Fish Oils -

EPA Fish Oils are great for preventing heart disease, high blood pressure, anxiety, stress and inflammation. They can be bought from a health shop or found in salmon (if eaten at least twice per week). However, because the capsules are a supplement, one should still eat salmon and/or plenty of green, leafy vegetables, avocado and nuts so that the supplements work with these foods.

EPA fish oil is high in polyunsaturated fat, i.e. Omega-3 fatty acids-BRAIN FOOD!

These acids are also found in linseed or flaxseed oil.

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Soaking Up Vitamin D
Enough Sunlight or Too Much?

You know that the sun can be bad for your skin, but it's also an important source of vitamin D. Just how important is vitamin D, anyway, and how much sunlight do you need?

 

Sun exposure affects the skin throughout a person’s lifetime. The sun emits an invisible form of radiation called ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage the skin. There are three types of UV rays: ultraviolet A (UVA), ultraviolet B (UVB) and ultraviolet C (UVC). UVA rays are the most abundant rays at the earth’s surface, whereas UVB rays are the most harmful. UVC rays are especially damaging to the skin. However, they are completely absorbed by the ozone layer (the protective layer in the earth’s atmosphere) and never reach the surface of the earth. UV radiation interacts with the skin and causes it to produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. When the darker colored melanin reaches the top layer of the skin, it results in a “suntan.” Eventually, the UV rays will cause the skin to burn. Sunburn is often accompanied by redness, swelling and pain in the affected region(s). Some people tan very easily and rarely burn, whereas others burn very easily and rarely develop a tan. A variety of factors determine whether an individual tans or burns after sun exposure, including skin type, amount of recent sun exposure and time of year. No one is immune from the risk of sun damage. However some individuals are more likely to sustain damage than others, including people with fair skin and light-colored eyes, individuals with many moles, birthmarks or freckles and those with a family history of skin cancer. Excessive sun exposure (tanning and burning) alters the structure of the skin’s cells, and may result in premature aging, noncancerous and cancerous skin tumors, immune system damage and eye damage. People can protect themselves from the damaging UV rays of the sun by limiting sun exposure (especially during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), wearing protective clothing and applying sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. It is recommended that individuals have regular physical examinations by a dermatologist to detect any skin abnormalities, particularly precancerous and cancerous lesions.

Vitamin D - Vitamin D is a nutrient required to build and maintain strong bones, the frame for the body. The presence of vitamin D signals the intestines to absorb more of the minerals calcium and phosphorus from food into the blood. These two minerals and vitamin D are involved in bone remodeling to help make bones denser and stronger.

Other roles of the vitamin are being investigated, and may include maintaining the immune and nervous systems.

The body can develop a deficiency of vitamin D. Children with insufficient vitamin D may develop rickets, a condition associated with skeletal abnormalities. Bone degradation such as osteomalacia may occur in adults, resulting in a stooped posture and bowed legs. If the deficiency progresses, osteoporosis develops and the bones become thin, brittle and more easily fractured.

Unlike other vitamins, the body can usually produce all the vitamin D it needs. It is created when exposure to sunlight causes a chemical reaction in the skin that changes a product of cholesterol into an inactive form of vitamin D. The inactive form moves to the liver and the kidneys, where it undergoes additional changes to become a form of vitamin D the body can use.

Inactive forms of vitamin D are also available in certain foods and supplements. Significant dietary sources include cod liver, fatty fish and fortified foods (e.g., milk, margarine, cereals, fruit juices). Similar to vitamin D from sunlight, the inactive forms of vitamin D from food must also be processed by the liver and kidneys to become active.

People are advised to use vitamin D supplements only under the guidance of a physician. Overdoses are hazardous and have the potential to cause kidney stones and the hardening of blood vessels. Arterial damage in the lungs or heart can be potentially fatal.

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Bee Pollen Found To Cure Allergies

May 23, 2008

Allergies occur when your body reacts to something that does not cause a problem for most people. It is an adverse reaction to something in our environment such as pollen or grass. Most people who have allergies are affected by them in the spring, when the trees are producing pollen, grass is growing, and being mowed. There is also more dust in the air. Symptoms of allergies include sneezing, a stuffed up nose, coughing, red eyes, and itchy skin. Common allergic diseases include asthma, hay fever, and eczema.

Some people have a genetic predisposition to develop allegies, but a large number of people are now developing allergies for reasons not completely known. Some argue that our increased obsession with personal cleanliness may be tampering with our natural immune system making us more susceptible to allergic reactions. Global warming also has an impact because of the changing climate that our bodies are not used to.

Most doctors will suggest those suffering from allergies take an antihistamine which is said to reduce the symptoms. Fortunately, there are more natural ways that may help ease allergies without resorting to over the counter drugs. Taking a multivitamin along with high doses of vitamin C will stimulate the immune system, letting your body build up a defense against the irritants.

