1. Step 1

   Lose belly fat by going on a low carbohydrate diet like Atkins for a few weeks. Gradually increase carbohydrate intake after your belly fat has shrunk by a few inches. When increasing carbohydrates, be sure to eat plenty of complex carbohydrates like fruits and vegetables. The Atkins diet should reduce your appetite as well. A high protein diet will help you burn fat instead of muscle, but it's also important to do cardio exercise and weight lifting a couple times a week to increase muscle tone to tighten loose skin.

2. Step 2

   Get a prescription of Retin-A and apply it to your stomach once a day after your daily shower. Your stomach should be completely dry before applying. Make sure to wear sunscreen on your stomach to avoid burning while using Retin-A. You can purchase Retin-A online without a prescription or buy it when you are traveling abroad at most local pharmacies.

3. Step 3

   Take supplements like leucine amino acids, calcium, and vitamin D to reduce belly fat and tighten loose skin. It's important to take supplements especially as you age for maximum reduction of belly fat.

4. Step 4

   If you're losing belly fat and your stomach looks really bumpy and lumpy with little pockets of fat, consider getting Titan treatments. They are relatively inexpensive compared to tummy tucks. Titan works by increasing the amount of collagen in skin and helping it to contract becoming more smooth. Titan is non-surgical and safe. It's an infrared light and usually only needs to be done twice a year.

1. Step 1

   Decide that reducing your waist size is really important to you. Make it a priority in your life. Hang a pair of pants that don't fit well over the closet door for inspiration.

2. Step 2

   Quit eating sugar and all refined foods entirely. Do not "cheat" at all. Read labels to make certain that NO sugar is in the food you are eating. Keep in mind that refined foods are anything that is not in its natural state. White flour, white rice, pastries, cakes, etc. are out.

3. Step 3

   Have some Advil on hand, because sugar withdrawal can feel awful and give you headaches. Keep looking at those jeans that you want to fit into. Chances are, in two or three weeks, they will fit if you stick to this method of reducing your waist size!

4. Step 4

   After all of the symptoms of sugar withdrawal have passed, step on the scale. You have probably lost several pounds. Try on the pants. You will see that the pounds came off of your waist. You reduced your waist size because eliminating sugar and refined foods from your diet will greatly reduce bloating, which shows up in the waist area first, and then usually the face.

5. Step 5

   Enjoy a slimmer, healthier you!

1. Schedule a blood test with your physician. Establish whether or not this condition runs in your family. Dark circles are believed to frequently be hereditary. This doesn’t mean that you can’t do anything about the conditions, but you should be prepared for minimal success actually trying to get rid of them. Dark circles under the eye may also, in fact, be light carbon deposits that result from incomplete protein digestion. Incomplete protein digestion may result from insufficient hydrochloric acid in your stomach that may be caused from a lack of primarily B6 and Folic Acid. About 30% of the population does not absorb regular B6 (pydroxine) or folic acid and need to take in these vitamins in a different form or another way.
2. Identify allergens. Allergies may be the most common cause of skin discoloration under the eyes. If allergies are the root of your problem, you simply need to treat them or remove the allergen (i.e., the thing to which you are allergic). Seasonal allergy problems such as the hay fever can frequently be effectively treated with over-the-counter and prescription medications. For other allergies the best course of action is usually avoidance. If your dark circles or puffiness are constant, you may have an undetected food allergy or an allergy to a chemical in your home or workplace. Talk to a dermatologist for help determining what you may be allergic to. People with allergies also tend again to be deficient in B6, folic acid and B12 on occasion. Taking a multivitamin, if you don't already, may help with your allergies as well as black circles.
3. 

   

   Bloodshot Eye
   Get plenty of sleep nightly. It’s not entirely clear why inadequate sleep results in dark circles under the eyes, but we’ve all seen it happen either to ourselves or someone we know. For one thing, lack of sleep tends to cause the skin to become paler (thus increasing the appearance of darkness under the eyes), and it reduces circulation. It’s also believed that too little time lying down is a cause in itself. Determine how much sleep you need (it’s usually 7-9 hours per night, but varies throughout different people) and try to get that amount regularly for a couple of weeks to see if that helps. Remember that alcohol and drugs can adversely affect the quality of your sleep; abstain from these products or use only in moderation for best results. A lack of sleep, coupled with poor vitamin absorption also tends to reduce adrenal function. The less adrenal function you have the less B6 you tend to absorb, the less B6 you absorb, the less well your adrenal glands work and alas you end up in a vicious circle. Sleep, regular vitamins for those that need them, and good calcium/magnesium support in the form of milk or good mineral supplement restores adrenal function. So if you want to break the cycle and the black circles under your eyes, you've got to reduce your stress, sleep more and take the proper vitamins and minerals to support the adrenal function in general.
4. 

   
   Treat your skin while you sleep. There are overnight facial masques available that may help reduce the appearance of puffiness or discoloration, but you can also make your own. Just before you go to bed, take a washcloth and wet it just a bit with cold water. Then squeeze out any excess water and place it over your eyes as you sleep. Treating your skin may help, but the real problem may also be that you have a poor vitamin and mineral absorption problem that must also be corrected. Seeing a naturopathic physician may help for those people who suffer other ailments such as miscellaneous aches and pains that come and go and a general run down feeling.
5. 

   

   Cucumber Therapy
   Apply cool tea bags, an ice cube wrapped in soft cloth, or cucumber slices to your eyes daily. The tannin in tea bags has been shown to reduce swelling and discoloration, and cucumber slices have long been used to reduce puffiness and refresh the appearance of skin around the eyes. Lie down, preferably in the morning, and leave fresh cucumber slices or cool, damp caffeinated tea bags (you can refrigerate them overnight so they’ll be ready) over your eyes for about 10-15 minutes. Keep your eyes closed.
6. Try to relax the space. You can do this by wetting a cotton swab and then freezing it for a little while. Then you should gently wipe under your eyes in the areas where the circles are occurring. When wiping, close your eyes and try not to flinch.
7. 

