D. alcohol, and mineral oil, the creators of Dermalogica skin care products committed to developing products that not only were safe and free of artificial colours and scents, but that were far more effective than the existing products on the market.

A few of Dermalogica’s great skin care products are detailed below, so you can get a glimpse of what the brand has to offer when it comes to skin care.

Dermalogica Sheer Moisture SPF15
This everyday moisturiser with only natural ingredients contains lactic acid to hydrate your skin and has the added benefit of being lightweight and oil-free so your skin looks its best. Olive oil and walnut seed extracts work to give your skin a healthy glow by providing bioflavonoids and antioxidants to improve the texture of your skin. Dermalogica Sheer Moisture SPF15 also helps protect your skin by blocking out free radicals and harmful UV rays.

AGE Smart Products
The AGE Smart line was developed to combat aging before it appears as wrinkles or sun spots and to treat the biochemical factors that influence aging. If you’re worried about the aging of your skin, check out the AGE Smart Starterkit, which will introduce you to a skin saving regimen you’ll never want to stop. Ingredients like glucosamine and peptides set Dermalogica anti-aging products apart from others, according to Allure Magazine. Ingredients like vitamins A and E for healthier skin and zinc oxide to protect your skin also work to benefit your skin.

Dermalogica Gentle Soothing Booster
Dermalogica Boosters are concentrated skin care formulas that can help you deal with skin irritations caused by hormonal, climate related, or other irritants. The Dermalogica skin care line includes various boosters. One great booster is the Dermalogica Gentle Soothing Booster. It includes a honey to heal and hydrate skin and a combination of soothing floral extracts that will lessen irritated skin quickly and safely.

Beauty products news and reviews, including skincare, cosmetics and haircare. Read about the top beauty products, skincare, cosmetics and haircare and save money with our beauty price comparison.

Exploring the Health Benefits of Chocolate

2009-03-31T10:41:00.001-07:00

When it comes to protecting our health, at times it seems that there is nothing but bad news. However, some new studies suggest that chocolate may actually be somewhat of a health food, great news indeed for those of us with a high functioning sweet tooth.

It seems that many of the ingredients in chocolate may have important health benefits, beginning with cocoa, the main ingredient in chocolate. Cocoa contains healthful phytochemicals known as flavonoids, which are also found in red wine and green tea, as well as in fruits and vegetables. These flavonoids contain antioxidants, which are thought to be effective at preventing and even reversing the damage done by free radicals.

Chocolate also contains tryptophan, a brain chemical which is used to produce serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which has been proven to have antidepressant qualities. Serotonin also helps to produce feelings of well being, and it is well known that this brain chemical helps to elevate and regulate mood. This means that chocolate can benefit you mentally as well as physically.

Other substances in chocolate, such as theobromine and phenylethylamine, are known to have a stimulant effect. Caffeine, however is not found in large amounts. Contrary to popular belief, there is only a small amount of caffeine in chocolate. In fact a cup of decaffeinated coffee contains more caffeine than the average serving of chocolate.

Research has also shown that candy lovers live nearly a year longer than their candy avoiding peers, and a Harvard study has found that men who eat chocolate live longer than those who abstain from this sweet treat.

It is important to note that dark chocolate is thought to have far more health benefits than milk chocolate and other forms of chocolate. That is because dark chocolate contains a higher concentration of cocoa to sugar, and since the cocoa contains so many good nutrients there are more health benefits per ounce than with other kinds of chocolate.

Chocolate is also a good source of carbohydrates, as well as a great way to gain a quick burst of energy. Many office workers and others are no doubt familiar with the late afternoon or midmorning pick me up that a chocolate bar can provide. Contrary to popular belief, however, there is no established link between chocolate and hyperactivity in children and adults.

It is also not true that eating chocolate causes acne. Acne is actually a skin condition caused by the over activity of the sebaceous glands, and it is not brought on or exacerbated by chocolate. So chocolate loving teens can rest easy and enjoy the many benefits of this delicious and potentially healthy food.

Sugar Stand.com brings wholesale and bulk candy directly to your door. We stock hundreds of brands you know and love and include everything from retro candy to chocolate and candy cane. Visit online today.

Home Made Acne Treatments And Acne Emergency Treatments

2009-03-31T10:40:00.000-07:00

A mixture of ground nutmeg and raw (unpasteurised) milk applied to the spots is alleged to make them disappear without a trace.

A paste of 3 tablespoons of honey and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon applied to the spots at bedtime and washed away in the morning will see spots disappear forever. Try mixing 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon as an alternative.

Finely grate the very outer rind of an orange and mix it into a paste with a little water and apply to the spots to assist healing. An application of fresh garlic rubbed on the spots is believed to make them disappear without a trace

Regularly treat your skin to a treatment of 1 tablespoon of groundnut oil and 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice and this will prevent formation of blackheads and pimples. Pulverize some fresh mint leaves and spread over the whole face to ward off spots and to treat stings, eczema and other skin infections.

A paste of fenugreek leaves spread over the face every night and left for 10 minutes before washing off is said to not only fight spots but also to prevent wrinkles. Mash 2 very ripe tomatoes into a pulp, apply to the affected area and leave for an hour before washing off.

Treatment for Acne - In Emergency!

Do not, under any circumstances pinch or pick at your pimple. All you will achieve is an even redder spot that is more inflamed; you will spread bacteria over other parts of your face; you will introduce fresh bacteria into what becomes an open wound and long term you risk severe scarring.

Apply an ice pack to the offending pimple for a few minutes and reapply every half hour. Use an ice cube but wrap it in a piece of cloth to prevent scalding the skin surrounding the spot. The ice will help to decrease the swelling and reduce the pain.

If you are short of time use a medicated, skin colored concealer cream to cover the spot but remembering to be scrupulous about removing this cosmetic covering when you return home.

Wash your face at least three times during the day avoiding harsh chemicals and perfumed products. Gently scrub the skin with nothing more severe than a clean washcloth.

Have an emergency tube of an acne cream or ointment containing Benzyl Peroxide or Salicylic Acid and apply this to the spot. Avoid using these products over extensive areas if possible as they are very drying. Avoid wearing make up until you have to go out – give your skin chance to breathe.

Believe it or not, a smear of toothpaste on the affected area can help soothe irritation and reduce redness. Try pressing a dampened teabag against the spot to reduce inflammation. Lemon juice can help too when you apply some to the spot and leave to dry.

Author Suzie Goldie manages the skin care products website online where you get a variety of skin care products types, from skincare products for acne skin, anti-wrinkle, anti-aging skin, and more at low prices. Visit now for the best skin care products choice store online.

The Right Topical Acne Cream during Pregnancy

2009-03-28T22:06:00.000-07:00

Acne is seen to trouble pregnant women especially during the first three months of pregnancy. That’s the time when the hormone levels rise steeply and this problem should be treated with the help of a medical practitioner. The medications for acne could harm the baby and that’s the reason why acne products are not prescribed while a woman is pregnant. The only safe antibiotic prescribed during pregnancy is Erythromycin. It is not so effective because of many bacteria that have resistance to the drug. It is best not to use the various types of medication and only use natural remedies.

Dermatologists often prescribe topical acne creams which have common ingredients like

“adapalene”, “tretinoin,” “azelaic acid,” “sodium sulfacetamide,” “clidamycin,” “hydrocortisone,” “benzoyl peroxide” “salicylic acid,” and “erythromycin.” Most of these have been considered to be safe during pregnancy but there are a few ingredients called Sodium Sulfacetamide should not be used as these cause disorders in the baby.

Most of the topical creams are safe but a woman should visit a medical practitioner before she starts using any cream on her own. Pregnancy is a very delicate stage and so she should take the advice of a dermatologist or a medical practitioner to guide her through these crucial days. So if she is troubled with acne, a well informed decision should be made.

The treatment of acne in the mildest way possible should be made during pregnancy. Over-the-counter medications would be harmful too. They might take the help of orange peel therapy, or it could be a rose water and lemon juice therapy for acne treatment during pregnancy. It is important to be well informed and cautious before using topical acne cream during pregnancy.

Genital acne: How to fight off stubborn Genital Acne

2009-03-28T22:04:00.002-07:00

Genital acne is a skin affliction that affects the sensitive areas of the body, mainly the genitals. Genital acne is one problem that attacks irrespective of age and gender. One’s private parts are prone to discomfort resulting from stubborn acne that one can neither live with nor easily tackle. Bacterial infections, clogging of pores with sebum and over secretion of other hormones are probable causes. Note that it is not a contagious sexual disorder. If you feel the urge to itch or suffer from pimples and pus-filled painful pores in the private parts, this could be genital acne.

Genital acne is similar to the whiteheads and blackheads on other parts of the body. It is just that the discomfort is higher in private parts. Never prick or squeeze the oozing pimple. Soothing over-the-counter skin solutions for acne are available, like Benzoyl peroxide formulations and gentle astringents. Avoid wearing ill-fitting innerwear. Using gentle detergent for the underwear is a recommended move, as most genital acne is aggravated by using harsh detergents in the hopes of killing bacteria.

While a visit to the doctor is recommended, one can also learn to reduce the symptoms by taking the right action. Keeping private parts clean is a very good measure, especially if you are back from the gym and have sweat trickling down your skin. Lesions need medical treatment, so do not hesitate to visit your preferred doctor. Wash your underwear with warm water or antiseptic. Change innerwear frequently if you are prone to excessive sweating.

While genital acne can be treated effectively, sexually transmitted infections are entirely a different story. It is better to head to the dermatologist for expert advice. Sound advice from trusted friends could also help to solve the problem. Face and fight genital acne because you can!

Acne along jaw line

2009-03-28T22:04:00.001-07:00

Acne along the jaw line is equally troublesome to men and women for different reasons. It’s almost entirely preventable and can usually be banished by behavior modification.

In women and young girls in particular, acne at the jaw line can be caused and further aggravated by long hair brushing the skin. Since our hair is protected by natural oils along its length, these oils deposit themselves on the skin of the jaw as the air touches it and contaminate pores that already may have excessive oil. Hair also catches pollutants and debris that is naturally in the air and leaves these items on the skin. Pores that are already clogged with dead skin cells (sebum) fill up with this oil and debris, causing the infections we call acne.

Makeup is also a culprit in acne but particularly to that along the jaw line. Along with other dust and oil, makeup is deposited in the pores and encourages infections. On hot days or during exertion, makeup tends to cake and clogs the pores even more.

Men, adult and teen alike, also suffer from acne along the jaw line. Sports enthusiasts and those who go to fitness clubs regularly will notice that sweat runs down the line of the jaw, taking facial dirt and debris in the air with it, depositing the moisture and matter into the open pores. If those pores are already in any stage of being clogged, the sweat and dirt worsens the situation and acne develops. Some men and teens like to wear their hair long and that further aggravates the condition as it sweeps along the skin.

Acne along the jaw line can easily be prevented and treated. Keeping hair away from the jaw by either tying it back or cutting it will go a long way towards keeping that area acne-free. Water-based makeup will also help but no makeup at all is the best thing for your complexion. When exercising, control the flow of perspiration with headbands to keep it from infecting the pores along the line of the jaw and wash your face well after you’ve completed your workout.

With a little attention and judicious cleanliness, acne along the jaw line can be prevented and controlled.

Treating Acne with Antibiotics

2009-03-28T22:03:00.003-07:00

When over the counter acne treatments don’t work, dermatologists often prescribe antibiotics to control, reduce or banish acne. These medications work to reduce bacteria and inflammation.

Oral (taken by mouth) antibiotics are usually taken for four to five months and have proved to be very effective in reducing acne. The most commonly used oral antibiotics are Tetracycline, Erythromycin and Minocycline, a form of Tetracycline. All of these medications have side effects, mostly commonly gastrointestinal upset, but the majority of patients tolerate them well with no discomfort. Oral antibiotics are often used for cases of back or chest acne or for patients with sensitive skin who can’t tolerate topical treatments. Unfortunately, bacteria can become tolerant to many oral antibiotics making the treatment ineffective after a time. Antibiotics won’t banish acne forever, though, as it often makes an unwelcome return visit months after the course of treatment is over.

Another negative result of oral antibiotics is the destruction of “good” bacteria that lives in the digestive tract. Those taking antibiotics for more than 6 weeks are also twice as likely to develop upper respiratory infections.

Topical treatments work by drying up oil, killing bacteria that grow in clogged pores and encouraging the sloughing of dead skin cells.

Topical antibiotics come in the forms of gel, lotion or creams and are applied to the skin once or twice daily. The common oral antibiotics are also available as topical applications and have been proven very effective in combating acne with very few side effects. The newest topical antibiotic is Benzamycin, combining erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide and is gaining popularity among dermatologists. Unlike topical tetracycline, benzamycin won’t discolor the skin and very few people report skin irritations with its use. There are very few side effects associated with topical antibiotics. Stinging, dryness or peeling of the skin and mild irritation may occur.

When using topical antibiotics, be sure to wash your face thoroughly, pat (not wipe) it dry and wait at least fifteen minutes before applying the antibiotic. Avoiding aftershave, astringents and or exfoliating products will lessen skin irritation while using topical antibiotics.

Be sure your doctor knows all the prescription or over the counter medications you may be taking before he prescribes antibiotics for you. If you’re pregnant or intending to become pregnant while being treated with antibiotics, be sure your doctor is aware of it.

Do I Need a Facial Moisturizer if I have Acne?

2009-03-28T22:03:00.001-07:00

Don’t be afraid of moisturizing if you have acne; moisturizers can be one of an acne-sufferer’s best friends! You have to take care in choosing a moisturizer, though, as skin afflicted with acne has special needs.

One of the ingredients you should look for in a moisturizer is “essential oils”. These are concentrated oils from aromatic plants, such as oil of clove. These oils are beneficial because they’ve been found to nourish skin as well as increasing its oxygen supply and discouraging the bacteria that help acne flourish. Some essential oils even help heal acne.

It’s also very important to know what type of skin you have. Is it dry, oily, normal or a combination of the three? A moisturizer made for dry skin can make oily skin scramble to dry up its natural oils, upsetting your skin’s delicate balance and possibly worsening the acne. Likewise, if your dry skin is treated with moisturizer for normal skin it will not get enough of what it needs and the results will aggravate your skin instead of helping to heal it.

The best moisturizer for your skin, no matter which type you have, will be hypoallergenic. These products are specially formulated to avoid allergic reactions. Even if you have no allergies at all these are the healthiest moistuizers for your skin.

Any product you apply to your skin should be oil-free, except for essential oils, and not clog your pores. Look for facial moisturizers that have hyaluronic acid, a substance found in the body’s tissues that is a natural lubricant. Glycerin, another substance that has been put to wide use for generations in soaps and lotions, attracts moisture to your skin to keep it healthy. Other ingredients to look for are jojoba and lanolin, both of which are most like the sebum your skin naturally produces to moisten your skin and maintain its health and elasticity. Lanolin and Jojoba are natural emollients that nurture and enhance the biochemistry of human skin.

Many generic moisturizers contain the same ingredients in the exact amounts as their more expensive competitors and cost much less. You will often find that generic products are made by the same manufacturer as the more expensive name brand! Buy quality moisturizers, of course, but you’ll save a lot if you aren’t swayed by product name recognition.

Genital Acne

2009-03-28T22:01:00.002-07:00

It comes as a shock to anyone who discovers they have genital acne. Their first thought, naturally, is that they have a sexually transmitted disease but when a qualified physician has ruled this out they can begin treatment. It can’t be stressed enough that you should have a doctor diagnose your condition or your attempt to treat yourself can have disastrous consequences. But there is no reason to be embarrassed by genital acne; you’re not guilty of bad hygiene or anything else, you simply have a skin irritation.

Officially known as folliculitis, genital acne is caused in most part by heat and sweat. It’s especially prevalent in sports enthusiasts due to their equipment and clothing that tends to retain sweat and restrict the natural flow of air. Sometimes it’s caused by the type of soap that’s being used in the bath or shower or even laundry detergent. Like facial acne, it also involves a set of glands, but not the sebaceous glands of the face that produce the sebum that block the pores. Genital acne is caused by the apocrine glands that become blocked with perspiration and other matter. The hair follicle then becomes infected and a painful lesion may be the result.

Like facial acne, genital acne doesn’t care who it strikes. If the conditions are right, there it is! Preventing it depends on keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding tight clothing or those made of synthetic materials that don’t breathe and showering as soon as possible after participating in sports. You may also want to switch to a laundry detergent that is scent and color free since perfumes and dyes used in the soap can irritate skin.

This condition can often be taken care of with antibacterial cleanser but sometimes the doctor will prescribe an oral antibiotic since, like facial acne, it’s caused by an infection inside the hair follicle.

Gluten Intolerance and Acne

2009-03-28T22:01:00.001-07:00

By now we all know that the types of foods we eat, such as fried foods and chocolate, are not what causes acne. However, we now know that food allergies can! Gluten, a protein found in grains such as wheat and rye, can cause acne because of the digestive distress it can cause those allergic to it.

Ninety percent of people worldwide are affecting by acne at some time in their lives and about thirty percent of those people are allergic to gluten! Considering that grains are a staple of most of our diets, this can be problematic to those suffering from gluten allergy-induced acne. You may be wondering just what exactly gluten is; as previously mentioned, it’s a protein. Gluten is in the grain used in breads, pastas and cereals and binds the dough in bread. That certainly covers a lot of food, but it’s easier than you think to eliminate gluten from your diet if you are allergic to it.

Gluten causes acne by triggering the body’s reaction to a harmful substance. This can include coughing, hives, runny nose, watery eyes, acne and even hives. When the human body is allergic to something it deems it harmful, it usess every method it can to kill the substance or forcefully get rid of it through secretions. This includes increased production of sebum, the substance that coats and protects our hair. Too much sebum blocks the hair follicle and causes inflammation resulting in acne. You’ll probably notice whiteheads first, signaling a blocked pore, that will develop into the pustules we call “pimples”.

You may not know if you have an allergy to gluten unless you go through testing by an allergist. If you’ve tried a variety of methods to rid yourself of acne and nothing is working, you may want to begin eliminating gluten from your diet. This isn’t as difficult as you would think, although it will be a big change to adapt to. There are many resources online and through your local health department to help you but it would also be wise and probably save you a lot of time if you discuss it with your physician.

Making your Own Homemade Blackhead Remover

2009-03-28T21:59:00.000-07:00

There seem to be as many homemade blackhead remedies as there are leaves on a tree! Some are outrageous, some are simple but everyone swears they work.

The kitchen has always been a favorite place from which to get home remedies. One that has been around for generations is to rub goat’s milk on your blackheads. People also used to mix mayonnaise, chili powder and egg whites into a face mask to remove blackheads. Got any cottage cheese? Mix some with black pepper power to make a thick paste and let it dry on your blackheads. Wash off after five minutes and voila! No more blackheads.

Lemon juice, useful for so many things, is apparently good for getting rid of blackheads. By rubbing the affected areas with lemon juice three times a day, not only will your blackheads disappear but your pores will tighten. Let’s not forget lime juice; mix it with an equal amount of cinnamon and wear it to bed. When you wash it off in the morning, you should be greeted by a face clear of blackheads.