Ironically bee pollen has also been found to have a positive effect on allergies. Though pollen is what many people are having their reaction to, ingesting it may help immunize the body. By taking a dose of what ails you your body has a chance to build up its defenses to fight it off. Bee pollen also contains proteins, amino acids, vitamins, and nutrients. In one study, individuals were given bee pollen for three years, and 94% of them remained allergy free.

Though bee pollen may be worth a shot if you suffer from allergies, be extremely wary of any potential allergic reactions.

Those that have allergies to bees should not take any bee products.

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CoQ10 is a vitamin-like compound that is produced naturally in the body and is also found in most living organisms. It is also called ubiquinone, a name that signifies its ubiquitous (widespread) distribution in the human body. As a coenzyme, this nutrient aids mitochondria, the powerhouses of cells, in the complex process of transforming food into ATP, the energy on which the body runs. Without CoQ10, you would not be able to function. Coenzyme Q10 has been found to be beneficial for a surprising variety of health problems.

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RECOGNIZING A STROKE
Thank God for the sense to remember the
'3' steps, STR . Read and Learn!

A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within 3
hours he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke...totally. He
said the trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed, and then
getting the patient medically cared for within 3 hours, which is
tough.

Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify.
Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke
victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to
recognize the symptoms of a stroke .

 Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:

 S *Ask the individual to SMILE.

 T *Ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently) e.g. It is sunny out today)

 R *Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.

If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks,
call for emergency services immediately and describe
the symptoms to the dispatcher.

 New Sign of a Stroke-------Stick out Your Tongue

NOTE: Another 'sign' of a stroke is this: Ask the person to 'stick'
out his tongue.. If the tongue is 'crooked', if it goes to one side or
the other , that is also an indication of a stroke.

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The Sun Cycle -

 (excerpted from The Program for Better Vision)

The Sun Cycle will nourish and rest your eyes and help reduce your sensitivity to light.

Instructions:
1. Close your eyes and face toward the sun. (If you cannot face the sun with your eyes closed without squinting or tightening your facial muscles, then begin the Sun Cycle by facing slightly away from the sun so that your face and closed eyes can relax. Then, as you become more accustomed to the light, gradually turn closer and closer towards the sun.)

2. Let the sunlight fall on your closed eyes for five seconds.

3. Place your cupped palms over your closed eyes, shutting out all light for five more seconds, then take your hands away, keeping your eyes closed.

4. Repeat steps 1 - 3 ten to twenty times, for a total of three to five minutes.

The Sun Cycle helps to nourish your visual system, exercise the focusing muscles of the eyes and reduce sensitivity to light and glare.

Practice the Sun Cycle regularly. Most people experience a decrease in sensitivity within twenty to thirty days.

ALSO:

To get the light nourishment that your eyes and body need, spend at least 30 minutes a day outdoors - without glasses or contacts - so that your visual system can receive unfiltered sunlight. Any glass - window glass, car windshield, eyeglasses or contacts - filters part of the full spectrum of light and reduces the beneficial effect that sunlight has on your eyes and body.

We recommend sunglasses only in situations of glare or reflected light (the beach or ski slopes).

Your eyes most fully rest in total darkness. The best way to rest your eyes is to close them and place your cupped palms over your closed eyes. You can palm for as little as 30 - 40 seconds any time that your eyes feel tired or strained. While palming, it is also helpful to visualize a pleasant scene in your mind's eye.

Care for your eyes,

President Cambridge Institute for Better Vision marty@bettervision.com

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Coffee Beans May Be Newest Stress-Buster

June 13 (HealthDay News) -- Just sniffing that first hot cup of coffee in the morning may help ease some stresses you might be feeling, a South Korean trial indicates.

When rats inhaled the aroma of roasted coffee beans, a number of genes were activated, including some that produce proteins with healthful antioxidant activity, the researchers reported.

'The meaning of it is not totally clear yet,' said Dr. Peter R. Martin, director of the Institute of Coffee Studies at Vanderbilt University. 'What it does show is that coffee smells do change the brain to some degree, and it behooves us to understand why that is happening.'

The findings, from a team led by Han-Seok Seo at Seoul National University in South Korea, were expected to be published in the June 25 issue of the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

The experiment was done with laboratory rats, some of whom were stressed by being deprived of sleep. The researchers did detailed genetic studies that showed the activity of 11 genes was increased and the activity of two genes was decreased in the rats that smelled the coffee, compared to those who did not. In effect, the aroma of the coffee beans helped ease the stress of the sleep-deprived rodents.

The experiment provides 'for the first time, clues to the potential antioxidant or stress-relaxation activities of the coffee bean aroma,' the researchers wrote.

