6 Anti-Aging Skin-Care Ingredients Every Woman Should Be Using by 30

How young is too young to start an anti-aging regimen? According to Sherry Ingraham, M.D., it’s a question that she fields almost daily at her dermatology practice in Texas. “If you think of sunscreen as the most important anti-aging product, you should start as soon as you possibly can!” she says. In other words, now is the time to become better acquainted with your skin-care products—and, more specifically, with the near-inscrutable ingredients found on the label.

A solid preventative routine established in your 20s can go a long way toward protecting and maintaining healthy skin cells through your 30s, Ingraham explains, and there are a number of key ingredients to include. “When you’re buying a product, absolutely read the label and know what you’re looking for,” she says. “You want to optimize and give your skin the building blocks we had in our youth.” Here, Ingraham demystifies eight anti-aging ingredients every woman should know about by age 30—and beyond. “It’s never too late, and the changes to your skin will be measurable and enjoyable,” she says. Why wait?

Broad Spectrum Sunscreen with SPF 30 or Higher
 
“This should be the core of your regimen, and it’s imperative you pick a broad-spectrum formula with SPF 40 or higher. I recommend that all my patients seek one with zinc, as well. It’s one of the most important ingredients you can find in makeup products. You want a physical component that reflects light—micronized zinc has teeny microscopic particles that do that—as opposed to a purely chemical sunscreen that absorbs it.”

Alpha Hydroxy Acids
 
“A lot of the time in your 20s, you’re still contending with acne. Glycolic acid, lactic acid, and other alpha hydroxy acids gently exfoliate the skin to give it a smoother, brighter appearance and simulate new collagen. You might start with a light glycolic toner or wash in your 20s and switch to a serum with antioxidants and glycolic acid in your 30s.”


Antioxidants
 
“Antioxidants are crucial for anti-aging, to protect our skin, our collagen, and our elastin from free radicals that cause damage to the DNA in our cells. Not all antioxidants are created equal—you get what you pay for with certain things, and antioxidants are a splurge-worthy product. You want a serum specifically formulated with about 15 to 20 percent vitamin C to be absorbed properly. Resveratrol, which we find in certain red wines, is a great antioxidant, as well.”

“Niacinamide
 is a vitamin B3. It’s a great brightener, but also a very good moisturizer. It helps with pigmentary conditions, evens the skin tone, and brightens the skin. You want to look for products where these are the top five ingredients, that’s where you want to get your value.”

Lipids
 
“Our skin can get dry and dull, and we want to reinfuse it with lipids to get that plumpness back—they’re essentially the mortar between your skin cells that helps maintain your skin barrier as you age. Lipids are often listed as ceramides and fatty acids. Ceramides are essentially the skin barrier molecules deficient in dry skin. Fatty acids help drive the production of cholesterol and ceramides, and might be listed as sunflower or other oils.”

Retinol
 
“Retinoids are a vitamin A derivative that promote healthy cell turnover, inhibit the formation of acne lesions, and can inhibit pigmentation, as well. You want to get on a retinoid in your 30s, as your collagen and elastin might start to decline. It can be listed as retinol, retinaldehyde, retinoic acid. With retinoids, there are many inexpensive over-the-counter options that are more potent, so you have a little more freedom here than you do with antioxidants.”

http://www.vogue.com/13409709/anti-aging-skin-care-ingredients-20s-30s/

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8 Quotes From Successful Athletes That Will Amp You Up

For many of us, there are few things we struggle to find the motivation for more than regular exercise. Whether we are looking to put on some muscle or to shed a few pounds, the physical effort and psychological fortitude that a consistent workout routine requires is unfortunately a taller mental mountain than many are willing to climb.

But what about those who have risen beyond the challenge and have accomplished incredible athletic feats? We may not have the same aspirations as they do, but their success can often be the exact fuel we need to get ourselves off of the couch and onto the treadmill or playing field.

As someone who values staying in shape and being active throughout my entire life, here are 8 of my favourite quotes from successful athletes that help to get me going:

                               

1. “I can’t relate to lazy people. We don’t speak the same language. I don’t understand you, I don’t want to understand you.” – Kobe Bryant

As the 18-time NBA All-Star, 2-time NBA Finals MVP, and 5-time NBA champion Kobe Bryant tells us, it’s a lack of recognition for laziness that helped to get him there. It’s not to say that there isn’t a time and place for a little R&R, but it’s when we let that R&R become a recurrent theme, rather than a needed retreat, that we hit a snag. Work hard and give yourself a true reason to deserve the downtime!

2.“Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.” – Michael Jordan

14-time NBA All-Star, 6-time NBA Finals MVP, and 6-time NBA champion Michael Jordan reminds us that obstacles are only as big we make them. We are all bound to come across them in everything that we do in life, so it’s our response to them that dictates whether or not we give ourselves the opportunity to achieve our goals.

3. “I don’t count my sit-ups; I only start counting when it starts hurting because they’re the only ones that count.” – Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali is arguably one of the greatest heavyweights in the history of boxing, and this quote shows us what helped to get him there. Think of how many times you hit the gym and do the same routine you are comfortable with. We all know our bodies adapt, and the only way we can give it the tools to create concrete change is to push it beyond what it has become comfortable with.

