Anti-cancer diet!

Whether you have a history of cancer in your family or you've been diagnosed with the disease, there are certain lifestyle choices, which includes your diet, that can make a huge difference in helping you prevent cancer. 

"What you eat and what you don't" has the potential to adversely affect your health. You may not be aware some foods can actually increase the risk of cancer, while others support your body and strengthen your immune system. Research shows that as many as one-third of all cancer deaths are linked to diet and physical activity. A case in point start making smart dietary choices and reduce your risk for cancer. Follow these healthy and effective anti-cancer diet approved by doctors and experts around the globe.

1) Focus on cancer-fighting fruits and vegetables

Diets high in fruit, like oranges, berries, peas, bell peppers, dark leafy greens and other foods high in vitamin C may lower the risk of stomach, lung and esophageal cancer while vegetables containing carotenoids such as carrots, brussels sprouts and squash, help reduce the risk of lung, mouth, pharynx, and larynx cancers. Diets high in non-starchy vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, and beans, is considered effective for stomach and esophageal cancer. Foods high in lycopene, such as tomatoes, guava, and watermelon, may lower the risk of prostate cancer. The less processed the better.

2) Include fiber in your diet

Stock up on fiber-rich foods. Fiber plays a key role in cleaning your digestive system. It helps keep food moving through your digestive tract and it also moves cancer-causing compounds out before they can create any trouble. A fiber-rich diet may help prevent colorectal cancer and other digestive system cancers, including stomach, mouth, and pharynx.

Found in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, an ideal fiber-rich diet may include brown rice, whole-grain bread, popcorn, raisin bran, barley, oatmeal, pear, banana, apple, carrots, celery, bell peppers, raspberries, apples, strawberry, blackberry, blueberry, mango, apricots, citrus fruits, dried fruit, prunes, raisins, legumes, lentils, black beans, split peas, lima beans, baked beans, kidney beans, pinto, chick peas, navy beans, black-eyed peas, broccoli, spinach, dark green leafy vegetables, peas, artichokes, corn, tomatoes, brussels sprouts.

3) Water 

Drink plenty of water. It is essential for fighting cancer. It stimulates the immune system, removes waste and toxins, and transports nutrients to all of your organs.

4) Limit alcohol

That includes wine too. Alcohol consumption has been linked to increased risk of mouth, esophagus, pharynx, larynx, liver and breast cancers. Therefore it is best advised to keep a check on your alcohol intake. Men should limit to no more than two drinks a day while women should keep it at one drink per day, says Dr Archit Pandit, Consultant, Max Super Speciality Hospital.

5) Alternate options for drinks

Doctors would advice you to opt for tea, coffee & less fruit juice.

6) Cut down on meat

We know you love meat, but how will you relish it when you don't even have a good health? That's why experts suggests you eat less of the red meat and cut down on processed meat. Too much of red meat has the potential to increase your cancer risk. Choose fish, poultry, or beans instead of beef, pork or lamb. When you eat meat, choose lean cuts and eat smaller portions. Prepare meat by baking, broiling, or poaching at lower temperatures, rather than by frying in fat or broiling/grilling at excessively high temperatures. FYI, research shows that vegetarians are about 50 percent less likely to develop cancer than those who eat meat.

7) Be careful of fats

Diet high in saturated fats have been linked to increased risk for many types of cancer. But cutting down on fat entirely is not the answer, either. Because there are some types of fat that actually help protect against cancer. Saturated fats and trans fat are the fats that are damaging. While saturated fats are found mainly in animal products such as red meat, whole milk dairy products, and eggs. Trans fats are found in liquid vegetable oils.

Choose olive and canola oil over the regular vegetable oil. Avoid anything with hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils.

8) Limit fast food

Fried foods and packaged foods, which are high in trans fats needs a check. Limit foods like potato chips, cookies, crackers, french fries, and doughnuts to fight the cancer.

9) Prepare your food in healthy ways

Eating healthy food is not the end of the solution. But how you prepare your so called healthy food is eqally important too. The way you cook your food can either help or damage your anti-cancer efforts. When cooking vegetables, steam until just tender using a small amount of water. This preserves more of the vitamins. Overcooking vegetables removes many of the vitamins and minerals. If you do boil vegetables, use the cooking water in a soup or another dish to ensure you're getting all the vitamins.

10) Use immune-boosting herbs and spices.

To add flavor not just to your food but to your health too, use garlic, ginger, and curry powder. They have the right amount of valuable nutrients to fight cancer.

11) Eat at least some raw fruits and vegetables. 

