Wellness Sultana: October 2011

Monday 31 October 2011

Type 2 Diabetes – Are We Doing Enough to Raise Awareness?

October 31, 2011 BY Karen Ashley 0 Comments

Is type 2 diabetes taken as seriously as it should? Mainly a preventable disease, its alarming rise has become as acceptable and downplayed as obesity. In fact obesity is the common thread that binds early onset diabetes. Diabetes is not given the serious attention that it deserves, partly because the cause and effect of diabetes is not clearly defined.

Diabetes: Defined

Type 2 diabetes is a disorder of the pancreas in which needed insulin is not produced in adequate amounts in the body to metabolize blood glucose [sugar] for the cells. Without insulin the cells are starved of glucose, even amidst high levels in the blood. This is called hyperglycemia and is the primary contributor to cardiovascular diseases in diabetics.

When our cells are unable to metabolize glucose, it compensates for lack of energy by releasing stored fat and protein, broken down into ketone bodies. Because ketone bodies are acidic substances an individual is also at risk for ketoacidosis [formerly called diabetic coma].

Causes of Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is mainly a “lifestyle” disease. Once prevalent among 40+ age groups is now common place among adolescents. Overwhelming evidence points to poor nutrition and lack of exercise as the primary cause. Ignorance and poor management of the disease introduce the second part of the equation.

Diagnosis of type 2 diabetes runs parallel to the rise in obesity. In fact the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) links obesity-diabetes-inactivity much like a revolving door, one begets the other. It is the 6^th leading cause of death in the United State, with 1.3 million cases diagnosed per year.

Adding to this problem is a worsening economic climate. Increasing poverty among ethnic groups (Hispanic, Native American, Afro-Caribbean) limit choices to cheaper, less nutritious food selection.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) released a study published by New England Journal of Medicine supporting the fact that families who moved from poverty to marginally better neighborhoods experienced long-term “reductions in diabetes and extreme obesity.”

Effects of Diabetes on the Body

Diabetes effects are insidious. Many individuals are unaware of the disease until serious complications develop. Hyperglycemia causes blockages in blood vessels of the eyes, kidneys, and nerves. Plaque buildup and narrowing of the arteries are common causes of heart diseases and stroke among diabetics. Poor circulation is another reason for foot amputations from gangrene.

So how do we address this epidemic? Direct educational campaign is a start. Clear understanding of diabetes, its cause and effects must become an active part of more governmental and private agency campaigns.

Education and management are half the battle won against diabetes, the other half is up to you.

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Friday 28 October 2011

exercise learn when to say no

Harnessing Time – the Art of Productivity

October 28, 2011 BY Karen Ashley 0 Comments

Have you ever had the experience of looking back on your week with the sinking feeling that you didn't get as much done as you'd hoped? When building a successful career or a business, your time is perhaps your most valuable asset, and your income is a direct result of how you spend your time.

This article looks at something we’re all trying to increase, productivity. Be it in our homes, at work or simply managing all the other every day tasks we set ourselves – we’ve listened to the experts and pulled together a list of helpful hints on how to harness the key to productivity.

Learn to speed read. Yes, even on this article! Look for the points most relevant to you and move on…

Just start. You’ve heard it before, but trust me it’s true - at times, starting is the hardest part. Once you get going, you will quickly get into a rhythm that could last for hours.

Exercise. Research has shown that midday exercise boosts productivity and morale in the workplace. Take a short walk at lunch to maximise your productivity or take up a relaxing exercise such as Yoga – great for body and mind.

Love what you do. We know it’s not always easy (there are days we all feel the world is against!) Enjoying what you do is the ultimate way to increase your productivity – it’s a pleasure, not a chore!

Complete your most dreaded tasks first thing in the morning. Whichever activity you are dreading the most is probably the one you need to complete first thing in the morning.

Learn to say “No”. We can’t do everything and therefore we must learn when to say no in order to save our sanity.

Single-handling. Once you begin a task, stick with it until it’s 100% complete. Don’t switch tasks in the middle. When distractions come up, jot them down to be dealt with later.

Tell other people about your goals and you will instantly be held accountable. People remember things long after you tell them. By setting yourself up to have a vision and objective for the future and sharing it you’ll feel you need to get these goals into motion.

Shop online whenever possible to avoid going to the shops for hours on end (You’re here – why not start today?)