Grated raw potatoes rubbed on blackheads supposedly make them history. A honey mask is said to do the same job but be sure to rinse it off after fifteen minutes. A paste of radish seeds and water applied to blackheads and washed off after ten minutes is also supposed to work. A paste of baking soda and water rubbed on your face will leave it clean and clear.

Herbs and plants get into the act, too. Crushed Fenugreek leaves made into a paste with water and applied to your face for ten minutes is supposed to erase blackheads. Used every evening before bed, this concoction is supposed to keep your skin healthy and clear. A mix of one teaspoon coriander leaves, half a teaspoon of turmeric powder and enough water to make a paste is also a night-time mask that is rumored to reduce blackheads and make your complexion beautiful.

The simplest homemade remedy, however, is plain old Elmer’s Glue. Spread some over your blackheads, let dry then peel it off for a blackhead-free complexion. It’s probably the cheapest, too!

Get Clear, Healthy Skin from the Kitchen!

2009-03-28T08:19:00.004-07:00

Although making your own remedies can be a bit time-consuming, it saves money and avoiding harsh chemicals will keep your skin healthy and glowing. Homemade concoctions for clear skin also won’t upset the skin’s natural balance, stimulating or slowing down oil production. Your skin stays in its natural state because you’re using natural products, not chemical.

The most common and oldest remedy for clear skin is a past of oatmeal and water, left on for 15-20 minutes then rinsed off with warm water. This was popular for generations, especially with “society” women of the early twentieth century that believed a healthy complexion advertised their wealth. Then, as now, the oatmeal mask was very effective and the cost is negligible! Another home remedy that’s regaining popularity is the egg white mask; raw egg whites are spread upon the face and allowed to dry then peeled or washed off. Lemon juice is said to improve blood circulation as well as killing germs. A paste of grated apples and honey left on the skin for 15-20 minutes then washed off with warm water will leave the skin refreshed and glowing. Yogurt, the all-purpose health food, is wonderful for your skin when mixed with oatmeal.

Water that has had lettuce leaves soaked in it is supposed to make a very good wash to keep skin clear and clean. Lemon or lime juice added to water is also supposed to cut surface oil and leave your skin looking and feeling great.

Did you know that spices are also used to get healthy, clear skin? Basil, a prime ingredient of Italian cuisine, will help your skin stay beautiful when you use a teaspoon of it in strong tea and let it steep for about twenty minutes. Apply with a cotton ball at least once a day after the mixture has cooled, refrigerating unused portions. Cinnamon has many healing properties internally but you can also mix it with honey for a wonderful face mask. Garlic, that old cure-all, is reputed to be great for healthy skin. Simply peel eight cloves, mash well (a garlic press is probably best) and leave on your face for fifteen minutes, rinsing with warm water. You won’t smell good but you’ll look great!

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get clear, healthy skin. It’s often as close and inexpensive as your kitchen!

The Symptoms and Signs of Jawline Acne

2009-03-28T08:19:00.003-07:00

Jawline acne is common among adult women and is an early sign of adult acne. It’s usually caused by androgens, a type of hormone that cause the oil glands in the face to obstruct the hair follicles and leading to acne. 59% of the populating is afflicted at some time or other with jawline acne. It’s essentially the same as other types of acne but is almost completely preventable by changes in habits, hygiene and makeup..

The first sign of jawline acne may be a “whitehead”, the common name for a comedone. Whiteheads are are caused when the dead skin plugging the hair follicle is stuck in the opening of the follicle. The opening is nearly closed when you see a whitehead and may be open in event of a blackhead. Acne isn’t far behind the appearance of a comedone. Contrary to old common beliefs, blackheads are not caused by dirt but the black appearance is caused by the follicle’s plug making its way to the surface of the skin.

Blackheads can cause the follicle to break open and the area to become infected and swell. The infection causes a pimple, which is the outward sign of an inflammation deep within the skin. The most severe jawline acne cases include nodules and cysts which can be very painful as well as unsightly. Papules, which are red and inflamed but with no head, and Pustules (“zits”) are the most common symptoms of jawline acne.

Women with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) are more likely to develop jawline acne due to higher than normal androgen levels. Folliculitis, an infection of the hair follicle, is often initially mistaken for jawline acne and can be quite a serious dermatological condition if left untreated. Severe cases of Folliculitis can even result in permanent scarring. For these and many other reasons, it may be advisable to consult a physician or dermatologist when jawline acne occurs.

Like nearly all physical ailments and conditions, jawline acne has been the target of myths and misconceptions. One of the most common old wives’ tales is that if you have jawline acne only on the right side of your face during pregnancy, you’ll give birth to a boy!

Jawline Acne Symptom is Mostly Preventable!

2009-03-28T08:19:00.001-07:00

Jawline Acne Symptom, like other acne, is caused by clogged pores but how they become clogged is almost completely preventable.

A person’s long hair can repeatedly brush or rest against their jawline, rubbing natural oils on the face. This will aggravate existing acne as well as slowing down the healing process. If the hair is cut short, tied back or otherwise away from the face, most of the problem is solved. Some acne sufferers don’t care to have short hair and like the long, loose look of their hair so they think they’re compensating by washing it every day. Rather than helping their acne, they’re actually making it worse! Since healthy hair needs natural oils, the body must compensate for the daily loss and thus produces even more oils throughout the hair and face.

Sweat is full of oils and toxins that cause acne and when it drips down a person’s face, especially along the jawline, it will clog the pores resulting in acne breakouts. Sweatbands during recreation or exercise can help alleviate this problem. Washing the face thoroughly, including the jawline and neck will also help but take care not to over cleanse and cause your system to compensate by producing even more oil.

Another preventable cause of jawline acne is our hands. Many people, especially students, have a habit of resting their faces on their hands which contain body oils and, in spite of frequent washings, trap a lot of dirt and pollution which transfers to the face. Since dirt and oils are major contributors to acne, this can cause or worsen the condition.

Makeup is also the enemy of healthy skin, clogging the pores by caking in the crevices and creases of the face. Makeup specially made for sensitive skin or that is hypoallergenic can lessen the impact but if possible should be avoided. There are medicated cover-up products for acne that helps healing as well as disguising the blemishes that would probably be a better solution.

As you can see, keeping your face clean is one of the most important things you can do to prevent or control acne. If you can prevent your hair from touching your face and keep your hands away from it, acne will be much less of a problem.

Concealing Your Acne Scars

2009-03-28T08:18:00.004-07:00

It’s bad enough to have acne, but it’s worse when it permanently scars your face. Many acne scars will fade with time and some people are able to have the scars removed but for those of us who don’t care for medical intervention, makeup does a good job of hiding them.

Hypoallergenic makeup is always a good choice, whatever your skin type. Be sure to choose a water-based as opposed to oil-based makeup. There is even medicated makeup for those prone to acne and these might be a good choice even if you don’t get break-outs. If you don’t know what to choose, many stores have free makeovers in their cosmetics departments; you can get expert advice on shades and application techniques.

Start with concealer, which should be one or two shades lighter than the foundation you’ll apply over it. Cream types give a smoother appearance than the liquids. You should always use your fingers to apply concealer as your body heat will warm it up and it will blend into your skin better. You should never apply concealer to raised areas, as it will make them more obvious. Pat the concealer on your face instead of rubbing for a more natural look. It’s alright to add more concealer if you can still see the scar but wait till the first coat dries.

You can then add foundation, also best applied with your fingers. A yellow-based foundation that matches your own skin tone is best. It’s best to apply this makeup as lightly as possible as the object of makeup is to enhance and conceal while looking natural. If you look made up, you have too much on. Again, a professional can help you choose the right shade for your skin. It’s best to test foundation on an area under your jaw to be sure it’s truly the proper shade for you and to see if your skin has any bad reactions to the makeup.

A good, oil-free finishing powder atop the foundation will finish the job. It’s best to use a velour puff instead of a brush, tapping off the excess before dusting it onto your face. Use powder sparingly, as too much gives you a “pancake” appearance.

Always be sure to thoroughly cleanse your face of makeup before bedtime. Not doing so could lead to another breakout and your skin will be unable to breathe properly.

Reduce Swelling of a Pimple

2009-03-28T08:18:00.003-07:00

It’s unsightly and sometimes painful when a pimple swells and reddens but, contrary to popular opinion, “popping” it will only make it worse. By now, you have a basic understanding of what causes acne and you know that you develop pimples because your pores are infected. Breaking the skin to let the pus out may provide some temporary relief but it also spreads bacteria to other areas of your face and can cause additional breakouts. The area may also linger as a scar because the skin was broken. By damaging the area you can cause the skin to scar, leaving a lasting reminder instead of merely a bad memory and a few odd photos.

Applying an ice pack will almost immediately reduce swelling. Be sure to place a cloth between your skin and the ice pack, as direct contact with ice can damage the skin. By icing the area down for a couple of minutes at a time the swelling can be significantly reduced and swelling is usually unnoticeable after 30-60 minutes of intermittent treatments.

Ointments containing Benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid will dry up the pus inside the blemish quickly and it will heal sooner. Swelling and redness go away quickly once these are applied. If nothing else is available and you need to alleviate the swelling quickly, toothpaste is a short-term remedy that will reduce redness. If it obliges you by waiting until bedtime to flare up, gently rub apple cider vinegar on the site and leave it overnight. Chances are you’ll awaken with very little, if any, swelling. Apple cider vinegar is a natural astringent and its medicinal properties are especially beneficial to acne.

You may want to keep some Tea Tree Oil on hand or some sandalwood paste. Both are very effective at reducing swelling and improving the general health of your skin. The sandalwood paste can be used as a facemask overnight or a couple of hours during the day and you’ll notice a significant improvement once it’s rinsed off.

Safe Acne Medications During Pregnancy

2009-03-28T08:18:00.001-07:00

Many women experience acne during pregnancy because of elevated hormone levels and this can really throw a damper on an otherwise joyous experience. Because prescription medicines can be absorbed by the developing child, many doctors recommend against most of the more effective medications. If you do develop acne during your pregnancy, it will probably begin and end in the first trimester. Some cases persist through the entire pregnancy but disappear shortly after the birth.

Always consult your obstetrician before you decide to treat your acne with an over the counter medication. Salicylic acid is a common ingredient in such treatments and can do irreparable harm to your baby. Benzoyl Peroxide is generally accepted as safe for mothers-to-be but only your doctor can determine with certainty if you should use it.

The best way to treat acne during pregnancy is to wash your face twice a day and be sure to rinse completely. Apply an oil-free moisturizer after patting the face dry to keep the complexion healthy and soft. Exercising will improve your circulation and benefit your acne as well as keeping the rest of you in shape. If you need an astringent cleanser, witch hazel is a great alternative to the harsh chemicals in common over the counter astringents.

You can also choose to go the natural route in acne control and prevention. Lemon juice or a honey and cinnamon paste applied to affected areas before bedtime and rinsed off in the morning can be surprisingly effective and completely harmless. Tea tree oil is a good treatment as is a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Be sure to drink plenty of water, as your skin may dry out due to your pregnancy and consequently produce even of the oil that helps cause acne. A diet rich in anti-oxidants (basically any food that is brightly colored) will also help control or even prevent acne and keep you and your baby healthy at the same time.

If you still feel compelled to use regular acne treatment medications during your pregnancy, consult your physician first!

Zit home remedy

2009-03-28T08:17:00.004-07:00

Nearly one hundred million dollars is spent each year on over the counter acne treatments! You can probably think of a lot of things you’d rather spend your money on but then how would you get rid of or keep your acne under control?

The answer may be as near as your kitchen or the produce section of your store! There are probably as many old wives’ tales and crackpot remedies as there are acne sufferers but here are a few tried and true home treatments that will save you hundreds of dollars and clear up your acne as well or better than those expensive medicines.

Vegetables and fruits have amazing healing qualities. Quartering a tomato or lemon and rubbing it on the affected areas before bed will quickly make short work of acne. Rinse in the morning with lukewarm water; you’ll see immediate improvement. Lime juice and boiled mild is an excellent facial wash for pimples and blackheads, as is lime juice and rose water left on the face for 20-30 minutes. A paste of orange peel and water left on for 15 minutes will banish acne, as will an equal time of with salt and vinegar paste. The juice of a raw papaya will nourish your skin while banishing pimples.

Witch hazel is the best astringent you can get for your complexion and it’s completely natural. Spices are also good at clearing up acne, particularly cinnamon. Mix cinnamon with honey for an effective overnight treatment or, for less sensitive skin, cinnamon with a teaspoon of lemon juice. And for centuries, people have used garlic for acne, rubbing it on the affected areas and leaving it on overnight.

There are many healthy, inexpensive ways to effectively treat acne without pillaging your finances. Avoiding harsh chemicals that damage your skin is an added bonus.

Jawline Acne in Women

2009-03-28T08:17:00.003-07:00

One of the causes of jawline acne is androgens, a type of hormone produced by both women and men. An excess of androgens cause the oil-producing glands to manufacture more sebum than is needed, plugging up the hair follicles and causing the small infections we call acne. Sebum coats and protect the hair but, like nearly everything else, too much of a good thing isn’t always good for us.

Many women are afflicted with acne breakouts during menstruation or menopause as well as their teenaged years. Jawline acne can be particularly embarrassing, especially for women with professional careers or working with the public.

Since adult acne in women is usually aggravated by hormonal levels women should check with their physician, especially if they’re troubled by jawline acne. A little juggling of the hormones may solve the problem, since androgens are the main cause. Acne caused by hormones is completely treatable and there’s no need to suffer from it when modern medicine can quickly control and end it.

Another contributing factor to jawline acne in women is fashion, believe it or not. Hairstyles that swing along the line of the jaw can deposit oil and dirt in the skin pores and aggravate the condition. Makeup is often the main culprit, clogging the pores and caking in the creases and irregularities of the face. Stress is also a contributor, particularly to jawline acne, and can be a vicious cycle—stress causes the androgen imbalance that encourages acne, which in turn creates more stress till the cycle seems unbreakable. A physician’s intervention is often needed in such cases.

There are a few clues that can help reveal cause of a woman’s jawline acne, or rule out others. If it is due to androgens, there will most likely be flare-ups prior to menstruation, hair growth in unusual places on the body or irregular menstrual cycles. There’s a veritable arsenal of drugs that can help this as well as other causes of jawline acne, as well as the tried and true remedies women used as teenagers. Yes, they’ll still be effective! Since the basic cause of any type of acne is the stopping up of a hair follicle, the cleansers and creams used by teens work just as well in adults if all other contributing factors such as hormones are ruled out.

Ways to Avoid Acne

2009-03-28T08:17:00.001-07:00

Acne afflicts 90% of the world’s population at some time in their lives, particularly those under the age of 24. With a few precautions, however, it can be mostly avoided.

Acne is caused by the clogging of hair follicles by dead skin, dirt, pollution and natural skin oils. By keeping your face clean, you can avoid most of these causes. A good antibacterial cleanser twice a day goes a long way towards avoiding acne by destroying the natural bacteria that causes the infections leading to acne.

Avoiding makeup will also help prevent acne. If you must use makeup, get the hypoallergenic water-based kind. There really isn’t much need for makeup unless you need to even out your skin tone and flaws that are obvious to you will likely be unnoticeable to others.

A good diet is essential to preventing and controlling acne. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding carbonated beverages and eating a balanced diet with an emphasis on colorful fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants will keep your body healthy and functioning as it should. In turn, your acid and alkaline levels (pH) will be kept at healthy levels and control the oil glands that encourage acne. High fiber, low-fat diets are also very beneficial in keeping skin healthy and free of blemishes.

If you perspire a lot at your job or when participating in sports, it’s important to wipe your face frequently and wash it with a gentle soap after you’re done. Sweat tends to drip down the line of the jaw, helping to infect hair follicles and resulting in acne skin infection. Long hair brushing the skin and transferring hair oils to the pores is also a chief cause of acne, especially in the summer when perspiration combines with hair oils to clog the hair follicles.

Moisturizer is essential in combating acne, sun, weather damage and aging. Be sure that it’s an oil-free formula and apply at night if at no other time. An oil-free moisturizer is your skin’s best friend in preventing acne and staying healthy.

It’s not time-consuming or difficult to prevent most cases of acne. Your reward, aside from avoiding acne, will be healthy skin that stays young and glowing as long as you continue to care for it.

Making your own Homemade Antibacterial Skin Cleanser

2009-03-28T08:16:00.002-07:00

We all know how much expense and trouble we go to in order to keep our complexions as clean and healthy as possible. But so many commercial facial cleansers, especially the ones made for acne, contain harmful ingredients that your skin will be happy to do without! One common ingredient in commercial cleansers is sodium laureth (or lauryl) sulfate, an industrial engine degreaser that’s added to shampoo and skin cleansers to strip away all the protective oils from your body. This leaves it “squeaky clean” but it also upsets the delicate balance of your skin and hair.

You can make your own antibacterial skin cleanser with some very inexpensive ingredients and pour them into an attractive pump dispenser for convenience. Simply combine a quarter cup of liquid castile (a natural soap that contains no animal fat) soap, a cup of filtered water and a teaspoon of vegetable glycerin. You can buy castile soap in a variety of scents or get the unscented and add your favorite essential oils to customize your facial cleanser.

Herbal soaps are very beneficial to your ckin, the most popular being lavender. Patchouli is known to regenerate skin cells and is anti-fungal and antiseptic. Rosemary has astringent attributes and Eucalyptus is also known for its anti-bacterial properties. Clove is antiseptic and Tea Tree is very good at soothing irritated skin. Don’t use more than one or two at a time in your homemade soap, however, since too many herbs can make it too strong.

To make an herbal antibacterial skin cleansing cream, mix an ounce of beeswax, a half cup of sweet almond or sunflower oil and 1 ½ tablespoons of filtered water. If you have a double boiler, pour the mixture in the top half. Otherwise, fill put your mixture in a pan sitting within another water-filled pan. Heat till water till the beeswax is melted, stirring all the while. Then add 25 or so drops of the essential oil(s) or finely ground herbs.

Ivory soap, the purest soap made, is fine to grate up for an antibacterial cleanser. Melt the flakes in a double boiler and add essential oils or finely ground herbs then pour it into a mold or small dishes to dry. A little warm water on the outside of the dish will loosen it once it has set.

Your skin will love these pure antibacterial cleansers and so will your pocketbook!

Homemade facial cleanser

2009-03-28T08:16:00.001-07:00

You’ve probably heard of the legendary temptress, Cleopatra, relaxing in a bath of milk. Her skin was admired by all who saw it and little wonder; milk contains AHA (alph-hydroxy acid) that exfoliate the skin and leaves it with a healthy glow as well as allowing the body’s natural oils relieve the dryness of the top layer of skin. AHA is also found in lemon, citrus fruits, some berries and in apples.

Dermatologists know the benefits of AHA and offer acidic chemical peels but they can be harsh and even scar your skin as well as increase your risk of sunburn. Apple cider vinegar contains natural AHA and is one of the best things your can use to cleanse your facial skin. It’s extremely inexpensive, plentiful and safe.

Lemon or lime juice is also very good for your skin. It cuts through the dirt and oil to clean your pores and prevent the infections that lead to acne. As with apple cider vinegar, your skin will feel soft, smooth and healthy.