   
   Apply an eye cream containing vitamin K and retinol. Dark circles may be caused by a deficiency of vitamin K. Regardless of the cause, however, recent research has shown that skin creams containing these two ingredients reduce puffiness and discoloration significantly in many patients. Long-term daily use seems to have the greatest effect.
8. Avoid rubbing your eyes. Usually rubbing of the eyes is brought on by allergies, but not always. Regardless of the reason, stop doing it. The rubbing irritates the skin and can break tiny capillaries beneath the skin, causing both puffiness and discoloration.
9. Eat a healthy, balanced diet, take vitamins, and drink plenty of water. A whole host of cosmetic problems can be attributed to vitamin deficiencies. Dark circles and puffiness are often attributed to lack of vitamin K or inadequate antioxidants. Also, a deficiency in B12 (usually anemia-related) can result in dark circles. Be sure to get plenty of fruits and vegetables—especially cabbage, spinach, and other leafy green vegetables—and take a daily vitamin supplement if necessary. Get adequate fluids to improve circulation.
10. Reduce salt intake. Excess salt causes the body to retain water in unusual places, and this can result in puffiness under the eyes. Too much salt can also impair your circulation, and cause the blood vessels under the skin to appear bluer.
11. Quit smoking. Smoking causes vascular (blood vessel) problems that can not only threaten your life, but also make your blood vessels appear more prominent and bluer beneath the skin.
12. 

    
    Cover the problem up with cosmetics. If all else fails, use a yellow or peach-toned concealer which will camouflage the problem under your eyes. The yellow/peach undertones in the makeup will help cancel out the purple, blue, and brownish colors of your undereye circles. Pink-toned concealers can actually make your circles more noticeable. After applying, set the concealer with a light dusting of translucent powder.

Follow these tips for a healthy weight gain:

1. It takes time to increase muscle weight.

Most athletes can successfully gain ½ to 1 pound per week if they eat enough food to meet their calorie needs and train properly. Increasing calorie intake by 500 to 1000 calories per day can help supply the extra calories needed to gain lean weight.

2. Choose higher calorie foods from all the groups in the Food Guide Pyramid.

For example, choose a multigrain bread over white bread, or juices and milk over water.

3. Eat larger food portions.

Increasing the amount of food that you eat at one time will supply the calories needed to gain muscle weight.

4. Eat five or more meals a day.

Eat plenty of high calorie snacks throughout the day.

5. Drink plenty of fluids that supply calories like juice, milk, milkshakes, and sports beverages.

For example, drinking 1 ½ quarts of grape or cranberry juice supplies 1000 calories. 1 ½ quarts of 2% milk supplies 720 calories.

6. Set realistic goals.

Hereditary factors can play a large role in physique. You are not going to look like Arnold if your parents look like Pee Wee Herman.

The following are some examples of high calorie snacks:

• A soft pretzel with cream cheese or peanut butter
• Milkshakes made with whole milk and ice cream plus powdered milk
• Dried fruit
• Bean and cheese burritos
• Bagel and cream cheese or peanut butter
• Baked potatoes with sour cream, cheese, or chili
• Granola and yogurt
• Muffins
• Peanut butter and jelly sandwich
• Cheese and crackers
• Blender drinks with fruit, milk, ice cream, or protein powders or powdered milk
• High calorie granola bars or energy bars

wIth all of the makeover shows on television, new anti-aging cosmetics, and general obsession with staying young looking, its no surprise that people are willing to spend small fortunes on products and procedures to look and feel younger. But you don’t have to break the bank to look and feel your best. Here are ten easy and inexpensive ways to take years off of your appearance and keep it that way.

Keep those pearly whites white! You can use over the counter tooth whiteners which have become very popular (such as Crest Whitestrips Premium), or have your dentist help you out with professional grade options. Either way, everyone likes a brilliant smile.

If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a hundred times, moisturize! Dry skin looks dull and lackluster. So not only do you want to use a moisturizer on your face (including an eye cream) but also on your hands and body. And since your hands especially get a lot of abuse, and can show age almost more than your face, keep some hand cream handy at your desk or by the sink. There are plenty of great moisturizes for men out there but I have My Favorite Face Moisturizers for Men.

Always use sunscreen! We all know that the sun is the single most damaging thing to your skin, so make sure to protect yourself. I have compiled a list of Face Moisturizers for Men with SPF as well as My Favorite Sunscreens and Sunblocks for Men.

Maintain your brows! Be sure to keep your brows neat and trimmed, especially between the eyes! The uni-brow isn’t something to be proud of.

Say no to facial hair! Some folks like their beards and goatees and that okay, but if you want to look younger, shave it off since facial hair ages you. Here are 7 Tips for Getting the Best Shaving Results.

Nose and ear hair? Not! It’s an unfortunate reality for men as they age, but hair starts popping out from unwanted places, so you will want to keep that nose and ear hair in check. You can pick up an ear and nose hair trimmer at your local drug store among other places. They are simple and easy to use.

Wear color! Especially wear color that complements your skin and eye color. Check out my article 7 Tips Men Need to Know About Wearing Color.

Manage those dark circles under your eyes! There are products out there such as Hylexin by Bremmen Research Labs that can help alleviate this problem, especially if it is chronic or hereditary. It is also proven that you can combat dark circles by getting a good night’s sleep and eating well. And if you still need help, try an under-eye concealer for men. Yes, they do exist.

Lose the glasses! Contact lenses will help you go from studious to stunning!

