Thursday, September 21, 2006

Does HGH Work?

Human growth hormone (HGH) is being used as a therapy against physical aging but the question is: does HGH work? To attempt to answer this question is to try to navigate a maze of different circumstances and varied types of growth hormone treatment. To begin, it's important to understand that human growth hormone is a hormone normally produced by the human pituitary gland. In children and adolescents, the hormone regulates growth; in adults it plays a role in regulation of bone density, blood sugar, fat metabolism and storage, strength and endurance, and emotional stability.

Does HGH work when treatment is used to treat a properly diagnosed case of growth hormone deficiency? Yes, in some ways. This is the one situation where hormone replacement can and possibly should be used - the condition can be serious. Most other therapeutic HGH uses are illegal, at least in the US. The hormone is synthetically produced and is administered by regular injections. Like most hormone replacement therapies, it aims at returning the patient to an essentially normal state of health, though there may be lasting consequences of the deficiency.

Does HGH work as an anti-aging therapy? There is actually not good scientific evidence that the injected hormone prolongs life, improves physical health, or supports emotional or cognitive health. In fact, the reverse may be true when large amounts of the hormone are used. Studies of therapeutic HGH in seniors have shown increased leanness, increased strength, higher bone density and younger looking skin. However, with the exception of the skin changes, other therapeutic approaches have been equally successful at building strength and bone, and growth hormone injections are significantly associated with side effects.

Does HGH work when the hormone is ingested or sprayed under the tongue instead of being injected? No. the hormone cannot be absorbed and utilized by the body in this way. Over the counter therapeutic HGH products that claim to contain the actual hormone are not only illegal (HGH can only be legally obtained with a prescription), they are making false health claims.

The alternative health industry has created some novel approaches to the problem of providing therapeutic HGH to consumers who are seeking its purported anti aging effects. These are either products intended to boost the pituitary's production of the hormone naturally, or combinations of amino acids designed to mimic the hormone in the body. Does HGH work when it’s delivered like this? Again, scientific evidence is lacking - it's really too soon to say, but the products are, at least, unlikely to do any real harm.

R. Drysdale is a freelance writer with more than 25 years experience as a health care professional. You can learn more about Does HGH Work? on the AntiAging Information site.

HGH Releasers

HGH Releasers

HGH Releasers, the least expensive of HGH products, basically provide the building blocks of the 191 amino acid human growth hormone (L-group amino acids such as L-valine and L-arginine). They are not actual HGH in the sense that they are still a few laboratory processes away from being called actual HGH.

Though touted as a less-expensive alternative to prescription Human Growth Hormone injections they should not be confused with actual HGH. They are more like stimulants that encourage the natural release of Human Growth Hormone from the pituitary gland in the brain.

HGH Releasers - Effects

These releasers effect a natural production and release of the HGH. If they succeed in such stimulation , they initiate a sucession of events that retard the bodily aging process and reverse certain symptoms. Noticeable effects are:



Weight loss


Increased in muscle mass and lower body fat


Improved skin and skin tone and fewer wrinkles


Stronger bones


Speedier recovery from illness and injury

There are specialized blends of homeopathic HGH, growth factors, and potent amino acid releasers which are better packaged to stimulate greater production of human growth hormone by the anterior pituitary gland in the brain.

For instance, Sytropin. Sytropin is one of very few HGH releasers that combine homeopathic HGH with proven growth factors and potent amino acid releasers to maximize the effectiveness per each dose. (All Sytropin ingredients comply fully with the FDA's GRAS listing requirements for HGH products, and have been shown to have no known complications or side effects.)

Sytropin is one of the only HGH supplements available today that combines both releaser amino acids, and true secretagogue human growth hormone (within FDA regulations) into one powerful supplement.

Sytropin combines potential with actual power, stimulation with catalysis, and initiates a start-up so gentle yet effective that you can rest assured of the very optimum results, given a little patience of course!

The B vitamin, niacin, L-arginine, L-lysine, L-glutamine, L-ornithine, glycine have also been given the status of being natural Human Growth Hormone Releasers.

Human Growth Hormone- A word of caution

HGH depletes potassium and restricts the actions of insulin. Hence, diabetics and borderline diabetics are advised to use HGH releasers with care. L-Arginine and L-ornithine may either improve or worsen diabetic conditions, aggravate existent psychoses, and in some cases may even reactivate latent herpes viral infection. Persons who have ever had ocular or brain herpes should not use these products.