They have the highest amounts of vitamins and minerals, although cooking some vegetables can make the vitamins more available for our body to use./timesofindia.indiatimes.com/

Vaginal 'Seeding' Not Proven Safe, Experts Say

A growing number of pregnant women are asking doctors about a procedure that involves wiping down the skin of a newborn delivered by cesarean section with a gauze carrying their mothers' vaginal fluid, in an attempt to transfer helpful bacteria. Now, a group of doctors who are seeing this at their hospitals are urging caution.

The idea behind this process (sometimes called "vaginal seeding") is to transfer the bacteria present in the mother's vagina — which babies naturally come into contact with, if they are born vaginally — to babies born via C-section. Some experts say that these bacteria have the potential to reduce the risk of disease in children, and a small study published earlier this month showed that the procedure did likely affect the bacteria present in and on the babies.

However, in an editorial published today (Feb. 23) in The BMJ, other experts not involved in that study argued that there is not enough data to show that vaginal seeding is safe. 

It is possible that infants may develop severe infections from exposure to vaginal pathogens, the authors wrote in the new editorial. Women may carry pathogens in their vaginal fluid such as group B streptococcus bacteria, herpes simplex virus, and the bacteria that cause chlamydia and gonorrhea, even without having any symptoms, according to the editorial.

The authors acknowledged that there is growing evidence that suggests that the bacteria can be manipulated to benefit infants' health.

In the small, recent study, 11 infants who were delivered by C-section and were swabbed with their mother's vaginal fluid shortly after birth, were found to have levels of bacteria similar to those of seven infants who were delivered vaginally. However, the authors of that study noted that more research is needed to determine if the procedure is beneficial — and that it could take another 10 to 15 years for the procedure to be approved.

Until there is evidence that vaginal seeding is beneficial, the authors of the new editorial have advised staff at their hospitals to not perform the procedure. "We believe the small risk of harm cannot be justified without evidence of benefit," they wrote.

In addition, because the simplicity of the procedure makes it easy for mothers to do it themselves, the authors recommend that health professionals inform women about the possible risks. Health professionals should also keep vaginal seeding in mind when examining newborns who may have infections, as it could be a potential cause, they wrote.

The authors of the editorial noted that other events in early life — namely, breast-feeding and antibiotic exposure — also have "a powerful effect on the developing microbiota" in an infant.

"Encouraging breast-feeding and avoiding unnecessary antibiotics may be much more important than worrying about transferring vaginal fluid on swab," the authors concluded./livescience.com/

Simple Coaching Tips for Up and Coming Fitness Professionals

Photo credit: Bigstockphoto

There is more to coaching than simply assisting clients to achieve their peak performance during training. It takes a certain level of skill and patience to motivate and condition people physically and mentally. In today’s post, we are listing down tips to help you rev start your career at coaching at any fitness and conditioning communities:

Always Consider the Angle, Literally

There is a reason why the 90-degree angle is important in fitness and sports. As a coach, you get a clearer perspective if you see things at a 90-degree angle. For instance, say you are coaching a client to perform a deadlift. By coaching at a 90-degree angle, you can observe if the athlete is pushing through the heels or toes. You can see if the movement is starting to turn into a squat and make the right adjustments. And from the front, you can watch as the athlete shifts his knees, his grip width, etc.

Motivate the Right Away

Again, it takes a certain level of patience and persistence to motivate a person to push himself harder. So make sure you are motivating your clients according to their personality and lifestyle. You have to adjust your motivation technique according to the disposition of your client. We also recommend using positive reinforcement as a way to get clients to reach their fitness potentials. Negative reinforcement may provide faster results but better fitness starts at positivity.

Pay Attention to Your Mannerisms

A stereotypical coach is usually yelling at his team/clients with arms crossed. But in real life, you have to give an impression that you are approachable. Habits and mannerisms associated with negative behaviors such as yelling commands, crossing the arms, frowning or intimidating your clients could cause you your career. Always interact with clients with open arms and an approachable demeanor.

Mind Your Posture

And speaking of bad habits, if you have the habit of slouching or sitting down for too long, now’s the best time to re-think your teaching technique. Remember, you want to make a great impression on potential clients. You are not doing yourself any favor if you spend most of the time training while slouching on a chair. If you want to motivate your clients to move, then lead by example. If your knees or lower back hurts from standing too long, you can always take 5.

If you are doing lots of ground-to-standing transitions, then demonstrate the exercises to get moving. To redistribute your weight, try doing single leg stances to give your legs a little break. Finally, wear your most comfortable spots shoes during training.