People have know for decades that kiwi fruit is good for you but did you know it’s good for your skin, too? In a blender mix a kiwi, 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt, one tablespoon each of orange water, honey and almond oil plus a teaspoon of finely ground almonds. You can also add a couple of drops of your favorite essential oil. Puree the ingredients until they’re creamy and thick. This makes an excellent, nourishing facial cleanser. Store any leftover product in the refrigerator and it will keep for a few days.

Another common household staple that’s wonderful for your skin is oatmeal. It’s very absorbent, softens the skin and is hypoallergenic. The amino acids it contains are nearly perfectly balanced, the better to heal skin that’s dry or itchy. Mixing a half cup of oatmeal with just enough plain yogurt to make a paste will give you one of the healthiest facial cleansers you can make or buy. Avoid the eyes when cleansing, rinse off with warm water and your skin will reward you with a glowing, acne-free appearance if you use this wash regularly.

You don’t have to spend a fortune for a facial cleanser that your skin will love!

Acne and Progesterone

2009-03-28T08:15:00.004-07:00

Progesterone seems to hold a lot of promise as an effective treatment for acne. It’s a natural female hormone that helps oxygenate the skin cells, keeping acne at bay. Conversely, an increase in progesterone levels is known to cause acne flare-ups. Many women notice that acne is part of PMS; too much progesterone will cause the acne everyone tries to avoid.

There are two forms of progesterone, natural and synthetic. The synthetic, called progestin, is the type found in commercially manufactured acne medication. The natural form that is produced by the body rises and falls with the menstrual cycle, stimulating or slowing the natural function of androgens and regulating water retention, ovulation and much more. Progesterone and progestin are both used in many topical creams to treat acne. This is effective in reducing acne unless it upsets your natural balance, which could actually make your acne worse. You could find a different dosage but it’s always best to check with your doctor or dermatologist before trying such therapy.

Androgens, another hormone found naturally in the body, stimulate extra oil production when a hair follicle becomes plugged in an effort to clean it out. This feeds the bacteria that cause acne, producing the infected pimples and redness of acne. Sometimes a dermatologist or other doctor will prescribe Progesterone in the form of birth control pills to override the production of excess androgens in the body, effectively controlling acne. And yet, studies also show that an excess of Progesterone, usually just before menstruation in women, will increase androgens and begin the cycle of acne so many women dread as part of their monthly cycle.

Whether progesterone helps relieve acne or causes it is still a matter of debate. The fact remains that a large number of acne sufferers are finding relief through medicines containing progesterone and its synthetic form, progestin. Again, it’s best to get a doctor’s opinion if you’re considering this form of acne treatment, even though you can get it in topical form without a prescription.

Portable Facial Steamers

2009-03-28T08:15:00.003-07:00

Portable facial steamers have been around for hundreds of years in the form of a pot of boiling water and a towel over the head! In recent years, though, facial steamers have become modern and, best of all, portable. Even if you don’t travel a lot, having a portable facial steamer allows easier storage and can be taken anywhere. Rather than paying a spa or sauna business, you can revitalize and nourish your skin anytime and anywhere you wish!

Portable facial steamer come in table models with a face mask or much smaller hand-held models that have a type of wand that produces the steam. Many people prefer the smaller ones for targeting specific problem areas and find them much easier to travel with. The hand-helds are also popular because a person can remain upright rather than leaning over the machine.

Whatever you need in your portable steamer, you’re likely to find a model that has it. Since the whole idea behind facial steamers is to slough off dead skin and soften the oil, make-up remnants and dirt that aggravate acne, just about any portable facial steamer will do the job. The challenge is to choose one for your needs with the extras that make the experience a pleasant one. Some emit ozone to sterilize the steam; you can add herbal mixtures or essential oils to most models that will refresh and soothe sensitive skin as well as expand and clean the pores.

There are also portable steamers for every budget. You can expect to pay anywhere from sixty to four hundred dollars for a hand-held or tabletop facial steamer. The least expensive one doesn’t necessarily mean you’re compromising quality, either. Most, if not all, have automatic shut-offs for safety. Some have temperature controls which will enable you to increase the heat of the steam slowly as you become accustomed to it. Some people find steaming their face uncomfortable initially, as the facial skin is very sensitive to temperature and the hotter the steam, the better the results are.

While thorough, frequent cleansing is a great way to keep your pores clean and unclogged, portable facial steamers also release toxins and improve blood circulation. If you suffer from acne, a portable facial steamer will surely be your favorite treatment.

Male Acne: What Men Can Do to Get Rid of It

2009-03-28T08:15:00.001-07:00

You might be surprised to find out that men are actually more prone to acne than women during the adolescence period. In addition, the number of adult men who suffer from acne is not that far compared with the number of women who have the same skin condition.

Acne cures for men and women are generally the same, although there are habits that are exclusive to the male species that must be taken into consideration when looking for male pimple solutions. Below are some guidelines concerning acne control for men.

1. Choose your shaving materials carefully. If you are already suffering from zits, shaving improperly might worsen the condition. To prevent skin irritation, use a sharp razor and always make sure that it is clean. If you have a habit of using after-shave colognes or shaving foams, choose the mildly formulated types; better yet, consult a dermatologist on what type of shaving kits fit your type of skin and what formulas will not aggravate your pimples.

2. Keep your face and your body clean. Wash your face at least twice a day. For men who suffer from back pimples, avoid wearing rough clothing, cotton will be preferable particularly if it's summer. Since men sweat more than women, changing your clothes regularly and taking showers will help, since sweat can make the pimples on your back worse and might even cause them to itch.

3. Keep your hair clean. If you're sporting a long mane, shampoo your hair regularly. The dirt in your hair can easily transfer to your face. Better yet, tie it back in a ponytail. If it will not take away from your style, avoid growing your hair in the summer months since it will cause you to sweat more and the rough ends of the hair's strands can irritate the skin, particularly at your back and the underside of your jaw.

4. Do avoid excessive alcohol intake and smoking. Although drinking and smoking might not cause acne, they can make your skin drier and more prone to breakouts. Alcohol does cause dehydration and smoking (aside from the other diseases it causes) will not exactly make you any healthier. A healthy body can translate to a healthy skin, trust me.

The guidelines above might be quite basic, but sometimes, it's the basics that we tend to ignore and forget. If you really want to have a clear, healthy skin, follow these tips and you will achieve your goal.

Adult Acne: Why Some Have It and Some Don\'t

2009-03-28T08:14:00.002-07:00

Some people leave their pimples behind when they get past their teenage years, but some are dogged by this skin condition until they are in their 30s and even in their 40s. But what causes acne? Why do some of us are able to get rid of it and why some still suffer from it in their adult lives? Here are some answers.

What causes acne?
Acne is primarily caused by the skin's excessive production of oil. This can cause the pores to get blocked, leaving a place for bacteria to thrive and pimples to breakout. The excessive production of oil is attributed to less-than-normal hormonal activity; hence teenagers are the most prone to it. Women also suffer from it a few days before their period; again, because of hormones.

Why some have it and some don't
There really is no fool-proof answer to this one, but there are studies that have identified some suspect factors. First, it has been said that if it runs in the family, then you're in danger. Acne has not been proven to be hereditary, but your parents' skin type might be one of the things that you will inherit from them; and there are just some skin types that are more prone to acne than others.

And speaking of skin type, if you have oily skin, then your chances of developing zits are higher than those who have normal skin. Stress has also been blamed for acne breakouts. A number of surveys have shown that women who occupy higher positions in their careers, and who have therefore more responsibilities, are more prone to pimples than others; leading some skin experts to speculate that stress, although not particularly a cause, might be an aggravating factor.

Lifestyle is another factor. The more you drink and smoke, the more likely that you will suffer from breakouts. It all comes down to keeping a healthy body, which in turn, will help you keep your skin healthy. Excessive exposure to the sun is also a culprit; and so is excessive cosmetic use.

What to do
It is obvious that some of these factors are just beyond our control, but it doesn't mean that there is nothing we can do. Just make sure that you keep your skin clean and avoid all the identified culprits if you could.

Lifestyle Changes for Battling Acne

2009-03-28T08:14:00.001-07:00

A person's lifestyle has a lot of impact on his or her health. And when we say health, that covers everything from mental to physical to emotional; from your head down to your toes. From your internal organs to the external and largest organ of the human body – the skin.

A few lifestyle changes will get you a long way towards keeping that skin acne-free, clear and healthy. Here are a few of them.

1. Get enough sleep. After you have stayed all night, take a look at the mirror and you will see how larger your pores are. This is because our skin gets dehydrated when we lack sleep. Although in itself lack of sleep is not a cause, it could make our skin dry and more prone to pimples. Not to mention the lackluster look that it gives us.

2. Relax. Stress, like lack of sleep, is not a cause but an aggravating factor. If stress will not cause your skin to breakout in pimples, it could still make your skin look dry, lifeless and dull. Stress causes our hormones to go overdrive and hormonal activity has always been tied up with the condition of our skin. Try closing your eyes for a few minutes and breathing steadily. Enroll in yoga classes. Get a stress ball. Whatever it is that can help make you relax will be good for your skin.

3. Avoid excessive alcohol and smoking. Easier said than done, particularly the smoking part. You might think that these two habits have nothing to do with your skin, but you might be wrong. Bottom line is, they are both health hazards and can contribute to making your skin unhealthy.

4. Exercise. Physical activities really do help. Try running for 30 minutes and you will notice the glow in your skin. You might have a busy schedule, but it should not be an excuse. Thirty minutes of exercise everyday will not take too much from your time and the returns will far outweigh the investment anyway.

5. Eat healthy. Fruits, vegetables and lots of water. An age-old advice which has never been proven to be wrong. Your busy schedule might have made you rely more on fast-food offerings, but grabbing an apple instead of a burger or a salad instead of fries will go a long way towards maintaining your health.

The way we live our daily lives has a lot of influence on the way we look. The better and healthier we spend our days and hours, the better we feel and the better we'll be able to battle that bothersome acne.

Examining the Connection Between Diet and Acne

2009-03-28T08:13:00.005-07:00

Does our diet influence our chances of getting acne? Are there foods that cause pimples? Let's take a look at what we need and what we should avoid.

What we should avoid
1. Milk and products containing milk. Some studies have found a certain association between the consumption of milk and the development of acne. Although this has yet to be absolutely proven, the belief was that the hormones contained in milk cause acne to develop. Among this group of foods that are labeled as acne-causing suspects are cheese, skimmed milk and other dairy products.

2. Chocolates. Chocolate in itself does not cause acne, but too much consumption of this confectionery when you are already prone to acne can worsen the condition. The theory behind the association between chocolates and acne is the ability of the former to raise blood sugar levels, which in turn, is hypothesized to be an aggravating factor for pimples.

3. Processed foods. These often come in the form of the so-called junk foods. According to various studies, processed foods produce more glucose which is then converted into fat that can cause the clogging of the skin pores. Although it has yet to be proven as a culprit, minimizing the intake of such meals might help.

What we need
1. Food rich in vitamin A. Some research studies have shown that people who suffer from severe pimples have lower vitamin A levels in their bodies that those who do not have acne problems. The best sources of vitamin A are liver, potatoes and egg.

2. Food rich in vitamin E. This partially explains why there are lots of vitamin E supplements marketed as promoters of skin health. Sources rich in vitamin E include tomatoes, wheat germ and nuts.

3. Vegetables and fruits. Whatever color and whatever shape they take; these are standard requirements for keeping a healthy skin and a healthy body.

Although food has not been proven to cause acne, excessive consumption of some and minimal consumption of others might contribute to the development of this skin condition. The best thing to do is to keep a balanced diet and try to avoid having too much of what's bad for you.

Over-the-Counter and Prescribed Remedies for Acne: Choosing the Right One

2009-03-28T08:13:00.003-07:00

Treatment for acne comes in various forms. Deciding on what to purchase can be a bit confusing if you are not aware on what is available and what your particular level of condition needs. To understand your options better, here is a brief discussion of what you can buy over-the-counter and what you can get through prescriptions.

1. Antibacterials. These could come in the form of creams, facial washes and even soaps. The most common antibacterials for acne are those that contain benzoly peroxide. They work by eradicating the acne-causing bacteria, Propionibacterium acnes. Antibacterial is good enough for mild to moderate acne, but care should be taken when using this treatment because it can cause skin dryness if excessively applied. Balancing its effect with a moisturizer is often advised by dermatologists.

2. Retinoids. This type of cure can come in both oral and topical forms. Retinoids work by minimizing the skin's production of oil and controlling the life cycle of follicle cells. The basic ingredient of such treatment is vitamin A. The use of these cures requires the approval of dermatologists since they can have severe side-effects. Generally though, retinoids are considered more effective than most treatments and are known to get rid of acne for good in majority of cases.

3. Antibiotics. This type of cure can be in the form of oral or topical creams. They work by killing the bacteria, Propionibacterium acnes. Topicals can be applied to the affected area and does not carry the risk of causing upset stomach as oral medications do. However, antibiotics for acne have been found to be ineffective in the long run since the bacteria can build a resistance against them.

4. Hormone medications. This is used only by women and is also often prescribed for menopausal symptoms. They can be oral contraceptives or can be injected directly into the pimple. Hormone treatments work by reducing the level of androgenic hormones, thereby minimizing the occurrence of bumps or pimples.

Knowing what treatment suits you best is the first step towards effective control of acne. Discussing with a dermatologist what treatment is appropriate for you will help keep that acne in control and help keep your skin healthy.

Acne Treatment During Pregnancy: The Importance of Being Sure

2009-03-28T08:13:00.001-07:00

For women, dealing with acne while pregnant is a bit more complicated than when they are not. They not only have to worry about themselves when it comes to choosing the proper cure, but also about the effect that this cure will have on their unborn child. The risks are multiple and knowing about them will help would-be mothers cope with the condition better.

Cause of acne during pregnancy
Basically, acne during pregnancy is caused by elevated hormone levels, a natural occurrence that goes hand in hand with pregnancy. In most cases, the acne just goes away after a few weeks of giving birth or even earlier. For some though, they would rather not wait until giving birth to get rid of this irritation.

Factors to consider before using any treatment
1. First, consult a doctor. You might be someone who is used to just getting every solution over the counter, but when a woman is pregnant, this is just simply not an option. A thorough discussion of allergies, treatment ingredients and potential risks is needed before a cure can be used. If the risks are too high, opting not to use any formula is often the wisest course to take.

2. Know the risk of each treatment. According to experts, topical treatments offer fewer risks than oral medications because topicals are absorbed systemically at a lower percentage than other forms of remedies. Depending on the severity of the acne, oral medications are sometimes considered since they are believed to be more effective.

3. Potential side-effects. Some retinoids and antibiotics, particularly those that are orally taken, can have some side effects. Among those identified by studies are patterns of birth defects, premature labor and inhibition of fetal development. Worst case scenarios can lead to miscarriage or even fetal death, although these are rare and are believed to be caused more by the interaction of acne medications with other treatments being taken.

4. Alternative options. You can wait it out until you give birth and hope that the acne just disappears on its own; or you can use milder, more natural cures like home-made remedies and facial washes made from natural ingredients like fruits.

There are common acne treatments that can be used during pregnancy. They do carry risks, but acquiring a physician's opinion will help ease women's minds when it comes to choosing the right cure.

Acne in Other Parts of the Body: Identifying the Often-Ignored Culprits

2009-03-28T08:12:00.001-07:00

It is not only our faces that suffer from acne, this condition can also manifest itself in other parts of the body such as the back, the underside of the jaw, the neck and even the arms. No matter where they appear, zits are just not welcome and people will always try to find a way to get rid of them.

1. Acne on the back. This is quite common among teenagers, although adults also experience this condition. Treatments commonly used in the face can also be used to arrest pimples that appear in the back. The thing to remember, though, is that our backs are prone to sweating, particularly if we regularly workout. Sweat can aggravate, so regular showers are necessary and constant change of clothes are needed. To prevent the zits from getting irritated, wear clothing that keeps you cool. Cotton is always better than other types of cloths when it comes to keeping cool.

2. Jaw acne. Pimples that appear at the underside of the jawline are often caused by improper washing of the face. It could also be due to our habit of letting our faces rest on our palms. When we wash our face, we sometimes tend to give less attention to the underside area of the jaw. Aside from this, this area is where the sweat dripping from our faces usually rests. The next time you clean your face, give a little more attention to the dirt that have already accumulated at the underside of your jawline, you'll be surprised how much help it can produce. And get your hands off your jawline!

3. Acne on the neck. This is caused by whatever is causing the acne on your face (hormones, bacteria, etc.). But one of the commonly unidentified culprits when it comes to pimples on the neck is our hair. If your hair is shoulder length or reaches the area of your neck, it could aggravate the zits already there. The sharp ends of the strands of our hair can cause pimples to get irritated, particularly if you don't wash your hair regularly. The best thing to do is to tie back your hair; but if you prefer it loose, wash it regularly.

Our daily habits might not cause acne in themselves, but some of them can definitely aggravate the condition. Pay a little more attention to these revelations and you might find yourself having fewer acne-related problems.

The Real Deal Behind Acne

2009-03-28T08:11:00.002-07:00

Acne is a condition categorized as an inflammation of the skin. It is characterized by the appearance of bumps that could be reddish or purple in color. It could also be in the form of whiteheads and blackheads. So how do we get it?

Acne has been found to be caused by follicle clogging. This can happen when the skin produces excess oil or sebum. The excess oil blocks the pores and provides a home for bacteria, particularly Propionibacterium acnes. Dirt, dead skin cells and follicles also congeal on the clogged area and cause inflammation that is then known as acne.

Pimples or acne are most common during the adolescent years or the onset of puberty. The puberty stage causes a person's hormones to go overdrive and the skin glands to produce more oil than usual. Although some people leave their pimples behind after they are through with being teenagers, some are just not as lucky. Some adult men and women still suffer from acne even during their 40s.

Acne among adults is more common among women than men because of several factors such as pregnancy and menstruation. Most women suffer from pimples a few days before their periods, while some experience the worst attacks when they are pregnant. In both conditions, overwrought hormonal activity is the culprit.

Certain foods have been blamed for aggravating acne. Although no study has yet to prove that acne is caused by certain foods, some of them are believed to make the condition worse. These foods include those that are high in glycemic content or food that causes overload in metabolic glucose. Milk, chocolates, dairy products and processed foods are just some of the suspected aggravating factors of pimples.

Acne can be managed easily if it is in the mild or moderate level. Proper hygiene, good diet laden with fresh vegetables and fruits, exercise, enough sleep and avoiding indulgences like alcohol and cigarettes can help a person maintain a clear, healthy skin. Topical and oral remedies are also available for those who want to be sure. If acne is at the developed stage, a more advanced form of treatment might be needed. In any case, discussing your problem with a dermatologist is the first thing that you should do before picking out a cure.

Keeping Your Skin Clear and Healthy in Your 30s and Beyond

2009-03-28T08:11:00.001-07:00

Who said only teenagers suffer from acne? Unfortunately for some of us, pimples do not go away after we've reached the age of adulthood. And let's face it, we might be more mature and more financially and emotionally stable at this stage, but pimples will always cause us to act like a teenager. That is, act as if we're doomed.