Wrinkles on anyone’s face are sign of aging. Problem is that due to wrinkles we often mistake the other person to be old, but it is not so. Wrinkling is a fact of life that affects all people and today’s certain lifestyle choices have made wrinkles appear sooner, e.g. hectic work schedule, night shifts , exposure to drugs at very young age, use of various cosmetics, etc . Besides, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, either from the sun or the use of tanning beds is a major cause of premature aging of the skin. In addition, doing this can cause malignant melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. Infact recent research has made it clear, that stress and tension is also one of the main reasons of increasing the wrinkles and skin related problem. Reducing wrinkles is a major concern for both women and men. Taking all this point in concern we are providing tips , which you can follow to reduce your wrinkles and have a healthy skin.

Tips to reduce your wrinkles:

1) Gradually reduce smoking, because it is one of the main reasons of aging the skin. Infact reducing smoking is good not only for skin but also for health of the body as a whole.

2) 2^nd best thing to reduce wrinkles is to increase the intake of healthy diets, which included fresh fruits and vegetables. These intakes help in keeping the skin firm and tight.

3) Drink plenty of water as it helps in hydrating the whole body as well as your skin. Dehydration is also one of the main reasons in increasing wrinkles. Have at least 8 glass of water daily

4) One should avoid intake of alcohol, as skin go limp due to this. This is the reason whoever drinks a lot alcohol are having older looks than that of who don’t drinks. Never drink before going to bed if you want to have young skin.

5) Be cool; never take much tension in your life. Try to find out the ways in your life to reduce stress in your day to day life. This can be meditation, yoga, prayer, playing with kids, have good time with your family, etc. Stress is becoming one of the great danger for good skin.

6) Always sleep on your back, not with face towards bed, because it increases wrinkles.

7) Don’t use hard chemicals for make up, better try for home remedy. Though these cosmetics give instant good look but in long run it is harmful for your skin.

8) Wash your face twice or thrice a day. Use mild soap because as mentioned above chemicals in the water and soap can harm the skin.

9) Never use very hot water to wash your face as it dry the skin , which is also the reason to increase the wrinkles.

10) After washing your face, pat dry and use a moisturizer.

The herbal way for those of us, who have not been blessed with a fair complexion, here are a few recipes to help to lighten your skin tone. The paste made out of sandalwood and rose water may be plied everyday.

Turmeric paste combined with sandal wood paste makes your skin noticeably fairer.

• Cucumber juice is considered to be an excellent whitener. Coconut milk combined with equal quantities of cucumber juice may be applied as often as possible.
• Gently massage coconut water all over face and neck to lighten skin tone.
• De seed and mash grapes, it may be applied liberally over face and neck. This helps to make your skin fairer.
• Almonds ground to a paste using rose water or milk is said to make your skin fair.
• Make a paste using red sandalwood and rose water. This preparation not only whitens your complexion but also helps to fade away scars and blemishes on the skin’s surface.

During the long cold winter months, many people suffer from dry skin more often, because of low humidity in their homes and the cold weather outside, so are often looking for natural skin care tips. Some of the symptoms of dry skin are itchy, flaky skin and scaling, when the outer skin layer visibly peels. Using harsh soaps and showering or bathing too often contributes towards dry, rough skin. There are many great natural skin care tips available to help people in their fight against dry skin. Here is several natural skin care tips that will help you avoid or cure dry skin itch.

• The cause of dry skin is not lack of oil in your skin but lack of water. Immediately after taking a shower or bath, apply moisturizes to help trap the moisture in your skin.

• Other natural skin care tips include using a humidifier in your home and at work, if possible, during the winter months. If your skin is itching, apply cool compresses, which is a simple, natural approach that works well.

• Natural skin care tips for dry skin include eating foods that contain essential fatty acids every day. Also, eat snacks that are high fiber such as figs, dates, dried fruit, raw seeds, and raw nuts.

• People with dry skin often experience wrinkles and fine lines prematurely, so use moisturizers and bath oils that contain coconut oil.

• Use a natural cream moisturizer daily for dry and normal skin. For people with sensitive skin, use a moisturizer without lanolin or perfume for best results.

• Shampoos containing harsh chemicals often remove the natural oils on your scalp causing the skin to become irritated and dry. Repeated scratching or rubbing often causes small scratches or wounds, which could become sore or infected. Natural skin care tips that help prevent this include switching to a natural shampoo that contains no harsh chemicals. Look for a natural shampoo that has tree tea oil. This oil has great anti-inflammatory and anti bacterial properties that help prevent infections and sooth the itch.

• After applying warm water or a warm cloth on your face to open the pores, spread honey over your face. Rinse this off after twenty minutes using warm water followed by cooler water. A honey facial once a week will keep your skin looking younger, feeling great, and the best part is it only costs pennies.

A facemask of egg white and honey gently removes the tan from your face.