Getting to Know Your Clients

Some athletes are visual learners while others are mental learners. Get to know your clients to determine what teaching method works the best. For example, some athletes prefer if you demonstrate a certain move while others take directions very well. Usually, those who need demonstrations are beginners or do not possess strong athletic background. Clients who need very little coaching cues are typically fit and experienced exercisers themselves./healthydietbase.com/

The Pros and Cons of Extreme Fitness Exercises

Photo by: Bigstockphoto

The best way to tone and sculpt the whole body is regular exercise. But for those who want to take their work out a notch, they turn to boot camp training and other extreme fitness programs to accelerate results. These training are unlike your average diet and fitness programs. It takes a certain level of fitness and discipline to complete the program. Is a boot camp training right for you? In today’s post, we are listing down the pros and cons of extreme fitness exercises:

Pros

Unshakeable Control

Boot camp training, P90X, HIIT, and other intense workouts have one thing in common: they build discipline. These intense fitness programs are very aggressive. They require training several times per week. For most people, the frequency of the training could prove too overwhelming. But if you are dedicated to achieving your fitness goals, the program will provide all opportunities to achieve a sculpted frame.

If you are committed to leading an active lifestyle and you want to stay fit, then following stringent rules will come naturally. Once you integrate these strict measures to your everyday life, you will achieve the body you have always dreamed of.

Healthy, Active Lifestyle

Staying fit means exercising regularly. Boot camp training takes an active lifestyle a step higher by requiring intense training at least four times per week. Being on the move promotes a healthy, active lifestyle. These training may be intense, but they will definitely help you stay healthy and fit. The programs are targeted for various goals so they are versatile as well. You can train to achieve a toned frame, to develop a lean, strong body or to boost endurance.

Fast Results

Training is a process that’s why do not expect instantaneous results. But intense training works faster than most types of regular workouts. The intensity of the exercises coupled by the frequency of the training tone and strengthen the muscles at a much faster rate. The result? A toned, sculpted frame in half the time!

Cons

It’s not for Everyone

Not everyone is cut out to perform extreme exercises, much more complete a whole program. The strict routine may prove too stringent for some people. Again, any type of intense training requires a certain level of discipline. If you are not committed enough to see through the program, then there is no way you will get the results you expect. In addition, such programs are not advisable for people who are afflicted or have a history of chronic diseases.

Hard to Stick To

Intense training requires 100% commitment. That means dedicating a lot of time working out and for busybodies, this can be a problem. Most extreme training requires five to six gym visits per week. And for those pressed for time, they just don’t have time to spare to exercise 5 to 6 times a week.

Increases the Risk of Injuries

Extreme training combines intense cardio with challenging resistance training. The combination of two strenuous workouts could increase the risk of injuries. This goes especially for people who are trying the program for the first time. Our advice is to let a professional fitness trainer assist you in every step so you do not injure yourself./healthydietbase.com/

How to Avoid Core Strength Training Injuries

Photo by: Bigstockphoto

The core is a group of muscles that surrounds the spine.  These muscles include the erector spinae, multifidi, diaphragm, transversus and rectus abdominis, external and internal obliques, lumbar and latissimus dorsi, hip flexors, hip adductors and all three gluteal muscles. With a strong core, the body’s stability and strength improve. You can do all sorts of intense exercises if your core is in tiptop shape.

Although training the core has its benefits, the moves are often linked to injuries. To keep your training safe and effective, we are listing down ways to avoid training injuries:

Work on the Timing

Let’s face it, if your timing is off, there is a good chance that you will lose your balance and hurt yourself. All types of exercises need proper timing, including core strength training. If you are working out for the first time, we recommend having a professional trainer nearby for assistance. A professional trainer will help you work on your timing as you exercise. For advanced training, you want to focus on the movement to achieve the right timing. Give your core enough time to adapt to the demands of an advanced training to achieve the best results.

Improve Your Posture

The core muscles are located in the spine. Poor posture could put unnecessary stress on the spine, causing chronic back pain. Instead of working out the muscles, you end up damaging your spine. Always mind your posture during and after working out. The shoulder blades should be kept back, the chest should protrude and the spine should be straight.

Hunching over weakens the rotator cuff and back, making you vulnerable to injuries once you exercise. As the spine develops an abnormal curvature, your physical abilities will be limited too. The curvature does not affect your training alone; it can also affect day-to-day activities.

So always pay close attention to your posture. Keep the shoulders back and the chest out, like a military cadet. Elevate your sternum to improve your posture. By doing so, the chest muscles will lengthen. The muscles of the upper back become stronger over time as well!

Perfect Your Form

Always observe the proper form if you are working out. This is easy if you have a trainer who will assist you as you train. But if you are working out on your own, always protect the spine from stress. You want to leave all the heavy lifting to the back muscles, not the backbone!

This can be done by paying close attention to myoelectric signals. These electrical signals control the muscles. As you work out, myoelectric signals are generated to create muscle force. The force makes the muscle carry the weight. To avoid pressure on the spine, keep your position neutral or extended. This will stimulate the back muscles to carry the weight in a deadlift. The position also reduces the forces on the lumbar vertebral disks for an effective lift, preventing injuries.