However, busy schedules because of careers and even families require us to find simple solutions that do not consume too much time. Below is a list of some of the options for the 30-year-olds and, ahem, older.

1. Pamper yourself. Since you are already a career person (I hope, for your own sake, that you are at this stage), maybe you can afford to go to a spa or a skin clinic, say, at least twice or thrice a year? That wouldn't be too bad. Get a facial. Seek the advice of the professionals. There is nothing less worrying than knowing that you are being taken care of by the people who knew what's best.

2. Eat right. If you're too busy to have a proper meal, just grab a snack that you can eat at your desk; but instead of going for burgers and fries, have an apple or a pear. Or a salad. Or a carrot stick. I know they are not as good as the double decker with cheese, but you would look prettier if you opt for the less-delicious options. It's just a matter of choice. Do you want to satisfy your palate and become unhealthier or do you want to settle for less-sterling snacks but look prettier? Apple tastes good, though. Carrots? Well, you'll get the hang of it.

3. Exercise. It does give your skin a certain glow. Go to a gym. You might even improve your social life through membership.

4. Avoid staying up late. A bit hard to do if you have a demanding job, but if you know how to be efficient (meaning you finish your task and does not procrastinate), then you might get earlier nights. Unless you prefer to party. Leave that for the weekend if I were you.

5. Proper hygiene. Wash your face regularly and do moisturize! Mature people are more prone to skin dryness so you really need to follow this one.

Taking care of one's skin does not end at 19. The older we get, the more we need it. And the harder we should be working on it.

Clear Skin for Teenagers

2009-03-28T08:10:00.004-07:00

Teenagers are the most prone to pimples. True. Teenagers are very conscious of how they look. True. Adolescence is the period when people are at their most insecure. Err, true enough (though I've met adults who are worse). Therefore, teenagers must get rid of pimples to look good and to feel secure. Right? If you say so.

For teenagers who are having the colossus problem called acne, here are some tips on how to get by.

1. Seek the help of professionals. You might want to listen to your friend's advice on what medication to use, but what's good for him might not be good for you. The best way to deal with the problem is to visit a dermatologist and have your skin assessed. The treatment that suits you best will be determined by the type of your skin and the level of your condition.

2. Don't pick on your spots. Tempting, I know. But rubbing, touching, squeezing and picking it will only make your acne worse and might even leave scars. Leave them alone no matter how tempted you are. This is a good period as any to practice resistance; it might even help you in more ways than one once you get older.

3. Practice proper hygiene. Wash your face at least twice a day. And if you have long hair, keep it clean. Or tie it back so that it does not touch your face. It could irritate your skin and your pimples.

4. Don't share towels and other personal effects. Towels are categorized as personal, try to keep yours clean and don't share it with others, even during sleepovers. If you use a powder compact, don't lend it even to your closest friends. The facial foam/sponge in cosmetics that touches your face should touch your face and yours alone.

5. Eat right and get enough sleep. Fries are good. But so are fruits. Chips are fine, but vegetables are better. They might not taste the same, but good eating habits promote health and good looks. Believe me, it's been scientifically proven.

If you are a teenager, naturally, you want to look good. If you want to look good, you must be ready to work on it. Or at least, forsake some of the habits that are not doing you any good.

Exclusively for Men: How to Have a Healthy, Acne-Free Skin

2009-03-28T08:10:00.003-07:00

Women are not the only ones who are obsessed with how they look, men too. Although I'm sure they would rather die than admit it. Anyway, it is not only women who need to take good care of their skin, men should also pay attention to maintaining a healthy, pimple-free skin if they want to look half as good as they want to be. For the men, here are some basic tips.

1. Keep your skin clean. Cleanliness is next to prettiness. To minimize your chances of getting pimples, wash your face at least twice a day and bathe regularly. Remember, pimples can also appear on your back and other parts of the body, not just on your face. Avoid rubbing your skin with rough towels, just pat it dry.

2. Choose your cosmetics carefully. After-shaves, cologne, hair sprays, facial washes and lotions fall under this category. If you already have pimples, don't use shaving formulas that are too harsh. Choose those that have the least number of chemical ingredients. Avoid getting hair sprays or gels on your face or it might cause irritation. The choice of facial wash should depend on your skin type: moisture-rich for dry skin and astringent-like types for oily skin.

3. Protect your skin from the sun. Men are more likely to walk around with the sun directly on their faces. Well, you can't blame them; can you imagine them using a parasol? If you need to be out in the sun, use sunscreens or sunblock.

4. Eat right and exercise. Yes, these are necessary. A diet comprised mainly of fresh fruits and vegetables will go a long way towards keeping your skin glowing. Exercising will also help, not to mention that it can help give you a great figure.

5. Avoid excessive drinking and smoking. Drinking occasionally is fine, but don't make a habit of it. Alcohol and cigarettes have been found to cause skin dryness. The drier your skin is, the more prone it is to acne and other breakouts.

Men, like women, should pay more attention to their skin if they want to look good and feel good about themselves. Following these steps will greatly help their cause towards achieving that healthy, glowing, pimple-free skin.

Food and Healthy Skin: What to Eat to Have that Glowing Look

2009-03-28T08:10:00.001-07:00

Having a clear, healthy skin greatly improves our looks. Whether we look radiant or dull usually depends on the condition of our skin. The healthier our skin is, the more glowing we are. The drier or rougher our skin is, the duller we seem to be.

Food has a lot to do with the state of our skin and overall health. To have an idea of what food can help give you that glowing, radiant look, a partial list is provided.

1. Food rich in vitamin A. Studies have found that people who suffer from acne have lower vitamin A levels in their bodies than those who have healthy skin. Vitamin A contains retinoids, a familiar term among those who use acne medications since these bioactive compounds are often part of the formula for curing pimples. Some of the foods rich in vitamin A are liver; beef; yellow, orange and red fruits and vegetables such as carrots, apples, pumpkins and tomatoes. Dairy products are also rich in vitamin A, although the processed ones should be taken in moderation since they can worsen existing zits if consumed in vast quantities.

2. Food rich in vitamin E. Vitamin E is known for its ability to repair and maintain the health of your cells, including those in the skin, the liver and the eyes. Foods that are rich in this vitamin include wheat and oats, green vegetables, egg, nuts and wheat germ.

3. Food rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are not called anti-aging elements for nothing. They work by neutralizing free radicals which are often known as destructive compounds. Good sources of antioxidants include food rich in vitamin E; food rich in vitamin C such as citrus fruits; raspberry, blueberry and almost all kinds of edible berries; hot peppers; yogurt; and the allium group that includes garlic and onion.

4. Vegetables and fruits. Almost all of them are already included in the aforementioned categories, but the rest that have yet to be mentioned should also be part of your diet if you want to have a healthy skin. The fact that most fruits and vegetables like orange, cabbage and papaya are used as ingredients in most home-made acne remedies should tell you their importance when it comes to keeping our skin healthy.

Eating right is one of the keys to having a healthy skin. The saying that "you are what you eat" has never been truer when it comes to the state of our skin.

Finding an Acne Cure for Each Skin Type

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The skin is categorized into five major types; these are normal, oily, dry, combination and sensitive. Acne treatments and maintenance formulas vary from one type to another. To know what suits your type of skin best, read on.

1. Normal skin. This is the type that does not suffer from pimples as often as the other types, although an occasional bump might appear, particularly with women who are about to have their monthly period. The best thing to do in cases like these is to just ignore it, don't touch or squeeze the zit and just keep your face clean at all times.

2. Oily skin. The most prone to acne is oily skin. This type of skin must be washed at least twice a day to keep dirt from accumulating and making the condition worse. Antibacterial soap and facial washes that have the correct pH balance is necessary to control pimples in oily skin. The use of astringent is also advisable to lessen the oil. Contrary to some claims, moisturizer is still needed for oily skin. An oil-free moisturizer is what's best for this type.

3. Dry skin. People with dry skin should watch out for aging signs. This is the type that tends to get wrinkles earlier that other types. It is also more prone to all sorts of skin problems, not just acne. The best way to care for dry skin is to use rich moisturizers, particularly during the night before going to bed. Creamy facial washes should also be used and if you are to go out into the sun, the use of sunscreen is a must.

4. Combination skin. Arguably the hardest to care for since most of the time, part of your face will be oily, while the rest will be dry. The most common type of combination skin is when the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin areas) is oily and the cheeks are dry. In cases like these, a foaming facial wash should be used to keep the face clean, The T zone should be dabbed with astringent every night, while the dry areas should be moisturized.

5. Sensitive skin. When you suffer easily from irritation and itching, then you have sensitive skin. Avoid using cosmetics and products with too much chemicals. A hypo-allergenic facial wash would be appropriate for this kind of skin. Moisturizers should also be used, but choose those that are not perfumed or heavy on the chemicals.

Knowing what type your skin is can help you find a more effective cure to common skin problems, including acne. Before buying all those supplies, get a patch test or consult your dermatologist.

Live Healthy and Keep Your Skin Acne-Free!

2009-03-28T08:09:00.005-07:00

Living healthy might just keep you acne-free. This is because our everyday habits have a lot of influence on the state of our being. How healthy or unhealthy we are is in turn manifested in our physical looks, particularly in our skin. So to avoid the pimple problem, a bit of adjustment to your lifestyle is in order.

1. Set aside some time for relaxation. No matter how busy you are, take some time to relax. Taking up yoga might be a good idea. Or just simply taking time out from your grinding work. Stress might not be a primary cause of acne, but it sure does make the condition worse because it causes our hormones to get out of control.

2. Adjust your sleeping patterns. No matter how many hours you sleep, it wouldn't beat sleeping at night. Meaning, you might sleep the whole day for 12 hours, but an eight-hour sleep during the night is still much better. Getting enough sleep is necessary if you want to keep your skin from drying, your eyes from sagging and your pimples from appearing.

3. Replace the fast-food favorites with fruits and vegetable salads. Snack time should be a healthy time. Instead of grabbing a burger sandwich, eat an apple or a salad, they will help keep your skin hydrated and protect you from skin breakouts.

4. Use the stairs instead of the elevator. Unless your office is in the 10th floor, use the stairs. In short, get as much exercise as your busy schedule can afford. Exercising stimulates our body and promotes better blood circulation; the better for our skin and our whole body.

5. Moisturize. Whatever your skin type is, moisturizing nightly is a must. Particularly if you're pushing to that age when tiny lines are starting to appear. Moisturizers help soften your skin and protect you from irritants that can contribute to acne breakouts and other skin problems.

No matter what age we are, caring for our skin should always be given priority. It doesn't need much effort; just a few adjustments on our daily habits can go a long way towards avoiding the pimple problem.

Avoiding Acne Scars: Basic Steps to Prevent the Marks from Appearing

2009-03-28T08:09:00.003-07:00

Acne at its most developed stage can leave unsightly marks. Since all of us would rather not undergo any surgical procedure or live with these marks for the rest of our lives, prevention is still the wisest path to take. There are a number of things that we need to remember when it comes to avoiding acne scars.

1. Don't pick your pimples. No rubbing, no squeezing, no nothing. Don't touch your face or your acne. Your hands are not the best tools for treating zits, particularly if you keep forgetting to scrub them clean.

2. Wash your face gently. Again, don't rub. Wash your face using a gentle, circular motion. Use clean towels to dry your skin. Don't wipe it dry, just pat it gently and don't use rough cloths. And choose the right facial wash for your type of skin.

3. Address the problem of acne at its earliest period. Don't wait until your pimples are at their worst before seeking professional help or getting treatment. The earlier the condition is arrested, the better your chances of avoiding scars.

4. Know your family history. Are you keloidal or do you have a tendency to form keloids? If it runs in the family, chances are, you are. If you've had injuries before and they turn into thick scars after healing, then every wound or injury will likely turn out the same when they heal. People who have a tendency to form keloids should always cure skin problems at the onset so that they will not leave marks.

5. Seek professional help. The earlier, the better. The sooner you address your skin problem, be it acne or other conditions, the better your chances of keeping your skin smooth. A regular visit to a skin clinic is also recommended even if you don't have acne. Getting your skin pampered and treated regularly is as good a prevention step as any.

Acne scarring can be avoided. We just need to get rid of the habit of picking on our skin spots and putting our hands in our faces. Seeking expert help, particularly at the onset of the acne, is also a must.

Treatment Methods for Scars Caused by Acne

2009-03-28T08:09:00.001-07:00

Acne, particularly the most developed type, can leave scars that can take their toll on our self-esteem. Although prevention is still the best way to make sure that you don't suffer from marks left by acne, there are situations when you just cannot avoid this unfortunate experience. But at this time, even scars can be eradicated by a number of simple procedures. Thanks to technology, a host of solutions are now available so we don't need to remain marked and scarred for the rest of our lives.

1. Laser treatment. This is the most common procedure when it comes to eliminating acne scars. Laser surgery functions by burning away the damaged tissue or reshaping it so that it appears flat and on level with the normal skin. Different types of lasers can be used with this procedure depending on what type of scar is being dealt with.

2. Skin-grafts. This method entails the taking of the skin from one part of the body and transferring it to the scar that needs to be cured. This procedure is often used on scars that have left crater-like holes on the skin.

3. Punch excision. It involves the excision or the removal of the scar down to the subcutaneous fat layer. The space that will be left by the procedure is either sutured or skin-grafted, depending on its depth.

4. Dermabrasion. This procedure removes the surface of the skin and alters the contour of the scar. The purpose is to reduce the depth of scars or eliminate altogether those that are not too deep or are only superficial. This method, though, is not highly recommended for dark-skinned people because it can cause changes in skin color.

5. Collagen. The method entails the injection of collagen under the skin to fill out the carved-out spaces left by deep scars and smooth out the surface of the skin to give it the normal look. This procedure is good for superficial and soft scars, but is not recommended for keloids.

Scars from acne are not impossible to treat anymore. A number of procedures are available, but a detailed discussion with a skin expert is necessary to determine whether you need to undergo any of these methods and whether your type of scar can really be helped using these procedures.

Lesser-Known Acne Treatments: What They Are and What They Can Do

2009-03-28T08:08:00.001-07:00

We've all heard about topical and oral medications, home-remedies and even surgical procedures to treat acne. This skin problem is so common that a lot more treatments have been made available, some of them not as popular as the ones we usually read about. Below is a brief discussion of some of these lesser-known alternatives.

1. Azelaic acid. Better known as a hair-growth stimulant, azelaic acid is also sometimes used to treat skin diseases like acne. Basically an antibacterial, azelaic acid has the ability to reduce inflammation and normalize the growth of skin cells. This treatment is good for mild to moderate acne.

2. Photo-therapy. This involves the use of intense violet light emitted by LEDs and especially-built fluorescent lights. The philosophy behind this procedure is that the light produces free radicals that eventually destroy the acne-causing bacteria, Propionibacterium acnes. The main problem with this form of treatment is the cost. It is still quite uncommon and can cost a lot more than other procedures.

3. Zinc gluconate. This is more commonly known as a delivery form for zinc in dietary supplements and used as a cure for head cold. Zinc gluconate is said to be good for curing inflammation of the skin. There have been complaints, though, that when used for common colds, it initiates the loss of the senses of taste and smell.

4. Vitamin B3. Also known as nicotinamide. It is believed to be effective in lessening the inflammation caused by acne. It is also believed to have the ability to increase collagen and keratin synthesis. As an acne cure, it takes the form of a topical gel.

5. Ibuprofen. Better known as an analgesic, this anti-inflammatory drug is said to be effective in treating bumps or inflamed pimples. Ibuprofen is used for a lot of conditions, most of them very different in characteristics from acne. The lack of proof regarding its safety when used as a pimple cure has hindered it from being included in the list of more popular acne remedies.

A lot of other alternative cures for acne are available both over-the-counter and as natural products. These treatments are mostly in the experimental stage and must not be used unless recommended by an expert.

The A to Z of Acne Cures: Food and Elements that Can Work for You

2009-03-28T08:07:00.004-07:00

Acne cures can be as simple as the elements in your daily diet. If you are still on the prevention or mild acne state, following a healthy diet could be enough to rid yourself of the irritable pimple. To give you a better idea on what to eat and what to avoid, here are a few guidelines.

Acne cures start with A - vitamin A. This nutrient comes in various forms, with retinol being one of them. If the word retinol sounds familiar, it is because it is found in topical and oral retinoids, albeit in a different form, which are prescribed for treating acne. Vitamin A can be found in butter, carrots, eggs and broccoli among others. It is also present in foods of plant origin.

Vitamin E is another important nutrient for keeping skin healthy. This vitamin is an antioxidant that can be found in peanuts, soybeans, coconut, oats and various oils such as olive oil and peanut oil. Topical forms of vitamin E have also been found to prevent scarring, hence its inclusion in most topical formulas recommended for eliminating scars.

Zinc is another important element that our body needs to keep our skin healthy. Zinc deficiency can result in skin lesions and other skin problems. This element can be found in oysters, nuts, whole grains, cereals and legumes among others. Zinc is also known to contribute to the strengthening of the immune system and in repairing damaged skin.

When it comes to food that we should avoid, there really is no definite study that proves that certain foods can cause acne. Chocolates have been implicated more than once, but its connection with acne is yet to be proven. But like everything in life, moderation is the key. Chocolates and other foods might not be proven causes of acne, but too much of anything always produces negative effects; and when it comes to our diet, too much chocolate, sweets and other indulgence can be just as bad.

To be on the safe side, loading your diet with more natural foods like fresh vegetables and fruits is your best bet. Drinking lots of water is also recommended since our skin needs constant rehydration, particularly if we engage in physical activities that cause us to sweat more than usual. It also wouldn't hurt to get at least eight hours of sleep everyday. Rest and relaxation give us more energy and minimize stress that can cause skin breakouts.

Acne cures do not need to be all medications and visits to the doctor. For mild cases of pimples and other skin problems, just making adjustments on your diet and daily routine will go a long way towards keeping your skin healthy and glowing.

Acne Home Remedy: Find the Ingredients Right in Your Kitchen!

2009-03-28T08:07:00.003-07:00

Acne home remedy may work for one person but not on another. This is because each individual has a unique type of skin that might react differently to home remedies proven to be effective on others. The good thing about home solutions to acne, though, is that they are easy to prepare and the ingredients are mostly very much available.

Acne home remedy is still preferred by a lot of people despite the availability of more sophisticated ways of treating pimples. And why not? Just look around in your kitchen or your pantry and you will find most of the ingredients that can help you alleviate acne without having to leave the comfort of your home. For those who prefer to stay at home and take care of business themselves, here are some recommended remedies.

Remedies that can be found in your kitchen
Most overnight remedies for acne can be found right in your kitchen. One of the more common ones is lemon. From juice to skin, this piece of citrus is considered as one of the most useful anti-acne materials around. One method is to mix the juice of the lemon with equal quantity of rose water and apply it to the face. Wait for 30 minutes before washing it off with water.

Another way is to use the skin of the lemon to massage the face for a few minutes or until the juice of the skin has dried up and then wash it off with lukewarm water. If you have more patience, you can apply the lemon juice on the affected areas and wait overnight before washing it off. This way, the juice will have more time to penetrate the skin and attack the cause of the acne.

