Is Niacin Right for You? Weight Loss & Lower LDL...

For those seeking to lose those extra pounds consider the introduction of Niacin supplements. Niacin will improve the rate of food digestion and speed the metabolism of carbohydrates. As an added extra bonus, dieters on a low carbohydrate diet, may negate the affects of the “listlessness” or “blues " associated with the low carbohydrate diet while simultaneously working to improve metabolism and burn off calories while taking this supplement.

Niacin is a water soluble B3 vitamin and it is important for converting calories from protein, fat and carbohydrates into energy. But it also helps the digestive system function and promotes a normal appetite and healthy skin and nerves. Found naturally in sources of protein such as red meat, poultry, fish and nuts. Even potatoes, pasta and yeast extract also contain this vitamin. Some foods such as bread and breakfast cereals are also fortified with niacin. The body is also able to make niacin from an amino acid (protein building block) called tryptophan. This means foods that are a good source of tryptophan such as eggs, milk, cheese and yogurt, can contribute to recommended intakes of niacin.

Niacin can be taken in a tablet form as a supplement to your standard or low carb diet. In combination with other B vitamins, Niacin works to release energy from ingested carbohydrates while adding the additional B the body requires on a daily basis. Additionally, within the bloodstream, Niacin works to decrease the level of cholesterol and fat in the bloodstream as well. This combination, mixed with a low carbohydrate diet, can lead to significant weight loss. Niacin has also been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol the 'bad' cholesterol that clogs the heart's arteries and triglycerides and raise HDL cholesterol (the 'good' cholesterol that prevents hardening of the artery walls).

However, Niacin is not for everyone. Consult with your doctor prior to taking Niacin supplements, especially if you are taking any medications for high blood pressure. The Niacin could make your blood pressure drop way too low. And if you have Diabetes, Niacin could raise your Blood sugar level too high. If you are suffering from Gout, Niacin could raise your uric acid levels and cause an attack so please consult with a physician prior to taking this supplement as you must work with your doctor to have your cholesterol and liver functions checked often. If you have liver disease or ulcers, Niacin could exasperate the condition.

Noticeable side effect from taking Niacin is what they call the “Niacin flush”, for 15 to 30 minutes the face and neck get red, hot and itchy. However, it eventually wears off. I do take Niacin supplements and take one in the morning on a full stomach prior to my morning shower, this way, when the flush hits me, I’m covered in cool water and barely notice the effects.

So, think that you have a difficiency? A deficiency of Niacin is rare. Keep your eyes open for things like: skin problems, weakness, fatigue and a loss of appetite. In extreme cases, a condition called pellagra develops, which is mainly seen in third world countries. This is characterized by weight loss, skin problems, diarrhea, depression and in severe cases, dementia. Anorexics are often deficient in Niacin and suffer many of the above mentioned side effects.

The Best Simple Kidney Cleanse - Watermelon Seed Tea

Kidney cleansing is a procedure which is used to dissolve Kidney stones. Symptoms of kidney stones are pain in the lower and middle back (kidney area or spine) however, some people may feel the pain in different parts of their body.

Watermelon Seed Tea
Watermelon seed tea is a diuretic recommended to cleanse and purify the kidneys and bladder it also stimulates under-active kidneys.

Directions:
At least once a day, three days a week, take watermelon seed tea prepared by pouring a pint of boiling water over a tablespoonful of watermelon seed (ground or cut) and allowing it to steep. Let it cool, then strain and drink. If practical the tea should be made fresh for each use.

DIY Brown Sugar Body Polish

Body scrubs have become all the rage in the last few years. Then can help slough of dead skin and help with circulation and just plain smell yummy. Here is a do-it-yourself body polish recipe that's sure to please.

Not only can you make this special treat for yourself but you can personally label it and give it to a friend as a gift during the holidays if you put it in a tightly sealed glass jar.

All you need is:
1/4 cup of brown sugar
1 Tablespoon of Jojoba Oil
1 Tablespoon of Almond oil
2 Tablespoons of Honey
5-7 drops of your favorite essential oil (for example: Lemon, rose or lavender etc.)