Get plenty of sleep. When you work online, sleep can become a long lost memory. However, it’s important to get plenty of sleep so that your working hours can be as productive as possible. Try a little aromatherapy oil on your pillow, wearing comfortable pyjamas, having a warm bath and drink or short read are all said to help create a good sleep routine.

Glittering prizes. Give yourself frequent rewards for achievement. See a movie, book a professional massage, or spend a day at an amusement park. Most of all, don’t feel guilty about taking this time off – you deserve it!

Eliminate all distractions. This includes the phone, email notifications, and having multiple web browsers open on the desktop.

Intuition. Learn to trust your gut instinct. It will get rid of hours of deliberation (Plus It’s probably right!)

Keep a notebook and pen on hand at all times. This way, you can write down your thoughts, to-dos, and ideas at any time. The key is to get everything out of your head and onto paper. This way, your subconscious mind won’t be reminding you about it every other second.

Listen to educational audio books while you’re driving to work, cleaning the house, exercising, or cooking dinner. Audio learning has the power to add hours to your day. Not to mention, your cranium is sure to thank you for it.

Author, Gill Owen from Lovestretch.com

As a business woman and pilates teacher, founder Gill Owen wanted to find non-restrictive clothing with style, quality and versatility at it's heart. Buying with this in mind, Gill sought out the best stretchwear brands from across the globe to create an online boutique offering stylish, chic and enduring fashion, which provides comfort throughout the day.

Thanks also to productivity experts: Kim Roach

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Sunday 23 October 2011

aloe vera anti-aging

Uncover 3 Anti-aging Facts About Aloe Vera: What You Can Do At Home

October 23, 2011 BY Karen Ashley 2 Comments

The aloe plant has been known for years by holistic beauty specialists for its phenomenal ability to speed-up cell renewal for youthful skin. It continues to be hailed for its astounding medicinal and anti-aging properties!

You can easily grow aloe at home—maintenance free—and derive all the youthful benefits! Just break off a part of the leaf and apply the fresh gel on the skin.

Learn how you can improve the beauty of your skin with aloe’s anti-aging facts:

Fact #1: Anti-Aging Ingredients

Aloe’s many ingredients have kept researchers busy for years. Aloe has the unique ability to stimulate cell renewal 8 times faster than normal cell reproduction. Little wonder, as aloe contains essential ingredients sought after in many beauty products:

· 20 amino acids [building blocks of protein for cell renewal]

· Vitamins-A, C, E, B1-2, B6, B12 [antioxidants, cell growth and metabolism]

· 200 phytonutrients [including enzymes, such as coenzyme Q10]

· 20 minerals [calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, iron, phosphorus, and more...]

Home Anti-aging Treatment Mask:

1. Cleanse the face

2. Put on your favorite night-time moisturizer

3. Slice a fresh piece of aloe (remove thorns) and pat the gel all over face and neck

Note. use the yellowish ooze--though not pleasant--is packed with anti-aging properties. Done twice per week, aloe will rejuvenate any dull, blemished skin.

Fact#2: Fast Absorption into the Skin

In studies conducted by Dr. Ivan E. Danhof, M.D., Ph.D., President of North Texas Research Laboratories, aloe is able to penetrate the skin 4 times faster than water. This means aloe’s anti-aging nutrients are absorbed deeper and faster than water can reach!

Home Anti-aging Treatment:

· Allow the benefits of aloe to penetrate deep into the skin while exercising, doing house chores, or relaxing in front of the television

· For daily use, refrigerate. Wrap aloe in foil and apply on cleansed face with/without moisturizer.

Note: Aloe must be use within 5 days while in the refrigerator. Its potency diminishes quickly after being cut.

Fact #3: Moisture, Protection & Healing Properties

Aloe contains polysaccharides, which gives the gel its mystifying moisture-binding properties. According to Danhof, as we age epidermal cells become weak and water escapes from our skin resulting in dry, aging skin. Aloe makes epidermal cells tight-fitting, protecting and moisturizing the skin from pollutants.

Home Anti-aging Treatment: Pat a slice of aloe over cleansed lightly moisturized skin, for dry skin.

Many believe aloe is God’s gift to mankind; it is a powerhouse of ingredients packed into one plant.

Aloe is still a challenge to scientists so, why depend on technology when you can reap the benefits directly from your garden. This is the secret to glowing, blemish free complexion; use it today!