Improve Flexibility

You simply cannot achieve a strong core without flexible muscles. And we are not just talking about the back muscles, but the abdominal, hamstrings and hip flexors too! When the muscles that surround the back muscles are flexible, the back muscles can carry more weight. Do a lot of squats, lunges, and other exercises to keep the middle and lower body strong. When the muscles in the lower body are strong, there is less stress and force applied to the spine as you work out./healthydietbase.com/

Factors to Consider When Choosing A Gym

Photo by: Bigstockphoto

A gym membership is certainly not cheap. So to maximize your money, you need to choose the best gym in your local area! To help you on your search, we are listing down the important factors you need to consider if you are looking for a fitness gym:

The Location

Save yourself the headache of taking a long drive to get to your gym on the other side of town. Choose a gym that’s closest to you. Ideally, you want a gym that’s near your home or office. Opting for the nearest gym is just convenient. This way, you can work out despite a hectic schedule. Choosing a gym that’s near to you serves as an excellent motivation to exercise too!

The Hours

Most gyms are open 24/7 while others are closed during the weekends. To pick the right gym, consider the usual time you work out. If you work out late at night, then opt for a gym open 24 hours a day and so on. Make sure the gym you choose fits your schedule. There is no use to signing up for a membership if you cannot maximize it.

The Staff

The gym’s staff members must be presentable, courteous, and supportive. They should provide all the answers to your queries. They should assist you to make the most out of your workouts. The fitness trainers should be qualified to guide you through your fitness routine. If you want to hire a trainer, don’t forget to ask the fees.

Cleanliness

When it comes to choosing the right gym, every little detail counts. You want to keep your eyes peeled for signs of poor maintenance and negligence. The gym should provide clean towels, the equipment must be working. The staff members should enforce the highest standard of hygiene. Don’t forget to check the shower area and the locker room too. Go to the bathroom and check the state of the sink, toilet, etc. The toilet must be clean and orderly.

Equipment

During your initial visit, check the gym equipment. The facility should present a wide variety of equipment so members do not have to wait in line to use them. Check if the equipment is in good working order. If the facility has too many out-of-order machines, consider that as a red flag.

Classes

The gym should offer classes that you see yourself taking. Fitness classes vary according to intensity. Some classes feature high-energy workouts while others are designed for relaxation. You want to inquire which classes require extra charges, which ones are for free.  If you are unsure about a certain fitness class, do not sign up for it.

The Rates

Again, gym memberships are not cheap so if you are ready to sign up for a membership, make sure you are getting your money’s worth! Most gyms offer a sign-up fee, but the fee could be waived during promos.

Check the payment schedule and ask what options are best for you. We also recommend asking if there are extra fees for cancellation, charges classes and so on./healthydietbase.com/

Dining Rooms That Mix Classic And Ultra-Modern Decor

The oft-repeated advice about writing and art, "you have to know the rules before you break them" is a vital part of interior design theory. This saying is especially helpful to remember when mixing styles or eras – it's always better to have an intimate understanding of the styles you want to emulate before embarking to reinvent those time-tested concepts. But nobody needs to be an expert to simply explore the options. In fact, these eclectic dining rooms will help you learn the art of mixed-era design so you can adapt some of those transcendent dining room ideas to work within your own home.

/home-designing.com/

How Nitrogen Balance Leads to Muscle Gains

Photo by: Bigstockphoto

We all know that the best way to boost muscle mass is to consume protein. But how do you know if you’re getting enough protein to regenerate more muscle tissues? You can check if you’re getting enough protein by calculating your nitrogen balance.

Nitrogen balance is the measurement of nitrogen output subtracted from the nitrogen input. With the right level of nitrogen in the body, you increase the chances of muscle gains.

The 3 States of Nitrogen Balance

Nitrogen is not static, it has three states and each one can affect your fitness efforts. Positive is a state that describes the greater intake of nitrogen compared to nitrogen output. This is the optimal nitrogen state for building muscles. The greater the nitrogen intake, the faster the recovery workout. Positive state puts the body in an anabolic state.

Equilibrium is the state in which the nitrogen input and output are equal. At this point, you are neither developing muscles nor regressing from your fitness state. Finally, there’s the negative state. This is the least ideal of all nitrogen balance because the nitrogen loss is greater than intake. At this point, the muscles start breaking down, leaving the body to a catabolic state.

Measuring Nitrogen Balance

You can measure your nitrogen balance by tracking the nitrogen content of the foods you eat. Then, you compare the amount of nitrogen excreted. You can also estimate your nitrogen balance by measuring urine urea nitrogen loss. 90% of nitrogen is lost through the urine through the kidneys.

