The Cost Of Being Sick And One Possible Alternative: Glyconutrition

June 30, 2006

A lot of people I’ve talked with about health supplements usually are coming from about the same place - you know: "been there, done that." People are tired of hearing about the latest and greatest and ? for the most part - figure that all supplements are pretty much the same.

People also agree that vitamin and mineral supplements might help a little, but that they’re definitely limited like helping someone get over some huge illness like cancer.

And actually, up until a few years ago, that was true. People took vitamins and minerals just because that seemed like the thing to do, but no one really saw any of the kind of results that would ? you know ? be considered fairly miraculous.

So I think it’s normal to think that "If there was some kind of a real breakthrough out there with nutritional supplements, I’d already have heard about it ? or at least my doctor would of."

So, OK, let me say something right now. You can believe me or not, but here’s the thing: I’ve been looking in to a nutritional supplement category called "glyconutrition" since I first heard about it about 2 years ago. Personally, there’s no doubt, at least in my mind, that ? and it doesn’t matter what kind of health condition you’re talking about - glyconutrition will at the very least help, and in many cases, bring very sick people back to full, radiant health.

It seems to me that, given the state of today health care crisis, everyone should know about any supplement ? like glyconutrition - that significantly increases the chances of staying healthy.

In a book that came out last year called: "The Cost of Being Sick", medical establishment insider Nicholas Webb shows us with a lot of facts and figures how messed up the health care system really is. And by that I mean: expensive and unreliable and - unless you’ve been living under a rock somewhere ? you probably already know that.

Looking Nick Webb’s facts and figures, it’s clear that insurance rates and healthcare costs are just spiraling to the point where ? already a lot of people are excluded and as time goes on here in the next 5 to 10 years, most people won’t be able to afford the insurance premiums which will, by that time, will amount to the same as your average mortgage payment. Think about that. That’s huge.

But some of us are lucky ? especially if we can see into the future. Not with ESP, but by being smart enough to be able to read the writing on the wall.

Now, assuming you CAN recognize the signs of danger, what can you do about it? That’s the bottom line, isn’t it? What can any of us DO about it?

So that’s a good question. So, let’s look at some of the options.

One option is that you can do nothing. I mean, you can just hope your health hangs in there and take your chances.

The other option is to take some action. Now, admittedly, up until recently there wasn’t much of anything you could do. But that changed ten years ago. It changed when a pharmacologist working for the drug industry stumbled onto one of the most important health discoveries of our lifetime: glyconutrition.

I would highly recommend doing some research on glyconutrition because it’s probably the best form of health assurance you can get.

In today’s world of rising health costs, glyconutrition is one of the most effective strategies available to you and your family.

David Lear is a freelance writer whose primary interest is glyconutrition. Testimonials, scientific validation, and other information about glyconutrition can be found at http://www.glycoresults.com

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) Who Do They Benefit?

June 30, 2006

IN WHICH CASES ARE AHA RECOMMENDED?

* Hyperkeratinization (increased accumulation of keratin and cell) extreme cases of hyperkeratinization such as Seborrheic dermatitis (Seborrhea skin conditions which is excess flaking, itching, scaling and redness afflicting either scalp or face due to an increase of the rate of production of skin cells which buildup on the skin.

* Hyperpigmentation (brown spots, discoloration), dry sun damaged skins

* Xerosis (so-called “dry”, rough, uneven skin, calloused skin)

* Wrinkles and fine lines

* Comedonal, Whiteheads and blemished skins

* Keratosis pilaris (are numerous tiny rough spots sometimes red and itchy usually on the arms but may appear on the thighs, hands, eyebrows, cheeks or any other part of the body caused by accumulation of old skin cells, this occurs mostly in the winter months when skin is more prone to drynes and low humidity or after the summer months due to sun exposure…..(causing calloused skin)

WHAT ARE THE MAIN EFFECTS OF AHA ON THE SKIN?