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Tuesday 18 October 2011

acid peels bleaching agents

How to Get Rid of Freckles on Face

October 18, 2011 BY Karen Ashley 6 Comments

While a dusting of a few freckles on strategic locations may actually be aesthetically pleasing, this is a rare occasion and people with these are indeed extremely lucky. For most normal people, freckles or ephilides actually pose a problem. So what exactly are freckles and how do we deal with them?

Freckles are a common skin problem that could be seen as discrete or collected pigmented macules or spots on skin that are a result of some localized production of excess melanin.

Freckles can vary in size with some being as tiny as a pinprick and others being as large as a pea. While freckles on the face are most annoying, freckles can also be seen on other body parts, mainly those exposed to the sun, such as the neck or forearms.

Sensitive or fair skinned individuals are more prone to developing freckles. Though freckles are mostly otherwise harmless, if one notices any abnormal changes in them, they should get them checked for any other systemic diseases.

So, How to Get Rid of Freckles on Face?

You can try some home remedies or some skin care products to get rid of your freckles. However, if you freckles problem is extreme or if your freckles are not responding to such treatments, there are other, more potent treatments such as laser treatment that you can then consider.

Some common home remedies for getting rid of freckles on face are as listed below:

· Rubbing some lemon or even a sliced onion on freckles may help to exfoliate and lighten them.

· Applying face masks such as a papaya, cucumber or apricot masks could also help treat your freckles.

· If your freckles are triggered by excessive sun exposure, you can stop such bouts by using a good sunscreen with higher SPF.

· With regards to skin care products, retinal products are known to help get rid of freckles though they are miserably slow in showing results.

· While bleaching agents can be used to lighten freckles they cannot be used excessively as they harm the skin in the long run. Herbal bleaches are better than chemical ones.

· Increased intake of vitamin C or the intake of multi-vitamin tablets can help you get rid of freckles too but even this method is slow to work.

Some treatments and methods to get rid of freckles are much faster in their work but they are a lot more complicated too, requiring you to go to a proper facility, treatment spa or treatment salon for them. Such treatments to get rid of freckles on face are as listed below:

· Cryosurgery may be used to treat freckles and this treatment involves freezing them with the use of liquid nitrogen. As this is a specialized treatment, you will need professional help and you cannot do this at home.

· Laser freckles treatment is almost pain free and helps you get rid of freckles on face with just a few treatment sessions. The results are immediately visible and the procedure is safe. The success rate is high and the possibilities of scarring or having other side effects is very low. Additionally, this treatment requires no down time for recuperation.

· Acid peels and other ablative procedures involves abrading or removing the first layer of skin in such a way that the new healed skin replacing it will have none of the old skin’s freckles and pigments. These treatments are highly painful, need recovery time after treatment and could quite possibly damage healthy skin. There is also a possibility of scarring with these treatments.

More on Laser Treatment for Getting Rid of Freckles

Laser treatments for freckles involve heating the sub dermal layer of skin in order to dissolve the clusters of melanin pigment there. Once these clusters dissipate, there is a noticeable improvement in the visible freckles condition. Depending on your particular freckles problem, you may need anywhere between 4 to 7 treatment sessions.

A laser session for freckles may take about 45 minutes. There is no down time requirement and there is hardly any pain during there treatment. Though the laser treatments are often expensive, the results are startling and worth every penny. There are lot of treatment salons and spas that offer discounted treatment for laser freckles removal. You can also easily book a treatment online.
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The author AdvanceMedicalSystems.com - Advanced Medical Systems or AMS is dedicated to bringing future innovations within the reach of today’s consumers.

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Friday 14 October 2011

behavior modification extrovert

The Ego: Who Put You On This Planet?

October 14, 2011 BY Karen Ashley 0 Comments

Is it an extra dose of confidence or an excessive feeling of entitlement that makes some of us able to call attention to ourselves, and then bask in the limelight they created?

I have often been curious about a personality mixed in gregarious proportions that allows someone to simply take over a room and become winners in everyone’s eyes. Anyone who speaks in front of large groups with little need for a script, and not only succeeds, but excels in memorable ways with the audience, is someone who has it all together.