Mix all the ingredients in a glass blow and when you are in the shower, gently scrub all over your body paying special attention to rough patches on feet, knees and elbows.

Then rinse.

Certo for Arthritis?

Certo is available in any supermarket, these products are used for thickening
jam.

Some claim that Certo type remedies are helpful at reducing painful joints.
Many people who have suffered  from various types of arthritis were at the end
of their ropes with traditional medicine, including prescription drugs, had been
ineffective in relieving their discomfort. As a last resort, they tried Certo —
and it worked.  I do in fact take Certo Myself and have noticed remarkably less
paint in my joints.  I am an avid runner and I am very hard on my joints and
since beginning this regime, my discomfort is a distant memory.

This has personally worked for me.  The funny thing is that my
Veterinarian had prescribed this for my dog who was suffering from joint pain
as well. I would sprinkle a small amount over his food and he appeared to be
more mobile afterwards...but you'll have to take my word for it.

In any case, some people have added a tablespoonful (or a packet) to coffee,
tea, protein shakes or orange juice once or twice a day (with good results),
most people indicated that they achieved maximum benefit by mixing one to
three tablespoons of Certo in a glass of unsweetened grape juice once or
twice a day. (The amount can be varied according to the severity of
symptoms.)

Within a week, most arthritis sufferers experienced significant relief of pain.
They then either reduced the dose or discontinued Certo altogether until they
had another flare-up of pain. 

The Best Darned Vegetarian Chili Ever!

Since the weather is starting to cool in some corners of the earth, nothing beats a great bowl of spicy chili! This is my favorite "meatless" chili and can even fool some of the most carnivorous of the bunch due to the TVP (Texurized Vegetable Protein). Enjoy!

*If possible, try to purchase all organic products and pay special attention to the sodium content.

1 can kidney beans

1 can Garbanzo (chick peas) beans

250-ml. of diced canned tomatoes

1 Jar (750 ml) of Tomato sauce or pasta sauce

½ cup of tomato juice

TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein, looks like ground beef, available at supermarket, try Yves brand)

3 medium sized Spanish onions diced or 2 large Spanish onions

1 green pepper diced

2 tablespoons of chopped garlic

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 or 2 teaspoons of chili powder (to taste)

Toasted ground cumin 2 teaspoons

½ teaspoon cayenne

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

In a small frying pan with no oil, add the ground cumin and toast it for about 1 minute at med. to high heat - until the scent begins to be released and then remove from heat and set aside.

Then in a separate large wok sized frying pan, sauté the onion, green pepper and garlic in olive oil for about 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to slightly soften. Then add the spices, including the toasted cumin and continue to sauté for 3 minutes.

Add the tomato products, beans and TVP (textured vegetable protein). Simmer 30 minutes.

Then serve.

Makes a large serving for 4-6 people.

Probiotics "The Good Bacteria"

Probiotics are live microorganisms with potentially therapeutic and clinically documented health benefits. They can dramatically increase overall nutrition and enhance rapid cellular growth and development. Probiotics strengthen the immune system, due to the support to the immune system, they have been used in alleviating allergies, chronic fatigue syndrome and systemic candida. They produce huge pools of extra anti-bodies, ready to protect and defend against infection. Probiotic bacteria work in symbiosis with tissue and organ cells to metabolize proteins and help eliminate toxic wastes from the body.

Constipation is quickly relieved by probiotics and the bowel movements become normalized, which means diarrhea is also reduced. Yeast and fungal infections are prevented and sometimes eliminated with supplements of probiotics. Probiotics can help reduce intestinal inflammation and hypersensitivity reactions in infants with food allergies and those suffering from atopic eczema. They also may help to prevent liver damage caused by excessive alcohol intake. Not all bacteria are harmful, however, just think of the ‘good bugs’ that are used to bake bread and make wine and beer. Hmmm…now that I think of it, I’m going to get some right now! Probiotics that is!

