Health Tip of the Week: Our Skin

We expose our skin to harsh weather conditions and products containing toxic petroleum derivatives that are drying, irritating, and pore-clogging. Alcohols and solvents destroy the skin's pH balance, stripping away the skin's defence barrier to infection while contributing to wrinkles, fine lines, spots, red veins, or other discolorations. Skin is a living, breathing, blood-circulating organism that must be treated with the same care we'd give our heart, liver, and lungs. In fact, Chinese medicine considers skin to be the "third lung."

Contrary to previous beliefs that skin was impermeable, we now know that skin easily absorbs chemicals, hence the nicotine patch, nitroglycerine patch, and birth control patch. Toxic chemicals in makeup, personal care products, commercial, industrial, hobby, and household products are also absorbed into the bloodstream through dermal contact. Skin is a two-way membrane, and the body's largest organ of elimination via perspiration, which is why saunas are so healthful in ridding the body of unwanted toxins. 



Skin is composed of three layers: the epidermis, the dermis (cutis), and the subdermis (subcutaneous). The epidermis has no blood vessels, but contains many small nerve endings, and its outermost layer is constantly shedding and being replaced. The middle layer, dermis or cutis, is highly sensitive with a vascular layer of connective tissue containing blood vessels, lymph vessels, nerve endings, sweat and oil glands, hair follicles, arrector pili muscles, and papillae. The subcutaneous tissue makes up the third layer of skin. It is adipose (fatty) tissue, necessary for energy. The subcutaneous tissue acts as a protective cushion for the outer skin, hair, and nails.

Sebum is a complex oil released onto skin to slow down water evaporation while preventing excess moisture from penetrating into the skin. Exposure to wind and cold have a drying effect on skin. Mineral-oil based creams appear to be helpful, but eventually inhibit the skin's natural moisturizing process.

Exposures to toxic chemicals add up. According to a survey by the EWG and a coalition of health advocacy organizations, the average American adult uses nine personal care products daily containing a total of 126 unique chemical ingredients.

The survey also revealed the following:

12.2 million adults are exposed to known or probable human carcinogens through daily use of personal care products.

4.3 million women are exposed daily to toxic ingredients linked to fertility impairment and fetal development problems.

20% of all adults are exposed daily to the top seven carcinogens commonly found in personal care products: hydroquinone, ethylene, dioxide, 1,4-dioxane, formaldehyde, nitrosamines, PAHs, and acrylamide.

Information found at townsendletter.com

Health Tip of the Week: Chemicals in Makeup Pt. 3

Quaternium-15 is a toxic agent used in cosmetic creams. Quaternium-15 can cause skin rashes and allergic reactions. Trade names: Dowicil 200, Dowicide Q, and Preventol.



Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a surfactant, detergent, and emulsifier used in thousands of cosmetic products and industrial chemicals as a cleansing agent. It has a degenerative action on cell membranes and is damaging to hair and skin. High levels of skin penetration may occur at even low-use concentrations. Because it is derived from coconuts, SLS is implied to be "natural," but it is mixed with sulfur trioxide or chlorosulforic acid and then neutralized with aqueous sodium hydroxide (lye).


Sodium Laureth Sulfate (shortened from Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate or SLES) is a yellow liquid detergent similar to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, with higher foaming ability. SLES is considered slightly less irritating than SLS.

Talc – used in face powders and baby powders – can cause lung problems. Talc may be contaminated with asbestos. 



Color Additives date back as far as 5000 years. The desire to improve one's appearance is not a modern concept. Artificial colors and dyes are now included in nearly every cosmetic product.

Many coal tar derivatives are suspected carcinogens, and most artificial colorants have not yet been tested for cancer risk. About 76 D&C (approved for use in Drugs and Cosmetics) color pigments, and approximately 19 FD&C colors are used in food and toiletries. Six FDA "certified" colors are suspected carcinogens. Others may cause hives, eye irritation and permanent blindness, behaviour problems, emotional outbreaks, attention deficit disorder (ADD), chromosome damage, and reproductive mutations. Absorption of certain colors can cause oxygen depletion of the body resulting in death.