• Mix oats with honey, yogurt and ground almonds. Apply this in your face, leave it for five minutes and wash with lukewarm water.
• Cucumber is a natural cleanser. Mix cucumber juice with milk and use it instead of a cleanser.
• Take 1/3-cup cocoa, three teaspoons of heavy cream, 1/3-cup ripe papaya, 1/4-cup honey and three teaspoons of oatmeal powder. Mix it all together. Apply on your face. After 10 minutes, wash your face with warm water. This is best for oily skin
• For oily skin, apply a mixture of grapes, lemon and egg white. Leave it for 20 minutes and rinse with warm water. While lemon acts as a natural cleanser, grapes will soften your skin and egg whites will tighten it. Don’t be alarmed if your skin tingles.
• Cut the lemon and rub the wedge all over your face. Leave it for about 20 minutes, then rinse off with cold water. This will refresh your face. Avoid doing this if you have dry skin.
• Mix honey, lemon and vegetable oil .This mixture is a good moisturiser for dry skin. Apply this mask for 10 minutes.
• Apply the mixture of honey and milk on the face . This will make your skin glow.
• Prepare a mask by mixing a slice of pumpkin with egg yolk and milk. Let this mask set on your face for 30 minutes for a glowing skin.
• Mix half-a-cup honey to your bath water for soft and smooth skin.
• For a soothing body pack, prepare a paste of mint leaves and almonds. Mix it with warm water and apply all over your body. Leave it till it dries and rinse with warm water.
• Buttermilk dabbed on skin for 15 minutes will soak up oil from your skin without drying it.
• Carrot juice applied daily fades blemishes.
• For dark underarms and neck apply lemon juice mixed with cucumber juice and a pinch of turmeric daily. Leave this on for 20 minutes.
• For removing facial hair.. Apply a sticky paste of egg white blended with sugar and corn flour. When it dries, gently peel it off. Repeat this three to four times a week.
• Thin apple slices rubbed onto oily skin will help in controlling oily shine.
• For supple skin, apply a ripe smashed banana on your face for 20 minutes daily.
• Cauliflower juice applied on warts regularly will make them fall.
• For a fair skin, try this natural bleach. Mix orange peels (sun dried and powdered) with milk. Apply this paste for 25 minutes and wash off.
• Mix half teaspoon dried curry leaf powder with multani mitti (fullers earth) and apply on the face. Wash it after it gets dry.
• Apply the mixture of tomato juice and honey on the face and neck , wash it after 15 minutes.
• Apply the mixture of carrot juice and basin. Leave it till it dries and wash the face.
• Add two teaspoon of tomato juice with 4 teaspoon of curd and apply on the face.
• Add a pinch of yeast with 2 teaspoon of cabbage juice and apply.
• Mix 1 table spoon of barley powder with half teaspoon of lime juice and 1 teaspoon of honey. Apply it on the face and wash after 20 minutes.
• Mix pineapple juice and carrot juice together and apply it on the face and wash it after 15 minutes.
• Mix vinegar and rose water in equal quantities and apply.
• Mix curd and cucumber juice and apply it on the face.
• Apply the mixture of coconut water and thick pineapple juice.
• Make a paste with 1/2 teaspoon of milk powder, 1/4 teaspoon of egg white and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice and apply on the face.
• For dry skin, Make a paste with egg yolk, olive oil and lemon juice. Apply it on the neck and face, wash it out after 10 minutes.
• For oily skin, take a mixture of oatmeal and egg white and apply it on the neck and face
• For glowing skin, use basin or green gram powder mixed with milk instead of soap.
• Apply the mixture of raw turmeric and cream of milk on the face and wash it after 20 minutes. It will make your skin fair.
• Apply the mixture of honey, basin, cream of milk and olive oil as a face pack.
• Apply the paste of fenugreek with milk on the face and let it dry. Wash off with luke warm water.
• Make a paste of red sandal wood and apply it on the face every day for glowing skin.

The following information can help you understand factors that may contribute to skin problems. An alteration or two in diet or lifestyle or treatment methods may significantly improve the health of the skin and body, which will help in the control of acne and related problems. This following information will assist in making educated decisions.

Stress: Stress has a strong relationship to acne and a profound impact. When under stress the body produces hormonal steroids, such as cortisol (a corticosteroid hormone frequently called hydrocortisone). Like other hormonal steroids (testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, etc.) these chemicals target the skin in a disruptive manner and acne flare-ups may coincide with increased stress.

While it is easy to suggest the avoidance of stress, this is not likely to be accomplished. Begin recognizing stress levels and potentially stressful events or situations. During these times, cleanse very thoroughly, or cleanse three times a day rather than two. Increase the use of some products from once daily, for example, to twice. Use the Green Tea Poultice more frequently. In short, step up the daily skin care regimen to offset the skin's response to stress. When the stressful situation passes, return to the normal daily skin care regimen.

Coffee: Research suggests that coffee (with or without caffeine) stimulates the production of cortisol (see the above section on stress) and acts just like stress. Coffee may be a promoter of acne and its consumption should be limited. Green tea or white tea are healthier beverage selections. When stress levels rise, it may be wise to reduce coffee consumption and achieve a reduction in cortisol levels which promote acne.

Diet: A good diet is an effective tool in controlling acne, especially fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, combined with adequate protein. A healthy and well-balanced diet affects the health and efficiency of the body and that includes the skin. Every organ in your body relies upon the same vitamins, minerals and nutrients to function. Since the skin is at the end of the food line, it suffers greatly from an improperly balanced diet. Foods with high antioxidant content (colorful fruits and vegetables) are very helpful in promoting the healing of acne infections.

Wheat: People who have tried numerous prescriptive and non-prescriptive acne treatments without success will probably succeed with Skintactix products. If not, the problem may be wheat-induced acne, which makes any acne treatment unsuccessful. Skintactix products and diet modification successfully achieve control of wheat-induced acne in almost all cases. For more information on this subject please see the Acne & Wheat page.

Essential Fatty Acids: People who have tried numerous prescriptive and non-prescriptive acne treatments without success will probably succeed with Skintactix products. If not, and you have multiple whiteheads and/or blackheads, you may have a deficiency of linoleic acid (omega 6). This condition makes acne treatment unsuccessful because of excessive follicular congestion. Skintactix products and diet modification successfully achieve control of linoleic deficiency-induced acne. For more information on this subject please see the Acne & Essential Fatty Acids page.

Milk: A smaller segment of the acne population may react to milk and/or dairy products. Milk contains hormones which can promote the potential for acne infections. Hormonally induced acne frequently follows the chin and jaw line. If milk is a factor in the promotion of acne, you have probably tried numerous prescriptive and non-prescriptive acne treatments without success. You will probably be successful with Skintactix products because the products reduce the skin's volume of dihydrotestosterone and sebum. If control is still difficult to achieve, limiting daily intake can be helpful. For more information on this subject please see the Acne & Milk page.