Cure for Bad Breath?

Besides going to the dentist for regular cleanings and check ups, sometimes that's not enough. Of course if you diet consists of cabbage and garlic, I could solve your problem in 2 seconds flat but it's not so simple. However, here are a few natural tried and true methods to help you with some of those embarrassing little issues that no one seems to want to tell you about. Bad breath! I'll cut to the chase...give this home-made oral rinse a try:
Mouthwash
Ingredients: Hydrogen Peroxide 3%
Pinch of Baking Soda
Pinch of Salt
Water (Preferably Purified)
Essential peppermint oil (optional)
Tongue Scraper

Instructions:
Mix one part water with one part peroxide. You can find peroxide in every pharmacy. Add a pinch of salt and a pinch of baking soda so that it is not very salty but you can still taste the salt. This is your mouth wash. You can add some essential oil or peppermint for taste but it's not necessary. Scrape your tongue with the tongue scraper or brush it with a tooth brush. Then proceed to swish and gargle regularly for a couple of minutes. Repeat twice per day or as needed. Don't forget to floss too!

If you find that this is not effective, chances are you have a few more serious issues. Nothing to worry about just yet. However give this a try:

Flora Balance "The Good Bacteria"
Flora Balance is a good bacteria, otherwise known as a probiotic bacteria. Probiotics dramatically increase overall nutrition and enhance rapid cellular growth and development, sounds good so far, right? Probiotics strengthen the immune system, due to the support to the immune system, they have been used in alleviating allergies, chronic fatigue syndrome and systemic candida. Probiotic bacteria work in symbiosis with tissue and organ cells to metabolize proteins and help eliminate toxic wastes from the body, sounds dreamy!

So this leads us into how it can alleviate bad breath. Well, hydrocarbons are broken down by probiotic bacteria which means the food is being split into its most basic elements. Since probiotics clean the colon, bad breath and body odor are greatly reduced. This is because the lungs and skin will be utilized by the body to help eliminate toxins when the intestinal tract is clogged and functioning poorly. I have personally tried this and I have to say that it worked for me. Even if you don't have bad breath, there are many other benefits to using probiotics and I will discuss them in a separate post.

The Importance of DETOX!

Liver Gall Flush

I've personally done this Liver Gall Flush below and although it's not entirely pleasant, I'm very glad I did it and will have to make time in my calendar to do this again. To my surprise, I had gall stones and didn't even know it! Do you have issues with gall stones? PMS? Bad skin? Gout? Eczema? This works! A clean liver will enable your body to absorb vitamins better, your system will function more efficiently and you will feel an overall sense of well-being. This recipe comes from my nutritionist who's word is the bible when it comes to any health concerns that I may have. He is the very first person that I consult with myself. I will interview him in the future and post his contact information soon but for now, he's all mine!

Btw, this takes 2 days and I suggest that you begin it on a Friday or Saturday so it doesn't interfere with your work week.

Day 1

Morning: Only fruit, toast, jam....NO butter!

Lunch only cooked vegetables (no oil, or anything else) (may I suggest a home-made gazpacho soup)

Anytime- water, as desired

6:00pm 1 level tablespoon Epsom salt (available at any pharmacy over the counter for oral consumption) in 3/4c water

8:00pm 1 level tablespoon Epsom salt in 3/4c water

Bedtime (10:00pm or sooner)
1/2c virgin olive oil + 1/2-3/4c grapefruit juice (fresh squeezed)
-shake well, drink*, and go straight to bed- lie on your right side, or your back

Note: Do everything you need to do before you drink your juice-oil drink- brush your teeth, make your bed, put on your PJ’s, and anything else you do before bed, because as soon as you drink the mix, you lie down to bed; right away. This is important!

Day 2

Morning: as soon as you wake up; 1tablespoon Epsom salt in 3/4c water

2 hours later 1 tablespoon Epsom salt in 3/4c water

1 hour later eat only some fruit

1 hour later eat as desired, with small portions

* Some people may experience nausea their first try of this flush on the second day. The important thing is that you get through day one as most of the gall stones will be released the first night and in the morning.