And they added, 'These results indirectly explain why so many people use coffee for staying up all night, although the volatile compounds of coffee beans are not fully consistent with those of the coffee extracts. In other words, the stress caused by sleep loss via caffeine may be alleviated through smelling the coffee aroma.'

'They used the latest in technology to see how brain expression of RNA changed,' Martin said. RNA is the molecule that carries out the instructions encoded in genes. 'This is just the beginning of a very interesting line of investigation,' he added.

The aromatic compounds responsible for coffee's odor may be antioxidants, 'but they are not the same as the major antioxidants that are in the drink,' said Joe A. Vinson, a chemistry professor at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania.

Chemically, the antioxidants in liquid coffee are polyphenols, Vinson said. Those in the aroma are heterocycle compounds containing sulfur or nitrogen atoms.

'There are two ways to get things into your system, and the quickest way is to smell them,' Vinson said. 'Caffeine gets into the brain via the blood stream. Here, aromatic molecules get into the brain through the olfactory system. The levels in the air are parts per million, so obviously these are minor components in the air. But they are doing something.'

Previous studies have shown that coffee consumption can reduce depression and suicide risk, as well as relieve stress, effects generally attributed to the caffeine in coffee, the researchers noted. But while some 900 compounds that float away from the bean have been identified, this is the first study to assay their possible effects, they added.

It's too early to recommend that people feeling stress sniff coffee to ease their way, Martin said. But, he added, 'people who don't even drink coffee are fascinated by the odor of it. Ever since my little boy was two years old, he has loved the odor of coffee. I have always thought that coffee has some mystic quality, and there is some deep historical basis for it.'

SOURCES: Peter R. Martin, M.D., director, Vanderbilt University Institute of Coffee Studies, Nashville, Tenn.; Joe A. Vinson, Ph.D., professor of chemistry, University of Scranton, Pa.; June 25, 2008, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry

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ARE YOU GETTING ENOUGH SLEEP?

June 25th, 2008

This is a much debated topic.  Various research articles have
propounded theories that gauge the exact amount of sleep required by a person and how to find out if he is getting enough sleep. The amount of shut eye necessary can vary from person to person.  Not only does the quantity of seep count, but so does the quality.  The experts are in full agreement that the number of hours of sleep required varies from person to person, but they also agree that there is no minimum number of hours of sleep for optimum health.  Some people remain healthy while getting a mere six hours, while still others can not function without eight consecutive hours.  To remain in good health you need to progress through the five phases of sleep.

To feel fully rested your brain needs to go through the full cycle of the five phases of sleep.  Enough time should be spent in each of the phases so that your brain can rest completely.  Any interruptions in these phases will lead to feelings of fatigue.  There are times when the common alarm clock and your body’s internal clock simply are not on the same schedule.  This can be the issue when you are chronically not getting enough sleep.  Cases like this can happen to people who work at night or the overseas traveler who experiences “jet lag” or “jet daze”.  This lack of synchronization can leave you unable to enjoy your vacation or unable to make the sale!  Dr. Judith Reichman’s book - “Slow Your Clock Down:  The Complete Guide to a Healthy, Younger You” is a great read on this subject.

There are several other conditions that can lead to your sleep cycle being interrupted.  Three of the biggest are: sleep apnea, periodic limb movement, and chronic pain and disease.  The signs of sleep apnea are snoring, gasping, and pauses in your breathing that cause you to wake.  Sleep apnea can be caused by many things like allergies, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, and being overweight.  Periodic limb movement is a common affliction of adults.  One of these type of ailments is Restless Leg Syndrome.  The constant, unexpected jerking of your arms or legs can wake you.  Maybe not completely, but enough to interrupt your sleep cycle.  Pain and chronic diseases such as arthritis, osteoporosis, congestive heart failure, and even too much medication can hamper or interrupt the cycle and lead to fatigue and sleep disorders.

There are several major indicators that determine whether a person is getting enough sleep.  Many conclusions can be made by observing certain characteristics.  First among these is observing whether or not the person is awakened without alarm and how difficult it is for them to get up in the morning.  There is a host of other things to watch, including:  falling asleep while driving, dozing off while watching T.V., caffeine intake - especially after 4p.m.,bedtime eating habits, and if a person must use alcohol or medications to fall asleep.  Once all of this information is known, a clear picture of the person’s sleeping pattern emerges.

Repeat medical studies have shown that eight hours a day is the
average amount of sleep required for adults to feel as if they are
getting enough sleep.  Elderly people cope with shorter sleep periods at night by taking short, deep naps throughout the day. 