Another common remedy that you can find lying around in the kitchen is garlic. Crushing one or two garlic cloves and applying them to the affected area one to two times a day can help solve your zit problems. They could be rather smelly, but they are proven to be effective. If you prefer something that smells better than garlic, then grinding orange peels and mixing them with water to make a facial paste might be a better option. Leave the paste for at least an hour and then wash it off with clean water.

Most acne home remedy and solutions are easy enough to prepare, but people seeking solutions to their skin problems should remember that their reaction to these kitchen-based remedies might differ from another person. For long-term skin solutions, having a proper diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and getting enough sleep and exercise are still the best ways to take care of your skin.

How Does Acne Laser Treatment Work?

2009-03-28T08:07:00.001-07:00

Acne laser treatment - though still not a generally accepted remedy for acne itself - has generated interest both from pimple sufferers and skin experts in terms of taking care of scars left by severe forms of pimples or acne. But research is already shifting its focus towards the use of laser in preventing the actual formation of acne.

Because acne laser treatment is still new, it can be quite expensive and the potential side effects have yet to be fully established. Despite some concerns, using laser in treating acne is already being done, particularly among Hollywood stars and people who, well, can afford the expenses. To better understand what you will be getting from a laser treatment, here is a brief discussion.

More often than not, laser for skin treatment purposes is used to lessen wrinkles and scars. In the area of acne treatment, laser is used to burn away the materials clogging the pores that cause pimples. Acne is formed when follicles are blocked by excess oil produced by the sebaceous glands. The excess oil, combined with dead skin cells, prevents oxygen from getting through the pores. This creates a place for dirt and bacteria to accumulate, causing an inflammation commonly known as acne.

The purpose of the laser then is to burn away the sebaceous gland producing the excess oil and eliminate the follicles blocking the pores. This allows more oxygen to come through and prevents bacteria from accumulating in the pores. Although a number of companies have been allowed by U.S. authorities to use laser in treating acne, concerns still remain that the intense light produced by the technology will cause permanent discoloration or spots on the skin.

Because of these concerns, laser manufacturers have made adjustments to their laser systems; even adding some features that can bring back pigmentation, particularly for Caucasian patients who are most prone to loss of pigmentation or skin color. The method is still not widely used, but for the small number of cases for which laser has been used to treat acne, a success percentage of above 90 percent has been reported after only three or four treatment sessions.

Acne laser treatment is more commonly used to treat scars left by severe forms of acne, but researchers have already exerted efforts to find out how effective this technology can be when it comes to preventing the formation of pimples. Eventually, enough adjustments might be made and risks might be totally eliminated. This should give hope to individuals who suffer from acne and other forms of skin problems.

Various Acne Solutions and What They Can Do

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Acne solutions come in various forms; they can be topical formulas, oral medications, herbal supplements, home-based solutions or surgical procedures. Whatever method you choose, knowing what these products and services are designed for and what they contain is important if you are serious about getting rid of that zit.

Acne solutions that come in the form of topical ointments can be bactericidals, antibiotics or retinoids. These solutions are applied directly to the affected area and are recommended for mild pimples. Most common bactericidals contain benzoyl peroxide that can help dissolve the materials blocking the skin pores and eliminate the pimple-causing bacteria, Propionibacterium acnes. Topical antibiotics work the same way as bactericidals, by killing the bacteria causing pimples. Retinoids, on the other hand, work by keeping the skin cell cycle at a normal level. Both antibiotics and retinoids for acne also come in oral medication form.

Aside from topical and oral medications, treatment for acne can also be in the form of herbal medicines or natural supplements. The most popular among these are those that contain Aloe vera and tea tree oil. Other natural products-based solutions contain vitamin A and vitamin E, two of the elements believed to play a role in alleviating acne. These formulas are popular mostly because they are believed to be safe due to their natural ingredients and supposed lack of chemical contents.

For more advanced or severe forms of acne, visible light and laser are usually employed. Phototherapy - which makes use of intense violet light from specially designed fluorescent lighting, lasers or light-emitting diodes - has been found to reduce acne after several twice-a-week sessions. Although laser is mostly used to remove acne scars, studies have already been done on the use of lasers to treat acne itself and the studies have so far produced promising results.

Choosing acne solutions should depend on the severity of the condition, the type of skin and the possible allergic reactions of the patient to the treatment method. Before deciding on what to do with your acne, consult a skin professional. Getting an expert opinion will help you decide what's good for you and what process you should avoid.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Acne Products

2009-03-28T08:06:00.003-07:00

What others consider as the best acne products does not necessarily mean that they are also the best for you. These pimple solutions might work for others, but it is not a guarantee that they will work the same way with everyone. When choosing an acne solution product, a host of factors should be considered first.

The best acne products for you depend on the type of your skin. Oily, sensitive or dry skin all have formulas specifically designed for them. When choosing a pimple-controlling product, make sure that its ingredients will not aggravate your primary skin concern. For oily skin, formulas that are laden with heavy moisturizers are not ideal. Products that put their emphasis on moisturizing are more suited to dry skin. People with sensitive skin, on the other hand, should always opt for mild products and those that have minimal chemical and unnatural ingredients.

When choosing an acne solution, allergic reactions should also be on the top of the list of factors to consider. Some people have negative reactions to alcohol-based products that could range from mild irritation to rash-like breakouts. To have a better idea of the reactions that you might have, get your skin assessed by skin experts. Taking note of past medications taken and your reaction to them will also help.

Use one formula at a time. Using multiple products at the same time will not solve your acne problems; it will most probably aggravate the condition and even create additional skin problems. The different ingredients that each product contains will create havoc on your skin and will most likely clog your pores instead of clearing them. Besides, some elements just don't go well together and might even cancel each other out.

Always seek the advice of professionals. In the case of acne, a dermatologist's opinion is of utmost importance. Don't just buy products that you see in a magazine or is recommended by non-professional peers. What works for them might not work for you. You might think that going to a dermatologist will cost you more money, but it is nothing to what you have to spend if the product that you use produces more harm than good.

Having a list of the best acne products is not a guarantee that you will solve your skin problems. These products might affect you in a different manner and taking a risk by using them without professional advice is just not worth it.

The Best Acne Treatment: Options Available to You

2009-03-28T08:06:00.001-07:00

The best acne treatment is not categorized as such because the solution is more expensive or more technologically advanced. Each treatment might have a different effect on the user, and finding what suits a person best is what makes a treatment effective. If you happen to be at a loss as to what solution will work best for your acne, you might want to examine some of these options.

The best acne treatment can be purchased at local pharmacies, can be found at home or can be recommended by skin experts. On top of these remedies, proper health habits are also needed to make the effect more lasting. In terms of over-the-counter remedies, here are some that you can explore:

Topical remedies
Pharmacies offer topical products that can either be antibacterials, retinoids or antibiotics for curing acne. Some of the more common antibacterials are those containing benzoyl peroxide. These are used to control Propionibacterium acnes, the bacteria mainly responsible for the inflammation of the skin. Topical antibiotics such as erythromycin and tetracycline are also available over the counter. When it comes to retinoids, prescriptions are often required, even for the more popular ones such as tretinoin and tazarotene.

Natural remedies
For supporters of everything natural, there are homemade solutions that they can use. Some of these are herbs and plants such as Aloe vera, cucumber, nettle tea, garlic cloves, lemon juice, tomatoes and tea tree essential oil. Most of these herbs can be made into a paste and used as facial mask. Juices of lemon, Aloe vera and other liquid-form natural elements are usually applied in their purest form on the affected areas. Other natural remedies that are not necessarily herbs or plants include oatmeal (can be used as facial paste), salt and vinegar (mixed together and used as facial wash) and a mixture of corn flour and egg (also used as facial paste)

Advanced solutions
For the more severe forms of acne, particularly those that do not respond to home-made remedies and topical solutions, laser therapy, phototherapy and photodynamic therapy are often used. Although these methods are designed more to eliminate the scars left by acne and are not yet generally used to treat acne itself, studies are already being done to examine their effectiveness in preventing pimples.

Choosing the best acne treatment should depend on various factors such as the person's skin type, his or her health habits and reactions to various formulas. The best way to choose the right remedy is to consult a skin professional and determine the right formula for you. Following a proper diet program, getting enough sleep and always keeping your face clean can also go a long way towards preventing the breakout of pimples and keeping your skin clear and smooth.

Clear Skin Tips: How to Keep Your Skin Healthy and Glowing

2009-03-28T08:05:00.004-07:00

Having a clear, glowing skin definitely adds to a person's physical appeal. The desire to have beautiful skin has made all of us eager to try out almost every skin product and every advice that skin experts have given us. But achieving a clear, healthy skin can be as basic as making adjustments to the things that we already do everyday. To have a better understanding of these simple steps, here are a few clear skin tips.

Clear skin tips always emphasize the importance of hygiene. Washing your face at least twice a day, especially before you went to bed, is a must. Keeping your face and the rest of your body clean will help prevent dirt from accumulating on the skin pores – a condition that usually leads to acne and other skin problems.

Psychology. Yes, your psychological condition does have a lot to say about your skin. Mental stress causes your hormones to go ballistic, leading to skin breakouts and other unhealthy conditions. Tension does manifest itself on your skin. Notice how the glow disappears whenever you worry too much? It's not your imagination, it really is happening.

Diet. Eating a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables is one of the most important steps in having a clear skin. The vitamins that we get from these foods cannot be substituted by merely taking supplements and using facial creams. Making sure that you have at least three servings of either or both can go a long way towards giving you that glowing complexion.

Cosmetics and healthcare products selection. To get an idea of what cosmetics, facial wash or moisturizer fit your type of skin, consulting a skin expert is still the best way. Oily skin requires a different set of cosmetics and facial care products from those who have dry skin. It is also better if you can minimize the use of cosmetics since the chemicals they contain can clog your skin pores.

What to avoid. First, cigarettes. Smoking gives you toxins and can contribute to unhealthy blood circulation, not to mention the other health-related problems that this habit can create. Second, excessive drinking. Too much of anything is always bad. And for your skin, too much alcohol is just not good. Third, staying out late night after night. Getting at least eight hours of sleep is necessary if you really want to have a healthy skin. The more rest you have, the better your skin will look in the morning.

Clear skin tips can only get you so far. The important thing is to have the resolve to maintain good habits; not only will they help you have that healthy skin, they can also help keep your overall health at its peak.

Home Remedies for Acne: What Nature Has to Offer As Solutions

2009-03-28T08:05:00.003-07:00

Home remedies for acne can be found in your kitchen, your garden and even the bathroom cabinet! If you prefer to scour your home for solutions instead of going out and seeking professional help, then these remedies might just work for you.

The kitchen
Home remedies for acne can be found in the kitchen. Some of the cooking ingredients lying around your kitchen can provide you with an overnight solution to the persistent zit. If you happen to be looking for an overnight cure, look no further than the cooking station. One, there is the tomato. Two, how about a mixture of corn flour and egg? Three, salt and vinegar.

A mixture of tomato pulp, honey and rose water can be used to get rid of pimples. Just apply the paste to your face and leave it on for 30 minutes and then wash it off with clean water. Making a paste by mixing corn flour with egg is also a proven solution. Just pat the paste on your face and wait for 30 minutes before washing it off. If you do not like making pastes, just mix salt and vinegar, dip a face towel or a cotton ball on the mixture and dab it on the affected areas. Leaving it on for fifteen to twenty minutes before washing it off with clean water usually does the trick.

The garden
Most common herbs can also help alleviate pimples and other skin bumps overnight. One of the more common ones is Aloe vera. The gel-like substance from Aloe vera can be applied to the reddened skin and washed off after 30 minutes. Doing it every night, even after the pimples are gone, can also help make your skin clearer and smoother.

Aside from Aloe vera, cucumber is also effective in preventing skin breakouts. Make a paste and apply it to your face. Leave it for 30 minutes before washing it off with clean water. If you don't have cucumber, how about cabbage? Mix the liquefied leaves with witch hazel and lemon oil and use the mixture as a facial lotion. Leave it on overnight and you will see the effect the next day.

The bathroom cabinet
You have heard so much about the usefulness of toothpaste when it comes to getting rid of zits. Applying a small amount of toothpaste on the pimple will help reduce the redness and ease down the swelling overnight. This solution, though, is more of an emergency remedy than anything else. For long term remedies, toothpaste just wouldn't cut it.

Home remedies for acne can be found just about anywhere around your home. If you prefer to solve your pimple problem without having to drive to a skin clinic, then one of these remedies might just work for you. A few minutes of your time and a few simple ingredients and you will get your desired result.

Types of Pimple Scars and Their Characteristics

2009-03-28T08:05:00.001-07:00

Pimple scars are marks left by acne, particularly the severe kind. These marks are difficult to remove, and more often than not, require surgery or laser treatment to be completely eradicated. The first thing that we need to know about these scars is that there are more than one kind and each kind requires a particular method of treatment.

Pimple scars can have either a depressed or a bump-like appearance. The former is caused by loss of tissue, while the latter is formed because of an increase in tissue formation. Acne scars that cause depression on the skin can be ice pick scars, rolling scars or box car scars. Ice pick has the appearance of a deep pit, while box cars are angular in form. Rolling scars, on the other hand, have wave-like appearance and have less sharp angles than the first two kinds.

Bump-like scars left by acne are called keloids or hypertrophic scars. These are caused by an excessive growth of collagen. The overproduction of collagen is the common response of skin cells to injury and acne does produce this kind of response. The extra collagen creates a fibrous, mass-like bump that becomes keloids or hypertrophic scars. Whether a person will develop a hypertrophic or a depressed type of scar will depend on a number of factors, including the extent of the injury and whether keloids run on his or her family.

Because acne scars are caused by severe forms of acne, a person will have a better chance of preventing scarring if pimples are controlled at their earliest stage. A lot of treatment methods, such as laser treatment, have also been made available to help people eradicate scars caused by acne. It will also help if pimple sufferers will avoid the tendency to pick at their acne. The dirt from our hands can cause infection that could exacerbate the inflammation of the zits, which could then lead to scars, particularly after the pimples have erupted.

Pimple scars are difficult to remove, but thanks to technology and modern medicine, there are now several options for eradicating these marks. The important thing is to understand the type of scars first and the options that are available to those who have them. Consulting a dermatologist or a skin expert is till the best way to understand what type of scar you have and to know how to get rid of it.

Tips for Clear Skin: Simple Methods That You Can Use to Get a Healthy Complexion

2009-03-28T08:04:00.003-07:00

Tips for clear skin? There are loads of them, but the ones we have here are the simplest to follow. They are so simple that most people tend to forget or ignore them.

Basic tips for clear skin often start with this one:
1. Keep it clean. Never go to sleep without washing your face. The dirt that accumulated throughout the day should be removed before you put your head on the pillow.
2. Speaking of pillows, change your pillow cases regularly. Changing your pillow cases at least twice a week might sound very basic, but it is something that most of us often ignore. Your face would lie on those pieces of cloth for at least six hours everyday, so you'd better make sure that they are clean.
3. Don't put your hands on your face all the time. Avoid picking at spots or pimples on your face. If you have a tendency to touch your face with your hands, make sure that your hands are always clean. Better yet, cure the tendency.
4. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Proper diet is still the best way to get a clear skin. The vitamins and minerals, not to mention the water that these foods contain are what we need to get a healthy complexion.
5. Drink plenty of water. At least eight glasses of water a day should be the regimen. Our skin needs water all the time, particularly during the summer months. If you engage in activities that make you sweat, increase your water intake to compensate for what you've lost.
6. Avoid direct contact with the sun as much as possible. Particularly between 10 A.M. and 4 P.M. If you need to go out during this period, make sure that you apply sunblock on areas that will be exposed to the sun like your face and your arms.
7. Exercise. Physical activity gets our blood pumping and helps oxygen to circulate more effectively in our body. This gives our skin more vibrancy and keeps it healthy.
8. Use minimal makeup. If you can avoid it, don't bother. Too much chemicals on our face often leads to skin breakouts, irritations, pimples and other unwanted conditions.
9. Moisturize. Particularly if you're hitting the age of 30 (and above). As we age, we tend to lose moisture in our skin. Applying mild moisturizer before going to bed will help keep the skin supple and young-looking.
10. Get at least eight hours of sleep everyday. Lack of sleep dries our skin. Try to get a good sleep everyday, it does help and it's free.

Basic tips for clear skin often start with our everyday habits. Proper diet, physical fitness and basic hygiene are the foundation for a healthy skin and a healthy body. There's nothing difficult in following these tips, we just need to remember them all the time.

Causes of "Genital Acne"

2009-03-28T08:04:00.001-07:00

From time to time, one may experience itching and discomfort in your genital area that comes with a condition that suspiciously resembles acne. This condition is generally referred to by the people who suffer them as "genital acne," but there is no evidence to suggest that genital acne is in fact possible.

First of all, we have to establish if there is such a thing as genital acne. Acne is characterized by inflammations that cause a varying degree of swelling under the skin, resulting in small slightly painful bumps along the dermal surface. There are different kinds of acne - blackheads, whiteheads, papules and pustules are examples - but the majority of acne is caused by the overproduction of sebum.

Sebum is a substance that is generated by the skin and trapped inside follicles, which cause the irritation and swelling that characterizes pimples. Sebum deposits do not normally occur on the skin over the genital area. However, afflictions that resemble pimples would sometimes appear on the genital area nonetheless. These may be caused by a number of factors.

The most common cause of uncomfortable inflammations in the genital area is poor hygiene. Sweat builds up in the apocrine gland located in the genitals, and if it is not cleaned off immediately, it causes an irritation similar to what occurs when sebum is trapped inside the follicles in the face. But because the sebaceous gland is not involved, this technically invalidates its definition as "acne."

Tight clothing also contributes to the appearance of acne-like formations. Lesions may appear where clothing rubs against skin too many times. These lesions only indicate abrasion, though irritation of the apocrine glands could also occur in this manner.

One should bear in mind also that some forms of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) may become manifest in skin disorders around the genital area. If a sexually active person starts experiencing some especially troublesome genital "acne," he or she should not hesitate to refer the matter to a doctor. Genital herpes is an STD that may cause lesions. Quite a few STDs are treatable, though if left untended, any STD may progress to worse ailments, such as uterine cancer.

Finding the Best Acne Treatment for Your Child

2009-03-28T08:03:00.004-07:00

For most of us, over-the-counter (OTC) acne medication could provide sufficient relief. After all, if we have little more than run-of-the-mill acne problems, we need not worry that OTC medication will not be enough. But what if you find that your child has been suffering from an acne condition that may require more than OTC medication? How can you set about finding the best acne treatment for your child?

There is a wide variety of solutions already out in the market - acupressure, surgery, skin therapy and many others. Finding the best acne treatment for your child will require you to be open-minded, so that you can settle on a treatment (or a course of treatments) with a clear head and a clear conscience. These are just three things you have to remember when shopping around for alternatives for your child.