How to Achieve Negative Nitrogen Balance

Eat Protein Rich Foods

This is a no-brainer, especially if you are a bodybuilder. You want to consume more lean protein in order to achieve the right balance of nitrogen in the body. Avoid poor sources of protein such as red, fatty meats and get it from fish, poultry and nuts.

Balanced Fat and Carbohydrates Consumption

Don’t abstain from fat and carbs completely. You need these nutrients to support protein synthesis. However, choose fats and carbs from healthy sources such as grains, oily fish, and nuts. You want foods that are high in complex carbs and fiber such as root crops and vegetables too.

Do not Over-Train

Overtraining won’t accelerate muscle growth. It does the total opposite. When you over-train, the muscle tissues start breaking down. Too much training coupled by insufficient consumption of protein causes negative nitrogen balance.

Get Enough Rest

Resting is just as important as training. You want to give your muscles a break from intense training to trigger protein synthesis. If you work out too often, the muscles will start using protein surplus as fuel. This generates negative nitrogen balance. You want to rest to let the body repair itself. And once it does, the muscles start growing.

Triggering Anabolic State

When training, you want to maximize positive nitrogen balance by stimulating the muscle fibers without causing muscle breakdown. And when you do, the body reaches an anabolic state. This will pave the way for positive nitrogen balance. The body becomes more efficient without fatiguing. To do this, keep your training short and intense. Keep the workout at 45 minutes maximum and complete two to three exercises per body part./healthydietbase.com/

HEALTH BENEFITS OF POMEGRANATE VINEGAR

Pomegranate is a fruit packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and three times the amount of antioxidants of green tea. Take it raw as garnish or as a healthy snack and you can take advantage of its concentrated nutritional value. Even better, take pomegranate vinegar to get higher dose of pomegranate’s health-giving nutrients!

What Is Pomegranate Vinegar?

Pomegranate vinegar is made from the fruit’ extracts as well as pulp and then brewed to turn it into vinegar. Pomegranate vinegar is perfect as salad dressing; use it to add flavor to various dishes. It could also be used as seasoning to fish and poultry, ingredient for dips, etc. You can also drink pomegranate juice on its own or mixed with your favorite beverages to maintain health and complete your recommended dietary allowance of vitamins and minerals.

Health Benefits of Pomegranate Vinegar

Aids in Digestion

Pomegranate vinegar contains high levels of acetic acid. This compound aids in digestion by boosting the body’s ability to absorb nutrients from the food we eat. To take pomegranate vinegar to aid in digestion, we recommend drizzling the stuff all over your favorite salad or add a couple of tablespoons of pomegranate vinegar in a glass of water after every meal. You can sweeten the drink by adding honey.

Boosts Performance and Energy

Because the acetic acid in pomegranate vinegar aids in better nutrient absorption, the organs work better thereby boosting the body’s performance. What’s more, the concentrated level of minerals and vitamins in pomegranate vinegar will keep the body energized all day!

Efficient Calcium Absorption

People who are lactose intolerant will benefit from drinking pomegranate vinegar daily. When you’re lactose intolerant, you have to find alternative sources of calcium, like broccoli or spinach. Adding a couple of drops of pomegranate vinegar to these greens will help you absorb the calcium in them, helping you achieve stronger bones and teeth.

Lowers Bad Cholesterol Level

Pomegranate contains naturally occurring compounds that keep the heart healthy and cut the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. These compounds include tannins, antioxidants, and vitamin C. The potassium in pomegranate vinegar could also enhance its effectiveness in lowering elevated blood pressure.

Helps Prevent Cancer

Pomegranate vinegar may also prevent narrowing or hardening of the arteries caused by fat deposits, preventing heart attacks, strokes, and other heart and blood vessel ailments. Multiple clinical tests reveal that flavonoids and antioxidants in pomegranate help stop cancer cells dead on their tracks, shrinking tumors by cutting the blood flow within the growth and even triggering the self-destruction of cancer cells! These compounds basically eliminate cancer cells without damaging the healthy cells within.

Boosts Memory and Prevents Mood Swings

The flavonoids and antioxidants in pomegranate vinegar help prevent oxidative damage to the brain. This helps keep the memory sharp and prevents the onset of hormone-related disorders like depression or mood swing. Oxidative damage is also linked to cancer development. By preventing free radicals from damaging healthy cells, pomegranate vinegar stops the proliferation of mutated cells in the body.