HGH - Miscellaneous

HGH release is better when releasers are taken on an empty stomach before exercise or at bedtime. When it comes to dosage it is ideal to start with about 25% of target quantity and increase intake gradually over a period of a few days to minimize the occurrence of occasional minor side effects like nausea. It has been also suggested that HGH release may be improved if 1 to 3 grams of choline and 1/2 to 2 grams of pantothenic acid are taken simultaneously.

Learn More:

Sytropin HGH - Official Sytropin HGH website.

Advice HGH - Detailed research on human growth hormone (HGH) and IGF-1 supplements. Information and clinical studies on Growth Hormone products. Sound HGH advice without all the hype.

About Author:

Sudha is an internet marketer and enjoys writing on various subjects. Reach him at Ani Seo Firm

Saturday, September 16, 2006

The Anti-Aging Wonders of Hyaluronic Acid

ABC News has recently focused on the possible anti-aging benefits of hyaluronic acid, also known as Hyaluron or HA. In a story entitled, "The Village of Long Life: Could Hyaluronic Acid Be an Anti-Aging Remedy?", the focus was on a villiage in Japan named Yuzuri Hara where people usually live a long time and often have perfect skin into their 80's or even into their 90's. More than 10 percent of the population of his village is 85 or older, which is about ten times the average in America.

Some studies suggest that the reason that residents Yuzuri Hara, known as "The Village of Long Life," live such long and healthy lives is mainly due to the fact that the local diet that is unique to the village features a starchy vegetable which is particularly rich in HA. In fact a large pharmaceutical company in Japan began Research & Development on a pill supplement containing HA. When they tested the pills on one thousand individuals, around half of them reported smoother skin and even improved eyesight. Hyaluronic acid has also proven effective in lubricating arthritic joints as well, as certain studies have shown positive results from injections into the joints of Hyaluronic Acid, a component of the bodies own lubricant fluid, that may delay the need for a joint replacement.

Hyaluronic Acid, also simply called HA, is plentiful in our bodies when we are born, but it's levels gradually recede over time. This reduction in HA levels may be a big part of the aging process which we see.

Hyaluronic Acid occurs in the deeper layers of our skin known as the dermis and it appears to help keep the skin smooth because of it's water retention qualities. Hyaluronic Acid also apparently helps to repair skin wounds and certain other problems.

In addition, it appears to help maintain collagen levels. Under normal circumstances, collagen depletion is widely considered to be a prime factor in subpar skin tone as well as elasticity of the skin, something that is often associated with the visual aging process.

Hyaluronic Acid makes up about eighty percent of the human eye, a fact that is surprising to some people. It is a sort of shock absorber to the retina which helps to prevent trauma to the eye. It has only been recently that hyaluronic acid has been considered effective in oral form although it has long been used in injections into the joints.

A.M. Wilmont is a writer and researcher. For more information go to http://www.hyaluronic-acid-information.org/ or http://www.the-health-portal.com/

The Best Anti Aging Rejuvination

What is the best anti aging rejuvination process. Rejuvenation is the return of youth - it is anti aging. When we talk about rejuvenation, we could be referring to many things: younger looking skin, an increase in energy and interest, the return of lost hair, better health. In recent times, the similar word, "rejuvination," has appeared, which seems to be used mostly in reference to commercial products and treatments for making the skin look younger. Even this is a broad topic that can't be covered in a few words.

Even experts don't agree on the best anti aging rejuvination methods. Consumers can choose between relatively inexpensive lotions, creams, and do-it-yourself facial masks in department stores and pharmacies, or they can see a professional and pay a high price for a range of treatments. Treatments range from the typically medical approaches, to homeopathy and alternative therapies. The individual's choice will depend on personal preferences and beliefs, and budget. If you don't mind spending a bit of money, by all means consult a professional and get an assessment of your skin's condition and advice tailored for your particular situation. If you favor natural remedies, choose your professional accordingly. Otherwise, start out with the purchase of a well known brand of anti aging skin care product, perhaps something recommended by a friend, and then see if you like the results.

For the individual, the best anti aging rejuvination product will be one that is aimed at a particular problem, so choose your first purchase carefully, reading the directions and noting what the product is formulated to do. If you want to fade age spots, choose a product that promises to do this. If your skin is sun damaged, be sure to choose a lotion or cream with an SPF factor to reduce the chances of further damage. If it's your eyes, be sure to purchase an eye cream - there are differences, even among eye creams, so again, check what the cream is supposed to do. The range of available products is so vast that you will not find the best anti aging rejuvination product without doing a little research.

There are some things you should avoid. Very inexpensive products making rejuvenation claims probably won't be very effective due to cheap (or even lacking) ingredients. Products that make doubtful claims about instant or unbelievable results probably are, indeed, unbelievable. Manufacturers that don't offer a money-back guarantee shouldn't be your first choice either. And look for an expiry date to be sure you're buying a fresh product. Commercial products that fail any of these tests are not the best anti aging rejuvination choices.