You have a busy, stressful life and naps are probably not feasible.  Maybe you think that because you were in bed for six hours you should have had enough rest.  You need to sleep for at least six to eight hours straight.  You should schedule an extra hour of rest to allow your mind to wind down so that you can actually sleep those hours.  Late nights are not bad for your health, either.  When you get to bed is not the issue, it is the number of hour you devote to rest and sleep.

If for some reason you do not get all of your beauty sleep, a short
nap of 30 to 40 minutes should recharge you for the rest of the day.

Teens are the age group that are most dramatically affected by a lack of sleep.  Multiple studies have indicated that a teens circadian rhythm affects their sleeping pattern.  The interruptions caused by this rhythm can lead to dozing during study periods and a lack of concentration.  Both of which lead to bad grades.  A lack of sleep can lead to feelings of sadness and depression.  Mood swings and falling asleep behind the wheel can occur from a lack of sleep.  A lack of sleep and alcohol are the two major reasons for teen automobile accidents.

The best tips for getting enough sleep and to feel energized are to
set a regular bed time, regular exercise, avoid stimulants, like
caffeine, after 4p.m., relax your mind, and have peaceful
surroundings.  These tips, and more, are included in Dr. Joesph
Mercola’s book “Take Control of Your Health”.  Therefore, the top solutions to not getting enough sleep are scheduling a regular bed time and a healthy lifestyle.

David Grisaffi
http://www.flattenyourabs.net

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Vitamin E: For healthy RBCs, Muscles and Immune System!

• Powerful antioxidant
• Assists in the formation of red blood cells
• Supports healthy immune system function
• Promotes healing of burns, eczema and other skin problems
• Supports healthy skin and hair growth
• Support healthy eyes
• Important nutrient for healthy cardio function
• Helps the body make optimal use of vitamin A and iron
• Protects fatty acids in the body
• Prevents oxidation of LDL cholesterol

What is Vitamin E?

Vitamin E was discovered about 80 years ago, but in the last twenty years it has been discovered to be a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin E is fat soluble and poorly absorbed. It is stored in the fat tissues and the liver. Vitamin E offers numerous health benefits, particularly disease prevention because of its powerful antioxidant properties.

Vitamin E is a term for a group of related compounds called “tocopherols” and “tocotrienols”, which occur in four major forms: alpha, beta, delta, and gamma. Alpha tocopherol is the most common and most biologically active form of vitamin E. However, current research is indicating that different components in Vitamin E may be responsible for different actions. For example, scientists believe that alpha tocopherol inhibits production of free radicals and gamma tocopherol neutralizes existing free radicals. Since Vitamin E is a family of nutrients, it makes sense to take it in a form, which includes all the members of the tocopherol family, which would further support the health benefits of Vitamin E. Our Vitamin E with Mixed Tocopherols is 100% natural and contains all four members of the tocopherol family of compounds, making it more nutritionally complete.

A natural form of vitamin E is the most powerful and effective form of the antioxidant because it is the easiest form for your body to absorb. The Vitamin E used by our facility is derived from soybean oil and is significantly more potent than synthetic Vitamin E.

Why should you take Vitamin E?

Vitamin E scavenges the body for harmful free radicals and annihilates them. By destroying cellular membranes, free radicals are responsible for a variety of health problems including Alzheimer's disease, atherosclerosis, cancer, diabetes, muscular dystrophy, Parkinson's disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. Vitamin E defends all cell membranes in the body from oxidative stress, promoting better health and immunity from illness, while increasing virility.

In one controlled study, 1,200 mg/day of Vitamin E was taken previous to a vigorous workout for two weeks. Intense muscular exercise typically causes damage to white blood cells, but by supplementing with Vitamin E, subjects showed that white blood cell DNA damage was virtually eliminated. Another study tested Vitamin E for insulin sensitivity. Insulin is an important substance in muscle building. Ten healthy subjects took 1,350 IU per day of Vitamin E for 4 months straight. They showed a tremendous improvement in glucose clearance and insulin sensitivity.

Who needs Vitamin E?

Anyone who wants better immunity and added protection against free radicals should supplement with Vitamin E. Supplementing with Vitamin E can increase the strength of your immune system and the overall health of your body. Vitamin E can also ease aches, pains, and sore muscles. Vitamin E is an essential nutrient.

Cautions:

• Vitamin E is generally non-toxic when taken in doses less than 1200 IU per day.
• In doses more than 1200 IU/day it may cause nausea, gas, diarrhea and heart palpitations.
• High doses of vitamin E may interfere with vitamin K activity.
• If you have an overactive thyroid, diabetes, hypertension, rheumatic heart disease, are taking prescription blood thinners, aspirin or are pregnant or lactating consult a healthcare practitioner before taking Vitamin E.

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Sodium Laurel Sulphates

What exactly are Sodium Laureth Sulphate , Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, Ammonium Lareth Sulphate and Myreth Sulphate?