4. “Somewhere behind the athlete you’ve become and the hours of practice and the coaches who have pushed you is a little girl who fell in love with the game and never looked back… play for her.” – Mia Hamm

Unless you happen to be a professional athlete, this quote from the FIFA Women’s World Cup winner and two time olympic gold medallist may seem non-applicable, but I beg to differ. We may not have the same passion for a particular sport, but we do all have a younger version of ourselves who loved life, and would love to see you push yourself to maintain your health and live as long as possible.

5. “I’m scared of failure all the time but I’m not scared enough to stop trying.” – Ronda Rousey

As an MMA Champion and olympic gold medallist for women’s judo, Ronda Rousey opens up through this quote by sharing that even those who have achieved success still have fears to conquer. We may be afraid to make a fool of ourselves in a public gym, not make it through a class, or never hit a goal,  but that isn’t reason enough to avoid trying altogether.

6. “There may be people that have more talent than you, but there’s no excuse for anyone to work harder than you.” – Derek Jeter

14-time MLB All Star and 5-time World Series champion Derek Jeter is arguably the best shortstop to ever play the game of baseball, and it’s clearly his hard work ethic that helped to get him there. The metaphorical cards of talent may have fallen more favourably for others, but the cards of work ethic start equal within all of us. Challenge yourself and see just how far your work ethic can take you and how strong it can grow.

7. “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky

Even if we work out with regularity, we may never hit our goals, but if we never work out in the first place we are guaranteed never to do so. The Great One, Wayne Gretzky, reminds us that we need to at least give ourselves a chance to succeed, enjoy the learning process, and see whether or not we attain our goals — rather than write them off without even trying.

8. “For me, winning isn’t something that happens suddenly on the field when the whistle blows and the crowds roar. Winning is something that builds physically and mentally every day that you train and every night that you dream.” – Emmitt Smith

As a Superbowl MVP and 3-time Superbowl Champion, Emmitt Smith knows what it means to win at the highest levels possible. But even with that degree of success, Emmitt reminds us of the power in the process to getting there, and that every moment in the gym is just as important as even the highest accolade.

What are some of your favourite quotes that motivate you? Let us know via the comment section!

by Mark DeNicola

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What Causes Addiction? A Very Fascinating Study Shows We Might Be Completely Wrong About It

by Alexa Erickson

What causes addiction? Many shake their heads at the various forms of drugs that infiltrate our society and take over loved ones,’ acquaintances’ and strangers’ lives. We try to blame these poisons for people’s addictions because we believe the very fundamental value of humans is better than that. But is it the drugs that we should really be pointing the finger at?

The following video is adapted from Johann Hari’s New York Times best-selling book Chasing The Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs. They explain that, beyond the idea of the definition of an addiction, which says that, after 21 days of use, your body will begin to crave that substance as a result of chemical hooks in the drug, it is also our connection to each other and our environment that has an immense impact.

Based on studies, the theory presented in the video maintains that when we are taken out of what we consider to be a positive social environment, and put into grim circumstances or find ourselves utterly alone, addiction arises. In one study, for example, a rat placed alone in a cage with two options of water — regular water or water laced with heroine — chose the heroine until it died. Rats put into a heaven-like rat park, on the other hand, preferred the regular water. During the Vietnam War, 20 percent of soldiers took up heroine while serving. When they returned, they stopped and took up normal life. Why is this? Because, as the video puts it, “It’s not the chemicals, it’s your cage.”

As humans, we have a natural desire to bond and connect. When we have a positive environment in which to do so, we will be healthy and happy. When we are isolated, living out a life filled with fear and sadness, such as, say, a rat in a cage or a soldier in war, we turn to something that will alleviate the absence of the bond and connection we need. That addiction could be anything from endlessly staring at our phones to playing video games to watching porn to doing drugs. “We will bond with something because that’s our human nature,” they say.

What the video concludes is that we need to stop focusing on individual recovery and more on social recovery. We need to stop making an environment that looks more like a desolate cage and more like a beautiful park.

Addiction

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Ingredients under scrutiny

What catches consumers eyes

Consumers all around the world pay closer attention to what they eat and how they choose their food products. This becomes apparent in the supermarket setting: 64% of Americans take a critical look at the product before placing it in their shopping cart, evaluating both the front and back of the package. These are some of the findings of a recent consumer study which has been commissioned by the GNT Group, a global provider of fruit and vegetable juices for color. For the study, the market research institute TNS interviewed more than 5,000 consumers from ten countries in Asia, America, and Europe on their shopping and eating habits.

The study concludes: consumers scan the label for certain ingredients they personally avoid. In the course of this process, consumers pay special attention to coloring ingredients. For nearly two thirds (60%) of consumers worldwide, the absence of artificial colorants is of major importance to their purchasing decision.

Dr. Hendrik Hoeck, Managing Director of GNT Group, says:

“The study’s results clearly show that natural ingredients determine the choice of food products. Many manufacturers already comply with consumers’ wishes by, for example, using color solutions exclusively made from fruit and vegetable sources and clearly indicating that on the label. This development will continue to gather momentum in the upcoming years”

http://www.healthgauge.com/read/ingredients-under-scrutiny/

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Exercises to jump-start your day

Our bodies seem to go into hibernation when we change the clocks and fall back in November.

When the days get shorter, we tend to end the day earlier and stay indoors with TV and our computers.

It’s nearly the end of February. Look around: Where’s the snow? We aren’t hip-deep in snow, but we could be hip-deep in the accumulated calories of winter’s idleness.