* Refine the corneal layer by exfoliating accumulation of dead skin cells

* Accelerate cellular renewal

* Moisturize by stimulating the skin to produce hyaluronic acid, known for it’s highly

moisturizing effect on the skin but to be effective the concentration should be 2% and up! * Reduce brown spots

* Even out and Brighten the complexion

* Make wrinkles less visible

* Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) are naturally occurring acids, derived from the sugars.. Some examples are

Glycolic Acid (Sugar Cane), Lactic Acid (Milk), Tartaric Acid (Grapes), Citric Acid (Citrus Fruits), Malic Acid (Apples), and Mandelic Acid (Bitter Almonds).

* These acids work at the very base of the stratum corneum, dissolving the cement that holds dead skin cells together to remove dead cells from the skin, removal of this external barrier enables easier, deeper penetration of other skin treatments as well clears oiliness and impurities, increases skin hydration due to the natural moisturizing properties of AHAs and rejuvenates the skin.This increases cell turnover and influences the structure of new stratum corneum being made. AHA has the potential to help bleach unwanted skin discoloration. This results in skin that is more flexible,even in color, more smooth, and more moisturized, making fine lines less visible while delaying the aging process. Finally, they not only stimulate collagen production, but help plump up collagen and elastin fibers within the skin. It is the basis of many acne therapy and skin rejuvenation!

* Excellent exfoliating product!!!! For all skin types except reactive/sensitive skins and any age (teenagers to seniors)! IF YOUR SKIN IS TOO SENSITIVE FOR AHA YOU WILL KNOW CAUSE IT WILL FEEL IRRITATED AND RED.

* An effective concentration should contain at least 7-8% alpha hydroxy acid with a pH between 2.5 and 4.0. A pH of up to 4.5 is acceptable on products with high concentrations of 20-25%. Products for use at home should never contain over 10 % alpha hydroxy acid, anything over 10-15% a doctor’s or professional supervision is required. Alpha hydroxy acids do not thin the skin if used correctly!

* Remember one should always wear a sunscreen if one is using alpha hydroxy acids products and going in the sun (which is not recommended because of possible sensitivities, this also includes the cold and wind, the reason why I recommend to use AHA creams at night to prevent any possible reaction/sensitivities to any harsh environment ) In the summer one should always use suncblock if they will be outside!

* For some it is best at the beginning to use the aha cream every second night and work up gradually to every night. Or you may wish to use the product every other night throughout the treatment and alternate with another cream if your skin feels sensitive…

* While using AHA creams it is normal to have some flaking occuring this is just the dead skin cells being shed off! Also during the first few weeks some people may experience some breakouts that is normal too due to the product eliminating impurities from the pores and a sensation of warmth and light tingling may occur!!!

If you wish you can apply a moisturizer (optional) on top of the AHA over dry areas or use it alone! Also the need to exfoliate the skin once a week is not necessary when using aha products!

Linda Fournier
Professional Esthetician/Owner
Elle’s Esthetic Studio
http://www.ellesestheticstudio.com

Simple Ideas to Organize Your Kitchen

June 30, 2006

Simple Ideas to Organize Your Kitchen
 by: Lesley Dietschy

The kitchen is often known as the heart of the home. It is the place where we gather to eat, cook, entertain, and spend time with friends and family. As a result, the kitchen can become one of the most difficult rooms to organize and keep clean. Try some of these tips and time savers to organize your kitchen and simplify your life.

Countertops:

• Clean your countertops and remove any item or appliance you do not use at least once a week.

• Keep cookbooks to a minimum and store away the ones you don’t use on a regular basis.

Pots/Pans/Containers:

• Store pots and pans in a cabinet beneath or next to the stove for easy access.

• Place baking sheets, cake pans, pizza pans, etc. in a cabinet beneath or next to the oven. You can use a rack to help arrange baking sheets by size and those used most often.

• Consider suspending pots and pans on a wall or from a ceiling mounted rack to maximize cabinet and storage space.