R. Drysdale is a freelance writer with more than 25 years experience as a health care professional. You can learn more about the best anti aging rejuvination on the AntiAging Information site.

Anti-Aging Nutrition: Can Antioxidants Turn Back the Clock?

The siren-song of anti-aging seems to call out from everywhere today. From surgery to skin creams, is it possible that any of these options may improve quality of life and restore some of that feeling of youth? The simple answer is, there is no simple answer. Thoughtful study, understanding and application is critical when dealing with a subject of such importance.

Certainly nothing can make you literally younger. Anti-aging instead refers to the physical processes we associate with getting older. Why is it that some people may be advanced in years, and yet appear young? Why do others appear to be aging more rapidly than others do? A variety of factors may be involved, and diet seems to be a significant factor. (When it comes to diet, what you put in your body is something the body needs provides nourishment or it is something the body does not need and can throw bodily functions out of balance, cause stress or damage and require increased nourishment to counteract those negative effects.) As your body is exposed to toxins and other forms of stress, the health of your cells is impacted. These effects may be small, but they add up as so-called oxidative stresses accumulate in the body. Oxidative stress has the same basic impact on the body as rust does on a car. Instead of rust, we call these oxidizing agents free radicals.

The human body regenerates over time, cell by cell. This is how your body repairs from the stress of physical activity (exercise), the damage of a cut, broken bone, an infection or exposure to a strong toxin like chlorine. If the free radicals have been neutralized, the new cells will be able to function optimally. Left lurking in the body, those free radicals continue to damage the newly generated cells.

There is a solution. Antioxidants are compounds that neutralize free radicals. How important are antioxidants? Your body manufactures several of them, including glutathione and co-enzyme Q10. However your body is only designed to manufacture enough antioxidants to handle normal biology and product seems to decrease, as you get older. Many toxins in our modern environment never existed mere decades ago. They are free radicals and some even inhibit production of our own antioxidants and drive other nutrients from the body as well. This means your body is under a new kind of free radical burden, which might be substantially higher than what your parents were exposed to at your age.

The design of the body has a backup plan for dealing with free radical buildup. Certain foods contain potent antioxidants that your body can use to neutralize these free radicals as well. By eating more fresh, fruits and vegetables you increase the levels of antioxidants in your diet and begin to neutralize free radicals, giving your body the relief it needs to begin to repair and rebalance. High quality food supplements can also help to increase antioxidant levels as long as they are food-based and proven to actually contain still-effective levels of antioxidants. Most supplements are synthetic and studies have shown their benefit to be limited because the body does not recognize them in exactly the same was as antioxidants which are found in foods and supplements made from food extracts.

How much antioxidant support do you need? The current food pyramid suggests that you eat about nine servings of fresh, raw fruits and vegetables a day for minimal nutrition, including antioxidants. Some published studies suggest that the minimum might be as high as twenty servings a day. This could be quite a challenge. Are you currently eating nine? If you take any medications, experience stress in your life or workplace, or are dealing with the effects of any disease or injury, your minimal level of antioxidant support could be even higher. Because of this, the appropriate use of safe, food-based dietary supplements is a logical approach to supplementing, not substituting, the benefits of a good diet.

One of the earliest approaches to supplementing nutrient levels in the diet is juicing. By removing the extra fiber from a fruit or vegetable the body can more easily absorb the nutrients from freshly extracted juice. It is also possible to drink a large quantity of freshly made fruit or vegetable juice where eating the equivalent amount of whole foods would be extremely challenging. The downside to juicing, apart from convenience and often messy clean up, is these juices often contain high amounts of glucose and fructose sugars which are quickly absorbed as well. Bottled juices also tend to contain added refined sugar, making their benefits to good health questionable.

The next wave of technology to improve antioxidant support is the antioxidant supplement. The first dietary supplements sold were made from food extracts, but were quickly obscured by cheaper, synthetic substitutes. It was suggested that the synthetic molecules were the same as the food-bound nutrients but decades of collected research has shown a significant difference between antioxidants made in a lab and antioxidants found in food. Because of this, food-based supplements are regaining popularity as they demonstrate superior performance.

However, over time antioxidants oxidize and no longer provide value. Fruit and vegetable juice must be made from fresh sources and used immediately. Similarly, antioxidant supplements must be made from effective antioxidant sources that are still potent and the final products must be tested to ensure they are still potent.