If you have hung out on the couch getting comfy with inactivity, you could have a horde of extra calories hanging around in places that may feel and look uncomfortable.

You can maintain your fitness efforts simply by burning these extra calories with movement.

Discover the advantages of morning exercise. Morning workouts build consistency. We have the best intentions when we think that we’ll train during our lunch hour or after work. However, by day’s end you’re pooped.

Overnight our bodies begin increasing testosterone levels and our testosterone levels are highest upon awakening. Testosterone is the hormone that encourages muscle growth.

There are many benefits of morning exercise. Working out jump starts your metabolism and helps keep it elevated after exercise. Why not get your engines running while your testosterone levels are at their peak?

This way, your metabolism burns more calories. If you sit at a desk for hours a day, you know that this is reason enough to train in the morning.

Exercising each morning increases your mental awareness. If you train before your work day begins, you’ll be better equipped to deal with the pressures presented to you at work. In fact, it increases your mental focus for 4 to 10 hours after exercise. This is due to the flow of oxygen-rich blood to your brain.

Why not begin your day with a few feel good morning stretches?

Supine Spinal Twist: After a night of tossing and turning in bed, your lower back needs relaxing. As you perform this exercise, breathe fully and deeply.

Lie on your back. Keep your legs long and stretch your arms out to each side. Bring your right leg over the left by twisting at your hips. The right leg lies at a 90-degree angle. Be sure your shoulders stay on the bed. Rotate your head and look in the opposite direction of your bent leg. Stay relaxed as you exhale.

Upper Back Release: Stand with your feet hip-distance apart. Clasp your hands in front of you, rounding your upper back. Keep your arms straight and allow your shoulder blades to relax and spread, widening your upper back. Think about the shoulder blades spreading and widening your upper back. This exercise targets upper back rear shoulder muscles.

You’ll transform your fitness level by training in the morning. Exercise early and you’ll enjoy your day.

D.J. Reese, a personal trainer and fitness instructor, writes on fitness in Players. She can be reached at deejayfitness@yahoo.com

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'Biggest crackdown' on rogue pharmacists

By Guy Lynn and Ed Davey

Nine pharmacists who sold drugs illegally have been banned from practice, after a BBC investigation led to the "biggest crackdown" in UK pharmaceutical history.

In 2012, undercover reporters were sold Valium and opiates without prescription at seven London pharmacies. Now those responsible have been banned for between six months and life.
The BBC's evidence has been submitted to the government by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), which is calling for increased powers.
The GPhC says it has been told by the Home Office that legislative change will follow, giving it the right to use covert surveillance to investigate the sort of abuses documented during the investigation.
It is also now confident of being allowed to maintain personal relationships to obtain information covertly from pharmacists believed to be illegally selling drugs.
One of the pharmacists was Chawan Shaida of Bin Seena Pharmacy, Paddington. He sold the BBC Valium, later claiming the incidents were isolated and caused no harm.
But the chairman of the GPhC's fitness to practise hearing disagreed, saying: "He did it for personal gain. He neglected the interests of patients. The public will be shocked by Mr Shaida's behaviour."
He was removed from the register of licensed pharmacists and received a police caution.



Hussain Jamal Rasool, from Al Farabi pharmacy, Paddington, illegally supplied the BBC with a bottle of Oramorph, which contains morphine. He told the researcher he could consume as much as he wanted.

Dr Sarah Jarvis, a GP, told the BBC: "Opiates like Oramorph are extremely dangerous in the wrong hands. They can do untold damage and can kill."
The chairman of Mr Rasool's fitness to practice hearing, Patrick Milmo QC, said his behaviour was "shocking" and he "appeared oblivious to the enormity of what he was doing".
He was also banned from practice and failed in a legal bid to overturn the decision at the High Court.
Another pharmacist, Rafif Sarheed, who also worked for Al Farabi, was caught on CCTV falsifying documentation in an attempt to escape censure for illegally selling diazepam.

The GPhC described her actions as "premeditated" and "very serious".
It presented the BBC's investigation to the government as evidence that it needs greater powers to investigate rogue pharmacists.
As part of a crackdown on the illegal sale of drugs, the GPhC has taken numerous other pharmacists to fitness to practise hearings, and set out new standards and inspections.
The BBC's work has also been used as a tool to instruct all new pharmacists that the illegal sale of drugs will not be tolerated.
The council's chief executive Duncan Rudkin said: "The BBC has carried out an important public service in exposing the unlawful sales of prescription medicines through their investigation.
"We have thoroughly investigated all of the concerns raised by their investigation and have taken robust action to protect the public, including restricting the ability of pharmacists involved to practise in Great Britain.
"But it is important that we all remain vigilant and anyone with any concerns about pharmacies or pharmacy professionals should contact us immediately."
Ash Soni, president of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, said of the hearings: "It demonstrates that where this is identified it will be dealt with.
"It's the biggest crackdown by the GPhC to date."

Many of the pharmacies were in the Edgware Road area, catering to a largely Arabic client base.

'Still happening'

And a reputable pharmacist from the area, speaking to the BBC on condition of anonymity, said it was common knowledge that unlawful sales to foreign visitors continue to this day.

He said: "It's still happening, on a smaller scale than it used to be.
"They supply the medicines to their known customers."
He explained: "They are not used to having to get prescriptions in their own countries, and do not want the bother of seeing a doctor here.
"I often get people coming into my pharmacy expecting to be able to get these sort of drugs without a prescription. When they realise we follow the rules, they don't come back."

