Nutritional Supplements Aid Hospitalized Elderly (Healthday)
Nutritional supplements bolster the health of malnourished seniors in hospitals or long-term care settings, but are of little benefit to the well-fed elderly living at home, researchers say. (more…)

Natural Home Treatment for Cellulite
CELLULITE “Cellulite” is a skin condition that gives the appearance of small bumps and ripples under the skin. The bumps are caused by the underlying fat cells growing too large and stretching the natural fiber compartments that hold the skin to the underlying layers of tissues. “Cellulite” is ordinary fat, but ordinary fat that affects the appearance of the skin. Strands of fibrous collagen tissue connect the skin to the subcutaneous layers and also separate compartments that contain fat cells. When fat cells increase in size, these compartments bulge and produce a rippled appearance of the skin. Women tend to have cellulite more often than men because they have a vertical pattern of collagen in the underlying layer that holds the fat cells, and when the fat cells become very large, they bulge out of the chambers and appear as cellulite. In men, the pattern of collagen is tighter, in a diagonal pattern, and they have thicker skin, so there is less bulging of the individual fat cells. Another factor in cellulite is high levels of estrogen, since this hormone has a direct effect on the holding capacity of fat cells through the increase of alpha-adrenoreceptors, the chemical doorways that tell your fat cells to hold on to their contents. Poor diet, bad circulation, and poor lymphatic circulation can all contribute to the appearance of cellulite. TREATING SKIN WITH CELLULITE There are several extra steps you can take for the treatment of cellulite. Consider your skin care regimen, and fine-tune it to meet the needs of skin that has a tendency to swell with fluids, store fat and have poor circulation. Nutrition: Although cellulite is a skin condition, it’s closely tied to the storage of excess fat. If you are significantly overweight, you should certainly alter your diet. The dietary enzyme bromelain can improve overall circulation to your skin and adipose tissues by removing the buildup of fibrin on the walls of blood vessels. Treating cellulite requires a two-pronged approach �” one being the shrinking of the fat cells themselves, the second being the regeneration of collagen and strengthening of the skin outside of the swollen fat cells. Cleansing: When cleaning your skin, use your wash cloth or loufah to massage the area where cellulite occurs. At first, use a circular motion and then a brushing motion upwards towards the bowels. This will improve circulation and edema, and help remove toxins and metabolic wastes out of the tissues and interstitial spaces around the collagen and fat cells. Other Treatments: - Dry Skin Brushing: Learn to dry brush your skin at least twice every day �” upon rising and before going to bed. Skin brushing provides many benefits in the treatment of cellulite. First of all, it’s “exercise” for you skin, and strengthens the underlying dermis and pattern of collagen in the subcutaneous layer. It stimulates the growth and repair of the tissues by increasing blood flow to the area. It also helps remove toxins and metabolic wastes out of the interstitial fluids surrounding the tissues for disposal. Dry brushing is good for you skin all over, but if you are suffering from spider or varicose veins, brushing these areas vigorously several times every day, first in a circular motion and then upwards towards the colon, can improve the appearance of cellulite. - Hormones: Cellulite is often associated with the use of HRT and birth control pills. High levels of estrogen from these medications can cause an increase in the fatty tissues ability to store fats and cause them to bulge, pushing out the skin and causing cellulite. If you are using birth control pills for contraception, you may want to ask your doctor for a lower-estrogen dose formula or a non-hormonal form, such as an IUD. If you are on HRT, you may want to consider switching to a lower dose, adding progesterone cream, or using a weaker formula, such as an estrone cream. - Habits: Get out of the habit of crossing your legs, knees and ankles. This reduces circulation and increases swelling. Try to keep moving regularly, neither sitting nor standing for long periods. - Exercise: Regular exercise is necessary for the improvement of cellulite. Not only does it help reduce the appearance of cellulite by burning the fatty acids that are causing the cellulite. It also improves circulation and helps to remove toxin-filled wastes away from the skin. Take up a walking program, or sneaking in a set of exercises in the restroom during breaks. - Body Wraps: Body wraps, both professional and homemade can improve the appearance of cellulite. Body wraps use a combination of minerals and herbs that stimulate the fat cells to release their contents, they absorb toxins from the skin and reduce swelling. Generally