Good luck and I hope it helps! Feel free to give me your feedback on your experience with this flush.

The Mother of All Hormones - DHEA

DHEA ( Dehydroepiandrosterone) is the most abundant steroid found in the human blood stream. It is also reported as one of the most reliable bio-markers of aging.

DHEA is sometimes called the "mother of all hormones" because it is the building block from which estrogen and testosterone are produced and is vital to health. It is secreted by the adrenal glands and also produced in the gonads (testes and ovaries) and brain.

I have found some of the reported benefits of DHEA on the "net" and have posted them here below as there were so many I didn't want you all to miss out.

DHEA:

• is an antioxidant
  
  
• is a hormone regulator (it helps regulate the thyroid & pituitary glands, and enhances thymus gland function)
  
  
• decreases cholesterol
  
  
• stimulates the production of human growth hormone
  
  
• boosts immunity by stimulating killer cell activity
  
  
• increases the sensitivity of cells to insulin
  
  
• assists in returning the body to a balanced state after a stress reaction
  
  
• improves cognitive function, bone formation and libido
  
  
• enhances mood by increasing the brain's serotonin levels
  

DHEA has been reported to have anti-diabetic, anti-dementia, anti-obesity, anti-carcinogenic, anti-stress, immune-enhancing, anti-viral and anti-bacterial, anti-aging and anti-heart disease effects.

Studies have shown that DHEA levels peak at the age 25 and decline at a rate of about 2% a year, thereafter. It isn't until the mid-forties, however, that we begin to feel the effects of lower DHEA levels. DHEA deficiency include: poor memory, poor resistance to noise, anxiety, decreased libido (especially in women), decreased armpit and pubic hair, and dry skin and eyes.

Through regular supplementation, it has been proposed as a way to indirectly slow down the aging process and improve quality of life. In addition, DHEA is known to stabilize nerve-cell growth and is being tested currently in Alzheimer patients.

Since you can't obtain DHEA from food, supplementation is recommended in order to maintain adequate levels for optimal health. I personally take 25 mg every other day to stave off any of the negative effects. There are some reported side effects and some people should NOT take DHEA. If you have cancer or are in remission, DHEA is not for you. And especially if you are under the age of 30. In addition, the biggest concern over DHEA supplementation is the issue of androgen/estrogen production from DHEA. Various tissues can convert DHEA to either androgens (testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, androstenedione) or estrogens (estrone, estradiol).

DHEA studies have reported significant androgen increases in women, at a 50 mg and higher dosages and a decreased testosterone level in men, combined with an increase in estradiol which can result in acne, oily skin, facial hair growth in women, and irritability, insomnia, fatigue, and breast enlargement in men, so proceed with caution and consult a physician to see if this supplement is right for you.

The Miracle Wrinkle Cream - Retin-A

Retin-A (Tretinoin) Acid is a topical prescription cream which was initially prescribed for acne, however it has one of the most pleasant side-effects... it reduced fine lines and wrinkles with regular use. I personally use it, however not around the eye region as it tends to get worse before it gets better.

It works by increasing blood flow and stimulating skin cells to produce new collagen. This can help to eliminate tiny wrinkles and make deep wrinkles less noticeable. The top layer of the skin also thickens and produces a more youthful appearance and sagging skin is reduced.

It works on acne, large pores, discoloration and sun-damaged skin. However, don't expect it to work overnight. Retin-A takes approximately a full 6 months to see a dramatic difference, however you can see improvements in as little as 3 to 6 weeks.

It can also be used in conjunction with an over-the-counter topical cream called Hydroquinone which is a bleaching agent that decreases melanin production. It is generally used to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmented skin, on the body or face and when you mix a small pea sized amount with Retin-A you maximize it's effectiveness. I use this combination and I prefer the Hydroquinone 4% strength with U.V. Sunscreen protection. During the summer and pretty much any time you are outdoors for a long period of time, always use sunblock on any exposed areas of the skin that has been treated with Retin-A as the new "baby" skin will be very sensitive and can discolor easily. Never expose Retin-A treated skin to tanning beds.