Sulphates are generally used in all foaming detergents i.e shampoos, bath foam, shower gels, toothpaste, etc and although they are deemed harmless, they do in fact tend to dry the hair or skin by stripping it of its natural protective sebum and in the process irritating the skin/scalp especially in sensitive or allergy prone skin.

There are alternatives in the market which will work just effectively if not better as they are synergistic with the skin unlike the products containing sulphates. The GeeZne philosohy is why use anything that may potential damage your largest protective oran - the skin - when there are many product ranges you can use that work so much better with the natural working of the skin. Ren; U.N.T; Nude for example.

(Enquire at GeeZone for stock line).

The other side of the story!

WHAT ARE SULFATES?

Sulfates are mineral salts containing sulfur. Sulfate salts are found in some Wisconsin soils. The decay of plants, animals, and some industrial processes produce these salts. Mines, tanneries, steel mills, pulp mills, and textile plants also release sulfates into the environment.

Understanding the difference between sulfates and sulfites: Sulfites are different sulfur-containing chemicals used as food preservatives. Sulfites are not the same as sulfates. Some people, especially asthmatics, are sensitive to sulfites and can experience severe allergic reactions. Since 1987, food containing more than 10 parts per million (ppm) sulfites and drugs containing sulfites must be labeled.

Industrial waste water, household waste water, runoff from a hazardous waste site or naturally decaying material can put sulfates into waterways rivers, lakes and streams. Wastes that contain sulfates seep through soil and contaminate groundwater.

HOW ARE PEOPLE EXPOSED TO SULFATES?

Drinking/Eating: Most drinking water supplies contain traces of sulfates. One American national survey found that sulfates in drinking water supplies range from less than 1 ppm to over 700 ppm. The average level in the survey was 46 ppm.

Sulfate levels in groundwater generally range from 15 to 60 ppm. Sulfates are naturally present, at safe levels, in many foods.

Breathing: Air may contain sulfates in areas of heavy industry. Many sulfate salts can react in air to form dilute acid, which can irritate eyes. People who live near such industrial areas may notice irritating levels of sulfates in air.

Touching: Sulfates do not absorb through skin enough to cause health problems.

 DO STANDARDS EXIST FOR REGULATING SULFATES?

Water: The 'secondary' standard for sulfates in drinking water is set at 250 ppm. This is called a secondary standard because it’s based on taste rather than health effects. Most people can taste or smell sulfates in their water at 300 ppm or higher. Some sensitive people can taste the salts at levels as low as 200 ppm.

Air: There are limits on the amount of sulfur dioxide and sulfuric acid that can be released by industries. There is no air quality standards for sulfates.

WILL EXPOSURE TO SULFATES RESULT IN HARMFUL HEALTH EFFECTS?

The following symptoms can appear a short time after someone drinks water that has over 500 ppm of sulfates:

• diarrhea, intestinal pain (especially in babies)
• dehydration as a result of diarrhea
• slight decrease in normal stomach acidity

 Breathing sulfates can cause lung irritation. No long-term human health effects are expected from exposure to sulfates. In animal studies, sulfates did not appear to cause cancer or birth defects.

In general, chemicals affect the same organ systems in all people who are exposed. However, the seriousness of the effects may vary from person to person.

A person's reaction depends on several things, including individual health, heredity, age, previous exposure to chemicals including medicines, and personal habits such as smoking or drinking.

It’s also important to consider the length of exposure to the chemical; the amount of chemical exposure; and whether the chemical was inhaled, touched, or eaten.

Seek medical advice if you have any symptoms that you think may be related to chemical exposure.

(PPH 4608  Revised 3/2000)

---

This fact sheet summarizes information about this chemical and is not a complete listing of all possible effects. It does not refer to work exposure or emergency situations.

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PARABENS

What Are Parabens And Why Should You Avoid Them.

What are Parabens?

Parabens are the most widely used and inexpensive preservatives on the market. They are meant to prolong shelf life for up to 20 years. Parabens were recently found in 20 out of 20 breast cancer tumors. The study was thrown out because there were not enough cells around the tumor studied to determine if the Parabens were to blame. (If parabens stay in the cells indefinitely that can’t be good for us!) See www.organiccomsumers.org/bodycare/breastcancer090604.cfm for more information.

May be listed as Methylparaben, proplyparaben, isopropylparaben, isobutylparaben, butylparaben, sodium butylparaben.

Parabens are the most widely used preservatives in cosmetic products. Chemically, parabens are esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid. The most common parabens used in cosmetic products are methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. Typically, more than one paraben is used in a product, and they are often used in combination with other types of preservatives to provide preservation against a broad range of microorganisms. The use of mixtures of parabens allows the use of lower levels while increasing preservative activity.