DELICIOUS TEXAS EATS TO TRY

Everything’s big in Texas especially the local appetite. So if you are planning a trip down south, better get yourself ready because there are loads of amazing eats in Texas! In today’s post, we are counting down some of the must-try local eats in Texas:

Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken fried steak was developed to make the toughest part of chicken meat more appetizing. This dish is meant to maximize every part of the chicken. Chicken fried steak is made from flour-coated chicken meat pan-fried to golden perfection. The steak is them slathered with cream gravy made from the chicken drippings.

Barbecue

Every household in Texas has a barbecue grill stowed away somewhere. This is barbecue country, after all! Texas is renowned for the sheer number of barbecue restaurants in the region, and everyone has their own special recipe kept under lock and key!

The most popular BBQ in Texas is beef brisket and pork ribs. The meats are either seasoned with a dry rub or a special blend of sauce to be used for marinade and basting. But for purists, they prefer the dry rub. The meats are then slowly cooked over a wooden fire for no less than 8 hours! Most Texans would apply spice rubs for a kick of flavor.

Chili

Chili happens to be the official dish of Texas. The authentic Texas chili does not contain beans. The bright red, savory Texas chili is loaded with tender pieces of beef, seasoned with dried chili and topped with grated cheese and fresh, roughly chopped onions. The Texas chili is similar to a beef stew except it is spicier with no distinct sweetness. The Tex-Mex version of chili contains beans.

Fried Okra

Fried okra is very popular across the south especially in Texas where the plant grows in abundance. The fried okra is made from sliced okra coated with cornmeal batter. The vegetable is then deep fried and served as a snack or as a side dish. Frying the vegetable is important because it masks the slime in the vegetable that some people do not like.

Brisket Tacos

Brisket tacos are simply slow-roasted barbecued beef brisket in a taco. Tex-Mex dishes are very popular in the region. The dish is prepared by adding slices of slow-cooked brisket, chopped onions, cilantro in a warm corn or flour tortilla. The tacos are then topped with cheese. Brisket tacos are eaten as snacks and even as a breakfast food.

Pecan Pie

Texas is one of the major producers of pecan in the world. So it makes sense that pecan is the official nut of the state. Pecan pie is as Texan as you can get. Virtually all restaurant has their own version of this sweet, tasty dessert.

Dr. Pepper

Nothing like a bottle of Dr. Pepper to wash down all that yummy Texan foods! Dr. Pepper is Texas’ answer to Coke, which was developed at the Morrison’s Old Corner Drugstore in Waco in 1885. This drink is made from sugar cane instead of high fructose corn syrup. 100 years since it was manufactured, Dr. Pepper is still more popular than ever.

5 WAYS TO DEAL WITH PARCHED, FLAKY SKIN

Do you suffer from perpetually rough, itchy, flakey and dry skin? Sounds like your skin could use a lot of TLC right now! The fact is, treating parched skin isn’t just about putting more products on the skin. The clothes you wear, your lifestyle, diet, the climate, and other factors also play a role in the state of your skin. In today’s post, we are listing down ways to banish dry skin for good:

1. Opting for Warm Showers

Do you love hot or very cold showers? Extreme water temperatures could strip the moisture off your skin. When the natural oils of the skin are gone, the skin is left irritated, dry, and flaky. Instead of going to the extremes, opt for short, warm showers that do not take longer than 10 minutes. A warm bath isn’t as harsh to the skin. It will not leave the skin raw and dry. Warm baths will not strip the skin of its natural oils so they are not as drying.

2. Use a Gentle Cleanser

If you suffer from very dry skin, avoid super foamy cleansers. Opt for soapless cleansers that come in a low-sudsing formula. If you can, avoid cleansers with very heavy fragrance or too emollient formulas that could cause greasiness. We recommend cleansers fortified with ceramides to keep the skin hydrated.

Ceramides are fatty molecules that form a protective barrier on the surface of the skin. Ceramides locks in moisture and softens the skin. These molecules also prevent moisture from evaporating from the skin. If you can, skip toners, chemical peels, and harsh astringents formulated with alcohol.

3. Protection from the Sun

The sun’s ultraviolet rays can break down the skin tissues, causing sagginess, wrinkles, and roughness. The sun’s damaging rays could also worsen very dry skin. Our advice is to slather sun protection creams all over the body every time you head out. You want a sunblock with high sun protection factor (SPF) of 45 and up. Wear sunglasses to protect the delicate skin around the eyes from sun damage too. Don’t ignore the lips and the ears! You want to slather SPF lotion on the ears to protect it from ultraviolet rays. Keep an SPF lip balm in your purse to protect the lips from UV rays.

It helps if you dress in layers. This way, you can simply peel away a layer of clothing to keep cool. Perspiration and overheating could irritate the skin, causing dryness.