Antioxidants should be found in everyone’s diet. There is a saying that the best time to dig a well is before you are thirsty so the earlier you incorporate antioxidants into your diet, the more you will benefit. However, anyone, at any age, can benefit from improved nutrition so never think it’s too late to change.

Dave Saunders is a nutrition consultant and national speaker. You can read more about health and wellness at http://www.glycowellness.com/ and http://www.glycoblog.com/.

Medical Anti Aging

Not so long ago, the term medical anti aging knowledge was a bit of a misnomer. The medical community regarded aging as an evitable part of human life, and didn’t devote much time to figuring out how to slow it down or alter its effects. Those with money could have plastic surgery, but that was about all. Today however, scientific research is revealing many of the processes that cause physical aging as the years pass, and with that understanding comes the opportunity to tinker and try to ameliorate the aging process.

The timing is perfect: the baby boomers, a huge cohort of affluent educated North Americans and Europeans are moving into their senior years and they want medical anti aging resources. The baby boomers have grown up in good health, with readily available medical care and the belief that every disease can be cured. They believe that medical treatment can keep them feeling young and vigorous as well, while they enjoy retirement. They may be right.

Many professionals with medical training are now involved in researching possible approaches for medical anti aging. We’re learning that many common diseases of old age can be avoided by eating, or not eating, certain foods, keeping our bodies fit, and protecting ourselves from environmental threats. We’re identifying genes that predispose people to certain diseases, which allows us to identify and possibly treat those at risk. We’re discovering many new drugs in chemistry and nature that help to fight diseases already in progress. And we’re discovering that some foods have potent healthful properties that we never imagined were there. Surgical interventions are still available as well, and they are better than ever.

When it comes to medical anti aging products and services however, we still have to be careful. While scientific knowledge has expanded exponentially, there are still lots of vendors making claims that are not backed up by the evidence. These entrepreneurs are poised to make a profit from a vulnerable public – while some simply relieve you of your money without providing any benefit, others may actually be harmful. Before you pay for any new or unconventional medical anti aging treatment, discuss your plans with a medical professional whom you trust, or contact one of the consumer advocate/anti-fraud organizations that can help you verify that you are getting what you pay for.

Whatever you choose, keep your eye on the latest in medical breakthroughs - there are lots of products and services already available that really do help you look and feel younger, and maintain better health. It’s a safe bet there will be many more to choose from in the near future.

R. Drysdale is a freelance writer with more than 25 years experience as a health care professional. You can learn more about medical anti aging on the AntiAging Information site.

Thursday, September 14, 2006

Aging Effects of the Sun and Wrinkles.

The condition of your skin is one of the keys to your appearance given the fact it is the first thing people see. Fortunately, there are a lot of simple steps you can take to care for it.

Preventive Care of Your Skin

Our skin is made up of three layers. The Epidermis is the outermost layer and sheds off every couple of weeks. The dermis lies under the epidermis and is where most of the action happens when it comes to caring for your skin. Finally, the subcutaneous area is the third level where skin attaches to the rest of our body through fat and fiber areas. Understanding that there are three levels is the first step to taking care of your skin.

It is important to understand that there are skin care products and then there are powerful skin care products. If you have significant skin issues such as shading or blotching that make a major difference in your appearance, most over the counter products are not going to make a major difference. Yes, this is true for even the wonder treatments touted by the media. Most over the counter treatments cover up the problem, but don’t treat it.

If you have major problems, you need to get prescription remedies that are far more powerful. You can do this by going to a skin care specialist that is either a licensed physician or skin care physician. Guess which one is cheaper?!

When dealing with major skin care problems, you should listen and follow the advice of the medical professional you select. Although treatments differ, a common method for dealing with serious skin problems is a cycle of treatments. Every medical professional is different, but you will usually be instructed to take one or all of the following in a particular sequence – Retin-A, Vitamin C creams and an acidic product. Retin-A will stimulate new cell growth in the dermis and shedding of the epidermis. Vitamin C creams will block the damage caused by the sun. Acidic problems speed up the natural removal of damaged skin on the outer layer of epidermis.

The treatment prescribed for you will not be a quick solution. It will take months. If you are patient, however, you will eventually see significant improvements to your skin.

Ricardo de Silva is with Plastic Surgeon Practices - a directory of plastic surgeons. Visit us to read more plastic surgery articles.

How To Repair Wrinkles and Damage Caused by Sun Exposure

Aging Effects of the Sun and Wrinkles.

Exposure to ultraviolet light, UVA or UVB, from the Sun accounts for over 85% of the symptoms of premature skin aging. Most of the photoaging effects occur by the age of 20. The amount of damage to the skin caused by the sun is determined by the total lifetime amount of radiation exposure and the person's pigment protection.