You will notice a lot of peeling and flaking which is normal and will subside over time. I have resorted to using pure zinc cream at night to moisturize the treated areas on nights when I skip an application as well as another over-the-counter moisturizer called Prevex to moisturize flaky areas that may erupt unexpectedly during the day. No one will be kind enough to tell you when you skin begins to flake so do carry a small compact mirror with you and check every so often to anticipate touch ups. It's a pain in the behind, but the reward is worth it. I'm a life-long user of Retin-A. Men can use this too!

Dessert of the day: Raspberry Tofu Parfait

Ingredients:

2 X 225g/10oz raspberries (fresh or frozen)
1-packet Stevia or Splenda Brand Sweetener
2 packets of firm silken tofu (drained)
1 tsp. Pure Almond extract
1tsp vanilla essence
½ cup of honey
Sliced almonds slightly toasted (for garnish)

Directions:

1 If using frozen raspberries allow to thaw completely, retaining a few for garnishing. Place raspberries in blender with ¼ cup of water and 1 packet of stevia natural sweetener or Splenda, blend until mixed and pour into pan and cook at medium high heat, enough to lightly bubble for 8-10 minutes, until raspberries are reduced to a jam like consistency. Set aside to cool and then use as a garnish at bottom of dessert cup and to top.

2 Combine all the remaining ingredients in a blender except for the sliced almonds which will be uses to top the parfait.

3 Divide the mixture between four dessert dishes. For example, in a sundae dessert dish, spoon raspberry mixture on the bottom and then add the tofu then top off with the remainder of the raspberry mixture. Finally top with the toasted almonds and serve.

Starchy (High Carb) Vegetables

The main veggies to be avoided when reducing carbohydrates are the starchier vegetables and ones higher in sugar. Sadly, these below are some of my favorite vegetables:

• Beets
• Carrots (depends on diet)
• Corn
• Parsnips
• Peas
• Plantains
• Potatoes in all forms
• Winter Squashes (particularly acorn and butternut)

Low Carb Vegetables

This list is roughly arranged from lowest to highest carbohydrate counts, but all are non-starchy and generally low in carbohydrates. Exact carb count depends on serving size.

• Sprouts (bean, alfalfa, etc.)
• Greens – lettuces, spinach, chard, etc.
• Hearty Greens - collards, mustard greens, kale, etc.
• Radicchio and endive count as greens
• Herbs - parsley, cilantro, basil, rosemary, thyme, etc.
• Bok Choy
• Celery
• Radishes
• Sea Vegetables (Nori, etc)
• Broccoli
• Cauliflower
• Cabbage (or sauerkraut)
• Mushrooms
• Jicama
• Avocado
• Cucumber (or pickles without added sugars)
• Peppers (all kinds)
• Summer Squash (including zucchini)
• Scallions or green onions
• Asparagus
• Bamboo Shoots
• Leeks
• Brussels Sprouts
• Snow Peas (pods)
• Green Beans and Wax Beans
• Tomatoes
• Eggplant
• Artichoke Hearts
• Fennel
• Onions
• Okra
• Spaghetti Squash
• Celery Root (Celeriac)
• Carrots
• Turnip
• Water Chestnuts
• Pumpkin

The Anti-Aging Phase - Supplements

Ah....the fountain of youth. Much can be discussed about this subject in detail and yet not have the definitive answer. There are many supplements on the market that are helpful but by no means a "magic bullet". Here are a few supplements listed below that my nutritionist/trainer has recommended to me.

The Anti-aging phase requires substances that aid in fat loss and increased stamina. This would include metabolic optimizers and supplements that combat stress:

Antioxidants

B-Complex

Magnesium

Co-Enzyme Q-10

Caffeine

Glucosamine

MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)

BCAA (Branched Chain Amino Acids)

I will further elaborate on each of these supplements individually in a future post.