4. Moisturize Properly

Of course, one of the best ways to combat dryness is to give the skin a dose of moisture. You can do that by drinking water regularly and slathering on body moisturizers. If you have dry, sensitive skin, we recommend gel-type moisturizers formulated with ceramides, glycerin or hyaluronic acid. These compounds improve the skin’s ability to retain moisture, keeping the skin supple, healthy, and glowing!

For very dry spots, we recommend emollient moisturizers made from nut butter, stearic acid, and natural oils. These products hydrate the skin deeply, eliminating dry spots and roughness. Just massage the product in to ensure proper absorption. For very dry heels, we recommend wearing socks after working the moisturizer in at nighttime.

5. Minimizing Exposure to Dry Air

Did you know that exposing the skin to air conditioner is one of the most common causes of very dry skin? The cold, dry air leaves the skin irritated, scaly, and dry! Our advice is to use a humidifier to balance out the moisture in the air and keep the skin hydrated./healthydietbase.com/

WHY IS BREAKFAST SO IMPORTANT FOR WEIGHT LOSS?

Motivated to Move

Who knew eating breakfast every morning would keep you motivated to work out? Let’s face it, when we feel exhausted, we are not motivated to work out at all. When you have all the energy you need to keep up with your day-to-day activities, you have extra room for a workout. A hearty breakfast gives you enough energy to keep up with the demands of an active lifestyle, allowing you to stay motivated to exercise regularly.

Curbs Cravings

A healthy breakfast comprised of lean protein and unrefined grains will fill you up nicely, reducing cravings. How? Cravings are caused by dips in blood sugar level. When the glucose level in the blood plummets, the brain deems this as dangerous, signaling for a quick source of sugar. The sugar is then converted into fuel. That’s why most people crave for sweet treats like chocolate bars, donuts, etc.
Eating breakfast daily rebalances the blood sugar level, keeping it nice and steady for longer. The result? You don’t experience intense cravings that affect your weight loss routine.

Reduces Mindless Grazing

Apart from stabilizing the blood sugar level in the system, a healthy breakfast could also reduce overeating! Breakfast foods like whole-grain bread, whole grain cereals, unprocessed grains, fruits, and vegetables are a great source of soluble and insoluble fiber.
Fiber is an instrumental nutrient to keep the weight down. When exposed to stomach juices, soluble fiber forms a gel-like substance that sits in the stomach. What this does is it keeps you feeling fuller for longer. Meanwhile, insoluble fiber binds with fat and bulks up the stool.

Regulates Mood

Are you an emotional eater? Do you use food to cope with stressful or emotional situations? If the answer is yes, then you know how fattening this habit is. Eating breakfast daily stabilizes the insulin levels in the system. The result? An uplifted mood. When you feel better, you are less likely to stuff your face with food.

Stimulates Brain Activity

Ever wonder why you feel more alert and focused when you ate a balanced breakfast? A healthy breakfast stimulates brain activity. It helps enhance memory by stimulating the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Studies show that children who never miss breakfast perform better in school compared to children who did not eat breakfast.

Multiple studies show that individuals who never miss breakfast are at least 30 pounds lighter than individuals who do not take breakfast at all. A University of Florida study also found that children who eat breakfast every morning generally consume fewer calories throughout the day compared to kids who did not eat breakfast at all. So what makes breakfast such an important meal for those who are trying to lose weight? Let’s find out:

Energizes the Body

As you sleep, the body goes through a fasting state. This allows you to go on all night without eating. And as soon as you wake up, your system is depleted of nutrients to power charge through your day. At this point, the body is famished.

Eating a well-balanced breakfast every morning ensures that the body has all the nutrient it needs to go through the day. Your breakfast meal provides enough fuel to stay energized until lunchtime.  For maximum energy, fill your plate with whole grains, fresh greens, and fruits!/healthydietbase.com/

The Pros and Cons of Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty

Is it possible to reshape the nose and achieve harmonious facial features without going under the knife? With non-invasive rhinoplasty, it is quite possible!

A non-surgical rhinoplasty is a type of alternative procedure to regular rhinoplasty, which is invasive. The process involves shots of fillers including Botox® Cosmetic, Restylane®, or Radiesse® to reshape the nose and define the nasal contours. Because the procedure is fast, this procedure requires no downtime and involves minimal pain. This procedure is ideal for patients with minor nasal imbalance. The effects will last for several months.  Non-surgical rhinoplasty is ideal for patients who cannot commit to an invasive rhinoplasty or those who do not want dramatic changes to their nose shape.

Considering getting your nose done without the surgery? Below are the advantages and disadvantages of non-surgical rhinoplasty:

The Advantages of Non-surgical Rhinoplasty

No Surgery

Of course, the most important benefit of a non-surgical rhinoplasty is that it requires no surgery at all. The procedure will enhance and improve the contours of the nose using a collagen-stimulating filler. There is absolutely no incision and downtime. This procedure only requires a topical anesthesia to reduce pain and discomfort. The result is also instantaneous. You can see the effects of a non-surgical rhinoplasty within minutes of injecting the fillers.