For someone like me, who is the reflective type and not socially outgoing--I have no immediate desire to speak in-front of an audience--large or small. Yet, I always marvel at and want to be near these seemingly “gods” who walk our planet. When you get the chance to speak with them, you realize they are no different from you and me. They have the same fears, hopes, and aspirations. They just express themselves in different ways. Somewhere in their DNA an extra strand of bravado was created in their chromosome and it took shape in their form, after birth.

If we take a scientific look at the extroverted personality type, like the Obamas, Oprahs, and Jon Stewarts of this world, we can see what gives them the gusto to do what they do:

Extrovert, what is this personality type?

An extrovert is a term used to describe how we socialize with each other; extroversion is a personality trait that is commonly classified as socially outgoing, confident and easily adaptable to unknown situations. The term originated from psychologist Carl Jung’s personality theory. He believed that extroverts respond positively to competing stimuli of the outside world. Their personality is directed toward the outside, whereas introverts who are regarded as the opposite of extroverts, their personality type is directed toward self [inward].

An extrovert has a natural tendency to adapt easily to new situations and respond favorably to their environment; this trait is one of the key reasons why a comedian, like Jon Stewart can easily ad lib with his guests and audience alike and still be in control, witty, and engaging, all at the same time!

Are extroverts special?

Psychologist, Jung, classified extroverts as persons who are often energized by being around other people and restless when they are not. Experts say that everyone has a mix of both introversion and extroversion along a continuum. What is unique, is the behavior trait that falls along extreme levels of either personality trait. Just like a pendulum swing, the wider the movements the more you get to extreme ends.

Extroverts are therefore just another type of behavior characteristic. Psychologists recognize however, that extroverts’ entire existence rest on seeking social dominance, leadership roles, and higher rewards system. Just like Obama whose quick rise to presidency, easy smile and confidence will ignite emotions regardless of which side of the fence you sit.

Pros/Cons of being an extrovert

Pros: extroverts generally have a positive mental outlook and are rewarded with positive results from their environment. They exhibit positive emotions due to higher levels of natural dopamine [the “feel good” neurotransmitter] of the brain. Our dopamine system gives us an adrenalin rush which makes us more excited, positive, and eager to pursue goals.

Cons: extroverts such as a Richard Branson-Virgin Atlantic are big risk takers. They play big and lose hard—it is a win or lose game—there is no playing it safe. Such persons risk losing face and social rejection for the possibility of appearing confident and original to their followers.

Although I would enjoy moments of living on the edge, I would rather not live like that every day. We all take our natural place in this world. While some of us have to recondition our brains to go after the things we want, others achieve it quite naturally. And these persons are the extroverts with their higher-than-normal dopamine triggers who walk among us, as if they own the planet!

“A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus.” Martin Luther King, Jr.

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Tuesday 11 October 2011

achieve aerobics

Exercise: The Power Of Movement

October 11, 2011 BY Karen Ashley 0 Comments

The human body is built for movement. It is a marvel of human engineering with skeletal bones and muscles designed to withstand compression forces that far exceeds our own body weight. Look at the physical structure of Olympic athletes! Their well-defined physique is a display of how structured training can develop the body to push the limits on performance.

Energy is life! You need a balanced diet to create the fuel to exercise--they go hand in hand to produce a highly functioning immune system-- an overall powerhouse of health. Many of us are unaware of the restorative significance by which exercise can reverse a disease process such as partial paralysis suffered from a stroke [cerebrovascular accident]. It indicates the unmistakable role of exercise to add to your quality of life. Your brain, heart, lungs, muscles, and blood vessels depend on movement for survival, otherwise these tissue cells eventually die.

Many times I have heard the question: am I exercising when I move around the home or office? No; exercise is a physical or mental activity that involves training for the specific purpose to improve your health. Your exercise has to be structured and repetitive to serve the purpose of total body conditioning. That is why going to work and moving around your desk cannot be measured equally as physical exertion. Avoid a sedentary lifestyle! It is harmful to your health and wellbeing.

When you do very little activity, you feel sluggish, sickly, and not mentally alert. Overcome this cycle by using these easy guides:

Physical Activity:

Are You A Morning Or A Night Person?

Choose the time of day that you are likely to have the most energy and are inclined to exercise. All of us have a set time of day when we are most alert. Use that booster time to begin an exercise routine!

Are You Into Aerobics , Yoga, Body-toning, Or A Combination Of All—Type Of Person?