Strength/Enhancement (Anaerobic) Supplements List

The Strength/Enhancement (anaerobic) phase requires substances that provide the protein and nutrients to the muscles to aid in their recovery. This would include:

Antioxidants

Protein Powder

Branched Chain Amino Acids

Essential Fatty Acids

Creatine

Caffeine

Dhea

Glutamine

I'm going to elaborate further on each component individually and let you decide whether any of these supplements are right for you. Stay tuned...

The 300 Movie Workout

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uy2ElkOuNF0

The 300-movie workout is the talk of the fitness world. It's helped the actors from the film chisel their physiques to that of an ancient Greek statue. It’s been featured in Men's Health and on ESPN. Everyone is looking for the 300 workout on the “Net”. Here’s how the original 300 Workout goes but I must caution you to begin slowly and consult with your physician prior to attempting this workout.

1. Pull ups - 25 reps

2. Dead lifts with 135lbs - 50 reps

3. Push-ups - 50 reps

4. 24-inch Box jumps - 50 reps

5. Floor wipers - 50 reps

6. 1-arm Clean & Press with 36lbs Kettlebell - 50 reps

7. Pull-ups - 25 reps

And remember, there are NO scheduled rests between exercises.
For example, you might do this 200-repetition workout - this is acceptable for a man with moderate fitness level:

5 Chin-ups

20 prisoner squats

20 push-ups

100 Jumping Jacks

30 Bicycle Crunches

10 decline push-ups

15 bodyweight rows

Optionally, you could do 100 reps of rope jumping to finish off 300 total reps.

An intermediate woman could do a 150-rep workout:

5 Bodyweight Rows

10 Bodyweight Sumo Squats

15 bodyweight squats

15 Push-ups (doing as many regular push-ups, followed by kneeling)

50 jumping jacks

10 Spiderman climbs

20 reverse lunges

25 bicycle crunches

Add in 50 rope skips for 200 total repetitions - or 150 skips for a full 300.

So you can do your own version of the 300 workout and build your own Greek God or Greek Goddess body.

Just using one of these workouts once every other month is enough of an extra challenge.

Detoxification Baths

Use 1/2 cup of baking soda
1/2 cup of Epsom salt
1/2 cup of sea salt

This is a favorite detox bath I have been doing for the last year now and it's been quite effective for me. Simply pour all the above ingredients into your tub and soak for 15-20 minutes. Scrub the skin gently with soap and some sort of natural fiber or loofah. Within a few minutes the water will turn murky and "dirty." The darkness to the water is heavy metals coming out of the skin (aluminum and mercury). Do this once a week during detox and once a month for maintenance.

Recipe of the Day: Halibut En Poupiette with Mango Salsa

Halibut En Poupiette with Mango Salsa

• 4 x 6 oz fillet of halibut
• 2 tbsp of low sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
• 3 tbsp freshly grated ginger
• parchement paper
  

Mango Salsa

• 2 Mangos, skinned and diced into 1/4 inch cubes
• 4 scallion, trimmed, diced
• 1/4 cup of chopped red onion
  
• 1/2 cup lightly packed cilantro, chopped
• 4 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
• 5 tbsp red bell pepper
  
• 2 jalapeno chili, seeds and membrane removed, minced

Preheat oven to 425°F.

1. Rinse fillets, then pat dry.
   
2. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, lime juice, and ginger.
3. Set a large enough sheet of parchement paper flatly, enough to cover and seal fish completely, add halibut to the center of the parchment paper. Then, using a tablespoon, spoon one quarter of the soy-lime-ginger mixture over each of the fillets. Roll up the open ends and tightly crimp to seal shut so that no air escapes and the fish is steamed within the parchment paper.
4. Bake on a cookie sheet for 15 minutes. I choose to put the fleshy part of the fish face down.
   
5. To serve, tear a small slit in the top of the parchment paper, peel back the paper just enough to expose the fish, then spoon Mango Salsa overtop of fish. Serve immediately.