Fragrance chemicals are added to cosmetics and toiletries. Fragrance on a label can indicate any of 4,000 individual ingredients, nearly all synthetic. Fragrance exposure can affect the central nervous system, causing depression, hyperactivity, irritability, inability to cope, and other behavioural problems. "Fragrance-free" and "unscented" products may still contain fragrance chemicals without listing them on the label. 80%-90% of fragrance chemicals are petroleum derivatives that can enter the body through inhalation, skin, or ingestion, and go directly to the brain.

Information found at townsendletter.com

Health Tip of the Week: Chemicals in Makeup Pt. 2

Mineral oil is used as an emollient to prevent water loss from skin, but can be toxic and actually dries out skin.




1-Naphthol and 2-Naphthol are coal tar derivatives used as dye intermediates. They can be absorbed through skin and are skin irritants. Oral doses larger than one teaspoon can be fatal.




Nitrosamines are a class of carcinogenic compounds that can be absorbed through skin. Nitrosamines are by-products created by the chemical reactions of many cosmetic ingredients. However, vitamins C and E act as blocking agents, inhibiting the toxic effects of nitrosamines, and some manufacturers add vitamins C and E to their products for this purpose.




P-Hydroxybenzoic Acid Benzyl Ester (PHB Esters), are widely used preservatives more commonly known as methyl paraben, propyl paraben, ethyl paraben, and butyl paraben. They are highly toxic, causing skin rashes and can behave as xenoestrogens, raising the risk of breast cancer in women and low sperm count in men.


Petrolatum (petroleum and paraffin jelly) is a type of mineral oil used in baby oil, creams, lipstick, makeup remover, and lip-gloss. This type of waxy mineral oil sits on top of the skin, clogging the pores which leads to blackheads, whiteheads, and eventually, enlarged pores.




Propylene Glycol is a petroleum derivative found in most forms of makeup and other cosmetics as a humectant (moisture retainer), surfactant (oil emulsifier), and solvent. Its industrial uses include hydraulic brake fluid and antifreeze. Surprisingly, it is an ingredient in many products claiming to be "natural." Because of Propylene Glycol's ability to quickly penetrate skin, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires workers to wear protective clothing, gloves, and goggles when working with this toxic chemical. The Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) warn against skin contact because of possible brain, liver, and kidney abnormalities. Stick deodorants have concentrations higher than most industrial applications.

Information found at townsendletter.com

Health Tip of the Week: Chemicals in Makeup pt. 1

Mercury is both a deadly poison and a heavy metal. The skin easily absorbs mercury, and it accumulates in the body. 

Mercury exposure may cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, or neurotoxicity problems.

Phenyl mercuric acetate is a highly toxic chemical used as a preservative in eye makeup, even though it does not protect the consumer from bacteria in products that have become contaminated by use.

Bronopol is used in mascara and other cosmetics. A skin irritant, bronopol has caused blindness and death in laboratory animals at concentrations much higher than used in cosmetic products.



Formaldehyde-releasing ingredients are found in nearly all brands of skin, body, and hair care products, antiperspirants, and nail polishes. Imidazolidinyl urea and DMDM Hydantoin are just two of many preservatives that release formaldehyde, which can irritate the respiratory system, cause asthma, allergies, or skin reactions, even trigger heart palpitations. Formaldehyde exposure can cause joint or chest pain, depression, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, immune dysfunction, and cancer.

Hexamethylenetetramine is a carcinogenic formaldehyde-compound used in lotions and creams, and must carry a warning label if used in concentrations greater than 0.05%. Trade names: Aminoform, Formid, Uritone, and Cystamin.

Lanolin, a fatty secretion from sheep's wool, is found in many cosmetics. Although lanolin is a natural product, it may be contaminated with DDT and other pesticides used on the animals.1


Information found at townsendletter.com

Health Tip of the Week: Toxins in Makeup

All cosmetic products contain a certain amount of bacteria, prompting manufacturers to add preservatives. Parabens are toxic and allergenic synthetic chemicals used extensively as preservatives in cosmetic products. Aubrey Hampton, of Aubrey Organic Cosmetics, informs us that preservatives are not added to protect the consumer from bacteria, however, but to extend the shelf life of the product.



Toxic metals can be found in moisturizer, lotion, sun block, sunscreen, mascara, eye shadow, rouge, face powder, lipstick, and theatrical and clown makeup. Health effects may include nausea, cramps, vomiting, skin rash, joint and bone pain, mouth sores, cancer, stillbirths, genetic damage, immune dysfunction, brain and learning disorders, and impulsive and violent behaviour. The toxins in makeup are numerous and you’ll hear all about them in next week’s post. 