• Store microwave safe containers in a cabinet near the microwave. Arrange containers by size and stack one inside of the other if possible. Throw away plastic containers that are no longer used.

Pantry:

• Store each item so that it is easily handy and visible.

• Group canned goods together and stack so that their labels can easily be seen. Discard canned goods and jars that have passed their expiration dates or are more than a year old.

• Place pasta, cereal, rice, and other dried foods in labeled plastic storage containers.

• Store gravy packets, seasoning packets, etc. in a small, clear plastic tub for easy access.

• Line up boxes with their ’spines’ facing front (like library books).

• If possible, store the most often used items at eye level.

• Choose a lower shelf for paper storage and place all napkins, towels and plates together.

• Store heavy items, such as boxes of soda and juice, on the floor or on a lower shelf.

• If you have extra wall space, consider hanging up storage hooks, a hand vacuum, a bulletin board or other helpful organizing items.

• Purchase handy space saving products such as stacking containers, caddies to store foil and wax paper, and sturdy baskets for onions, garlic and potatoes.

• If you have school-age children, create a snack shelf of parent-approved treats.

Refrigerator:

• Designate certain shelves in your refrigerator for specific items. For example, use your top shelf for beverages, your bottom shelf for leftovers, place produce in its drawer, and place condiments in the door of the refrigerator.

• Delegate one day of the week to tossing out old foods. Consider cleaning out your refrigerator on the same day you go to the grocery store. Since you will be adding new items in your refrigerator it is a great time to toss out old food to make space.

Spices:

• Organize spices on a spice rack and place the ones used most often in the front row.

• If you have a shallow drawer near your stove, consider laying all of your small spice jars in there. Place them label side up so it is easy to view them all at once.

• Most dried spices lose their flavor in six months. Discard any spices that are older than six months or you no longer use. To keep track of the freshness of spices, write the purchase date or throw away date on the bottle with a black marker.

Misc.

• Consider recycling products to help organize your kitchen. You can label shoe boxes and use them to store items such as cookie cutters, candles, appliance accessories, etc. You can also use checkbook boxes to store items such as matches, batteries, and smaller items.

• Square containers take up less space and fit more efficiently on shelves than round ones.

• Place hooks inside a cabinet door to hang cooking utensils on. This will help to clear drawer space.

• If you have school age kids or someone who carries their lunch to work, create an area in your kitchen for lunch-making. Stock it with lunch boxes and/or brown bags, plastic wraps/bags, thermos, quarters and small containers.

• Utilize bins and baskets to keep “like items” together.

• Store trash bags near or in the bottom of trash can for easy changing.

By using some or all of these tips, you can be well on your way to a more organized kitchen.

Happy Organizing!

About The Author
Lesley Dietschy is a freelance writer and the creator/editor of The Home Decor Exchange. The Home Decor Exchange is a popular home and garden website featuring resources, a shopping marketplace, articles, decorating pictures, decorating advice, free projects, and more. http://www.HomeDecorExchange.com.

How to Maximize Goals, Affirmations and Visualizations

June 30, 2006

Do you want to get better results from daily exercises such as affirmations and visualizations, develop a better relationships with your inner self and get in touch with your personal power every moment of the day? The key to all of these things is energy. If you can learn to control the flow of energy within you, you can achieve these results and much more.

So, what exactly is energy? Energy is everything. Everything is comprised on energy. It has been proven scientifically that everything has its own energy field. This includes you and me, the cat, the trees outside, computers, cell phones and everything else. It has also been proven that any thought you have also creates it’s own energy field. On a spiritual level, one might discuss the unlimited source of positive energy that comes from Source (God, the Universe, whatever word you are comfortable with). All of this energy is simultaneously individual and interconnected. What’s important for you to know is that there is unlimited positive energy flowing around you at all times, and that you can use this positive energy. This positive energy enables all good things in your life, and when used consciously is the key to manifesting that which you desire into your life.