Mango Salsa

1. Combine all salsa ingredients in a bowl and mix thoroughly with a fork and serve either on the side or on top of fish.
   

Make-Up...Good For Your Skin?

Only if you are using Mineral Make-Up!

I cannot say enough about this wonderful "foundation". I have had a history of "problem skin" such as sensitivity, acne and eczema over the years. However, after countless dermatology appointments, topical and prescription medications, I have managed to at least find a velvety smooth powder foundation that is actually good for my skin. It allows either full coverage or just a light sheer application.

The 2 front-runners are Jane Iredale and i.d. bare mineral make up. I have tried both Jane Iredale and i.d. bare minerals foundation and if you prefer more of a dewy finish, i.d. is your pick. It works best on very youthful skin with smaller pores as the powder may enhance larger pores and wrinkles. My personal preference is the Jane Iredale as I like a tiny bit of a glow. Yet, I do love the Mineral Veil that is made from i.d. which I use to deflect some of the shine from the Iredale mineral foundation and set my base before applying blush. As far as concealers go, the circle and delete from Jane Iredale is very pleasant and not chalky at all. Perfect for under eye circles. For more of a foundation type coverage, the Disappear by Jane Iredale with Gree Tea Extract is just that, invisible! And don't forget your foundation primer. I am currently using the i.d. bare minerals Prime Time but am eager to try the much buzzed about Smashbox Primer. I will keep you posted on the difference if there is any.

The only drawback with the Jane Iredale is that it can be hard to find. I found mine at a local Medi-spa in the Yorkville area, called RejuveDerme. i.d. bare minerals is much easier to find, you can get yours at any local Sephora location nearest you. For those in the downtown Toronto area, you can find a Sephora in the Eaton Center.

Let me know if you have any make up preferences that I should look into and post about, love to hear from you!

How Important Is Exercise?

Very!!

Try to be active atleast 4 to 6 times per week. Simple as that. A bike ride, a dance class, jogging, martial arts or whatever motivates you to move and engage those muscles. The recommended daily suggestion of exercise is over 24 minutes. This is the bare minimum. For example, what works for me is splitting up my routine. As much as I hate leaving my warm and cozy bed in the morning, I make every effort to get up in the morning and go for a jog. My jog (at a comfortable pace), usually lasts on average about 45 minutes and gives me the circulation that my body needs. It provides me focus, mental clarity and the overall feeling of well-being. Then I will go to the gym at the end of my work day and finish up my routine with either weights and/or the stairmaster or bike, some additional cardio to complete my program.

Jogging may not be your thing but there are other activities that you can encorporate into your routine. Any fitness center can provide you with all sorts of equipment to help you reach your goal, such as an indoor running treadmill, stairmaster, elliptical trainer for those who have issues with joints and knees, in addition to exercise bikes and weights. I have personally invested in some exercise DVD's that have been extremely helpful in shuffling my routine so that I am not bored. One of the most all around "age-friendly", fun workout routines that I have ever had the pleasure of doing is the Turbo Jam series. Great music, lots of moves to engage core muscles without actually having to lie down to do sit ups. This routine allows you to go at your own pace and if you like, burn up to as much as 700 calories a workout.

I'm also a fan of the Ab Ripper X, from the P90X DVD's. A more advanced routine for one who wants to get into superior shape. I haven't personally accomplished the whole series, I can only comment on the Ab Ripper X which I can say is absolutely unreal! I can definitely tell when I have done the 16 and a half minute routine. I have to be more consistent but I really recommend this DVD set if you want to get serious about your results. If you want something quick and effective to start out your day? Try 8-Minute Abs. It's an older video but it certainly hits all the target areas in the abdominal region in as little as 8 minutes.

Pilates is another wonderful way to tone and tighten. It's not only for women, men can benefit from Pilates as well. The Windsor Pilates Series is the expert in the field, however there are many other Pilates DVD's that give you great results. Another low impact aerobic routine is Yoga, which is something I have not yet tried but I will soon be taking a class and post my results. I have heard it to be very effective in reducing stress....where do I sign up, please?!!!