Information found at townsendletter.com

Health Tip of the Week: Make ups secret

I’ve been looking into makeup and other skin care products a lot lately, and have found some pretty shocking stuff. Most of the time we don’t even look into a product other then the color and how it last on our skin, eye lashes or lips. I know that’s how far I usually go. But just like our food, but through our skin, these products (or at least parts of them) are going into our body and we owe it to ourselves and our health to be serious and look into what we are really using.

I’m going to do a series of health tips just about make-up and skin care products, hopefully revelling some things to you about the products you use, and opening your eyes to things you might not have known.

The 35 billion-dollar cosmetic industry is one of the nation's largest and most profitable enterprises, spending more money on television advertising than any other business. Contrary to what most consumers believe, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) neither tests nor determines the safety of cosmetics and toiletries. The cosmetic industry is self-regulating through an independent panel of experts whom it appoints.

"Skin Deep" is the title of an investigative report prepared in 2004 by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), an advocacy organization based in Washington, DC. The EWG examined 711 lipstick products and found that 28% contained ingredients associated with cancer risk from chemicals like butylated hydroxytoluene, Nylon 6, ferric oxide, polyethylene, and titanium dioxide.

Information found at townsendletter.com

Health Tip of the Week: Omega Oils, Supplements vs. Foods

If you're thinking that maybe the easiest and most low-cal way to get omega-3s is with fish oil capsules, not so fast. Many nutritionists say it's a bad idea.

There is something about whole food that when it goes into the body it's more than 90% absorbed, while [with] a supplement you absorb only about 50%.

Moreover because the components of different foods work together, they may offer a more complete and balanced source of nutrients.

And if you're thinking fish-oil capsules will help you avoid the contamination risks of fresh fish, think again. Because supplements are not regulated in the U.S some may contain concentrated amounts of the same toxins found in fresh fish. And because the oil is so concentrated, the supplements can also produce an unpleasant body odour.

More important, experts say, there is a danger of overdosing on fish-oil supplements, particularly if you take more than the recommended amount. Doing so can increase your risk of bleeding or bruising. This isn't likely to happen when you get your intake from foods.

The one-time fish oil supplements can really help is if you need to reduce your levels of triglycerides, a dangerous blood fat linked to heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends that people with extremely high triglycerides get 2 to 4 daily grams of omega-3s (containing EPA and DHA) in capsules -- but only in consultation with their doctors.

Health Tip of the Week: Omega Oils, How to Get What You Need

Omega-3 fatty acids are not one single nutrient, but a collection of several, including eicosapentaenic acid (EPA) and docosahexanoic acid (DHA). Both are found in greatest abundance in coldwater fish -- and that, say experts, is one reason so many of us are deficient.

Over the past several years, the FDA and other groups have issued warnings about mercury and other harmful chemicals found in fish. This has led many people to stop eating fish.

Even if you obey the FDA warnings in the strictest sense, the latest advisory says that up to 12 ounces of a variety of fish each week is safe for everyone.

According to the American Heart Association, those looking to protect their hearts should eat a variety of types of fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel) at least twice a week. Those with heart disease should get 1 gram of omega-3s (containing both EPA and DHA) per day, preferably from fatty fish.

But even if you don't like fish (or choose not to eat it), you can still get what you need from dietary sources such as flaxseed.

“It's safe to say this (flaxseed) is the most potent plant source of omega-3," says Magee, author of The Flax Cookbook. While flaxseed contains no EPA or DHA, Magee says, it's a rich source of another omega-3 known as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which the body can use to make EPA and DHA.

Other sources of omega-3s include broccoli, cantaloupe, kidney beans, spinach, grape leaves, Chinese cabbage, cauliflower, and walnuts.

About an ounce -- or one handful -- of walnuts has about 2.5 grams of omega-3s which is equal to about 3.5 ounces of salmon.Factors found in olive oil can also help boost the good cholesterol, which can also help your heart.

Health Tip of the Week: What you Need to Know about Omega Oils

If you ask folks what food group they should avoid, most will probably answer "fats." While it's true that, in large amounts, some types of fat are bad for your health (not to mention your waistline), there are some we simply can't live without.