Antibiotic Dangers: Taking an antibiotic may be an easy method of controlling acne, when it is successful, but there can be a huge downside. Science has known for years that frequent or extended use of antibiotics can damage the body's natural immune functions. Research published in February 2004 by the University of Washington in conjunction with the National Cancer Institute was more specific. Of the 10,000 females studied, it was found that those who had used antibiotics approximately 500 days or more at any time over an 18 year period were twice as likely to contract breast cancer than females at large. The association between antibiotics and cancer was dose related, revealing the higher the total dosage (or volume over time) the greater the risk. While this study involved females, the antibiotic and cancer linkage would seem to be equally as applicable to males as well.

Long-term use of antibiotics to control or maintain control of acne may involve risks that should be considered in making decisions about acne treatment. Skintactix has given particular attention to providing effective treatment with no dangers and no side effects.

Benzoyl Peroxide Cautions: Benzoyl peroxide (BP) generates free radicals in the skin. Its effect is similar to unprotected sun exposure. The redness of the skin (erythema), caused by sun exposure and BP, is the result of free radicals causing to the skin. Repeated sun exposure or BP use generates free radicals that damage the skin's structure and cellular DNA, resulting in premature aging of the skin. The extent of the damage and aging from BP is determined by the concentration of BP, the frequency of application and the duration of its use.

Use of benzoyl peroxide to control acne may involve side effects and risks that should be considered in making decisions on acne treatment. Skintactix has given particular attention to providing effective treatment with no side effects and no benzoyl peroxide. For additional information on this subject please see the Benzoyl Peroxide Skin Damage page.

Premature Skin Aging: As you will learn from the Acne and Skin Damage section of this website, free radicals promote the aging of skin. Acne infections require huge volumes of chemical processes to control the infection and repair and replace all of the skin components that are damaged or destroyed in the process. This generates volumes of free radicals that in general promote the speed of skin aging. People with moderate to severe facial acne tend to develop facial lines and wrinkles at an earlier stage than the population in general and may require an early skin anti-aging strategy. The control of acne is the first step in slowing the aging process. People with moderate to severe acne who have treated their skin with benzoyl peroxide tend to present skin aging at an even faster rate. For additional information on this subject please see the Acne & Premature Skin Aging and the Free Radical Damage pages.

Smoking: A German study published in 2001 showed acne is 62% more prevalent in active smokers than in non-smokers. Additionally, a significant dose-dependent relationship was observed between acne severity and daily cigarette consumption.

Hormone Supplementation: The development of adult onset acne following the initiation of hormone supplementation or significant modification of an existing program may be caused by the dosage. Speak with a physician about this subject and modifying the dosage so it does not promote acne.

Sebum Production Cycle: The skin produces its greatest volume of sebum and oil at approximately 1 to 2 o'clock in the afternoon and its least volume in the middle of the night. Therefore a thorough skin care regimen performed in the late afternoon or early evening is pivotal to effective acne control. Cleanse thoroughly.

Heredity: Acne appears to have genetic linkage and people may get a better understanding of the possible extent of their condition by discussing this subject with their parents. Ask questions about the severity of their acne and the duration.

Menses: Like stress, there is a relationship to acne. The body increases its production of hormones, which indirectly stimulates the production of sebum and the subsequent chemical reactions that promote acne. Three to seven days before the cycle, step up the daily skin care regimen and return to the normal regimen at the end of the period. Use the Green Tea Poultice twice daily as per the instructions. If needed, consider reducing the consumption of milk and/or dairy products for the week just prior to the cycle.

Oral Contraceptives: In some instances oral contraceptives may reduce the severity of acne and in other cases they can trigger skin problems, including acne. If an oral contraceptive is contributing to acne, speak with the physician about "low-profestin" contraceptives or other options. Changing to low-profestin contraceptives has shown to reduce acne in some cases. An oral contraceptive containing ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel may provide benefits for moderate acne.

Linens and Headgear: Washcloths, towels, pillowcases, hats, sweatbands, etc. collect bacteria and return it to the skin each time the item is used. Change washcloth, towels and pillowcases every two to three days while achieving control of acne. Make sure headgear is clean and/or avoid the use of unnecessary items.

Hairline or Forehead Acne: A pattern of acne that basically follows the hairline may be caused by sebum and free fatty acids that are generated in the scalp and migrate onto the forehead. The condition can be reduced or eliminated by shampooing more frequently and/or selecting a shampoo specifically developed for oily hair. While hair may not be oily, this type of shampoo can reduce the sebum and fatty acids in the scalp. Glycolic Cleanser can be used as an oil reducing shampoo. Antibacterial Cleanser and Septicide Cleanser perform this function and kill P. acnes as well.

If you are looking for ways of how to lower high blood pressure perhaps we should first talk about what causes high blood pressure in the first place. Well the truth is that there are many different causes ranging from, poor diet, lack of exercise, stress and hypertension. High blood pressure that is left untreated can lead to other more serious conditions, including stroke and heart attack. Having some knowledge of what causes high blood pressure will help you to avoid the risks.

Changing your diet and watching what you eat and drink will greatly help reduce high blood pressure. One of the major causes of high blood pressure is cholesterol. People with high levels of cholesterol are almost certain to have higher blood pressure when compared to someone with a healthy diet. Cholesterol causes fatty deposits to coat the artery walls. Over time these fats form into a hard plaque that reduces the size of arteries and blood vessels making them smaller and smaller. Your body still needs to pump the same amount of blood through these blood vessels, and this is what causes high blood pressure. Another great way of how to lower high blood pressure is to reduce the amount of sugar in your diet. We all like our sweets and desserts but here again simply by lowering your sugar intake can really help reduce high blood pressure. Eating high amounts of sugar or sugary foods causes your blood to thicken due to the glucose. If your blood is thicker than it normally should be it is again harder to circulate and so causes high blood pressure.