Zero Downtime

A traditional rhinoplasty will require months of recovery. The patient has to wear protective dressing and avoid strenuous activities to facilitate proper healing. The incisions have to be cleaned regularly to prevent infection.

You don’t have to worry about the prolonged recovery period with a non-surgical rhinoplasty. The procedure takes only a few minutes to complete. Because there are no incision sites, there is no fear of infections or improper healing. Within a few minutes, you will walk out of your surgeon’s office with a new and improved nose!

Fast, Subtle Results

Non-surgical rhinoplasty provides natural-looking results. This procedure is perfect for patients who prefer subtle changes in their nose shape. The procedure is an excellent way to test out if a regular rhinoplasty is right for you. If you are satisfied with the outcome, then you can either complete another round of treatment or opt for a more permanent method.

The Disadvantages of Non-surgical Rhinoplasty

Not a Permanent Solution

The effects of the fillers will only last for several months (8 months maximum) so this procedure does not provide a permanent or long-lasting solution to your troubled areas. In addition, non-surgical rhinoplasty will not correct physiological nasal issues at all.

Expensive

A round of non-surgical rhinoplasty might seem cheaper than a rhinoplasty but because the effects of the filler will fade within months, you will need another round of treatment to restore the shape of your nose. Eventually, the additional costs of repeated treatments will pile up. In the end, you will spend more on non-surgical rhinoplasty than a one-time surgical rhinoplasty.

Nose Appears Bigger

If you are trying to achieve a smaller nose to harmonize your facial features, a non-surgical rhinoplasty might not be the best choice for you. The procedure will not shave off the nose. Quite the contrary, the filler will take up space, making the nose appear plumper than its original shape. /healthydietbase.com/

Halimeter® Uses and Benefits

Halitosis – more commonly known as bad breath – is a condition that causes foul-smelling breath. Tooth decay, gum disease, and digestive issues often cause this condition. Although halitosis is deemed as an oral health problem, it’s actually a symptom of other health issues. Bacteria in the tongue and gum line as well as nasal and stomach problems could cause bad breath. Bad breath could be a sign of liver failure too but this is a very rare case.

There are different ways to treat bad breath. And when it comes to treatment, you want to go for those that addresses the condition, rather than treatments that only mask the symptoms. One way to take care of bad breath is by using a Halimeter®.

What is a Halimeter?

Studies show that an increased level of dimethyl sulfide, hydrogen sulfide or methyl mercaptan is a sign of bad breath. These volatile sulfur compounds are the root cause of chronic halitosis. A halimeter® is a tool that “detects” bad breath by measuring the level of chemicals in the breath.

The machine works just like a breath analyzer used to detect alcohol in exhaled breath. The halimeter® was developed in the 70s to measure the level of volatile sulfur in the air. Then, it was developed as a tool to improve oral health.

To use a halimeter®, you will blow or exhale into a special tube. The exhaled breath is analyzed by the halimeter® for enzymes and chemicals in the breath. Using the halimeter® helps monitor the level of volatile sulfur in the breath, allowing a dentist to resolve the root cause of halitosis.

Halimeter® is used by a dentist. After the test, your dentist will give you a comprehensive dental exam, take note of your family history, and recommend remedies to treat the condition. Most times, a dentist could uncover health problems and underlying causes of bad breath such as liver or heart disease. With a halimeter®, your dentist can track your progress, measure the level of volatile sulfur in your breath, and check if any of the remedies recommended was working.

Benefits of a Halimeter®

Resolves the Root Cause of Halitosis

Halimeter® makes it easier for an oral health specialist to determine what’s causing bad breath. Instead of simply masking bad breath with mints, breath sprays, or chewing gum, a halimeter® will get rid of the problem completely.

Treats Chronic Halitosis

The difference between halitosis and chronic halitosis is that the latter comes and goes regularly. An underlying disease such as heart problem, liver disorders, diabetes, and hypertension typically causes chronic halitosis. Chronic halitosis will not go away without drastic changes made in your diet and lifestyle. A halimeter® makes it easier for dentists to determine if you are suffering from acute or chronic halitosis.

Address Oral Health Problems

Did you know that people with gaps in between teeth are more likely to develop halitosis? Food debris is lodged in the gaps, causing bad breath. A halimeter® makes it easier for a dentist to check if gaps between the teeth are causing foul breath. And if they are, your dentist will recommend various teeth re-alignment methods to reduce the gaps between your teeth./healthydietbase.com/