Find out what exercise best suits your rhythm and stick with it. Exercise can be a healthy addiction. Once you enjoy your type of exercise you will be motivated to continue your routine for the long-haul.

Are Your Unable To Find The Time?

“Yes you can!” Since we are using an Obama slogan, let’s speak of him. He is an ultimate exercise buff who believes in finding the time for exercise, no matter what. If the president can do it while having a busy schedule, so can you!

Needless to say, when you start an exercise program your eating habits should also change. Incorporate a healthy diet with vitamins or supplements to your routine and maximize your health benefits. Our body is a masterpiece in its own right—safeguard it—start an exercise routine today!

“We do not stop exercising because we grow old—we grow old because we stop exercising”

Dr. Kenneth Cooper, Cooper Institute.

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Sunday 9 October 2011

astringent chemical peels

Radiant Skin: Maybe You Were Born With It?

October 09, 2011 BY Karen Ashley 2 Comments

Picture perfect skin seems reserved for Cosmo magazine models. For the average person however, glowing skin can be yours at any age if you exfoliate, hydrate, and exercise! After the age of 30 your skin will look the way you have treated it.

You are not born with radiant skin, but you can achieve it with consistent attention to a skin care program. Regardless of your skin type [oily, dry, combination, normal, and sensitive] if you maintain a healthy diet, an exercise program, and a skin care routine you will have glowing skin.

As we age and achieve milestones our skin changes too! Here are a few rules to apply for each age milestone:

1. Adolescents: 13 – 19 Age Group

At this stage your body is experiencing rapid changes. Hormone imbalances are primary causes of acne problems. Attention to hygiene and diet are priorities. Your routine should include:

§ Facial wash

§ Light exfoliating cloth or buff (acne prone skin)

§ Astringent or toner (acne prone skin)

§ Light moisturizer at night (during the day-SPF15)

§ 8-12 glasses (8 oz.) of water

§ Outdoor exercise

2. Young Adult: 20s -30s Age Group

At this stage your body has balanced out most of the hormonal adjustment of teenage years. The result is a tendency toward a combination skin type. As less collagen and elastin are being produced to keep away wrinkles, your skin strategies should now include:\

§ Make up remover (natural alternative—olive oil on damp cotton)

§ Alpha/beta hydroxyl acids face wash and milk cleansers

§ Day moisturizer (UVA & UVB protection)

§ Night moisturizer infused with antioxidants (vitamin E) or retinol

§ Twice weekly home peeling masks [or once monthly professional facial]

§ Exercise 3 times a week for at least ½ an hour

§ Hydrate with 12-16 glasses (8 oz.) of water

3. Middle Adult: 30s – 40s Age Group

At this stage your skin starts to lose its suppleness and fine lines appear. A drier skin texture with rough patches and blotches are present. Your skin care routine should include:

§ Olive oil (eyes) or milk to remove makeup

§ Alpha/beta hydroxyl acids for exfoliation

§ Day cream with collagen stimulating creams and a serum (UVA/UVB protection)

§ Night cream with retinol

§ Once weekly home based facials

§ Exercise more frequently and hydrate regularly

4. Mature Adults: 50s, 60s, 70s Age Group

At this stage the signs of aging are more pronounced. Increased loss of elasticity shows around the eyes, mouth, and neck. Your skin care strategies should include:

§ Oil free face wash

§ Gently exfoliators

§ Rich moisturizers and serums (ROC, Oil of Olay)

§ Hydration with fluids and twice weekly facial mask (aloe plant is excellent)

§ Exercise: outdoor daily walking is ideal

Your skin is on display to the world every day and your age can often be judged according to its condition. Glowing, clean skin is attractive at any age and is a good indicator of health from inside out!

“Nothing will work unless you do!” Maya Angelou

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Monday 31 October 2011

Type 2 Diabetes – Are We Doing Enough to Raise Awareness?

Friday 28 October 2011

Harnessing Time – the Art of Productivity

Sunday 23 October 2011

Uncover 3 Anti-aging Facts About Aloe Vera: What You Can Do At Home

Tuesday 18 October 2011

How to Get Rid of Freckles on Face

Friday 14 October 2011

The Ego: Who Put You On This Planet?

Tuesday 11 October 2011

Exercise: The Power Of Movement

Sunday 9 October 2011

Radiant Skin: Maybe You Were Born With It?

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Karen Ashley

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