You may already be aware of your energy. If you are not, just know that it’s there whether you are aware of it or not. You probably already know about it, you just may not realize it. The most simplistic way to get in touch with your energy is to become aware of your feelings. Your feelings are a result of and an indicator of the energy you are flowing. As you know, there is a whole array of feelings: happy, sad, fun, excited, grumpy, blissful, and on and on. You don’t need to worry about all of that. What you want to become attune to is whether you feel good or you feel bad. This may sound ridiculously simple, but in fact many of us go on auto-pilot and do not pay attention to how we’re feeling at all. As you go through your day, start to pay attention to yourself. Notice whether you feel good or feel bad. What if you don’t feel good but don’t feel exactly bad either? Unless you feel good, really good, you are not fully flowing positive energy.

Your body is an excellent indicator of feel-good/feel-bad. Often when we are not flowing positively, we tense our muscles, clench our jaw, hold our breath or develop a knot in our stomach. If you have any of these physical indicators or another sign of physical stress, there’s a good chance you are not fully flowing feel-good energy. You want to practice sensing your energy until you know moment by moment if you are flowing positive energy or not. This may take quite a bit of practice, but you will begin to develop a better relationship with yourself, which is well worth the effort. In this fast-paced world, learning to be still within is a talent that will make you happier and increase your productivity.

The second step in the process of utilizing positive energy is learning to shift your energy to positive when it is not positive. You realize that you are not feeling good, perhaps because your stomach is knotted like a stone and you are cursing the person in the car ahead of you for not going faster than the speed limit. This realization is the first step, because you have stepped back from the situation enough to realize you need a shift. Next begin to breathe deeply, and if you are a visual person, imagine a clean, white slate, because each moment is a new moment in which you can shift your energy. Wipe the slate clean, and start the next moment in a feel good place. If this simple exercise is not enough to shift your mood, think of the things in this day that you have to be grateful for, while you continue breathing deeply. Be grateful that you are becoming aware of your energy and that you are assuredly making progress in using your energy to improve your life. Think of people, places, activities and things that you love. Think of something funny, laugh, smile or sing. Physiologically, it is hard to stay negative mentally when your body is doing something positive like smiling.

For those of you that practice affirmations and visualizations, the same energy techniques apply. Sometimes you might get into resistance saying your affirmations and visualizing things you do not yet have, and these exercises are all about energy. For instance, you are saying your affirmations, and come to one you have a lot of resistance about, "My life operates smoothly, easily and joyously." You say the affirmation, but your body is tensed and your mind is saying, "But my life doesn’t operate smoothly, easily and joyously!" This is then the energy that you are placing into this affirmation, which is obviously not a good thing. Sometimes we really have to be with something a while before we can be comfortable with it. Many of us are raised with thoughts and ideas that do not mesh well with the life we want to live as adults. You may have old beliefs that you are not worthy of money, or that there is no such thing as true romance, or that life is hard and you have to work hard to achieve anything. So when we introduce affirmations and visualizations into our lives that clash with these old beliefs, it’s sort of like the stereotype we’ve all seen in the movies of the sweet, innocent daughter bringing home the tatooed, long-haired boyfriend to meet the parents. Sometimes it takes time to reach that comfort zone. So if you find yourself reacting negatively to your affirmations and visualizations, don’t be put off. Ask yourself why you are in resistance, to which your answer may be immediate or something that is slowly uncovered. Then spend time "being" with the idea, whether the idea is unlimited money, passion for your career, a healthy relationship or a beautiful body. Think about it, visualize it, read about it, clip out pictures you like, get to know what it’s really like to have or experience what it is that you want. In this acclimation process, remember to stay aware of your feelings, breathe deeply, and refocus your energy if you become resistant. Once you are quite comfortable with every aspect of what it is that you desire, you will have shifted many if not all of the old beliefs that may be blocking its manifestation and you will be comfortable and intimate with and therefore energetically aligned with your desire. Your energy will quickly draw your desire physically into your life.