Another good way to help reduce high blood pressure is to cut down on other things that have been shown to be causes of high blood pressure. These include nicotine which is in cigarettes and other tobacco products. Excessive alcohol consumption has also been proved to increase the risk, so by lowering your alcohol intake it will also help reduce high blood pressure, as will cutting down on the amount of caffeine in your diet.

Exercise has also been shown to greatly help reduce high blood pressure, but always consult your Doctor or a medical professional before taking up any strenuous exercise programme, as the wrong type of exercise could make your symptoms worse. Weight lifting is something that should be avoided because this can be very stressful on the heart. Highly intensive cardiovascular workouts are also not good for people with high blood pressure as this type of workout greatly raises your blood pressure.

Moderate exercise is the best way, and over a period of time you will lower your cholesterol, your weight and therefore your blood pressure. Things like Yoga and slow movement exercises are especially good to help reduce high blood pressure as they are very heart friendly. Always practice warming up and cooling down exercises before, and after your main exercise as this slowly raises and lowers your blood pressure rather than causing dangerous spikes. By using these simple tips on diet and exercise you will be well on your way to achieving a more normal range blood pressure level and also help reduce high blood pressure in the future.

1. Are you overweight? Lose weight.

   Maintaining a healthy weight (see your doctor about this) will help prevent high blood pressure.

   Getting back to a healthy weight is not as hard as it sounds. You can start by limiting the portion size of your meals and snacks, and cut way back on high calorie foods.

   If you eat as many calories as you burn each day, you’ll maintain your weight. Eating fewer calories than you burn will help you lose weight. And losing weight will help lower your blood pressure.

2. When you plan meals, think of your heart.
   Choose a diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. Keep total fat low and avoid foods that are high in saturated fats and cholesterol.

   Having a healthy heart will help prevent blood pressure.

3. Eat less salt and sodium.
   Salt and sodium can increase blood pressure, so it’s important to read food labels. The U.S. guidelines suggest limiting sodium intake to no more than 2,400 mg, or about 1 teaspoon of salt each day.

   If you eat canned, processed, and convenience foods, buy the brands that are lower in sodium.

   If you salt your food at the table, try using less, or none. It may take a little while to get used to the new flavors, but you may find that food tastes better when you use less salt.

   Fast food can contain a lot of sodium, so if you eat fast food choose items that are lower in salt and sodium. Reducing your salt intake will help to prevent high blood pressure.

4. If you drink alcohol, practice moderation.
   The U.S. guidelines recommend that men have no more than 2 drinks per day, and women have no more than one alcoholic beverage per day.
5. Increase your physical activity.
   Exercise is a key factor in preventing high blood pressure.

   If you get very little exercise now, start slowly and work your way up to at least 30 minutes of a moderate-level activity, such as brisk walking or bicycling, each day. If time is a factor, you’ll still benefit by breaking the 30 minute daily exercise periods into 10 or 15 minute sessions.

6. Stop smoking.
   Research shows that smoking increases your chances of developing a heart disease, stroke, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, and several forms of cancer.
7. Talk with your doctor or health care professional.
   Learn what your blood pressure reading means to your health, and if medication is recommended for you to treat or prevent high blood pressure.
8. If your doctor prescribes medication, take it.
   It’s important to understand:
   
   • what your blood pressure medication is expected to do for you
   • how to take your medication, and when
   • if your blood pressure medication has any side effects
   • if the blood pressure medication is safe to take with any other prescriptions or vitamins you are already taking

   If you have high blood pressure and treatment is prescribed, don't be afraid to ask questions or get another medical opinion. Once you understand why you’re taking the medication, follow the recommended dose.

   But the best way to treat high blood pressure is to prevent high blood pressure from becoming a problem. These 8 tips, plus advice from your health care provider, can help you keep your blood pressure at a healthy level. If you would like more information on blood pressure, how it's measured and what the measurements mean, see Blood Pressure 101: Why Are Those Numbers Important?.

Tip # 1-Lose weight

I know what you are thinking. "That's easier said than done." I agree, but if you follow tips #2 through #5, you will lose weight and it won't be as difficult as you think. Many medical studies have proven that cholesterol levels decrease as weight is lost. Personally, my average cholesterol came down over 20% when I lost 30 pounds.

Most of us need a structured diet plan in order to be successful. I recommend a diet that is rich in omega 3 fatty acids, and includes a large variety of vegetables.

Tip # 2-Increase your fiber intake

You can find dozens of foods and supplements on the internet that are said to reduce cholesterol. They range from red rice yeast to gugullipid to soy. But the most effective natural ways to lower cholesterol are the tried and true. It has long been known that soluble fiber lowers cholesterol. There is no question about it. The American Heart Association recommends adding both soluble and insoluble fiber to your diet. Some of the best sources of soluble fiber are oat and rice bran, fruits, and green vegetables. Nutritional supplements that include flax and psyllium also have a proven positive effect on cholesterol.

Tip #3-Cut back on saturated fats

In western cultures, the major sources of saturated fats are red meat and deep fried foods. For individuals who want to reduce cholesterol, it is recommended to limit red meat consumption to one meal each week and avoid deep fried foods like fried chicken completely.

Snacks such as potato and tortilla chips are also very high in saturated fats, but by substituting baked varieties it is possible to cut back on the saturated fats. Baked tortilla chips and salsa makes a very satisfying snack.

Tip #4-Exercise

Yes, everyone knows they should be getting more exercise, but few follow through with it. If you are serious about using natural ways to reduce cholesterol, this should be part of your plan. I recommend increasing your exercise little by little. Park further away when shopping so you have to walk across the parking lot. Walk up stairs instead of taking the elevator.

Having said this, the truth is that you will need to work up to regular aerobic exercise before it will help reduce cholesterol. Twenty to thirty minutes, 3 or 4 days a week of moderate exercise is what it will take.