In any case, it's important to find something that gets you to move consistently over a substantial period of time, enough to burn a few calories and promote better overall health and well-being. Hey, who knows, you may make a friend or two in the process.

Triphala

I first must begin by informing you that I personally take Triphala, love it and recommend it.

It promotes bowel movement but in a manner that is not intrusive or urgent. Simply "business as usual". Constipation and bowel irregularity are indicative of perhaps other underlying health issues. Triphala is reported to not only regulates bowel movement but at the same time improves digestion, reduces serum cholesterol, improves circulation (potentiates adrenergic function), contains 31% linoleic acid, exerts a marked cardio-protective effect, reduces high blood pressure, improves liver function, has proven anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties, expectorant, hypotensive.

In addition, Triphala is an effective blood purifier that stimulates bile secretion as it detoxifies the liver, helps digestion and assimilation, and significantly reduces serum cholesterol and lipid levels throughout body. There is a common phrase amongst herbal practitioners, "When in doubt, try Triphala". Triphala takes care of the body by gently promoting internal cleansing of all conditions of stagnation and excess while at the same time it improves digestion and assimilation.

I have noticed a clearer complexion, less bloat, weight-loss and I assimilate food far more effectively than I had prior to taking Triphala.

Live Blood Cell Analysis

What is Live Blood Cell Analysis?

It's the examination of a fresh drop of living blood under a high-power microscope. It provides a composite picture of your internal milieu from your live blood, including the presence or absence of microorganisms and other substances. This can be a very effective tool to help gauge what minerals and/or vitamins one is potentially deficient in.

By examination of the sample, you will learn about the appropriate dietary improvements, supplements or special care needed for better targeting your specific health requirements. However, keep in mind, many factors can affect the outcome of the live blood cell analysis such as recently consumed fats or oils, a recent viral infection or allergic reaction, food colorings, preservatives, birth control pills, aspirin, cold remedies, the acidity (pH) of the blood, prescription medications, vitamin supplements – can dramatically affect the blood's behavior and appearance under the microscope slide.

In any case, I personally choose to believe that this is far more effective than if I were to go to any random health store and stock up on vitamins that I may or may not need. It's a guessing game and this has narrowed down the supplement playing field in my humble opinion. I do not personally endorse any specific clinic but please feel free to find one in your area and see if this is something you may deem useful.

Introduction - Beauty On The Inside...

Beauty on the inside, what does that mean? Is it possible?

I am here to tell you that as long as you eat healthy, exercise and take the right supplements, you too can achieve better overall health....achieve beauty on the inside which in turn will reflect on the outside. Sounds simple, right?! I've picked up a few tricks along the way and would love nothing more than to share them with you! I will interview some of the leading experts in their respective fields and give you the 411 on your health and beauty questions. From expert nutritionists, professional chefs, bio-identical hormone specialists, elite personal trainers, the most sought after dermatologists and plastic surgeons all here to provide you with some valuable information. Information that you can use.

So....where do you start? First things first, the basics...you are what you eat! This is true. What you put into your body can affect every organ, cell and your general mental well-being....seriously! Eating a well-planned meal several times a day can curb those little nasty munchies that everyone gets from time to time which can end up on your waist-line and bottom line...Booooo!!!! Taking the right supplements for you and I mean specifically for you will help you immensely and I will tell you how this is possible.

Internal cleansing. What is it? Is it a good idea before you begin a diet? You bet it is. Been there done that and guess what, I'm going to do it again, and so can you! I'll tell you what worked for me. Want better skin too? Internal cleansing just might do the trick!

Exercise, as much as some of us hate it, in the end it does serve it's purpose. It improves your cardiovascular health, improves mood and.....wait for it.....gets rid of excess calories!!! Who knew?

So come along this journey with me as I share a few things I've picked up from top trainers and leading beauty experts. I'd like to show you the tools to get the advice and answers you need.

Let's begin......