Approach your energy goals with the enthusiasm and lightness of a child. Make a fun game of it all, and this energy will spread throughout your life. Sanaya Roman said, "The path of joy is joy." You have the power each moment of the day, every day, to choose how you feel. What’s your choice?

Copyright 2004, Alexia Alderson Chamberlynn

Alexia Alderson Chamberlynn is the Co-Owner of Prosperity Power Training, LLC, a national training company specializing in e-learning, life coaching and live group training. To contact Alexia or sign up for free services such as a Free 7-Day Training Program, free monthly newsletter and free quote-of-the-day club, visit the website at http://www.prosperitypowertraining.com. Alexia expects to release her first novel in 2005. Alexia lives in Florida with her son Gareth.

Bad Boys/Good Boys (Avoiding The Pitfalls Of Being An Insensitive Dad)

June 30, 2006

I WAS AMAZED

I could hardly believe what I was hearing. A father and his son had entered the men’s room. While I was washing my hands, I listened as the father wielded a series of demanding and demeaning statements at his son as if they were swords in a battle for … who knows what?

And all about going to the bathroom quickly!

It was the perfect victory. The enemy (the son) had been slain. The battle was won. The general had summoned his one-man army to do his bidding.

It was also totally and completely ridiculous. There was no consideration for the feelings or physical needs of the young person.

The “bad boy” had won the day — and the bad boy was not the son.

It was the son’s insensitive dad.

I WAS SADDENED AND ANGRY

This incident occurred while on vacation. I loved vacation except for one aspect: watching fathers deal with their children.

I was sad. And I was angry.

The “interesting” thing was that when I related this observation to my daughter and son-in-law, they proceeded to share with me *their* same discouragement while they were on a recent trip to a theme park.

Their message was the same:

“We had a great time. The only discouraging thing was seeing dads with their children.”

I AGREE: IT’S NOT EASY

I am a father and I would be among the first to declare that raising children is not an easy task.

Parts of it are rough. Real rough.

I would also be quick to admit the times I have failed as a father.

But I do hope that no one has ever said this about me after observing my relationship with either my children or grand- children:

“We saw the most discouraging thing today.

This guy was a jerk. The way he treated those kids was awful.

No respect. No honor.

Only demands and unrealistic expectations. I tell ya, it was sad.”

WE KNOW THERE IS A BETTER WAY

Let me be quick to add: all is not bad. I have seen many loving, caring fathers throughout the years. I *love* watching those types of dads relate to their children. It is one of my personal delights in life

With that in mind, I am offering a few simple suggestions for a better way: a better way for fathers to relate to their children than the two negative examples I have shared with you.

I will center my suggestions on five themes:

1. Consideration
2. Respect
3. Humility
4. Compassion
5. Love

Two comments as I transition into my suggestions:

*You will quickly discover that this will not be a long and drawn out discussion of these themes. Enjoy.

*Many of the points will be shared through using simple “affirmations” — or descriptive comments if you please. These affirmations will help you personalize what is said.

So…

We have discussed a few of the “bad boy” characteristics.

Let’s turn our attention to five characteristics of the “good boys.” That is, men who are determined *not* to be thought of as “one of those insensitive dads.”

CONSIDERATION

Consideration says…

“I adjust my expectations according to the needs, maturity level and emotional capabilities of the child I am relating to at the moment.”

Because of the important aspects of the statement you just read, I’m going to repeat it and break it down for you.

That’s my part.

Yours will be to reflect on each aspect as you read it one more time. Reflect on it through the lens of how you would have liked to be treated as a young-person-in-the-making.

“I adjust
My expectations
According to
The needs,
Maturity level
And emotional capabilities
Of the child
I am relating to
At the moment.”

RESPECT

Respect says…

“I see this person entrusted to my care as one who is worthy of my honor, approval and love.”

This mental stance provides for me a frame. A frame I wrap around my child *to begin with.* The child is worthy of my honor, approval and love — from the beginning.

It is a part of the package each child should *sense* in me from “Day One” so-to-speak.

HUMILITY

Humility says…

“Because I am still learning, I give my child space and time to learn.”