Tip #5-Nutritional Supplements

While cholesterol can be lowered with only dietary changes and exercise, you will find that one of the best natural ways to lower cholesterol is with nutritional supplements. In fact, unless you are able to dedicate several hours each week to exercise, you will receive more benefit to reduce cholesterol levels from nutritional supplements than from exercise. Just don't make it a reason not to exercise.

Your personality type will then form the basis of an entire eating plan - beginning right from when you subscribe. (Note that you can redo the survey at any time). The meal plans are good... quite do-able - they even include some fast food options as well.

Sample Meal Plan - Remember this diet is completely tailored to your personality type AND other factors like weight and age. This sample is not necessarily how many calories you might consume - but gives you an example of the kind of food (and recipes) available.

INGREDIENTS FOR BASIC FAT BURNING SOUP

This soup can be eaten anytime you are hungry. Eat as much as you want, whenever you want. This SOUP will not add calories. The more you eat the more you will lose. Fill a thermos in the morning if you will be away during the day. If eaten alone for indefinite periods, you would suffer malnutrition.

DAY ONE:
All the fruits except bananas. Cantaloupe and watermelon are lower in calories than most fruits. Eat only the soup and fruits. For drinks unsweetened tea, cranberry juice and water.

DAY TWO:
All vegetables. Eat until you are stuffed with all the fresh raw, cooked or canned vegetables. Try to eat leafy veggies and stay away from dry beans, peas and corn. Eat along with the soup. At dinner time on this day, reward yourself with a big baked potato and butter. Do not eat any fruit.

DAY THREE:
Eat all the soup, fruits and vegetables you want. Do not have a baked potato. If you have eaten for three days, - as above, and have not cheated, you will have lost 5 to 7 pounds.

DAY FOUR:
Bananas and skim milk. Eat as many as 3 bananas and drink as many glasses of water as you can on this day along with the soup. Bananas are high in calories and carbohydrates and so is the milk, but on this particular day your body will need the potassium, the carbohydrates, proteins and calcium to lessen your craving for sweets.

DAY FIVE:
Beef and tomatoes. You may have 10 to 20 ounces of beef and a can of tomatoes or as many as 6 fresh tomatoes on this day. Try to drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water this day to wash away the uric acid in your body. Eat the soup at least once this day.

DAY SIX:
Beef and vegetables. Eat till your heart’s content of the beef and veggies this day. Be sure and eat the soup at least once.

DAY SEVEN:
Brown rice, unsweetened fruit juice and vegetables. -Again stuff yourself. Be sure to have the soup at least once. At the end of the seventh day, if you have not cheated on the diet, you will have lost 10 to 17 pounds. If YOU have lost more than 15 pounds, stay off the diet for two days before resuming the diet again for day one.

This seven day eating plan can be used as often as you like. As a matter of fact, if correctly followed it will clean your system of impurities and give you a feeling of well—being as never before. After only seven days on this program1 you will begin to feel lighter and have an abundance of energy. Continue this plan as long as you wish and feel the difference. Because everyone’s digestive system is different, this diet will affect everybody differently. After day three you will have more energy than when you began if you did not cheat. After being on the diet for several days, you will find your bowel movement might have changed…………eat a cup of bran or fiber. Although you can have black coffee with this diet you will find that you don’t need the caffeine after the third day.

DEFINITE NO-NO’S

Bread, alcohol, carbonated drinks (including diet drinks). Stick with water, unsweetened tea, black coffee, unsweetened fruit juices, cranberry juice and skimmed milk. The basic fat burning soup can be eaten anytime you feel hungry. Eat as much as you wish remember the more you eat, the more you lose. No fried foods or bread. You can eat broiled or baked chicken instead of beef but absolutely not the skin of the chicken. Any prescribed medication will not hurt you with this diet. Continue this plan as long as you wish and feel the difference both mentally and physically. If you prefer you can substitute broiled fish for the beef on one of the beef days. You need the protein from the beef the other days.

Diet Plan For Preventing Re-Attack

A well designed diet can help prevent a heart attack or avoid it from recurring. Heart patients must eat a lot of whole foods and keep a vegetarian diet, consisting of vegetables and fruits, nuts, and whole grains.

• Raw vegetables and fruits are extremely helpful. If necessary, cook very slightly in order to preserve the enzymes.
• Take several small meals which are low in salt in the first week following the heart attack. Do not use cold liquids. Vegetables such as cauliflower and carrots are very good as they are low in salt, easily accepted, and carry essential minerals and vitamins.
• Avoid red meat and processed food. Red meat has saturated fats where as processed foods contain trans fatty acids. Both are major causes of a heart attack. Consume omega-3 fatty acids as they are believed to reduce blood cholesterol level.
• Eat foods that contain magnesium such as wheat germ, potatoes, broccoli, and spinach. These will help regulate the heart activity.
• Consume garlic in your meal as it lowers the blood pressure, reduces cholesterol and prevents the formation of thrombus, or a blood clot.
• Onions have antioxidants and are beneficial for your heart.
• Drink fresh vegetable juices. These will provide you with energy and important vitamins and minerals, besides improving the health of your heart.
• Cayenne pepper is good for lowering your cholesterol level, increasing the flow of blood and preventing platelets from assimilating.
• Honey is known for its curative powers. One teaspoon of honey, taken two to three times a week will help strengthen your heart.
• Walnut reduces the risk of a heart attack dramatically.
• Avoid or reduce the use of alcohol, caffeine products, and carbonated drinks.
• Use two egg whites instead of single whole egg.

It is common belief that low calorie and vegetarian recipes have to challenge your palate. The truth is, however, they can be just as delicious as your favorite dishes. Now, I am about to share with you two such recipes, and you can just give them a try to convince yourself.