you will find stimulant herbs like kelp or algae that stimulate the fat burning process in the cells. You will find cosmetic clays that will remove toxins and wastes from the pores, and horsetail and horse chestnut that reduce edema (swelling) and provide minerals for strengthening the skin. These formulas are applied to the skin with the use of compression wraps. For recipes for doing home wraps, go to the Botanical Beauty Lab website. - Massage: Massage, particularly the kind that improves lymph flow, is very good for reducing the appearance of cellulite. It improves the removal of metabolic wastes and toxins from the interstitial tissues around the adipose tissues, and gives the skin a smoother appearance. There are many professionals offering massage for cellulite, including lymphatic massage and endermology, but if that is out of your budget, you may want to try a home massage device. Many are available, from a simple round-prong hand tool to a powered massager that provides heat, massage and suction similar to the professional endermology machines. SUPPLEMENTS FOR CELLULITE REDUCTION Alfalfa: Alfalfa is a natural diuretic that helps balance the body’s interstitial fluids and reduces edema and swelling. It’s also a phytoprogesterone, which helps balance the excess estrogen that can exacerbate cellulite. Borage Oil: Borage oil contains high amounts gamma linoleic acid, which is an important fatty acid to the strengthening of cell walls. Bromelain: Bromelain is a naturally occurring enzyme in natural foods that aid in the digestion of proteins. The consumption of bromelain aids in the removal of fibrin buildup in fine blood vessels. This improves and increases circulation to the skin, and aids in repair and rejuvenation. Horsetail: Horse Chestnut herb contains high levels of the mineral silica, which is used in the repair and maintenance of skin cells. Cider Vinegar contains an array of important enzymes and aids in balancing body pH. It’s also a good source of potassium, which is necessary for fluid balance in the body. Coconut Oil contains medium chain triglycerides which are easily absorbed and used by the body for fuel. It has the capability of stimulating the thyroid gland, which increases body temperature and metabolism and is known for improving the burning of excess fat. Ginkgo Biloba is a natural blood thinner that increases the microcirculation to skin and fat cells. Gotu Kolu is a natural source of caffeine. Caffeine stimulates the beta-adrenoreceptors on the surface of the fat cells to release their stores of fatty acids, aiding in the burning of excess fat. Green Tea: Green tea is a mild stimulate that contains caffeine as well as powerful antioxidants that aid in the proper replication and repair of skin cells. MSM: Is an important mineral that is necessary for skin cell repair. EXTERNAL TREATMENTS FOR CELLULITE Aloe Vera contains alatoin, which sooths and heals skin. It has been shown clinically to increase microcirculation of the skin and to speed healing of skin tissues. Betonite Clay is a natural mineral clay that is known for its ability to absorb impurities and toxins from the skin through the pores. Horsetail, ginkgo biloba, kelp and green tea also work externally and can be added to lotions or creams for massage into problem areas. Many experts have recommended using coffee grounds as a scrub for cellulite prone areas. The grounds work as an exfoliant, as the caffeine absorbs into the skin and stimulate the beta adrenoreceptors in the fat cells to release their contents. Dead Sea Salts and Kelp or bladderwrack contain powerful minerals that aid in the repair of skin cells as well as the mineral iodine which can aid in the metabolism of the underlying fat cells. There are also many commercial formulas and methods for the reduction of cellulite. Most contain caffeine or a similar chemical called theophylline or aminophylline. Many also contain kelp, bladderwrack and other herbs mentioned herein. Just remember that cellulite reduction is a two step process. The cause of cellulite is over-sized fat cells that have stretched out the collagen structure underlying the skin. The first step is to reduce bodyfat, and many herbs and nutrients both external and external can accelerate the process. The second step is to increase the strength of the skin and the collagen webs under the subcutaneous tissues. Skin and collagen require vitamins, minerals and fatty acids to rebuild themselves properly. Excess fluids can exacerbate the problem, so proper fluid intake and circulation is important. Drink plenty of fluids, and stay active to increase the circulation of the lymph system. With a little diligent effort the appearance of cellulite can be reduced.
Fawn Bales has studied and practiced alternative and herbal medine for over 20 years. She is the co-author of two natural beauty books and is a managing editor of Botanical Beauty Lab, a women's free resource for natural health and beauty information at http://www.botanicalbeautylab.com (more…)