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-35720655


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Calisthenics - Body Workout with Multi-Award Winning Moringa

Ankh Rah at IMMAF European Open Championships 2015

   

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This is What You Never Knew About Quinoa, Magnesium and Belly FAT

Often mistaken as a gluten-free grain, quinoa is actually a highly nutritious vegetable seed rather than a grain. Quinoa is a vegetable related to beets and spinach that delivers a very rare vegetable-sourced complete protein with all 9 essential amino acids. (1)
We think of rice and beans being a complete protein because only when eaten together do they deliver all 9 essential amino acids. Most grains lack the amino acids lysine and isoleucine, and require to be eaten with a legume to become “complete.” Quinoa, which has been a staple in South America for 4000 years, is a low-fat, high-fiber, super high-protein, low-glycemic index, vitamin-, mineral-, and nutrient-packed seed. (2-4)
Even though quinoa is technically not a grain, it has been called “chisaya mama,” or “the mother of all grains.” It is considered sacred perhaps because it thrives during a long hot summer and, during drought conditions when other plants weaken, the quinoa harvest doubles. (1) As nature always answers the call, this high-protein food is harvested just before the cold winter months when more protein and fats are needed. (1)
While still considered a low-fat protein source, quinoa is much higher in fat than wheat and other grasses. It has a significant amount of oleic acid, which is a heart-healthy monounsaturated fat found in olive oil and has some (ALA) alpha-linolenic acid, which is a heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acid. Surprisingly, these good fats stay stable or do not become oxidized from cooking, which happens with most other fats. (5)
Researchers believe that this is due to the high levels of antioxidants found in quinoa. It is high in the alpha, beta and gamma forms of vitamin E, polyphenols, and flavonoids like quercetin that lengthen its shelf life while protecting the seed from rancidity when heated. (5)
In addition to being a high-protein grain alternative, perhaps quinoa’s most current claim to fame is its effect on blood sugar. (6) As a low-glycemic food, it exerts little blood sugar stress on the body, but its high fiber content helps to slow the absorption of other sugars from the digestive tract into the bloodstream. (7) In one study, it outperformed 10 other Peruvian grains for its effects on weight and blood sugar. (6)
Interestingly, even though quinoa maintained healthy low blood sugar levels, it provided more satisfaction, satiety and fullness after the meal compared to wheat or rice, according to the Satiating Efficiency Index (SEI). (8) It also has a very high magnesium content that supports healthy blood sugar (9) and healthy blood pressure levels. (9)
As a natural antioxidant, anti-inflammation food that is just loaded with vitamins, minerals, fiber, heart-healthy fats, and a vegetarian “complete protein,” quinoa must be considered as a staple in the diet this fall and winter, as the need for healthy high-protein foods goes up.

Quinoa Cooking Instructions

1. Do your best to wash away the skin of the quinoa seed as it is a bit bitter. Use a fine strainer.
2. Add 2 cups of water to 1 cup of quinoa and bring to a boil.
3. Then cover it, turn the heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Then, strain the cooked quinoa again through the fine strainer (quinoa holds a lot of water).
5. Return the strained quinoa to a warm pot and sit without heat for 15 more minutes. This ensures that you get fluffy and light quinoa, rather than wet, clumpy quinoa.

Source

http://lifespa.com/the-benefits-of-quinoa-keep-coming/



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16 Early Warning Signs Your Liver is Sluggish and Toxins Are Being Stored in Your Fat Cells

The liver is a vital body organ as it performs more than 400 functions, including the one to filter out the waste and toxins from our organism. The primary task of the liver is the conversion of toxins into safe waste that is to be excreted from the body afterward.
It is responsible for a substantial part of the overall health. However, if you consume a healthy diet rich in important nutrients, the liver will optimally perform its functions, and it will not be overburdened, but if the food you consume is not healthy, it may become sluggish as a result of the accumulated toxins.
The liver can eliminate these toxins in two phases. The first consists of using enzymes to turn the lipid-soluble toxins into less damaging compounds that can be further on detoxified in the second phase.
The second phase includes the pairing of the toxins with other molecules that boost their water-solubility, to be safely eliminated from the body.
Even if you eat a healthy diet and lifestyle, you need to use personal care and cleaning products that contain no toxins. Namely, there are also toxins in our environment, in the water, air, soil, plastics, factories and the like.
As we previously mentioned, when the liver has become sluggish, the toxins face a difficulty to leave the body, and since they are lipid- soluble, they get accumulated in the fat tissue. This may lead to excess weight.
Therefore, it is critical that you stimulate the function of your liver by following a holistic approach. Hence, you need to know the symptoms that indicate that your liver has become sluggish and needs  detoxification:

• Pessimistic emotions;
• Hormonal imbalances;
• Lethargy/feeling drained/ brain fog;
• Migraines/ headaches behind the eyes/ dull headaches relieved with rest;
• Chronic muscle or joint pain;
• Excessive perspiration;
• Weight gain without any evident reason;
• Chronic fatigue;
• Abdominal pain, constipation, gases, diarrhea, bloating;
• Issues digesting fats;
• Chronic bad breath;
• Chemical sensitivities;
• Gall bladder removed;
• Allergies;
• Depression and anxiety;
• Acne or skin disorders.