1. Vegetarian Black Bean Burgers

To prepare this dish, you will need:

* 1 can of black beans

* 1/2 of an onion

* 1/2 cup of flour

* 2 slices of bread

* 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

* 1 teaspoon of onion powder

* 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt

* salt and pepper

Go through the following steps to prepare:

a) Dice and saute the onion for 4 to 5 minutes to make it soft.

b) Put the black beans into a large bowl and mash them until they are almost smooth.

c) To the large bowl, add the sauteed onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and seasoned salt.

d) Crumble up the sliced bread and add them to the mix.

e) Add the flour to the mixture, a few tablespoons each time. Keep stirring after each addition.

f) Pour a small amount of oil into a frying pan, and let it heat up.

g) Use your hands to scoop some of the mixture out of the bowl, and shape it into a pattie that is about 1/2 thick.

h) Fry the patties until they are firm.

Give it a try, and you will definitely love the taste of the burgers.

2. Tofu Scramble

If you have ever tried vegetarian diet, you will know that tofu is always used as a meat substitute. And, the tofu scramble which we are about to try can be served as a wonderful substitute for scrambled eggs.

You will need:

* 1 block of tofu, drained and press

* 1/2 yellow onion

* 1/2 green pepper

* 1 teaspoon garlic powder

* 1 teaspoon onion powder

* 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

* 1 tablespoon soy sauce

* 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast

* 2 teaspoons oil or margarine

Follow these steps to cook:

a) Cut the tofu into one inch cubes, and crumble it slightly with a fork.

b) Dice the onion and bell pepper.

c) Add some oil or margarine to a skillet. Set with medium-high heat.

d) Add the onion, green pepper and tofu to the skillet. Cook for 4 or 5 minutes.

e) Add garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, soy sauce, and nutritional yeast to the skillet.

f) Cook the tofu scramble for 6 or 7 minutes, and keep stirring. After that, the dish is ready for serve.

You can also do with the tofu scramble whatever you may do with scrambled eggs, such as adding vegetables like tomatoes, mushrooms, spinach, and carrots.

If you just give a try to these two recipes, you will be convinced that low calorie and vegetarian recipes do not have to be bland or boring. In fact, there are thousands of vegetarian dishes out there that are tasty, easy to make, and yet good for your health.

Are you now tempted to try these low calorie and vegetarian recipes? You can always visit our site to explore more about vegetarian recipes. You may also love to read this related article about vegetarian chili recipes

Aloe Vera Orange Juice
Ingredients

• 3-5 Oranges
• Aloe vera leaves
• Fruit juice or water

Aloe Vera Apply Cucumber Juice
Ingredients

• 2 tbsp liquid aloe vera (extracted from leaves)
• 1 apple
• 1 cucumber
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice

.Aloe Vera Chocolate and Banana
Ingredients

• 1 serving chocolate flavor meal replacement formula
• 250ml skim milk, low fat chocolate milk or soya milk
• 1 serving protein powder
• 1 banana
• 15ml of aloe vera concentrate

Aloe Vera Healthy and Heavenly
Ingredients

• 1 serving low calorie vanilla protein mix
• 30gms low fat cream cheese
• 1 serving strawberry flavor meal replacement formula
• 15-20ml aloe vera concentrate
• 125ml water

Aloe Vera Fresh and Fruity
Ingredients

• 1 serving vanilla flavor meal replacement formula
• 15-20ml aloe vera concentrate
• 3 dried apricots
• 100g (3slices) pineapple
• 100ml unsweetened orange juice
• 150ml water

Healing Blueberry Aloe Smoothie
Ingredients

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cup frozen blueberries
• 1 cup aloe vera gel

Green Smoothie
Ingredients

• 2-4 oz of aloe vera juice
• 1½ tsp maca
• 1 tbsp bee pollen
• 1 tsp 2000mg vitamin C crystals with Rosehips
• 1-2 tbsp glucosamine, chondroitin & MSM liquid
• 2 tbsp of ground flaxseed

Sugary Drinks and Sweets

It is natural to like sweets. And it is okay to enjoy them as an occasional treat, but it is vital to keep consumption to a minimum. Refined sugar is one of the bad carbs mentioned above. Not only does it cause problems with our blood sugar level, but it also uses up stored resources within our body (such as minerals and enzymes) in order to process the sugar. In addition there are many negative health effects that sugar contributes to including: hypoglycemia, suppression of the immune system, arthritis, diabetes, osteoporosis, headaches, and depression.

Choose sweet treats that are home made or have naturally occurring sugar, such as fruits. Try making your favorite dessert with half or one-third less sugar than usual. Make dessert a special event once a week. Many foods have naturally occurring sugars, such as fruits, vegetables, grains and beans. Incorporate naturally sweet foods into your diet to help crowd out unhealthy sweets. Strawberries, apples, sweet potatoes or winter squash are all great options.

Avoid or severely limit sugary drinks – they are an easy way to pack calories and chemicals into your diet without even noticing it. One 12-oz soda has about 10 teaspoons of sugar in it! And just because a soda is sugar-free doesn’t make it healthy. Recent studies have shown that the artificial sugar substitutes used in soft drinks may interfere with your body's natural regulation system and result in your overindulging in other sweet foods and beverages. Try water with a squeeze of lemon or water with a splash of 100% fruit juice.

Salt

Once again the problem with salt comes with the over-use and over consumption of processed salt most commonly used. It is best to limit sodium to 2,300 mg per day – the equivalent to one teaspoon of salt. Most of the salt in our diets comes from processed, packaged, restaurant, and fast food. Processed foods like canned soups or frozen meals can contain hidden sodium that can quickly surpass this recommended amount. Many of us are unaware of how much sodium we are consuming in one day.

Salt itself is not bad. A high quality sea salt can have up to 90 minerals, which are healthy for our body. Look for sea salt that has a reddish or brownish tint, has no coloring, additives, chemicals and has not been bleached.