1. Consult a trusted specialist before anything else. Before trying out a new medication, supplement or therapy, you should be aware of all the warnings and risks that may come with it. Incidentally, you should always be aware of your child's allergies. If your child is sensitive to certain chemicals, it is best to inform your doctor or health professional about it first.

2. Be aware of your budget. Don't buy into expensive treatments, thinking they will certainly work just because they cost more. Sometimes a combination of cheaper treatments may work better than quick, though higher-costing, solutions.

3. Be sensitive to your child's feelings. Acne often occurs at the onset of puberty - a time when your child's self-confidence may find itself more often than not on shaky ground. Your child may not want you fussing over him or her over acne medication. Or perhaps your child may not be open to alternative (or even traditional) modes of treatment. Do not force a treatment that your child is not open to! As a parent or guardian, the best you can do for your child at a sensitive time is to provide advice and assistance. The best acne treatment for your child is still the assurance that one's confidence should not be built on looks alone.

Best Acne Treatments Among Alternative Methods

2009-03-28T08:03:00.003-07:00

Therapy is one of the ways by which health specialists claim we can be rid of acne. There are quite a few therapeutic methods out there, and as with traditional medicines, there really is no guarantee on the efficiency of each one. How your skin reacts is still the best way to find out the best acne treatments among the ones you have already tried.

But if you're just about to set off on your journey to a more acne-free existence, you should know which among the alternative cures are considered the best acne treatments, so that you can arrive at a decision more comfortably. Here are three of the most widely-patronized alternative acne cures in the market.

1. Homeopathy - This is a much-disputed mode of therapy. Many medicines dispensed by homeopathic experts have not been approved for therapeutic use. Nonetheless, many satisfied customers claim homeopathy is effective for certain afflictions; acne may well be among them. In order to get the most out of this treatment, you should seek the aid of a qualified practitioner.

2. Herbal Medicine - Certain oils and ointments derived from plants are said to be helpful in controlling acne outbreaks. Herbalists often recommend unguents derived from plants, such as evening primrose oil or black currant seed oil, to be applied to your skin regularly. Herbal medicine may also have aromatherapeutic properties.

3. Ayurvedic Treatments - Ayurveda experts will say that adult acne occurs when there is an imbalance in the Kapha and Vata, and impurities in the blood. In rare cases, it is related to an imbalance in the Pitta dosha. The condition is remedied through careful dieting, which involves eliminating spicy and fried foods, as well as citrus fruits, from one's daily menu. At times treatment may be accompanied with natural extracts, such as ginger, turmeric and cumin.

The best source of information on the best acne treatments, alternative or traditional, are still people who have already tried them. Looking through testimonies online may not be all that reliable - these testimonies may be fabricated by the companies that provide this service.

Getting Rid of Pimple Scars

2009-03-28T08:03:00.001-07:00

Do your troubles end when your acne vanishes? Not in the least! Some impetuous youngsters may find that the easiest way to get rid of a zit is simply to pop it - without thinking about the scar it's going to leave. The ungainly pockmarks and scabbing only speaks volumes of how careless a person is. Pimple scars can be even crueler than the pimples themselves.

But in some cases, we can't prevent pimple scars. Say you accidentally scrape your cheek and cause some breakage on the skin - besides the regular wound, one is bound to have a few pockmarks in the bargain. Sometimes, too, pimples disappear on their own, even without interference from their poor host, or from any other outside factor - and yet they leave scars anyway.

As the body matures and the skin produces less sebum, pimple scars also fade over time. But young people who have had severe acne outbreaks may find that it takes more time for the scars to become less visible. Adults who also experience acne outbreaks late in their lives may also find themselves victims of long-term acne scarring.

There are a couple of ways to get rid of acne scars. Their effectiveness may depend on how sensitive your skin is, and how deep the scars run.

1. Oils and ointments - There are a few cosmetic chemicals out in the market that are reputed to be good for "smoothing out" the skin. Lavender oil is among them. Massaged onto one's face regularly, it stimulates the skin and allows for a smoother, healthier glow.

Ointments can be homemade, too! Some well-known homemade remedies are cocoa butter and pure lemon juice. Like commercial products, these are applied directly onto the skin.

2. Laser surgery - This is a somewhat extreme measure, not to be taken without the support and recommendation of a physician. Laser surgery may be a good option for people who have experienced heavy scarring.

3. Makeup - Makeup has always been a good way to cover up scars. A light amount of makeup may be enough to cover up the pimple scars and give the skin a smooth, fresh appearance.

Make Your Own Acne Cures

2009-03-28T08:01:00.000-07:00

One misconception about acne is that it's an affliction that will force you to spend too much on therapy and topical medicines. Because you have to apply treatment regularly, you have to shell out money regularly - not a very attractive prospect for people who are keeping a close watch on their budget. But acne cures are not limited to what drugstores, therapists and dermatologists can provide. The more resourceful of us can benefit from acne medication even without the fear of going over the budget.

Since the dawn of time, people have made acne cures out of natural ingredients. We have folk traditions and beliefs to thank for some of those cures making it to the modern world. Homemade acne cures are a real time and money-saver. Just because something doesn't come with a pharmaceutical label, doesn't mean it's not effective!

1. Spice concoctions - The use of ginger, garlic, cinammon and even sugar is quite common in creating spice-based remedies. These spices are ground and mixed in with a little water to create a paste that is applied directly onto the face.

2. Citrus fruit juices - Lemon and orange peels and juices are popular additives for home cures. Some advocate grinding the peels and using them as a paste, similar to the spice concoctions. Still others say it is best to apply the inside of the peels directly onto the skin. If you are making a paste out of these peelings, or making a juice out of the fruits themselves, you may add a touch of honey for extra smoothness.

3. Water therapy - Drinking a lot of water in a day is a certified home remedy for a lot of ailments. Acne may well be among them! It is not necessary to drink at least eight glasses, as the old belief goes, but drinking water whenever you are thirsty comes with its own therapeutic value.

Like any medication, however, homemade cures stand a chance of triggering an allergy. It is important to be aware beforehand if you are allergic to a substance you are about to apply on your skin. If you are not sure, try only a little of the substance on a small "test patch" you have specially selected. If an allergy develops, visit your emergency center immediately, and refrain from using the product in the future. Another kind of homemade remedy may be more suited to your skin type.

Acne and Antioxidants

2009-03-27T23:37:00.000-07:00

Molecules of free oxygen, known as free radicals, float in our body with unpaired electrons seeking to balance themselves by "stealing" electrons from healthy cells. This process can kill healthy cells and damage tissue. It is called 'oxidation' and results in aging in humans and rotting in plants.

The process of oxidation causes the skin to lose elasticity and develop wrinkles, thins hair, weakens muscles, impairs hearing and eyesight, decreases immunity, and increases degenerative diseases.

Antioxidants stop this process and maintain the health of our bodies. These antioxidants are abundant in natural foods (grapes, blueberries, pomegranates especially) and man-made antioxidants are also available over the counter. The main antioxidants include vitamins and minerals that neutralize free radicals.

Some of the well-known antioxidants are Vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin B, vitamin A, and the minerals zinc and selenium. All these antioxidants help in the prevention and treatment of acne, preventing the free radicals from harming the skin and immune system, which helps in acne flare-ups.

Antioxidants serve as a skin barrier to prevent free radicals from penetrating the living dermal layer. The highest concentration of antioxidants in the body is found in the outermost layer of skin, the epidermis. As we age, the concentration of antioxidants in the epidermis starts decreasing considerably. This is one reason that skin starts showing signs of damage.

To keep the immune system and other systems healthy and to avoid damage by free radicals, antioxidants can be taken orally. While it is good for the overall functioning of the body, skin does not benefit much from it, as only about 1% of ingested antioxidants reach the skin.

Topical application of antioxidants can produce an effective barrier against free radicals. Each topical application of antioxidants will have a life of up to four days. The topical application of antioxidants neutralizes free radicals and prevents UV destruction of cells. A drawback of topically applied antioxidants is they become depleted with decreasing concentration, so daily application is needed to keep their level maximized.

Fruits and vegetables are a rich source of antioxidants that can be part of our diet and provide digestible antioxidants. The pulp of these fruits and vegetables can also be applied on the skin to work as topical antioxidants and keep skin healthy. Oils rich in Vitamin E, such as Olive oil, Coconut oil, and Sesame oil are good for topical use on skin.

People with oily skin can also benefit from these oils by applying them in small quantities mixed with water (it makes an emulsion). Keep this mix on the face for 2-3 minutes, then wash with medicated soap. This will wipe out any trace of oil, leaving your skin smooth.

One must remember that no matter what type of skin you have, whether oily or dry or a combination, it needs moisturizer to maintain its suppleness. As all the major vitamins are water soluble, some amount of fat is essential in our diet.

Some vitamins which are beneficial for skin are vitamin A (Beta-Carotene), vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), and Vitamin E (Tocopherol). All these vitamins are recognized as powerful antioxidants. Certain vitamins, in combination with glycolic acid, offer double protection against free radicals and assist their antioxidant effects.

Free radicals also increase in our bodies when we do not get enough sleep, are under stress, smoke, consume too much alcohol, live in pollution, or eat a higher amount of sugar or processed foods, and even exercise too much.

Remember what foods you consume, because your body gets nutrients accordingly. If you want healthy skin without acne, then you must maintain a healthy lifestyle, avoid the risks listed in the paragraph above, and take antioxidants while consulting your physician.

Antioxidants on their own will not treat acne, but they are a step in the right direction. For more information on treating acne.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

2009-03-26T05:15:00.001-07:00

Irritable bowel, sometimes referred to as spastic colon or colitis, is a digestive disorder. It has been determined that one in every five adults experience symptoms of IBS, although very few seek help. Some of the symptoms include diarrhea or constipation; even altering between the two at times, as well as abdominal pain, which can be excruciating. Other symptoms range between bloating, flatulence, mucous, and intolerance to certain foods, namely lactose. Most dread eating because of the abdominal pain, headaches and diarrhea. As a result of not being able to digest, a malabsorption of vitamins and minerals exist, making one very deficient in nutrients greatly needed.

The simplest way to bring about any normal functioning is to cleanse the colon of the mucous lining that is inhibiting the peristaltic wave or the rhythmic muscular contraction from being regular and coordinated. This is done through irrigating the colon with pure, temperature controlled water that gently circulates throughout your colon, coaxing your body into eliminating stored toxins and mucous from different areas. This process is referred to as Colon Irrigation, Colon Hydrotherapy or Colonics. It is a very simple non-invasive and non-painful method that was used by doctors throughout the country even before pharmaceutical drugs were introduced. The success rate of this procedure is extremely high, making it a number one choice of correction above and beyond medications. Some of the more natural nutrients that can be taken to aid in balancing the dysfunction that is being experience would be as follows:

Acidophilus/Bio-Bifidus – Which is used to replenish the “friendly” bacteria needed for digestion.

Aloe Vera – Aides in healing the digestive tract.

Garlic – Helps aid in digestion and destruction of toxins in the colon.

Peppermint Tea – Relieves upset stomach and gas. Also aids in healing and digestion.

Fiber (Psyllium, Flaxseed, or Oat bran) – Sweeps and cleanses the colon.

Alfalfa – Needed for proper absorption of foods, carbohydrates, fats and protein.

Pancreatin and Enzymes – Prevents the “leaky gut syndrome,” and aids in protein digestion. Reduces inflammation.

Vitamins and Minerals – Supplies the nutrients not absorbed.

Calcium and Magnesium – Helps the nervous stomach.

It is beneficial to eat a high-fiber diet, including fresh fruits and vegetables along with whole grains. Many find it beneficial to introduce into their diet soy, almond, or goats milk in place of cow milk for easier digestion and absorption. Dairy products are not tolerated by most that experience IBS, nor are carbonated beverages, coffee, sugar, additives, animal fats, processed foods and most wheat products. All tend to encourage the secretion of mucus by the membranes and prevent the nutrients from being absorbed.

Certain drugs and antibiotics increase the need for nutritional supplements. Always take additional acidophilus/bifidus when taking antibiotics to decrease the risk of yeast infections. If you experience chronic diarrhea from IBS then electrolyte and trace mineral deficiencies are likely to occur. To correct this, take additional minerals, and for the electrolyte balance, drink freshly made juice in this proportion: 4 ounces of apple to 4 ounces of celery juice. It will bring the electrolytes back in balance.

Changing your diet and taking additional supplements aids in correcting IBS, but until the mucous is expelled the cause has not been eliminated. Doing Colon Irrigations will get to the “cause” without wasting your time and money on the symptoms that are constantly being experienced. Many fear that Colon Irrigations will be painful or intimidating, but after the process they realize that it is very private, comfortable, and they look forward to doing another session because of the great relief and ease of it all. Most listen to music, read a magazine or talk on their phone throughout the whole procedure. What could be simpler than that! Take time to call for a session today so that you too can be back into the rhythm of things tomorrow without the pain, the bloating, or the diarrhea that you suffer from at random, and that keeps you from living life to its fullest.

Preventing Alzheimer's Disease

2009-03-26T05:14:00.004-07:00

At one time Alzheimer’s Disease was thought to have affected only those over 65, however, today we are seeing many in their forties with the onset of this dreadful disease. It was once classified as senility to the maximum degree but it would be more appropriate today to characterize it as tangled nerve fibers surrounding the brain’s memory center. When these nerve fibers become tangled, nerve impulses can no longer carry information to or from the brain. Because the brain circuits become disconnected, information cannot be retrieved. The information in the brain is not destroyed, but is prevented from being transferred. It would be like having information in your computer, but no way of bringing it to the screen for viewing.

Our life style today is at a much faster pace and because of it we find that we are doing many different task at one time and stressed to the max which creates a lot of confusion. This confusion and forgetfulness is not the same as Alzheimer’s. We may forget where we placed our glasses or keys to the house, but if we forget that we even wear glasses or have a house we might safely assume that there is a much greater problem involved.

Other characteristics of this disorder are severe mood swings, personality changes, disoriented perception of space and time and an inability to concentrate or communicate in a logical manner. Keep in mind that dementia may also result from hardening of the arteries when the supply of blood to the brain is slowly cut off. Strokes will cause a loss of brain tissue and excess fluid which often causes dementia. Toxic reactions to drugs or chemicals often exhibit the same symptoms.

Be aware that those that are professional painters, construction workers, or in the pest-control business are primed for the susceptibility of cutting off oxygen to the cells including those of the brain. Anyone exposed to toxic material is at risk long term. In order to prevent the deterioration of the cells and the dementia, it would be strongly advisable to begin immediately detoxing the body and building the immune system.

A highly nutritious diet shows without question to be a deterrent to Alzheimer’s onset. In order to detoxify one must begin in the colon, for this is the elimination channel that the body uses to rid itself of toxic waste and poisons. When the colon is overloaded, or there is slow transit time; fermentation or excess toxins, then the body goes into survival mode and will send these toxins into other elimination channels such as the liver, lungs, kidneys, skin, and lymphatics. It does this because the colon can only handle to its capacity. At this point we have toxicity throughout the body, and as these other elimination channels are filled to its limit it filters even further into the body – working its way throughout our joints and to the brain as well.

To relieve the colon and make way for the other elimination channels to empty and the body to rid itself of these poisons Colon Irrigation’s are done. This is a very simple, harmless and non-invasive technique. Filtered temperature controlled water is gently allowed to circulate the colon and loosen the accumulation of toxic matter so that it can easily be eliminated. This is greatly needed before building the immune system, for how can we build when we can’t absorb. Once this is done we can begin to bring the immune system up.

Studies have shown that many Alzheimer’s patients contained excess amounts of aluminum, bromine, calcium, silicon and sulfur while being deficient in several essential minerals, boron, potassium, selenium, vitamin B12, and zinc. A hair analysis can determine whether the body contains toxic metals. Other research has indicated synthetic estrogen as being a culprit to the problem. Today red meat is full of synthetics and the drinking water sometimes contains elevated levels of aluminum. Manufactures add aluminum to many food products on the market. It can easily be found in cake mixes, frozen food, processed cheese, pickling salts, baking soda, douches, deodorants, dandruff shampoos, and anti-diarrhea compounds.

A diet that would be helpful should be low in fats, salts, and all meats, but high in fiber. Vitamin B foods such as brown rice and other whole grains, brewer’s yeast, molasses, liver, fish and wheat germ are extremely valuable from the stand point that they block aluminum toxicity. Tryptophan foods are also beneficial such as avocados, low fat dairy products and poultry. Foods that would feed the brain would be fresh vegetables, whole grains, eggs, seeds, sea vegetables, and soy foods.

Here is a list of vitamins that target the immune system and the carrying of oxygen to the cells and brain which is vastly needed.

Coenzyme Q10 (100mg daily) Carries oxygen to cells and is responsible for generating cellular energy.

Protein (take twice daily) Needed to improve brain function and tissue repair.

Vitamin E (600-800IU daily) Helps transport oxygen to brain cells.

Kelp (B12, 5-8 tab. daily) Supplies minerals.

RNA-DNA (200mg RNA, 100mgDNA) These are the brains cellular building blocks.

Vitamin B complex – Needed for brain function.

Vitamin C (8,000-10,000mg daily) Enhances immune function and increases energy levels.

Potassium – Necessary nutrient.

Lecithin (1tbs with meals) Needed for brain function.

Germanium (200mg daily) Enhances immune function.

SOD – High potent antioxidant. Improves utilization of oxygen.

Omega 3-6-9 – Flax Oils.

Selenium with Zinc – A much needed nutrient.

It is by far easier to prevent a disease than to correct the disturbances after the fact. This gives us a much broader boundary to work from, and in our culture with the life styles that we embrace we seem to do much better with this. Our socializing, family affairs, and special events are centered around comfort foods which are not always prime choice for health. However, when working in the perimeters of prevention we are able to embark on not only the healthy side, but dabble occasionally without too much detriment with the comfort foods that we so delight in.

Prevention is a lifestyle change, but long term it can add quality years to your health, and without quality, quantity means very little. Begin today by detoxing and get on the road to vibrant health. The payoff is worth it.

Alzheimers,The Emotional Journey

2009-03-26T05:14:00.003-07:00

We know what we know and we like it that way. We all have our own ideas on how our parent are supposed to be. Maybe they are our rock. Maybe they were never there for us. One thing is for sure we feel they are supposed to be there for us no matter what. Our image of parents, tells us they are to nurture us, give us strength, and provide for our needs. Our society dictates this. We all have our own unique perspective on how our childhood went. Some think their parents failed the parenting test, other feel blessed to have had the parents they had. Whatever our perspective, our childhood definitely has a lot to do with who we are now, and how we deal with the trials and tribulation life sends our way.

Fear of the unknown and of thing we do not understand. Alzheimers falls into this area very well. No one is quite sure what causes it, how to prevent it, or what to expect from it. The disease is as unpredictable and unique as the individual that has it. The only definite is that it causes great emotional pain and fear for every one involved.