“Because I still fail, I forgive and support my child when he or she fails.”

“Because I respond poorly when people are angry with me for reasons I do not understand, I resist all uncontrolled and self-centered anger when dealing with my child.”

COMPASSION

Compassion says…

“I am a ’show and tell’ person.

*I show my child I care.
*I tell my child I care.”

“I strive to be gentle, not harsh.”

“I care and my child senses it.”

LOVE

Love says… all of the above.

A DISCLAIMER

Let me make something perfectly clear: children can — and do — hurt their parents.

Good parents. Parents who in a very real sense lay down their lives for their kids and still get kicked in the guts while trying to help their children be happy and succeed in life.

These parents know a special kind of pain. A pain that no one really wants to understand. I salute those parents.

You may be one of them.

So my disclaimer is…

*I realize this is a two-sided fence

*My purpose is not to add guilt to a conscience already plagued by the “Why’s” of their child’s bad attitudes and behavior — in spite of hundreds of hours of trying to do what’s right.

Rather, if you happen to be one of those parents — and especially a dad since that is the topic of these comments — I want you to hear these words:

“I thank you for trying.”

I thank you for trying and for the lonely hours you have spent that only you, and possibly your spouse — and God — knows about…

The tears. The heartache and the pain that goes on and on as each new report surfaces about some action or attitude your child has displayed.”

For those times, tears and heartache — I reflect to you my appreciation. And I’m sure I represent only one of many voices that would echo the same to you if they could.

Therefore, review these comments and take note of each positive thing you have done. Take a bow. You deserve it.”

Yours for a day filled with beautiful moments in time,

Lee

© Lee Wise All rights reserved. You may freely distribute this article. The copyright and this resource box must be included.

How much is A Beautiful Moment In Time worth to you? Stop by and see! Go to -> http://www.motivation-for-daily-living.net

Opening Hearts is as Easy as Opening a Window

June 30, 2006

Two-year-old Owen goes to speech therapy twice a week. The therapist’s office is small and gloomy. There is one large window, but the shade is always down and very little light comes through. Each time we go there, I can’t help but feel depressed by the atmosphere.

Last Tuesday the teacher wanted Owen to repeat words he knows for objects outside. They were sitting on the floor in the middle of the stagnant room. "Say tree," she said to him, and Owen mumbled, "No."

"Owen, say tree," the therapist tried again. Owen just stared at her. I could tell the therapist was frustrated, but I could also see that Owen was far from being inspired. For a moment I wished I had stayed in the waiting room, where at least the florescent light keeps things bright and cheery.

The therapist tried a new approach: "Owen, can you say bird?"

Owen frowned.

This certainly isn’t going well, I thought. He talks more at home, for Heaven’s sake!

Then Owen got up from his spot on the floor. He toddled over to the closed window shade and pointed. "Open," he said.

"Owen, I need you to pay attention," the therapist said from her place on the floor.

"Open," he said again.

Finally the therapist joined him at the window and reluctantly opened the shade. Sunlight spilled into the room, casting a new joy and energy throughout that almost seemed tangible. Owen’s face brightened.

"Bird! Car! Tree!" he yelled excitedly. "Grass! Road!"

Two days later, as we were driving into the parking lot for Owen’s session, he looked out the car window and pointed. "Open," he said. He smiled triumphantly, looking at the outside of the therapist’s window, which now had the shade drawn permanently up.

"Well, look at that," I said. "She’s kept the window open!"

And then suddenly it crossed my mind: With love and God’s help, it’s even possible for someone as young as two to plant a seed and watch it grow.

About The Author

**The following MUST be present in any reproduction of this article, and the URL must be actively linked!**

Sarah Smiley’s syndicated column Shore Duty appears weekly in newspapers across the country. Check out her website www.SarahSmiley.com for more information.

admin@sarahsmiley.com

Next Page »

Valid XHTML 1.0 Transitional Valid XHTML 1.0 Transitional