In this case, you need to help your body solve the issue and stimulate the liver to properly do its function and eliminate the dangerous toxins, as follows:

• Eat a balanced diet;
• Avoid inflammatory oils;
• Avoid refined sugar;
• Reduce the consumption of fructose (20-25 gr. per day);
• Eliminate GMO products and buy only organic foods;
• Use food sources of sulfur;
• Eat animal-based and plant-based sources of amino acids;
• Reduce or eliminate alcohol;
• Increase the consumption of green leafy vegetables;
• Increase the consumption of healthy fats;
• Consume enough fiber;
• Drink sufficient amounts of pure water.

Moreover, the following three natural products are the best ones you can use to restore the proper function of your liver:
1.Turmeric – Its active ingredient, curcumin, is a powerful anti-inflammatory. It has numerous health beneficial properties, like helping the enzymes responsible for the elimination of the dietary carcinogens. Due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities, it additionally protects the liver against damage, and regenerates the affected cells. Note that in order to boost its absorption, you need to combine it with black pepper.
2. Milk thistle – The active component of milk thistle has strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-fibrotic properties, so it prevents liver damage due to toxins, viruses, drugs and alcohol.
3. Globe artichoke – Since it is high in fiber, it protects and enhances the liver activity and boosts the bile production. It helps the elimination of bile and decreases LDL cholesterol.

Sources:
theheartysoul.com
healthytipsworld.com
supertastyrecipes.com

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10 Smart Life Hacks To Cut Plastic Packaging Out Of Your Life

Plastic can be found almost anywhere, even in the most unlikely of places. We have become completely dependent on using plastic for almost all of our packaging needs and the majority of objects we purchase are themselves made out of some form of plastic.
By now, many of us are well aware of the devastating toll plastic consumption is taking on our environment and especially our oceans. While efforts are being made to minimize this waste — the majority of us recycle plastic bottles and packaging automatically — the fact of the matter remains, only nine percent of plastic waste in the U.S. ends up being recycled at all.
We are working to eliminate or at least drastically reduce our use of plastic bags for groceries, but still up to 12 million barrels of oil are used each year to produce enough plastic bags for the U.S. alone. Fortunately, awareness is spreading, and more and more people are putting these best practices into action, incorporating things like reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and grocery bags into their daily lives.
The question then becomes, how can we take this initiative even further and really make a difference on the planet? Below are 10 simple life hacks to significantly cut down your plastic consumption.

1. Replace All Cleaning Supplies With One Natural All-Purpose Alternative

Do you have a different cleaner for every surface in your house? Glass, counters, floors, toilets, etc? Many of us do but it is often fairly unnecessary, and the majority of these cleaners could actually be replaced with one all-natural alternative, which can not only save you money and cut down on plastic consumption, but also reduce the amount of chemicals going down the drain and into the air in your home. You can simply buy one bottle of concentrated all-purpose cleaner and mix it with water in an empty spray bottle, or you can check out this link for a great homemade alternative.

2. Make Your Own Deodorant

When you add up how many containers of deodorant you go through in a lifetime, it becomes clear why it may be a huge bonus to yourself and to the environment to ditch those containers and start making your own. Fortunately, it’s extremely simple! In fact there are a number of personal care products that you can easily make yourself and store in reusable glass containers or mason jars.

3. Purchase Products That Already Come In Glass Containers

If there is more than one option of a product you plan to purchase, go for the one that is contained in glass or cardboard. When you do this, not only are you boycotting companies that choose to use plastic over more sustainable options, you could also end up with a cool glass jar that can be repurposed into many different things.

4. Use Essential Oils & Diffusers Instead Of Plastic Air Fresheners

With increasing evidence to show that store-bought plug-in air fresheners are very toxic to inhale, you may want to switch these out for that reason alone. Add in their inherent wastefulness and the decision becomes easier still. Essential oil diffusers will provide you with subtle smelling aromas that, depending on which oil you choose, can also offer some aroma therapeutic benefits and put you into a state of relaxation, calm, and peace.

5. Use Reusable Containers Instead Of Plastic Wrap & Ziploc Bags

Use reusable glass containers instead of Ziploc bags for leftovers and lunches. If need be, paper bags are also a much better alternative, as they can easily biodegrade. A reusable alternative to plastic wrap, made of beeswax and cotton, is another great option.

6. Switch To Reusable Bags For Your Produce

While nowadays we often remember our reusable grocery bags when heading to the store, we may not often think of the plastic bags our produce goes into. Luckily, there are many reusable alternatives available, or you could even just avoid the bag altogether — it isn’t entirely necessary, after all.

7. Use Soap Nuts & Baking Soda Instead Of Laundry Detergent

Most store-bought laundry detergent that I see comes in big hard plastic jugs or plastic bags. To eliminate this plastic fiasco altogether, consider using soap nuts for your laundry instead. Soap nuts are an all-natural alternative that can keep your clothes clean, and for an added boost of whitening power and freshening, toss in a half a cup of baking soda.

8. Buy What You Can In Bulk By Bringing Your Own Reusable Bags Or Jars

Reusable bags exist for bulk items as well as for produce, and buying in bulk is both cost effective and economical. You can buy almost all of your dry food items in bulk if you go to a specialty bulk store, which is an even bigger way to cut down your plastic use. You can even bring reusable jars and containers into these stores and have a clerk weigh them beforehand, ensuring you’ll always have just the right amount for that cute jar in your pantry. Look at you — saving the environment while staying organized!