Among them are the omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods including walnuts, some fruits and vegetables, and coldwater fish such as herring, mackerel, sturgeon, and anchovies.

The benefits of omega-3s include reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke while helping to reduce symptoms of hypertension, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), joint pain and other rheumatoid problems, as well as certain skin ailments. Some research has even shown that omega-3s can boost the immune system and help protect us from an array of illnesses including Alzheimer's disease.

Just how do omega-3s perform so many health "miracles" in people? One way, experts say, is by encouraging the production of body chemicals that help control inflammation -- in the joints, the bloodstream, and the tissues.

But even as important is their ability to reduce the negative impact of yet another essential type of fatty acid known as omega-6s. Found in foods such as eggs, poultry, cereals, vegetable oils, baked goods, and margarine, omega-6s are also considered essential. They support skin health, lower cholesterol, and help make our blood "sticky" so it is able to clot. But when omega-6s aren't balanced with sufficient amounts of omega-3s, problems can ensue.

"When blood is too 'sticky,' it promotes clot formation, and this can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke," says nutritionist Lona Sandon, RD, a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association. But once you add omega-3s to the mix, the risk of heart problems goes down, she tells WebMD.

The latest research shows that the most promising health effects of essential fatty acids are achieved through a proper balance between omega-3s and omega-6s. The ratio to shoot for, experts say, is roughly 4 parts omega-3s to 1 part omega-6s.

Most of us, they say, come up dangerously short.

"The typical American diet has a ratio of around 20 to 1 -- 20 omega-6's to 1 omega-3 -- and that spells trouble," says Sandon, an assistant professor of nutrition at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. While reducing your intake of omega-6s can help, getting more omega-3s from food is an even better way to go.

Health Tip Of The Week: Orthotics

Custom Foot Orthotics help in providing relief for painful foot problems or an injury, especially for those who must walk, or stand excessively on the job or in everyday activities.

The mechanical properties of the Custom Foot Orthotic help to maintain the normal positioning of the bones in the foot, the joints in the ankle and knees leading up to the hips and lower back. The muscles and ligaments holding these bones in their intended anatomical positions are prevented from over stretching and becoming lax over time.

With enough functional correction from a Custom Foot Orthotic, the foot structure can be aligned to give more propulsion, making walking, running and even cycling more efficient biomechanically.

Along with aligning the foot structure, the Custom Foot Orthotic reduces muscular fatigue and helps to promote more efficient muscle performance thus enhancing performance during the gait cycle.

Below is an example of a foot without the corrective support of an orthotic and then another example of the same foot with a Custom Made Foot Orthotic from POL correcting and supporting the foot. Notice the difference a well made Custom Foot Orthotic makes!

Health Top Of The Week: The Benefits Of Stretching

There are plenty of advantages to stretching - provided you do it right. Stretching keeps your muscles flexible and healthy, and helps keep your body young. It even helps prevent certain kinds of muscular degeneration.

One of the primary components of keeping fit is to keep your muscles flexible. It dispenses with stiffness - which is a major obstacle to fitness. Stretching helps limber up muscles and keeps them in peak working conditions. They help reap the benefits of exercise and workouts. But as mentioned earlier - stretching should be done right - or you could end up hurting your muscles.

Here are a few basic facts about stretching:

It's a common misconception that you need to stretch before you warm up. Start off your day with a walk. This would provide the initial much needed warm up. When you take the trouble to warm up - the blood rushes to the muscles - making them more amenable to stretches and exercises. Stretching cold muscles is likely to hurt.

Start off with gentle stretches. Don't stiffen your limbs - but stretch them easily. Don't hold your stretches or stretch for too long. If it hurts - stop at once - you could injure a muscle if you continue. Stretching is never supposed to hurt.

Muscles tend to stiffen immediately after a vigorous workout. A stretching session after your exercise will keep your muscles lithe and supple.

Ideally, stretching is about moving a muscle to its full range - and holding it there for about 10 seconds before you relax. This should be repeated about 10 times for each part of the body. Do this at least 3 -4 times a week.

Stretching can benefit your mind too. That's why a lot of yogic exercises use different kinds of stretching. Focus on the muscles you are stretching. Slow repetitive movements done with controlled breathing are a sure way to bust stress.

Stretch the advantage of good health - with a few stretches.