You may have heard about how you should avoid parabens in the products you buy, but you might be wondering why you should do so. 

First, let’s look at where you might find parabens and what products they are normally in.

Parabens can be found in shampoos, commercial moisturizers, shaving gels, cleansing gels, personal lubricants, topical pharmaceuticals and toothpaste.They are also used as food additives in some products. Basically, a huge percentage of the products you buy for everyday use contain some form of paraben, so it can be difficult to find products that do not use them.

There have been studies on both sides of the argument…parabens are bad and parabens are ok. But since there have been studies that say that it is not healthy, if you have sensitive skin or prone to allergies it maybe wise to take the precautionary route and not use products containing them.

What parabens could be doing to your body.

For starters, Parabens can mimic the hormone estrogen, which is known to play a role in the development of breast cancers. Do you really want to take the chance that they might do so? In the July 2002 issue of the Archives of Toxicology , Dr. S. Oishi of the Department of Toxicology, Tokyo Metropolitan Research Laboratory of Public Health reported that exposure of newborn male mammals to butylparaben “adversely affects the secretion of testosterone and the function of the male reproductive system.” 

There are a lot of other reports available all over the internet, but most of them are all related to reproductive health in some way or another.

The jury is still out on how and why parabens might affect development and growth of both babies and adults. There is no harm being careful with this kind of stuff…remember, things that were deemed safe in the past then came back to bite us all when we were told that they actually caused all sorts of diseases. There are safe alternatives available such as the product line from Ren, Skin Essentials or Nude for example (ask at GeeZone for product line in stock).

FDA has received a number of inquiries on the safety of parabens as used in cosmetics. The following information is intended to answer questions on this subject.

Why are preservatives used in cosmetics?

Preservatives may be used in cosmetics to protect them against microbial growth, both to protect consumers and to maintain product integrity.

What kinds of products contain parabens?

They are used in a wide variety of cosmetics, as well as foods and drugs. Cosmetics that may contain parabens include makeup, moisturizers, hair care products, and shaving products, among others. Most major brands of deodorants and antiperspirants do not currently contain parabens.

Cosmetics sold on a retail basis to consumers are required by law to declare ingredients on the label. This is important information for consumers who want to determine whether a product contains an ingredient they wish to avoid. Parabens are usually easy to identify by name, such as methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, or benzylparaben.

Does FDA regulate the use of preservatives in cosmetics?

The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) does not authorize FDA to approve cosmetic ingredients, with the exception of color additives that are not coal-tar hair dyes. In general, cosmetic manufacturers may use any ingredient they choose, except for a few ingredients that are prohibited by regulation. However, it is against the law to market a cosmetic in interstate commerce if it is adulterated. Under the FD&C Act, a cosmetic is adulterated if, among other reasons, it bears or contains any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render it injurious under the labeled conditions of use, or under customary or usual conditions of use. For more on this subject, see FDA Authority Over Cosmetics and Key Legal Concepts: 'Interstate Commerce,' 'Adulterated,' and 'Misbranded.'

Are there health risks associated with the use of parabens in cosmetics?

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) reviewed the safety of methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben in 1984 and concluded they were safe for use in cosmetic products at levels up to 25%. Typically parabens are used at levels ranging from 0.01 to 0.3%.

On November 14, 2003, the CIR began the process to reopen the safety assessments of methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben in order to offer interested parties an opportunity to submit new data for consideration. In September 2005, the CIR decided to re-open the safety assessment for parabens to request exposure estimates and a risk assessment for cosmetic uses. In December 2005, after considering the margins of safety for exposure to women and infants, the Panel determined that there was no need to change its original conclusion that parabens are safe as used in cosmetics. (The CIR is an industry-sponsored organization that reviews cosmetic ingredient safety and publishes its results in open, peer-reviewed literature. FDA participates in the CIR in a non-voting capacity.)

A study published in 2004 (Darbre, in the Journal of Applied Toxicology) detected parabens in breast tumors. The study also discussed this information in the context of the weak estrogen-like properties of parabens and the influence of estrogen on breast cancer. However, the study left several questions unanswered. For example, the study did not show that parabens cause cancer, or that they are harmful in any way, and the study did not look at possible paraben levels in normal tissue.

FDA is aware that estrogenic activity in the body is associated with certain forms of breast cancer. Although parabens can act similarly to estrogen, they have been shown to have much less estrogenic activity than the body’s naturally occurring estrogen. For example, a 1998 study (Routledge et al., in Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology) found that the most potent paraben tested in the study, butylparaben, showed from 10,000- to 100,000-fold less activity than naturally occurring estradiol (a form of estrogen). Further, parabens are used at very low levels in cosmetics. In a review of the estrogenic activity of parabens, (Golden et al., in Critical Reviews in Toxicology, 2005) the author concluded that based on maximum daily exposure estimates, it was implausible that parabens could increase the risk associated with exposure to estrogenic chemicals.