9. Make Your Own Juice & Other Beverages

Not only are most store-bought juices just as harmful to your health as sodas, they also contribute significantly to the plastic waste problem we currently face. Why not make your own fresh juices and maximize the nutritional qualities your delicious fresh fruits and vegetables have to offer?

10. To Avoid BPA-Lined Cans, Prepare & Freeze Legumes & Other Veggies

Bisephenol-A, more commonly known as BPA, is a known endocrine and hormone disruptor. It has also been linked to many other adverse health effects. The majority of canned foods sold at the supermarket are lined with this chemical, which is a type of plastic used to prevent certain foods from eroding the can. Unfortunately, traces of this plastic end up in the food that we then consume. To avoid this chemical, you can look for specifically marked cans which clearly state “BPA Free” or you save yourself the stress (and added cost of organic canned goods) altogether by making your own legumes and other veggies you generally might purchase in a can. You can soak, boil, and then freeze chickpeas, kidney beans, black beans – you name it — for a fraction of the cost. Veggies can also be prepared this way, but why not just eat them fresh?

Conclusion

Not only will drastically cutting back your plastic consumption be tremendous for the environment and our planet Earth, but as you can tell from the steps listed above, it can greatly improve your quality of life as well, because in doing so you are indirectly reducing your own personal exposure to many other chemicals. Win win.
Do you have any easy tips for cutting back your plastic consumption? Share in the comments section below!
Much Love

http://www.collective-evolution.com/

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6 Ways To Use Apple Cider Vinegar For Sinus Infection

The inflammation of the lining of the sinuses is known as sinusitis. It is a common issue with numerous people, who constantly seek a solution and try various medications to relieve it, but apparently, most of them solve it only temporarily.
Therefore, we will offer you several fabulous homemade recipes with apple cider vinegar that will cure sinus inflammation and will prevent it from recurring.
Apple cider vinegar has potent antifungal and antibacterial properties, so it is extremely beneficial in the treatment of sinusitis. It is rich in calcium, magnesium, as well as vitamins A, E, B1, and B2, which help to relieve the infection. Moreover, it clears the sinus cavities, as it thins out the accumulated mucus and avoids any breathing difficulties.
The simplest way to use it is to mix it with some water. However, in order to boost its effect, you can also add some other beneficial ingredients.

These are the five most effective apple cider vinegar recipes in the treatment of sinusitis:

Apple cider vinegar drink
Mix 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 8 oz. of water. You can also increase the amounts and mix ¾ of a cup of apple cider vinegar and 16 oz. of water.

Apple cider vinegar rinse
Mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and a cup of warm water and prepare an efficient rinse. This rinse will effectively clear out the nasal passage since it gets rid of the accumulated mucus in the cavities.

Apple cider vinegar decongestant
Ingredients:

• ¼ of a cup of apple cider vinegar
• ¼ of lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon of powdered ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
• 3 tablespoons of raw honey

Lemon juice is abundant in vitamin C, which effectively cures infections. Ginger is high in anti-inflammatory ingredients that have a significant effect on the sinus infection.
Cayenne pepper includes capsaicin, which is a potent compound that soothes the inflammation. Honey, on the other hand, is a powerful antibacterial agent that will help you get rid of bacteria which led to the infection and will prevent its reoccurrence.
Method of preparation:
In a pot, mix lemon juice and apple cider vinegar, and let the mixture simmer on low heat for a few minutes. Then, add the other ingredients. Pour the mixture into a glass jar.
Take 1-2 tablespoons of this remedy in order to remove the mucus from the nasal passages and promote an easier breathing.

Apple cider vinegar and honey drink
Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar;
• 8 oz. of warm water
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Due to its powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, honey will reduce the irritation and the throat inflammation.
Method of preparation:
Add the honey and apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water. Drink this mixture in order to relieve sinusitis effectively, and prevent its reoccurrence.

Apple cider vinegar steam
You will need:

• 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar;
• 1/2 cup of water;
• A saucepan
• A towel.

Method of preparation:
In a saucepan, pour the water and mix it with apple cider vinegar. Heat them for a few minutes. Then, put a towel over the head and inhale the steam of the mixture. Repeat this procedure several times during the day in order to treat and successfully cure the sinus infection. Apple cider vinegar, due to its strong antifungal properties, will destroy bacteria and prevent the reoccurrence of the infection.

Sources and References:
www.gohealthtips.com
www.healthylifeland.com
www.justnaturallife.com
Featured image source: www.gohealthtips.com




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Johnson & Johnson Finally Admits: Our Baby Products Contain Cancer-Causing Ingredients

Normally, the health and wellbeing of our children should be our primary concern. Mothers are extremely careful even during pregnancy, and afterwards, they avoid everything that may have a detrimental effect on the health of their kids, reduce their exposure to dangerous toxins, and try to protect them even from tobacco smoke.
However, it seems that sometimes we are not well informed and unintentionally let some products negatively affect their wellbeing. Namely, this is the case of the baby care products by Johnson & Johnson.