Here are some helpful stretching charts to get you started!

Health Tip Of The Week: The Benefits of Protein

As another step to figuring out my constant headaches I was told to eat more protein (after having some tests done saying I was low). I was complaining also with not remember things and low energy at certain times in the day. After a week of protein smoothies I was amazing at how much better I was feeling and how much more energy I had!

So here’s a post all about protein and what it can do for you and why we really need it!

Protein is an important component of every cell in the body. Hair and nails are mostly made of protein. Your body uses protein to build and repair tissues. You also use protein to make enzymes, hormones, and other body chemicals. Protein is an important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood.

Along with fat and carbohydrates, protein is a "macronutrient," meaning that the body needs relatively large amounts of it. Vitamins and minerals, which are needed in only small quantities, are called "micronutrients." But unlike fat and carbohydrates, the body does not store protein, and therefore has no reservoir to draw on when it needs a new supply.

So you may assume the solution is to eat protein all day long. Not so fast, say nutritionists.
The truth is, we need less total protein that you might think. But we could all benefit from getting more protein from better food sources.

How Much Protein Is Enough?

Extra protein doesn't give you extra strength. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:

· Teenage boys and active men can get all the protein they need from three daily servings for a total of seven ounces.
· For children age 2 to 6, most women, and some older people, the government recommends two daily servings for a total of five ounces.
· For older children, teen girls, active women, and most men, the guidelines give the nod to two daily servings for a total of six ounces.

Choose Your Proteins Wisely

The type of protein you eat may play a role in successful weight loss and in your overall health.
Consumption of large quantities of processed meats such as hot dogs, sausages, and deli meats, have been linked to increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and colorectal cancer. You'll have a harder time maintaining weight loss if you eat these proteins often, and you may be damaging your body.

Nutrition experts recommend getting dietary proteins from the following sources:

· Fish: Fish offers heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and, in general, less fat than meat.

· Poultry: You can eliminate most of the saturated fat by removing the skin.
· Beans: Beans contain more protein than any other vegetable protein. Plus, they're loaded with fiber that helps you feel full for hours.
· Nuts: One ounce of almonds gives you 6 grams of protein, nearly as much protein as one ounce of broiled ribeye steak.(they are also a great source of healthy fats)
· Whole grains: A slice of whole wheat bread gives you 3 grams of protein, plus valuable fiber.

Information by By Neil Osterweil WebMD.com Feature

Health Tip of the Week: The Good & Evil of Coffee

My husband recently decided (after watching Dr. Oz) that he was going to cut back on the coffee. He said he was going to cut down to one cup a day (I later learned that he had been at 3-4 a day). I was really proud of him, and I really appreciated it because I don’t really like the smell (and the breath!) and I could tell it was affecting him.

With him cutting back I decided to see how bad drinking that much coffee really is and here is what I found.

Though not 100% harmful, coffee is not entirely innocent either...

Health Risks:
- In men with Hypertension there is a significant rise in blood pressure after just two or three cups of coffee.
- As a stimulant coffee can be addictive and could cause jitters and anxiety when consumed in large amounts
- Coffee can also stain teeth, giving daily users a yellowed smile.
- Men who drink five or more cups of coffee a day may have cardiac trouble.
- Coffee drinking leads to Pancreatic Cancer.
- Researchers suggest that caffeine may delay conception, increase the risk of miscarriage and slow fetal growth.
- Many specialists suggest that pregnant women should eliminate caffeine altogether. Caffeine has the negative effect on calcium metabolism. Women who consume more caffeine lose more calcium through their urine and have less dense bones and may lead to Osteoporosis. In postmenopausal women, it leads to increased risk of hip fractures.
- Those who drink more than three cups of coffee (or other beverages equivalent to that quantity of caffeine) have disturbed sleep. The effect of bad sleep during the night may lead to all kinds of diseases.
- When a person drinks a coffee or tea on empty stomach, the caffeine present in such a drink is absorbed in different forums and circulated all over the body causing symptoms of Hyper acidity, which may lead to indigestion, giddiness, burning sensations etc.
Coffee Consumption Facts:

- One cup of coffee is equal to two cups of tea. (i.e. caffeine available in one cup of coffee is equivalent to the caffeine available in two cups of tea.)
- Caffeine consumed from three cups of coffee still has stimulating effects up to eight hours later. Research subjects who say that they can drink coffee before going to bed and still sleep well, actually don't sleep as well as they think, when there are tested in the lab.
- We don't actually get the energy and stimulation from coffee, but we get a feeling of stimulation and the energy in question is obtained from our own body. In effect it is only a mental satisfaction.
- Generally coffee, tea and other caffeinated beverages (e.g. soft drinks) keep a person awake for a long time. So a lot of athletes and distance runners take it to help with their speed and energy levels.
- Caffeine can (at times) be used to eliminate headaches and as a laxative.
I’ve never been a coffee drinker, and never intend to start so I have to admit I have a bias. But love it or hate it we can’t ignore what it does to our health.

Health Tip of the Week: Foot Detox

My mom works at a health clinic and on my quest to get rid of the headaches I mentioned before I tried doing foot and hand detox. Most places don’t mention or suggest hand detox, but you can do it just like you do it on the feet, and at the same time for even more of a cleanse.

Although I still struggled with my headaches after my string of 6 foot and hand detox sessions I felt meny of the other benefits listened below and I think it’s for sure worth doing.

Think of all the crazy toxins we take in daily, often without even knowing! I for one don’t want them in my body!

“Ionic Detoxification Footbaths are the most relaxing way to get rid of the toxins present in the body”. Says Healthy Being Wellness Boutique

At most clinics have their detox run from 24-35 minutes, depending on the person. Also most clinics will serve you cleasing cucumber water to accompany the cleanse.

Detox Foot Bath is an all natural way to detox the inside of your body through your feet. Detoxification begins the moment you place your feet into the foot bath. Detoxification benefits your health and can help the aging process.

Some Reported Benefits:

* Detoxification of Your Entire Body

* Heavy Metals Removed

* Increase Your Energy

* Help With Faster Disease and Injury Recovery Time

* Increased Oxygen in Your Body

* Help Pain Relief

* Improved Your Sleep

* Reduced Unwanted Fluid Retention

* Headache Relief

* Immune System Booster

How often should you do a foot detox?

Some say once a week, some say once a month, it all depends on the person, and the problems you might be experiencing. Note: Foot detox sessions take out toxins as well as other things that are foreign to your body; this includes medications so please take that into consideration beforehand.

Health Tip of the Week: Deodorants Vs. Antiperspirants

You likely use deodorant to mask underarm odour or use antiperspirants to reduce sweating. Unfortunately, health concerns over both are growing. If you have to use one, go with a deodorant. Antiperspirants clog and close your pores, inhibiting you from sweating; this is not a normal or healthy thing.

The dreadful truth is that more than a third of our personal care products contain ingredients that have been linked in some way to cancer and according to the Environmental Working Group, only 11 percent of the 10,500 ingredients used have ever been tested for safety. Some of the most common chemicals used in deodorants that you should avoid buying are aluminum, parabens, Propylene Glycol, and fragrance.

To protect yourself, here are a few things you can do:

• Don't apply deodorant right after shaving underarms
• Avoid application if there are open cuts.
• Read labels and look for a more natural deodorant
• Keep your body alkaline. Oral chlorophyll tablets can help reduce body odour and can eliminate the need for deodorants.

Or, choose from one of these healthier alternatives:

• Baking soda powder - Take a pinch of baking soda powder in one hand. Drop several drops of water on it, blend and then rub under arms. You'll be amazed how effective it is!
• Natural Mineral salts - a natural mineral salt deodorant stick will improve your skin's Ph level while protecting against odour-causing bacteria.
• Natural deodorant - natural health food stores will carry deodorants that don't have harmful chemicals.
• Au Natural - consider not using any deodorant! If you feed your body the right food and keep your body alkaline, you may not actually need it.

Article Source: Ezine Articles

Here are some good options for you!





I've tried this one, and the very first one at the top. They have an interesting smell, but they works! You can get them both at Lush

Health Tip Of The Week: Burn 100 Calories in 10 Minutes

So I promised last week that I would have a good workout for you next week. So here it is!

While many of us think we're too busy to exercise, experts are busy taking that little excuse out of the mix. We now know that short workouts (2 or 3 10-minute workouts throughout the day) can be just as effective as longer workouts.

The key is to focus on intensity and use your time wisely. The sample workouts below offer a variety of cardio and strength ideas to get the most out of your exercise time. Substitute exercises to fit your fitness level and don't forget to cool-down and stretch after each workout.