FDA believes that at the present time there is no reason for consumers to be concerned about the use of cosmetics containing parabens.

 However, the agency will continue to evaluate new data in this area. If FDA determines that a health hazard exists, the agency will advise the industry and the public, and will consider its legal options under the authority of the FD&C Act in protecting the health and welfare of consumers.

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Meditation For The Mind, Body & Soul

Relaxation and meditation isn’t all chants and chimes, it can be a very effective way to manage the stress people have in their busy lives. For emotional well-being, take some time to yourself each day and find a routine that celebrates your inner-peace

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Omega 3

In addition to its dietary benefit, omega-3 is used as supplemental therapy for treating heart disease, allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, ADHD, certain skin conditions, diabetes, chronic neck and lower back pain.

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Core Strength and Weight Loss

Many people yearn after a flat stomach or a six pack because they want to look good. But have you ever really thought of what a strong core does for you? Not only do you look great in that swimsuit, but abdominal muscles are really the core of all of your body movements. 
Your core is what holds all the better looking parts together. Your biceps, the abs, the chest, your arms, and body movements from other parts all stem from the core.  
 
Core training is the base note of all workouts, yet many people aren’t sure how to extend their routine in order to develop it. Exercises designed for building balance and strength, and ones that can be done while using an exercise ball are generally great for core workouts. Free weights are excellent because they let you move in a broader scope without limiting movement. The reason interior strength is so important is that just about every motion made by the human body is initiated in the core. Lunges, running, swimming, jumping, and weights all start with the abdominals, hips, and lower back. Yoga practitioners, as well as dancers and athletes, have long known the benefits of a strong core.
 
By strengthening your core muscles you will reduce your risk of injury, have better posture, feel more comfortable sitting, increase your balance, increase energy levels, and give you better athletic ability when participating in sports or other activities. In order to strengthen your core you should focus on your stomach, back, and hips. Crunches, lunges, and forward bends are all great strengthening exercises. Doing exercises on an exercise ball will increase the intensity, as these balls make you keep your balance and focus on core movements. 
 
Core training should be a part of your everyday work out. You should work towards 30 minutes of cardio followed by core exercises such as sit ups, lunges, and reverse twists. Classes such as yoga, pilates, and boot camp will also incorporate many effective core strengthening exercises. Just as with other exercises, once your core becomes stronger and more toned, you will naturally lose more weight in that area. Talk about killing two birds with one stone!

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Work It Out

Nothing clears out your pores like an old-fashioned workout. Stephanie Tourles recommends exercising outdoors in the summer to work up a good sweat. It clears the skin, helps oxygenate your cells with fresh air and aids the removal of toxins through the skin. Added bonus?Exercise improves endurance, energy and circulation throughout the body. That equals greater skin!

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3 Easy Arm Toning Exercises

Toned arms are a commodity that no one should go without, especially in the hot days of summer. Wearing a tank top, bathing suit, or even just light weight t-shirts require that you show off what you have up top. But unless you spend a lot of time at the gym or have a job that requires lifting, the chances are that your arms could use a bit of a tone up. Here are three great exercises to enhance your arms.

1. Push ups: Lie facedown on the floor with hands flat down, directly under your shoulders. On your knees or toes, straighten elbows and push torso up, abs tight, body in a straight line without locking your elbows. At the top of the movement, focus on squeezing the chest and hold for at least five seconds. Lower and repeat for 2-3 reps of 15.

2. Tricep dips: Sit on a step or sturdy chair with your hands beside your thighs. Balance on your arms and move your backside in front of the step or chair while holding your legs straight. Bend your elbows while lowering your body a few inches and focus on keeping the shoulders down and the elbows parallel to one another and at 90 degrees.  Push back up to starting position concentrating on your form. Repeat for 2-3 reps of 15.

3. Free weight arm exercises: Stand with feet shoulder width apart and arms raised straight up above your head. Use a minimum of a 5 lb weight in each hand.  Hold onto the weights with your palms facing to the back of you. Gently lower your arms forward and down, without bending at the elbow, until level with your shoulders. Lift back to starting position and repeat for 2-3 reps of 15.

Remember that toning your arms does not have to be hard work. You can do many upper body exercises while sitting down and some even at work during your lunch break. Also, women may want to use lighter weights to ensure that they tone up instead of bulk up.

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5 Foods to Boost Metabolism

Imagine actually being able to eat more to lose weight. Sound like a dream world? Surprisingly it’s not and it’s more of a reality than most people think. The trick is eating more of the right type of foods. The following five foods can increase your metabolism and help stop cravings for other foods which are not so good for your waist line.