Apparently, this huge manufacturer of baby care products uses numerous components which are not health- friendly and may cause many severe issues.
Namely, the immune system of your baby is substantially delicate. If you bath your child in bubbles, you will avoid the exposure to bugs and pathogens and thus stimulate their immunity and the growth of their system.
Yet, if the bath of your baby is rich in artificial ingredients and toxins, it may make them susceptible to ill health, autoimmune issues, and chronic illnesses.
Moreover, Johnson & Johnson’s products challenge the immune system of your baby. They irritate their tender skin, stimulate overzealous immune responses, and weaken their immune system, which further on makes them prone to diseases and pathogens.
If you examine the list of ingredients in their products, you will find numerous strange substances, whose names cannot be even pronounced right.
The baby shampoo produced by Johnson & Johnson contains one extremely harmful cancer- causing ingredient, called Quaternium-15, which releases formaldehyde, another known carcinogen that can accumulate on the skin of your child over time.
Furthermore, the products of this manufacturer also include another toxin, 1,4-dioxane. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, this toxin causes vertigo, skin irritations, liver damage, headaches, and drowsiness.
Johnson & Johnson finally admitted this and reported that they are currently working on the elimination of these toxic compounds from their products sold in America, but no one can know with certainty the duration of this process.
However, look at it this way: would you continue buying their products even though they can be so harmful, and financially support this company that knowingly posed a risk to your health and the health of your dearest ones?
Johnson & Johnson products which do not contain toxins are sold in Denmark, Norway, Finland, Sweden, Japan, and South Africa. Apparently, parents in America will need to wait for who known how long to purchase these safe alternatives.
Yet, you may also decide to replace their products with other, more reliable variants. For instance, you can start using the baby products from Burt’s Bees, which are completely healthy, although some of you may dislike their smell.
Another favorite company from the US is Earth Mama Angel Baby, which produces baby products only, in a completely safe and healthy way.
You may also want to try the natural baby products made by Little Twig, Aveeno, BabyGanics, or California Baby.
Our aim is to support you in your right to be completely informed and decide for your choices on your own. The health of your child is invaluable, so you should try everything and provide the best products you can find to stimulate a healthy growth and development of your baby.
Being aware of the unhealthy ingredients in the baby products by Johnson & Johnson, it is advisable that you replace them with some healthier and safer alternatives.

www.fhfn.org


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High Quality Moringa Leaf Powder for Skin - Video

Moringa is well known for its rejuvenating qualities. Moringa has a high amount of antioxidants. All of which are easily absorb-able and quickly utilised by the body. For a new rejuvenated you, try Ankh Rah high quality moringa leaf powder.

 Watch this video to see how moringa powder and help you to improve your skin condition and have that natural healthy glow.

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5 ways to achieve flawless skin and healthy hair with moringa

The Vitamin A in moringa helps develop healthy cells and reduces the problem of hair loss. Deficiency in this vitamin causes dandruff, dry hair, and thick scalp

Around the world, moringa has become a household name for its medicinal purpose.

The plant has got lots of hair, skin  and other benefits which has been hidden under the radar.

          Skin benefits

• The antioxidants in moringa make your skin revitalized by controlling free radicals. The cleansing ability of moringa makes your skin youthful and radiant.

• Moringa has skin purifying properties and therapeutic skincare benefits which removes impurities in the skin leaving your skin is rejuvenated and detoxified.
• Moringa seeds are extracted to make cosmetic oil, which makes babies’ skin soft leaving a soothing effect.

• It is a very powerful cleansing agent. Lotions and deep cleansing creams use this as a common ingredient. It is also useful for protecting your skin from adhering pollution and smog.

  Hair benefits

  • The Vitamin A in moringa helps develop healthy cells and reduces the problem of hairloss. Deficiency in this vitamin causes dandruff, dry hair, and thick scalp.
  • Moringa contains Vitamin E, which is a very strong antioxidant. Blood circulation in the scalp is improved, which increases the absorption of nutrients in the hair follicles. As such, hair growth is improved.
    
    
    http://pulse.com.gh/ 

   

   

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European cooperation on healthy food

Twenty-two EU member states, Norway, Switzerland, international businesses and patient organisations have agreed to make food products healthier by reducing salt, saturated fat and sugar content. To achieve this they will work with the food industry and NGOs. This is the outcome of the conference that took place in Amsterdam on 22 February under the auspices of the Netherlands EU Presidency.

Photographer: Hans Molenaar 

Large-scale meeting

Health minister Edith Schippers and agriculture minister Martijn van Dam received delegations from the food industry, supermarkets, NGOs and member states. Also taking part were European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Vytenis Andriukaitis, Deputy Director-General for Enterprise and Industry Antti Peltomäki and representatives from WHO and non-EU member states Norway and Switzerland. It was the first time all these parties met on such a large scale.

Roadmap for action

Broad support was offered for the ‘Roadmap for action’. Participants underlined the urgent need for joint action to gradually make products healthier by reducing the amount of salt, saturated fat and added sugar. Experts from member states as well as food industry and patient and consumer organisations will collaborate in a public-private partnership.

Making the healthy choice the easy choice

Ms Schippers is greatly satisfied with the support given. ‘This initiative is now supported by 24 European countries,’ she said. ‘I’m doing my best to gain the support of all EU countries, but meanwhile I want to set to work. At the conference we laid a solid foundation for working together on healthy products to make sure the healthy choice is the easy choice.’

Innovation as the key to healthier food

Mr van Dam said innovation is key for the agriculture and horticulture sector and the food industry to produce those healthier options. ‘Now that agreements have been made between so many member states and large food producers, we can start making progress. It is important to work together on this, because EU consumers eat food from all over Europe,’ he said.