Fear surrounds Alzheimer's, nobody wants it, everybody is afraid of it. Families of people who have it are afraid of what they see happening. How can we over come the fear? We over come our fear by acknowledging the roots of our emotions. The time to start is in the every beginning. When we notices the subtle little changes such as the forgetfulness, repetitive questions or thoughts. There is a lot of fear involved with just those simple changes. How we react to those changes sets the stage for what's to come. It is a normal response to react to fear with anger, aggression, impatience's, we go into the defense mode. We have little time for patience and understanding because we are to busy protecting our hearts. If we ignore it or get angry at it, maybe it will go away. We block or put off thought of the future because the future holds pain and sorrow. We feel guilty for being afraid and not being able to deal with the changes. This is not the way we had our lives planned in our imagination of what life is suppose to be.

Understanding loss is one-step to understanding some of the emotion that surface when a loved one has Alzheimers. When we think of losing a loved one we automatically think of death. Loss is loss; the emotions of loss are the same regardless of the cause. The cycle of grief is the same, denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. What makes the losses caused by Alzheimers so difficult is that you see a person you are very familiar with, one who has played a certain role in your life. They look the same, they sound the same, but nothing is the same. What is not realized is that this is where your common ground is found. For the person that has Alzheimers, People, places and things look familiar, but they have no idea why. They can't put together the, who, where, what or why of things. They have the same emotional confusion you are experiencing.

When it comes to matters of the heart, logic is quickly replaced with emotion. Our emotions are influenced by our life experiences and from the foundation that we have chosen to build our lives. We can't always control our emotions, but we can learn from them. By taking the time to look closely at our emotions and finding there roots, we can come to accept what is before us. Acceptance does not remove the fear or pain, life doesn't instantly become joyful and bliss. Acceptances teaches us how to live in spite of our fear and pain. We learn to accept and acknowledge life on life's terms. We admit we are powerless over many of the thing we want to control. Most of all we learn to have faith. We also learn what is deep inside ourselves that makes us uniquely who we are.

Researching Alzheimer's and reading all the information about the disease and the entire practical how to care for someone with Alzheimers is important. However, it is not going to be very useful until you can come to terms with the emotional effects Alzheimers has on everyone involved. Come to terms with your feelings and emotions then you can process the practical information from a completely new perspective.

How To Beat Depression

2009-03-26T05:14:00.001-07:00

Clinical Depression is the number 1 mental disorder in the world and the 2nd most disabling condition in the world behind heart disease.

A staggering 16% of the population will suffer from depression at some point in their lives.

Why should you be interested in this?

1. Because EVERYONE at some stage in their lives will be affected by depression, either their own or someone else¡¦s.
(Source ¡V Australian Government research)

2. Because only around 20% of those who develop depression will receive adequate treatment.

If you or someone you know suffers from depression it is essential to understand what depression is; what the causes are; what the symptoms are and what treatments are available, both conventional and complementary.

What is Depression?
Depression can be defined as a mental illness which causes feelings of sadness and loss of hope, changes in sleeping and eating habits, loss of interest in your usual activities, and pains which have no physical explanation.

What does this really mean?

Perhaps it is easier to have a look at how a doctor would diagnose a person as suffering from depression.

A person can be diagnosed as suffering from clinical depression if 5 or more of the following symptoms have been present during the same 2 week period and represent a change from previous functioning. At least one of the symptoms is either (a) depressed mood or (b) loss of interest or pleasure.

(a) Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day, as indicated by either a subjective report or an observation made by others. In children and adolescents this can be an irritable mood.
(b) Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in all, or almost all, activities most of the day, nearly every day.
(c) Significant weight loss when not dieting or weight gain, or decrease or increase in appetite nearly every day.
(d) Insomnia or hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness or sleep) nearly every day.
(e) Psychomotor agitation or retardation nearly every day (observable by others, not merely subjective feeling of restlessness or being slowed down).
(f) Fatigue or loss of energy nearly every day.
(g) Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt (which may be delusional) nearly every day.
(h) Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness, nearly every day.
(i) Recurrent thoughts of death, recurrent suicidal thoughts or attempts.

What are the Symptoms of Depression?
Not all people suffering from depression will have the same symptoms.
In addition to the symptoms listed in the above definition of depression, people suffering from depression may report some of the following symptoms:

„X Exhaustion on waking
„X Disrupted sleep, sometimes through upsetting dreams
„X Early morning waking and difficulty getting back to sleep
„X Doing less of what they used to enjoy
„X Difficulty concentrating during the day
„X Improved energy as the day goes on
„X Anxious, worrying and intrusive upsetting thoughts
„X Becoming emotional or upset for no particular reason
„X Shortness of temper, or irritability
„X Feeling miserable and sad
„X A feeling that even the smallest of tasks is impossible
„X Don¡¦t want to see people or are scared to be left alone
„X Loss of hope
„X No confidence
„X Physical aches and pains with no physical cause

What are the Causes of Depression?
There is no single cause of depression.
In general, ¡¥causes¡¦ can be categorised into 3 main points of view:

1. Depression is a medical disease caused by a neurochemical or hormonal imbalance.
2. Depression is caused by certain styles of thinking.
3. Depression is a result of unfortunate experiences.

There is a school of thought that believes that the chemical imbalance referred to above is actually a SYMPTOM of depression and not a cause and therefore anti-depressants which treat this imbalance can never cure a person of depression as at best they can only alleviate a symptom and will do nothing to find or cure the cause.

Conventional Treatments For Depression
„X Medication
„X Counselling
„X Complementary Medicine

Medication has some benefit to around a third of sufferers and as suggested above can only ever treat the symptoms not the cause.

Counselling can be of help to some but success is largely dependant upon the skill of the counsellor.

More and more people are now turning to Complementary Medicine and Self-Help in their battle with depression and finding amazing results with this approach.

To benefit from Complementary Medicine and Self-Help it is important to fully understand what depression is and how it is affecting the individual concerned.
This may be as simple as treating an underlying anxiety problem with self hypnosis CDs or by using aromatherapy to help promote relaxation.

Another great method of self-help to consider is modelling.
We can all learn from the experiences of others in many aspects of life and beating depression is no different. Simply find someone who has successfully beaten the condition, find out how they achieved their results and copy and adapt their methods to suit your own circumstances.

The benefit of this technique is that what took one person months or perhaps several years of trial and error to find the right results, can be modelled immediately and the results can be achieved so much quicker.

In order to free yourself from the shackles of depression I urge you to fully research the modern thinking relating to the condition, reach out to others who have gone through a similar experience and don¡¦t be afraid to try a different approach ¡V you may be surprised at the results.

Trichothiodystrophy

2009-03-26T05:13:00.000-07:00

Trichothiodystrophy or TTD, as it is concisely mentioned, is a heterogeneous group of autosomal recessive disorders, characterized by abnormally sulfur deficient brittle hair and accompanied by ichthyosis and other manifestations. In TTD patients, the hair appear dry, short and sparse, and the ones already existing splits longitudinally in to small fibers, the viscoelastic parameters of hair being compromised compared to controls.

Inside the range of TTD syndrome are numerous interrelated neuroectodermal disorders. The Trichothiodystrophy syndromes are invariably characterized by the defective synthesis of high-sulfur matrix proteins. Half of the patients show abnormalities in nucleotide excision repair (NER) of ultraviolet damaged DNA.

In fact, three categories are recognized on the basis of cellular responses to UV damage and the affected gene. Most patients show mutations on the two alleles of the XPD gene. In UV-sensitive TTD patients, the TFIIH transcription factor containing XPB and XPD helicase activities necessary for both transcription initiation and DNA repair are found to be damaged. Beyond deficiency in the NER pathway, basal transcription is altered leading to decreased transcription of specific genes.

TTD patients generally have an unusual facial appearance, marked by protruding ears and receding chin, and retarded overall growth. The growth retardation, neurological abnormalities and brittle hair and nails are attributed to the depressed RNA synthesis in TTD patients.

Light microscopy on TTD patients reveals trichosis of hair and an irregular hair surface and diameter. But a nodal appearance and decreased cuticular layer with twisting may be misleading and may closely mimic trichorrhexis nodosa. Also, when the patient’s hair is viewed under polarized light, it shows alternate light and dark bands giving a strand a ‘tiger-tail’ appearance. But it has been noticed recently that such ‘tiger-tail’ patterns are also found in healthy infants. Hence the amino acid analysis quantitating sulfur levels remains a reliable test for TTD.

Daytrana - A Patch for ADHD

2009-03-26T05:12:00.001-07:00

A new ADHD medication, the Daytrana transdermal patch, is now available for children who have difficulty swallowing pills. The delivery system is new to the market. With this patch, the drugs flows through the skin and into the bloodstream. The active ingredient, methylphenidate, is the oldest ADHD drug on the market. Methylphenidate is the generic name for Ritalin and is also the active ingredient in many other ADHD medications including Concerta, Ritalin LA and Metadate.

The ADHD Patch offers some benefits over pills. Advantages of the Daytrana patch include:
- Fewer gastrointestinal side effects.
- A viable substitute for children who cannot swallow pills.
- Longer lasting but can be removed earlier.
- Eliminates the possibility of abuse/ crushing and snorting pills, which is a growing concern.
- May help with medication identification in cases of emergency.

However, there are also disadvantages to using the patch, including:
- It avoids first-pass metabolism by the liver, which may limit effectiveness or increase toxicity.
- Takes longer for the drug fully gets into the system.
- Often cost more than pills.
- Can move or fall off.
- Skin rashes and sensitization can occur.

The Daytrana patch is available in four different dosage strengths. It is advisable to start with a low dose first to determine side effects. Daytrana side effects are the same as other methylphenidate ADHD drug side effects.

Daytrana Patch Side Effects Include:
- Insomnia.
- Decreased appetite/Weight loss.
- Stomach aches/Nausea/Vomiting.
- Tics.
- Mood swings.
- Nasal congestion/Inflammation of the nasal passages.
- Skin irritation or rash.

Other Common Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana patch) side effects include:
- Nervousness/Irritability.
- Headaches.
- Drowsiness.
- Dry mouth.
- Blurred vision.
- Dizziness.
- Growth suppression.

Other Methylphenidate side effects, though less common, can include:
- Anorexia.
- Hypersensitivity.
- Cardiac arrhythmia.
- Other cardiovascular events including heart palpitations, increased blood pressure
- Psychosis.
- Aggression.
- Abnormal thought or behaviors.
- Mania.

The following side effects, though rare, have also been reported:
- Cerebral arteritis.
- Abnormal liver function.
- Death.

Methylphenidate can worsen anxiety, agitation or tension. The Daytrana patch should not be used if the person is taking an MAOI antidepressant, has glaucoma, tics, Tourette’s syndrome or a family history of Tourette’s syndrome.

Shire, the manufacturer of the Daytrana patch, also warns that before trying Daytrana, the primary care doctor should be alerted to the following conditions:
- High blood pressure.
- Heart conditions.
- Depression, bipolar disorder or abnormal thoughts or behaviors.
- Current or past drug or alcohol abuse problems.
- Seizures.
- Visual disturbances.

Your doctor should be informed immediately if fainting or chest pains occur while using Daytrana.

Daytrana should not be used for children under the age of 6 since safety and effectiveness of methylphenidate has not been established and can cause especially severe reactions in that age group.

Methylphenidate is a powerful stimulant classified as a Schedule II narcotic - drugs with the highest abuse potential and addiction profile - by the Drug Enforcement Agency. Before using the Daytrana patch, thoroughly investigate the benefits and the potential side effects of methylphenidate. Attention Deficit requires a multifaceted approach which requires many different tactics and combination of tactics. What works is highly individual, depending on individual needs.

Natural Treatment of Lupus

2009-03-26T05:11:00.004-07:00

Lupus is an autoimmune condition in which a person¡¯s immune system creates antibodies that attack their own body tissues. Many of the symptoms are very similar to other diseases, which makes the treatment of lupus even more difficult, especially as there is no single test that can categorically diagnose lupus.
What does seem to be common to all sufferers is a red rash that appears on the nose and cheeks and sometimes on the whole body. The rash tends to get worse after exposure to the sun. There can also be unexplained bouts of fever and the person could suffer from painful arthritis of the joints. The treatment of lupus is hampered by the fact that lupus symptoms can constantly change. While undergoing treatment of lupus, a patient could find hair loss, mouth ulcers, headaches, chest pain and even depression. Sometimes, only one part of the body is affected, like the skin, and sometimes many parts are, making the diagnosis and treatment of lupus rather tough.
Systemic lupus can affect various primary organs in the body like the lungs, which develop an inflammation in the lining, resulting in chest pain. This in turn can deteriorate into pneumonia. Very often, doctors tend to only treat the symptoms as it¡¯s difficult to diagnose the real cause. Lupus can also affect the kidneys and in such a case the only indications could be swollen ankles and an abnormal blood or urine reading. Lupus can also affect the heart, blood vessels, and the nervous system.
More often than not, after it is diagnosed lupus is treated with corticosteroids. Doctors usually ask their patients to keep a watchful eye out for any sign of flare-ups and so immediate precautions like the use of a stronger sunscreen and reducing stress are all part of lupus treatment. Women who are pregnant have to be especially careful and must resort to quick treatment of lupus flare-ups so that there is no threat of miscarriage. Men with lupus should have their PSA (prostate-specific antigen) tested, and women should have regular breast and gynecological tests. Both should also check regularly their blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Is there a natural remedy for lupus? Can lupus be treated with any natural herbs? Doctors usually advise patients to supplement their medication with vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin D and folic acid. Exercise also helps as it reduces stress levels and in turn mitigates any flare-ups.
A study begun at the Medical University of South Carolina, in collaboration with the Research and Education Foundation of the American College of Rheumatology, studied the effects of the treatment of lupus with Vitamin D therapy in patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). The study is ongoing. The Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) also does a lot of research into the causes, prevention and treatment of lupus.

Not Just in the Mind: Depression Treatment

2009-03-26T05:11:00.003-07:00

¡°Regarding focusing on the good things, when you are depressed it is impossible to do. Yes, you can make an effort and think about them but it doesn¡¯t affect the mood/feelings. That is the nature of depression, it is beyond feeling ¡®fed up¡¯ and really all you can do is go with it.¡± - Victoria, a bi-polar disorder sufferer.
Those who suffer from long-term depression instinctively know when their ¡°black mood¡± is about to descend upon them, and know that bouts of depression can appear for almost no reason. But does this mean that all they can do is ¡°go with it¡±? Depression is certainly more than just ¡°feeling down¡± every now and again. It is a disease; and like any disease, treatment is available.
Know the Enemy
Depression is a medical condition brought about by a chemical imbalance in the body and, once diagnosed by a certified physician, depression treatment is needed to help a person overcome the condition.
Depression symptoms include changes in activity or energy level, unexplained aches and pains, prolonged sadness, difficult moods and, in extreme cases, a preoccupation with death. If any one or a combination of two or more of these symptoms is present, your physician will probably recommend a course of depression treatment.
Medical Treatment of Depression?
The treatment of depression could involve medication to restore the chemical balance in the body. The problem with this kind of depression treatment, however, is that recent studies have confirmed that some common anti-depressant drugs run the risk of fragile bones in older patients. What these drugs have been found to do is to affect the cells from the bone - the osteoblasts - resulting in brittle bones. A research study on a group of Canadian over-50s found that those on depression drugs had a 4% lower bone density at the hip than the rest. The threat of fractures was also doubled. Most drugs have their side-effects, but when the side-effects are so severe, it is no wonder many people are seeking natural alternatives to conventional depression treatment.
Or the Natural Way?
Depression is known to be caused by deficiencies in magnesium as well as folate, and so most depression treatment is aimed at increasing these mineral levels in the body. In addition, excessive consumption of narcotic substances and alcohol are believed to contribute to the onset of depression. Therefore a natural depression treatment regimen should remove these harmful substances from the diet while including more magnesium and B vitamins. A daily dose of additional vitamin supplements can help bridge the gap where our modern diet fails us. Studies show that Omega-3 contributes greatly towards the feel-good factor and, along with amino acids and complex carbohydrates, should also be included in the diet as part of depression treatment.
In elderly people, improper absorption of necessary minerals and vitamins is a possible cause of depression and mood swings. Depression treatment in these cases is aimed at ensuring the required intake of mineral and vitamin supplements is obtained.
In addition to diet, regular exercise and relaxation techniques are invaluable in depression treatment. Endorphins, released in the brain during any physical activity, help to have a better, happier frame of mind. Relaxation and meditation also form an integral part of depression treatment as it relieves stress and calms the mind, making you feel more positive. Deep breathing is an anytime, anywhere, easy-to-do activity that enhances depression treatment.
Complete Healing
So far, it is clear that depression treatment should be holistic, and not just rely on wonder drugs or miracle cures.
Holistic, natural, depression treatment advocates a complete change of lifestyle to a wholesome, nutritious diet and a stress free, drug-free life style. To re-cap:

1. Cut out alcohol and narcotics, which can contribute towards depression.
2. Restore the natural, chemical balance, through a diet rich in minerals and vitamins and by avoiding over-processed foods.
3. Top-up any vitamins and minerals not found in the diet through supplementation.
4. Use exercise and relaxation techniques to aid the treatment of depression.

It is very easy for sufferers to fall into the trap of believing that depression is a natural part of who they are. It isn¡¯t! Depression is more often than not caused by a chemical imbalance causing the body to be in a less than perfect, un-natural, state. That is why the natural treatment of depression is the best way to keep the black dog off your shoulder

4-Step Treatment of Lupus

2009-03-26T05:11:00.001-07:00

The most common symptom of lupus is the appearance of a red colored rash over the cheeks and nose. In severe cases the rash may spread to the rest of the body, and bouts of fever and joint pain could be experienced. Once the condition is diagnosed, you might think that the treatment of lupus could begin. However, lupus is an autoimmune condition where the body creates antibodies that attack its own tissues. Therefore the treatment of lupus is often targeted at relieving the symptoms rather than attacking the root of the problem. The plain fact of the matter is that in 90% of lupus cases the cause is unknown, meaning lengthy, and costly, treatments that never actually deal with the root of the problem.
Despite this, there is hope. Lupus can be treated through a 4-step program:
1. Diagnose the disease
2. Relieve the symptoms
3. Isolate the cause
4. Treat the disease
1. Diagnosis
Diagnosis can only be done by a qualified physician. Besides the main symptom of a red rash covering the cheeks and nose already mentioned, the other symptoms to look out for are:
1. Fever or headaches
2.Joint pain
3.Hair loss
4.Depression
5.Mouth ulcers
6.Chest pains
You might notice that these symptoms are not very unique, and a major problem is that the signs and symptoms of lupus often go unnoticed of misdiagnosed. Besides, not all of the above symptoms need to be present in a lupus sufferer. This is why a definite diagnosis from your doctor is needed. Then, it¡¯s on to the next step.
2. Relieve the Symptoms
Lupus can affect any of the main organs of the body such as the lungs, in which case inflammation would occur, possibly leading to pneumonia. Due to this, the treatment of lupus often starts with the treatment of the symptoms rather than the disease itself. For example, if the kidneys are affected then the only symptoms could be swollen ankles and some abnormality in the blood and urine reading. The treatment of lupus would only address those particular symptoms.
The treatment of lupus, when diagnosed, often starts with corticosteroids. Doctors also advise a vitamin and mineral supplement along with conventional medication. Calcium, folic acid and vitamin D, all help strengthen bones and skin. These remedies can ease the pain and discomfort of the disease so that the third step can begin.
3. Isolate the Cause
It is thought that in many cases lupus is caused by an allergic reaction. Finding an allergy can be like finding a needle in a haystack but with the symptoms already under control using the remedies in step 2, the process becomes much less daunting.
Allergy tests are available, and these can be obtained by your doctor. Alternatively, cutting out different foods (dairy, wheat etc.) for short periods of time could reveal the possible cause. It is important to supplement your diet with an essential vitamins and minerals if you want to cut out certain food-groups from your diet.
Once the cause is found, the key to preventing flare-ups is found and treatment can begin.
4. Treatment of Lupus
The treatment of lupus of course will depend upon the cause found in step 3. For many people, the lupus rash is aggravated by strong sunlight. In this case, patients are generally asked to look out for flare-ups and at the first sign start using a stronger sunscreen.
Stress or anxiety attacks are also known to induce flare-ups, so the treatment of lupus can include relaxation techniques. Reduced stress levels are themselves an effective treatment for flare-ups and skin rashes.
The Lupus Foundation of America spends a lot of time researching the treatment of lupus, its causes, and prevention. It funds research for the development of experimental prototypes and new approaches. Even junior investigators are given grants for 2 years in order to help find a cure or natural remedy. At the moment, general scientific knowledge of the autoimmune system is not very strong, and so the treatment of lupus is still mainly restricted to addressing the symptoms only.
Take Control
Lupus should not be just some condition that lies underneath, waiting to break out into embarrassing rashes at any moment. The root of the disease can be found and effectively treated.