Your 10-Minute Cardio Blast

To get the most out of 10-minute cardio workouts, you want to focus on working harder than usual. The following workout offers some ideas for how you can work hard during the time you have.

· 1 minute - Brisk walk or march in place
· 1 minute - Light jog outside, around the house or in place
· 1 minute - Jumping jacks
· 1 minute - Long jumps - jump forward, landing with both feet
· 1 minute - Light jog
· 1 minute - Jumping jacks
· 1 minute - Squat and kick, alternating legs
· 1 minute - Light jog
· 1 minute - Long jumps
· 1 minute - Brisk walk to cool down

If you're feeling creative, make your own workout using some of the activities listed below. Each exercise will burn about 100 calories (depending on your weight, fitness level, and intensity) in 10 minutes:

· Running - 1 mile
· Jumping rope
· Stepping - 30 steps per minute, 7 inch step
· Cycling - 13 mph
· High-impact aerobics
· Running up stairs
· Circuit training
· Calisthenics - pushups, jumping jacks, plyometric jumps and kickboxing-type moves

Source: www.exercise.about.com

Here's a workout you can do that's a little fun too!

Health Tip of the Week: How Many Calories should I Eat?

I found a great website with a calorie calculator on it.

“This calculator gives an approximation. If your goal is to lose weight by burning off excess body fat, aim to eat 500 fewer calories per day than your daily caloric needs, and maintain or increase your exercise activity. Do not go below 1200 calories per day unless on a medically supervised weight loss program or after consultation with your doctor.” – quote from the site


I also found this great website that gives you the calorie count for almost all the different food products on the market.

Here’s an example of a couple that I was sort of surprised about:

1 tbsp Salted Butter -100 calories
1 cup of Scrambled Eggs – 367 calories
2 Chips Ahoy! Cookies – 160 calories
A handful of Dill Pickle Flavored Potato Chips- 160 Calories

Check back next week for some great calorie burning exercises!

Great Food Find: Seneca Apple Chips

My mom brought me a treat over last night when she came to watch the Oscars with me and Marshall and gosh, it was good!! I love apples, and I love chips, so this combo is the best!! I’m for sure putting these Carmel Apple Chips on my “Foods that cheer me up when I’m sad” list”

Health Tip Of The Week: The Benefits of Ginger

In Eastern societies, ginger has always been known for its healing powers. Pythagorus was one of its greatest supporters in Ancient Greece. King Henry VIII of England used it to protect against the plague.

Though we don't know for sure if ginger can actually protect you from the plague, we do know that it is beneficial in many other ways.

Denmark researchers have discovered that ginger can block the effects of prostaglandins. These are substances that cause inflammation of the blood vessels in the brain, which leads to migraines.

Though the results are still experimental, 1/3 teaspoon of fresh of powdered ginger taken when you feel a migraine coming on can help stop pain before it starts.

Using the same theory, ginger has been found to produce "marked" relief in arthritis pain. The ginger tea described above or 1/2 teaspoon of ginger is recommended by Danish researchers for arthritis relief .

A researcher at Cornell University Medical College discovered that ginger has an effect on blood clots that is similar to that of aspirin. By the same token, it appears that high cholesterol levels are
lowered using the same active ingredient, thromboxane.

When buying ginger, fresh is best! Be sure to avoid ginger with dry, wrinkled, skin, mould or soft spots. African and Indian ginger are the most potent. Grating or using a garlic press will give you the maximum benefits.

Ginger can definitely give you many benefits but more is not always better. An ounce a day should give you all the benefits you will need!


(Source)

Health Tip Of The Week: Protein Smoothie

I love to start my day off with a smoothie. There's nothing better then getting in a few servings of fruit, some protein and just some all around freshness.

I find that if I have one of these smoothies for breaky it keeps me going well until lunch and after. It gives me a lot of energy and just all around makes me feel better.

This one is my favourite but of course there are lots of other types.

1 cup Strawberries

1 Banana

1 Apple

1/2 cup Organic Vanilla Yogurt

1/2 cup Fruit Juice (I use Apple)

1 scoop BodyFlex

Put the yogurt and juice in the blender. Add the apple. Blend. Add the rest of the fruit. Blend until smooth. Enjoy!