Dieting Preparation — The Impact of Sleep & Stress
Dieting PreparationThe Impact of Sleep and StressWhen you have started a diet in the past, how much sincere and attentive focus did you give to preparing for your diet? Isn’t it true that usually you are getting the food together a particular diet requires,… (more…)

Facts to Know Before Going for Weight Loss Surgery
Have you ever wondered what exactly is up with weight loss surgery? This informative article can give you an insight into everything you’ve ever wanted to know about weight loss surgery.

For some people, it can be a difficult decision for choosing whether or not to undergo weight loss surgery. Weight loss surgery is life changing and requires a solid commitment from the patient to follow a diet and exercise plan. You should make sure you clearly understand the pros and cons connected with weight loss surgery procedure before making any decision.
What to Expect?

First and foremost, it is essential that you have a clear idea of what your expectations are from the weight loss surgery and whether the results of that actual surgical procedure will be able to meet those expectations.

Also, weight loss surgery patients are advised not to expect the weight loss surgery to be their answer to all their problems and that they will need to maintain their health and figures into the future by following proper healthy eating and exercise plans.

These weight loss surgery types are gaining more acceptances today as newer technology makes the weight loss surgeries more efficient and safer. There are probably many questions you have. Here are some common questions regarding weight loss surgery if you are considering weight loss surgery.
How Much Weight Can I Lose?

The amount of weight you will lose following weight loss surgery will depend on several factors. First, the weight loss surgery type you have can affect the outcome. The Lap-Band procedure, while safer, has slower weight loss than other forms.

Also, your exercise routine and the foods you eat will also affect your weight loss outcome. It is essential to follow the diet plan given to you and to exercise everyday for the maximum weight loss. Most patients can expect to lose about 36 percent of their excess body weight within the first year.
Are There any Qualifications For Having Weight Loss Surgery?

Even this depends on several factors. Usually, a candidate for weight loss surgery must weight 100 pounds or more over their ideal body weight. Another factor is the body mass index.

Women who are 80 pounds overweight or more and have a body mass index of 40+ and men who are overweight by 100 pounds or more and have a Body Mass Index of about 40+ are considered severely obese and may be candidates for weight loss surgery.

Those who have a BMI between 35 and 40 and suffer from obesity connected problems such as sleep apnea, obesity related heart disease, or diabetes may be considered for the weight loss surgery.
How Safe Is Weight Loss Surgery?

For the most part, weight loss surgery is safe. As with any surgical procedure there are risks involved and these should be carefully considered before having the procedure.

Also, there are some weight loss surgery types that are safer than others. Surgeries that are performed laparoscopically are generally safer and easier to recover from than open procedures.

Additionally, there may be some medical conditions that will prevent a good outcome for some patients. It is significant to discuss these issues with your health care provider before having surgery.
Can I Participate In Activities Following Surgery?

Yes, after you are completely healed, it generally takes four to six weeks. Healing time can depend on the type of surgery that is performed. You can resume your normal activities after that time. In reality, exercise is encouraged and will aid in more rapid weight loss.
What Can I Eat After Weight Loss Surgery?

You will be limited to liquids and pureed foods for the first five weeks after surgery. Gradually, you can begin to add in other foods such as lean meats, fresh fruits and vegetables and low fat dairy products.

Most patients will only be able to eat a very small portion so it is significant to stop eating when you feel full and to eat several small meals during the day. Also, you should avoid sweet foods and foods that are fibrous, greasy, doughy or sticky. This can lead to obstacle of the stomach and intestines.

Although Weight Loss Surgery can be a life saving procedure for some people, for others it is seen primarily as a cosmetic procedure. That said, however, it does have its advantages. Primarily, the main advantage of weight loss surgery is weight reduction with many of its patients being pleased with the amount of weight they have lost.

That said, whenever anyone is considering undertaking weight loss surgery it is significant that they discuss this fully with their doctor and seek out the best medical advice to date.

Take time to consider the points about weight loss surgery presented above. What you learn may help you overcome your hesitation to take action.Nishanth Reddy is an author and publisher of many health related websites. For more information on different surgery methods and steps to be followed after the surgery, visit his website: http://www.weight-loss-surgery-guide.info (more…)

Ephedra Products
Ephedra products are still available. Run, don’t walk to your nearest computer and buy some fast because you may not have the chance to do so for very long.
Do not go to a store hoping to find ephedra diet pills either because the majority of stores are not going to carry ephedra products. Any type of chain store will never carry these types of diet products again. If you are lucky you might find a local independent herbal store or gym owner that thinks it is okay to sell weight loss aids with ephedra.
So why are stores not selling ephedra?
Despite the fact that these types of diet pills meant brisk sales and huge profits, it is no longer worth the risk of a lawsuit. Also, insurance companies will not authorize the big chain stores to sell these risky products for the same reason of the threat of being sued by someone that encounters a problem. (more…)

Getting Mad Helps!
Getting angry at myself helped…

As the cartoon character Popeye said: “Dat’s all I can stanz, I can’t stanz no more!”
That has become my motto for losing some weight.

Six pairs of expensive dress slacks, beautiful shirts, two suits and a sports coat and none of them fit me anymore - I was depressed most of the time and got down to wearing sweat pants, cargo shorts and XXL T shirts. I’m 5′ 4″ tall so when I finally got the courage to get myself on the bathroom scale I realized that I weighed as much as a man who was 6 feet!

Here’s what’s working for me and I hope it helps you.

Water - Try to drink a gallon a day - goodbye diet soda - its hard to kick the cola habit at the start but after a few days the food tastes much better and when old man hunger comes around take a gulp or two.

Mind Set - I have been on diets most of my adult life and my mind set was to eat less and deal with hunger - Now I eat little portions of everything throughout the day and its working for me.

Losing inches has become more important than hitting that dreaded scale every day. (more…)