 1.      Eggs. Though some people are wary of eating the yolks, no need to worry. Women on a low calorie diet who ate eggs with a piece of toast each morning lost twice as many pounds as those who ate the same amount of calories minus the eggs. They contain a large amount of protein which helps keep you full longer throughout the day.

 2.      Buckwheat pasta. Most people on a diet who hear the word pasta run the other way. Although it does contain carbs, pasta made with the right ingredients such as buckwheat can actually be favorable to your diet. Buckwheat is high in fibre and protein and is very filling.

3.      Almond butter. Not only does it taste great, but it will make you look great as well. Swapping your peanut butter for almond butter will help keep your blood sugar level from fluctuating and therefore stop you from overeating. This is a great spread on rice crackers, toast, or an apple.

 4.      Tarragon. This tasty herb can be used as a salt substitute when cooking dishes such as marinara or other sauces. Excess salt causes your body to retain water and can cause bloating. Not only is tarragon a better choice, but it may contain antioxidants which protect you from cancer and other diseases.

 5.      Parmesan cheese. Many dieters list cheese as one of their weaknesses. Thankfully you no longer have to feel guilty about indulging. Real parmesan cheese may help your body burn fat and those who consume it regularly are less likely to gain weight over time.

The trick to losing weight is living a balanced lifestyle. Eating more of the right foods and less of the not so good foods will ensure you are on your way to feeling and looking great in no time.

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Women in India turn to turmeric to combat stretch marks and to keep the skin smooth and supple, saysShalini Vadhera. Mix one cup of plain yogurt with one tablespoon turmeric, and apply the paste from your stomach to your waist if you are pregnant or rub into stretch marks. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes and wash off. 

Tropical Paradise

It's not just refreshing in your pina colada. Inhabitants of tropical countries know just how to channel the power of the coconut. While coconut water keeps the body cool, rehydrated and at a stable temperature, the oil is a great natural moisturizer and helps fight wrinkles. For a gentle but rich summer exfoliator, try this Thai cocktail. Mix 1/2 cup ground rice with 1/2 cup coconut milk, 1/2 cup fresh grated coconut and one tablespoon turmeric. Apply the thick scrub in a circular motion all over your body. Rinse and follow with your favorite moisturizer.

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Blonde Ambition

Dying to hit the beach but afraid the harsh rays will fade out your summer highlights? Shalini Vadhera advises you to bring back the blond the European way. Add a handful of dried daisies to a pint of hot water and let steep for 20 to 30 minutes. Strain into a container and use this floral water as a final rinse to refresh fabulous blond highlights.

 

Dairy Queen

Skip the sour cream on your nachos this summer; instead, lather it on your sore, sunburned skin. It's a secret from Russia, says Shalini Vadhera. Cold sour cream not only soothes painful sunburn but helps brighten your skin as well. Stephanie Tourles recommends using plain organic yogurt or buttermilk to balance uneven skin tones and to soften your skin. Treat your face every other day to these dairy products, avoiding the eye area. It's gentle enough for all skin types, and the naturally occurring lactic acid acts as an exfoliant to remove the buildup of dead skin cells.

 

Olives

Do you envy those Greek goddesses for their perfect olive skin? The secret lies inside the olive! Shalini Vadhera, author of Passport to Beauty: Secrets and Tips from Around the World for Becoming a Global Goddess, reveals that savvy Greek beauties don't toss the pits but grind them up to use as a body scrub. Ground olive stones act as a natural, rich exfoliator, cleansing the skin, removing dead cells and providing an instant glow.

 

 

Go Bananas

Looking for a miracle cure for your dehydrated skin andoverprocessed hair? Our experts unveil the humble banana. For skin relief after a swim, mash a very ripe banana in a bowl and apply it to your face and throat. Leave it on for five minutes for extra-dry skin. Rinse and pat dry. This natural hydrator also improves the natural elasticity of your hair, and it contains potassium to strengthen it. Mash the fruit, leave it in your hair for 15 minutes and wash away. 

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A Natural scrub for pigmentation issues

A cream that gently exfoliates the skin can be a real help. Try this pumpkin-and-papaya mixture that works like a scrub without being abrasive to your skin. Remember, the sun can aggravate skin discoloration, so be sure to apply facial sunblock every day, especially after using this cream.

1/2 fresh papaya 
1 egg white
15 ounce can of pure pumpkin
1 teaspoon honey

Remove the seeds from the papaya, scoop out the fruit and mash it in a bowl. In another bowl, beat the egg white until frothy. Mix the egg white and mashed papaya together, and add the pumpkin and the honey to this mixture. Combine all ingredients thoroughly and apply to your face. Leave on for 10 minutes, and then rinse off. Apply sunblock before going outdoors.

 

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