Bad nutrition causes diseases

Most people in Europe are eating too much salt, saturated fat and sugar. This is one of the reasons the number of people with diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and obesity is still growing. Various European countries are already trying to reduce the salt, saturated fat and sugar content in food products. Countries each take a different approach, but we share one European market. Cooperation at European level is essential to help consumers make healthy choices.

Political decision-making

The conference in Amsterdam was leading up to the informal and formal meetings of the European Health Council later this year, at which political decisions should be made.

http://english.eu2016.nl/

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Olive oil shortage: UK prices set to rise as crops suffer 'disaster' year with no reserve

Experts say prices in supermarkets could rise by up 20 per cent in the next few weeks 

 

A major shortage of olive oil has been predicted, as an industry body warns crops have suffered a devastating year and there is no reserve.

Drought and disease have combined to cause a 'disaster' for the olive oil industry and prices are set to soar in Britain's high street supermarkets, according to a new report yesterday.

A terrible harvest in some Mediterranean countries, a drought in Spain and the spread of Xylella fastidiosa bacteria in Italy - which infected more than one million trees - has hit the industry significantly.

• 'The cost of olive oil is increasing – will stocking up now save me money?'
• Is there really a prosecco shortage?
 
The latest Mediterranean olive harvest will end this month and suppliers warn there is unlikely to be any let up from a worldwide shortage of olives and rising prices.

The 2014/15 season was so poor in Spain and Italy - the world's biggest producers of olive oil - that there was no annual carryover of supply, leaving bottlers with very low available stocks and facing substantial price rises, trade magazine The Grocer reports.
The wholesale price of Italian extra virgin olive oil has risen by 14 per cent, while the same product from Spain is up 20 per cent.

Olive groves  Photo: PAUL GROVER 

It is forecast that the wholesale price increases will filter down to shop shelves.

Lisa Mullins, marketing manager of Filippo Berio UK, said: "Typically, olives are a cyclical plant - they have a good year, a bad year and a good year.
“While a weak harvest is usually not a cause for concern, 2014/15 was a disaster."

Olive trees in Puglia, Italy  Photo: Alamy

The International Olive Oil Council forecasts final global production figures for the 2015/16 harvest will be below the average consumption level of the past four years, making price increases inevitable.

 Olive trees in Tuscany, Italy  Photo: Rex 

The International Olive Oil Council forecasts final global production figures for the 2015/16 harvest will be below the average consumption level of the past four years, making price increases inevitable. 

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Eat Chocolate Every Day Because It Makes You Smart Says Study – Public Says, ‘Yay!’

By Alexi Chingcuangco
Recent studies have shown that chocolate, in its many forms and flavors, can actually bring about more than just good vibes. Eating it everyday could bring about positive, long-term cognitive effects. As if we need another reason to eat this stuff!
According to a study performed by the University of South Australia, people who consume any type of chocolate at least once a month perform better on certain skills related to cognitive thinking and problem solving, compared to people who eat it less often.

But what is it about chocolate that makes it so good for you? (Well, besides the taste of course.) Scientists say it’s because of the antioxidant flavonoids, also known as flavonols. You can also find flavonoids in other delicious treats such as fruits, vegetables, and wine! This powerhouse antioxidant were also observed in people who exhibited better memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills.

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons. 

A vast array of Swiss chocolates, ready for bulk purchasing. Yum!

The positive relationship between chocolate and cocoa flavonoids consumption with stronger cognitive thinking are also supported by researchers in the University of Maine, the Luxembourg Institute of Health, and the UniSA (headed by the Maine-Syracuse Longitudinal Study). They tracked 1,000 people over the course of 30 years and measured their health indicators. 
Additionally, chocolate and cocoa flavonoids are also associated with some cardiovascular benefits – according to The Advertiser. However, the good news has to stop somewhere. Sure, chocolate is proving itself to be a strong contender in the food pyramid now that science is backing up how good it is for you. But as Dr. Georgie Crichton of the UniSA notes,

“[Of course] chocolate intake should be considered within an overall healthy eating pattern, with consideration given to total energy intake and an individual’s energy needs.”

So no skipping out on exercising and healthy diets! Metro UK also points out that the best way to maximize the benefits of the antioxidant found in chocolate is to eat more dark chocolate than milk or white chocolate. The darker the better; more flavonols will be found in larger concentrations of pure cocoa.


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Hannah Bronfman's Workout Essentials

She's a model. She's an entrepreneur. She's a DJ. If that's not enough, she's a wellness and fitness enthusiast. In fact, working out is what keeps Hannah Bronfman trailblazing into the future. Just check out her Instagram, Snapchat, or HBfit.com, and you'll get why she was selected to be part of the Clinique #FaceForward campaign. We caught up with Hannah at one of her favourite New York City spots: Ashley DeLeon Pilates. She demonstrated some very impressive moves and gave us a peek into her ambitious mind and easy beauty routine.

Hannah on why she loves exercise…
“When I get in a proper sweat session, I can accomplish more in my day. My mind is very clear, and I’m ready to approach certain businesses and scenarios in a focused way. Scheduling can be crazy, but I think it’s really important to take an hour for yourself, or even just 15 minutes. And it doesn’t even matter what it is—I try everything. I do boxing, strength training, yoga, Pilates…I like to surprise my body. Ultimately, that’s what I think gives you the best results, both mentally and physically.”

"My skin looks great when I'm eating well and hydrating myself."

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