Migraines and Photophobia – Please Don’t Show Me the Light

2009-03-26T05:10:00.003-07:00

Photophobia (sensitivity to light) sends people with migraine headaches scurrying for shelter.

Aversion to light is an extremely common, if not universal, characteristic of migraine headaches. Photophobia literally means “a fear or aversion to light.”

It’s almost always accompanied by phonophobia - an aversion to sound. So people suffereing from migraine headaches almost always end up scurrying to the safe confines of a dark and quiet room, not to be disturbed until the headache has ended.

The most common symptoms of migraines (outside of the headache itself) include:

• Nausea (80-90%)
• Photophobia (80%)
• Phonophobia (75-80%)
• Lightheadedness (70%)
• Vomiting (40-60%)

What Causes Photophobia?
In the strictest definition, the main cause of photophobia is glare. People with lighter-colored eyes, cataracts and those who suffer from migraine headaches are more likely to be light and glare sensitive.
Photophobia classically develops when the eye muscles around the iris (the colored portion of the eye) fail to properly constrict and reduce the amount of light entering through the eye's central area, the pupil. When this occurs, exposure to light may be painful. Eye pain results from the undesirable effects of too much scattered stray light on the retina.
When a migraine strikes, the pupil muscles may be suppressed, thereby allowing this flood of light into the retina. The suppressed functioning of the iris muscles is similar to the suppressed or depressed functioning of the brain’s visual pathways noted in migraine auras - resulting in visual field losses or dark spots. (See our previous article: “The Migraine Aura – Tricks From The Brain.”)

The Cortical Spreading Depression (CSD) Concept
These findings stem from the Cortical Spreading Depression (CSD) concept advanced in the last few years. The CSD theory suggests there is an initial shut down of nerve cells which suppresses normal body functioning - followed by a burst of recharging activity. It’s thought the headache pain comes from the “rebound effect” of nerve cells recharging themselves.

As a consequence, sensitivity to glare could cause a general neural hyper-excitability. This would contribute to the pain by triggering a particular nerve complex behind the eye, called the trigeminal ganglion.

Here’s an interesting observation: Recent migraine photophobia studies demonstrated that in 19 of 25 patients, light-induced pain was greater on the same side that the headache was felt.

Another study investigated whether migraine sufferers are inherently more sensitive to light and sound - even if they are not experiencing any headache at all. The results were positive: As compared to the normal population, those who suffer from migraines were significantly more sensitive to light and sound even when they were headache-free.

Migraine Symptoms Evolve Over Time

A recent study of 260 patients has put to rest any debate whether or not migraine symptoms such as photophobia actually diminish with increasing age.

Earlier reports noted a statistical increase in symptoms over time, such as photophobia, phonophobia, dizziness, throbbing, pressure, stabbing, and being forced to sleep or rest when the headache pain arrived.

However, recent analysis broke these symptoms down into more detail. The good news was that migraines in women peaked in the 30 – 49 year old age group, and then declined as they grew older. Additionally, headache intensity declined as well for both sexes over 50.

Finally, it was noted that symptoms of vomiting, phonophobia and photophobia also improved slightly simply by reaching 50 years of age.

Red Lenses Relieve Migraines

Since there is some evidence indicating the presence of light can actually trigger or make an existing migraine headache even worse, eye doctors have performed their own studies involving light wavelengths.

The eye’s back wall consists of the retina with special light sensing nerve cells. Retina cells that sense black and white are called rods, while color sensing cells are called cones.

There are three types of color-sensing cones in the retina – reacting to long, medium, and short wavelengths of light, respectively. An eye study performed on thirty-three patients with photophobia during a migraine showed some interesting results.

Specially made red-tinted contact lenses, which blocked 90% of the light spectrum, were placed on patients during acute migraine attacks. Contact lenses were chosen over eyeglasses, because eyeglasses allow glare to reach the eye through the top and sides. (Contrary to what you may think – red lenses don’t block red light. The reason they appear red is because they absorb everything else but red – allow only that wavelength to pass through.)

Thirty-one patients experienced rapid pain relief, of whom 26 had a complete remission. Improvement occurred for most patients within 5 minutes, with 90 minutes being the longest time before relief was felt. In 5 cases, pain completely subsided within 10 seconds of inserting the lenses!

Selectively blocking specific wavelengths with these special contact lenses appears to be even more effective than huddling in total darkness.

An Interesting Aside

Wearing red tinted eyepieces isn’t a totally new concept. During World War II, a problem was discovered concerning soldiers on guard duty. When night fell, there was a period of about a half hour before their eyes could fully adjust to the reduced light. Of course – this proved to be a significant hazard. It was found that if the soldier going on duty wore red tinted goggles during the transition from day into night – this “night blindness” problem was vastly reduced.

A Better Method For Migraine Relief

There is another option to relieve migraine pain – a migraine cure. Cure the migraine and never worry about photophobia or bright lights again.

Recent reports indicate migraine headaches can indeed be totally abolished – as a number of elite medical clinics catering to women have testified. Under their treatment protocols, migraines are completely eliminated in 80% of their patients.

These successes are limited to women only, as addressing a women’s hormones is the basis of the cure. Some clinics have published their treatment protocols and even made them available to the public.

The Women’s Health Institute of Texas believes that a migraine cure certainly eliminates the migraine nausea altogether - and concern over the ensuing migraine headache may no longer be necessary – at least in women.

Natural Diabetes Treatment: A New Hope

2009-03-26T05:10:00.001-07:00

Diabetes is the No. 6 leading causes of deaths in the United States, according to 2001 data from the United States National Center for Health Statistics. Diabetes (both type 1 and 2) is a disease in which your body loses its ability to use or produce insulin, a hormone vital in controlling blood sugar levels. A high blood sugar level, or hyperglycemia, is a potentially fatal condition that requires immediate attention. The University of Michigan Health System lists these warning signs that your blood sugar may be getting too high:
1.- Blurred vision.
2.- Dry mouth.
3.- Excessive thirst.
4.- Increased urination.
5.- Fatigue.

Diabetes treatment aims at preventing hyperglycemia and also the damage it can cause to internal organs. Most diabetes treatments, especially the less ¡°heavy-duty¡± natural ones, are also useful at preventing diabetes amongst those considered at high risk.

Natural Diabetes Treatment: A Little Known Supplement for a Well-Known Disease

More and more people today are looking for a natural remedy for diabetes that can at least supplement conventional treatment and hopefully lessen the need for pharmaceuticals. This is understandable, as diabetes is a lifetime condition with no cure. Therefore a diabetes treatment that is natural, and prevents the need for insulin regular shots, is always sought after. There has been research done into a number of naturally occurring supplements and one in particular, alpha lipoic acid has shown promise as a natural diabetes treatment.

Introducing Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)

ALA is of the most potent and active antioxidants known. Known, that is, to scientists. It is little known as a supplement, yet it is an incredibly versatile molecule. The body actually makes enough alpha lipoic acid to perform some basic metabolic functions. However, it only acts as an antioxidant, and an effective treatment for diabetes, when it is above the body¡¯s threshold of what it requires for these basic functions. The only way to get an excess is, of course, to take supplements - but will it work as a diabetes treatment if you do?

Well, a recent study done by a medical center in Russia, in collaboration with Mayo Clinic, found that ALA, or alpha lipoic acid, reduced the frequency and severity of diabetes symptoms. The March 2003 issue of the magazine Diabetes Care published the findings about diabetes treatment with ALA. What was surprising was how quickly the body responded to ALA¡¯s use. Here are the other findings:
1.- There were no marked side effects
2.- There was a great improvement in the damage to the nerves caused by the condition
3.- There was a noticeable lessening of pain
4.- There was a 5.7 total score improvement in those who took ALA as a diabetes treatment. Those who took a placebo were recorded as having an improvement of just 1.8.

This naturally occurring compound may just be the diabetes treatment needed to stop the escalating numbers of diabetes patients, and diabetes fatalities, all over the world. It is an effective antioxidant and has been found to prevent vitamin E and vitamin C deficiency. Besides diabetes treatment, studies have shown that it could be useful in the treatment of Alzheimer¡¯s and Parkinson¡¯s disease as well.

Migraine-Associated Vertigo

2009-03-26T05:09:00.003-07:00

Vertigo, which is an illusion of movement in relation to the environment, is commonly experienced as part of a migraine headache.

Migraine is a disease characterized by periodic headaches, but patients often experience other symptoms, including dizziness. In some patients, dizziness can be the only symptom. The dizziness associated with migraines is called vertigo.

Vertigo is basically a sensation of a room spinning around you, while at rest. Nausea and sometimes vomiting is always associated with vertigo.

Motion sickness is a common migraine accompaniment as well. Most studies report about 50% of patients with migraines have motion sickness. Patients with migraine-associated vertigo often provide a long history of motion intolerance during car, boat, or air travel or all three. People with migraines are, in general, more sensitive to motion of the environment and to busy environments.

The symptoms of migraine-associated vertigo are variable and may feel like a room spinning at rest (true vertigo), a constant feeling of imbalance, and/or dizziness associated primarily when moving and not at rest. Symptoms directly associated with a migraine headache can occur prior to the onset of headache or during a headache.

Vertigo Without Headaches

It is also quite common to experience vertigo during a headache-free interval. As such, many patients who experience migraine-associated vertigo will experience dizziness as the main symptom even in the absence of a headache! In fact, most patients with migraine-associated vertigo have dizziness that occurs independently of the headache.

This last condition of someone experiencing vertigo without any headache confuses doctors and patients alike. It is far more common than thought and most of the time is a missed diagnosis and thereby a missed opportunity for treatment.

Prevalence of Migraine-Associated Vertigo
Reports indicate that 27-42% of all migraine patients report episodic vertigo. What is interesting is that about a third (about 36%) of these patients experienced vertigo during headache-free periods. The remainder experienced vertigo either just before or during the headache. The incidence of vertigo during the headache period was higher in patients with aura as opposed to those without aura.
Duration:

The vertigo symptoms may last for a few minutes or may be continuous for several weeks or even for months! In women, there is a strong association of dizziness occurring within the menstrual cycle.

The duration of the vertigo can also be quite variable. The frequencies of different durations of vertigo spells in migraine-associated vertigo are as follows:

o 7% experience vertigo for a duration of seconds.
o 31% experience vertigo for minutes to up to 2 hours.
o 5% have vertigo for 2-6 hours.
o 8% have vertigo for 6-24 hours.
o 49% experience vertigo for longer than 24 hours.

What Causes the Vertigo Associated with Migraines?

The most commonly accepted theory regarding the pathophysiology of migraine-associated vertigo is the Cortical Spreading Depression theory (CSD). Multiple authors propose that episodes of dizziness are similar to that of a migraine aura or are actually part of the aura.

But since only about 20% of migraine sufferers actually experience an aura, researches attribute the vertigo as part of a fluctuation of nerve cell ion channels. Recent understandings in a particular type of migraine – Familial Hemiplegic Migraine (FHM) have shown two genes responsible for controlling ion flow across nerve cell membranes.

These two genes affect changes in calcium, sodium and potassium channels. This alters the electrical conduction potentials of nerve cells. The result is a transient wave front that suppresses central neuronal activity. This depression spreads in all directions from its site of origin. These changes result in a reduction in cerebral blood flow in the areas of spreading depression.

Two authors have suggested that when dizziness is unrelated to headache, the dizziness occurs from the release of neuropeptides, including substance P, neurokinin A, calcitonin and gene–related peptide [CGRP].
No single hypothesis explains the headache or dizziness process in migraine at this time. Thus, the causes of the symptoms of migraine remain controversial.
Meniere’s Disease
There is another relatively common form of vertigo called Meniere’s Disease. Meniere’s Disease is not related to migraines at all. It has a classic triad of vertigo, hearing loss and tinnitus (ringing of the ears). The vertigo of Meniere’s Disease is frequently confused with migraine-associated vertigo.
Fortunately, the vertigo associated with the more common forms of migraines rarely have any hearing loss and also does not have much in the way of tinnitus.
Basilar Migraines

The is one ominous variant of migraine headaches called Basilar Migraines (or also known as Bickerstaff ‘s syndrome) which is a cross between a migraine and occasionally ends up in a stroke. Some features of Basilar Migraines include vertigo, hearing loss and tinnitus. Up to 80% of patients with Basilar Migraine have been reported to have sensorineural hearing loss.
So in the case of the Basilar Migraines, the vertigo might be indistinguishable from Meniere’s Disease during the headache-free intervals. Otherwise the presence of the headache would lend it toward the migraine component and should be treated as a migraine.
Clearly, Basilar Migraines are a more pernicious variety of migraine headache. Even though Basilar Migraines are classified as a sub-group of migraines, some believe that the stroke-like damage that is frequently associated with this group of headaches places it in a different category and should be treated very differently from the typical migraine.

Treatment

Unfortunately, the vertigo component of migraines is extremely resistant to standard treatment. The triptan class of drugs is relatively ineffective. Also, the standard anti-vertigo drugs like meclizine and phenergan also do not work well.

A Better Method For Migraine Relief

There is another option to relieve migraine pain – a migraine cure. Cure the migraine and never worry about migraine-associated vertigo again.

Recent reports indicate migraine headaches can indeed be totally abolished – as a number of elite medical clinics catering to women have testified. Under their treatment protocols, migraines are completely eliminated in 80% of their patients.

These successes are limited to women only, as addressing a woman’s hormones is the basis of the cure. Some clinics have published their treatment protocols and even made them available to the public.

The Women’s Health Institute of Texas believes that a migraine cure certainly eliminates the migraine nausea altogether - and concern over the ensuing migraine headache may no longer be necessary – at least in women.

Is Your Memory Loss "Normal" or Is There a Problem?

2009-03-26T05:09:00.001-07:00

Experts say some memory lapses are actually normal. So before you go diagnosing yourself with Alzheimer's disease, take heart. It is said that memory loss is the second thing that occurs as you age. So what's the first? Umm, I forgot! Actually, by the time you reach the end of this story, you may remember only a fraction of it. Don't worry, you're not alone.

Mild memory loss is perfectly normal, especially as we age. It has happened to all of us at one time or another; You draw a complete blank when introducing a new acquaintance. You leave the house with food bubbling on the stove. You forget to pick up your child from after-school practice. You forget a doctor's appointment, a birthday, an anniversary. Oh - and let's not forget the all-too-often search for car keys.

If you sometimes forget simple things, you're not necessarily developing Alzheimer's disease. There are many people like yourself walking around who occasionally misplace their keys, who can't recall the name of one new person they met at their last office party, and have that “deer-in-the-headlights” look when searching for their car in the parking lot. There's a reason Disney has character-themed floors coupled with the happy-go-lucky music in their parking garages.

Memory, the ability to normally recall the facts and events of our lives, takes place in three stages:
Stage 1 – Encoding: When a person takes information in.
Stage 2 – Consolidation: When the brain takes the encoded information and processes it, storing it in certain areas of the brain.
Stage 3 – Retrieval:. When someone recalls stored information in the brain.

For a layman, differentiating between normal memory loss and Alzheimer's disease can be puzzling because the kind of memory that is affected in everyday situations is also the kind affected in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease.

Time is memory's worst enemy. Memory loss and brain aging are a natural part of getting older. In their 50s, people will often start to report that they think their memories are going. Because they have to use more reminders or more kinds of strategies for remembering things, older adults seem to be consciously aware of their memory loss.

But even before we hit our 50s, memory loss can start to occur. Shortly after receiving information, our memory begins to deteriorate. Some information fades right away, while other things fade less quickly. There are many different forgetting curves with different rates of forgetting that depend on the nature of the material, on how important the information is to you, and how high your stress levels are.

Studies show that after some time, people probably don't remember events as they actually happened. You may think you have a vivid memory of an experience, but memory distortion does occur. The longer the period of time that passes between an event and trying to recall it, the greater the chance people are going to have some memory distortions and forgetfulness. Occasionally, time distortion causes us to forget the event completely.

Short of Alzheimer's disease, other causes of memory loss can include: stress and anxiety, ADHD, depression, thyroid gland diseases, diabetes, lung, liver, or kidney failure, alcoholism, Vitamin B-12 deficiency, infections, and both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Depression and stress are the most common reasons for temporary memory problems. The causes of memory loss from many of these conditions are normally reversible.

No matter how "normal" memory lapses may be, that doesn't make them any less frustrating. Experts agree that the best way to keep your brain fit is to keep using it. Four things that slow down brain aging include: mental activity, physical fitness, stress reduction, and a healthy diet. Those with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and other conditions increase their risk for small strokes in the brain. Also antioxidants help protect brain cells and exercise helps with overall health.

The most important things to help extend and maintain your cognitive abilities for a longer period of time include staying intellectually and socially engaged. Also by challenging yourself by learning new things, reading, and taking up hobbies keep the brain active and strong for the long haul.

Some other things you can do to improve memory include: Focusing your attention on the task at hand. Multitasking and not paying attention are two of the biggest causes of forgetfulness. Reduce stress, get plenty of sleep, organize yourself by writing things down or using date books.

When should you see a doctor? Research shows that up to half of people over age 50 have mild forgetfulness linked to age-associated memory impairment. But there are signs when more serious memory conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease, are happening. While there is no definitive way to pinpoint Alzheimer's, there are some diagnostic ways doctors distinguish normal memory loss from that which should raise concern. Normal forgetfulness can include: forgetting where you parked your car, forgetting a person's name, but can recall it later, or forgetting events from your past. More serious symptoms and possible problems of forgetfulness include: recalling recent events, how to drive a car, forgetting to have ever known a particular person, confusion, and loss of function.

Many doctors feel that if you are worried about your memory, the problem probably isn't that serious. However you should consult a doctor when your relatives or friends express concerns about your memory loss.