To prevent this damage happening in the first place protect yourself with sunscreen containing the proper ingredients, apply it properly. Also, wear UV-protective clothing, designed to protect you.

Primary Repair Treatments.

The primary repair treatments available to reduce the appearance of wrinkles are Alpha and Beta Hydroxy acids. With increasing research into what causes wrinkles and the effects of photoaging (exposure to sunlight) these repair tools have increased greatly in popularity. They're a very common additive to numerous skin care products including cleansers, moisturizers, masks, toners, and other products.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Remember Cleopatra? Alpha hydroxy acids have been used for thousands of years as a skin rejuvenating product. She is reported to have bathed in sour mild milk (lactic acid) to improve her already beautiful complexion.

These acids are derived from milk and fruit sugars. The most commonly used sources are lactic acid and glycolic acid because they have a special ability to penetrate the skin. They also have the most scientific data on their effectiveness and side effects.

How Alpha Hydroxy Acids Work.

They work mainly as an exfoliant, allowing the dead skin cells to be removed, making room for regrowth of new skin.

Beta Hydroxy Acids.

There is only one beta hydroxy acid - Salicylic Acid. Beta hydroxy acid also works mainly as an exfoliant. Research indicates that Beta hydroxy acid found in skin-care products works best in at a pH of 3 to 4 and a concentration of 1% to 2%.

What's the Difference Between the Two Types?

The main difference between is their lipid (oil) solubility. Alphas are water soluble only, while Beta acid is lipid (oil) soluble. This means that Beta hydroxy acid is able to penetrate into the pore which contains sebum and exfoliate the dead skin cells there too.

Because of this difference in properties, Beta hydroxy acid is better used on oily skin with blackheads and whiteheads. Alphas are better used on thickened, sun-damaged skin where breakouts are not a problem.

Side Effects

The two major side effects of alpha and beta hydroxy acids are irritation and sun sensitivity. Consult your dermatologist.

It's essential that anyone using any Alpha or Beta hydroxy acid must use a good sunscreen that contains UVA and UVB protection.

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Maintaining Youthful Skin

For some, aging brings with it the realization that their skin will no longer have that youthful appearance. Often times, individuals are driven to constantly searching for that perfect cream or spa procedure that will revitalize their skin and restore their once youthful exterior. Over exposure to the sun throughout an individual's life can have detrimental effects on their skin when they get older. Coupling this with a lack of proper skin care, that is moisturizing and watching over cracked, dry skin and an individual will likely develop premature wrinkles, unsightly blemishes and an overall unhealthy skin appearance.

Taking a day or two away from the beach and visiting a spa can work wonders for one's skin. A long day at the spa will not only be a relaxing experience for your skin, but it will essentially relax your entire body. Thus, you will leave the spa with not only a healthier, revived outward appearance, but also a totally re-energized body. If you simply cannot afford to spend a soothing day at the spa, remember while you are at the beach it is vitally important that you wear protective clothing and ample sunscreen. Otherwise you may cause irreversible damage to your skin.

Attending a spa on a regular basis is a luxury that some individuals simply cannot manage to do. These people need not fret since there are many excellent products available on the market to help them maintain healthy skin. Various creams and lotions can be used in conjunction to cleanse and protect against dry, itchy skin. Eating a healthy diet can also aid in the quest for youthful skin. Many foods have essential nutrients and vitamins in them that actually help your skin maintain a reasonable level of moisture as well as making the skin stronger and more attractive in appearance.

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Technologies Revolutionizing Skin Care Treatments

If you are tired of using topical skin treatments that only cover up, not treat, skin issues, there are a few new technologies to consider for your skin treatment.

Technologies Revolutionizing Skin Care Treatments

Skin medications and treatments come and go with the wind. The latest, greatest breakthrough to skin treatment is often a humorous memory a few years later. The simple fact is skin care is a complicated matter with many different aspects involved. Most topical over the counter treatments are primarily geared to covering up skin issues, not treating them. Yes, they claim to treat the underlying problem, but you usually will see a note in small letters indicating the FDA has not tested or approved the claim. Put in simple terms, the claims being made are a bit overoptimistic.

If you wish to improve the health and appearance of your skin, there are options available. Traditional courses of treatment include Retin-A, the wonder skin care drug and various other creams and acids. There are, however, a few new technologies that are being used in the treatment of skin issues that are proving to be revolutionary.

IPL is a new treatment that is producing tremendous results. IPL stands for intense pulse light and similar to a laser treatment. The treatment is undertaken by exposing the skin to multiple wavelengths of intense light. This stimulates the underlying dermis material of the skin to produce new cells through slight heating. The physical improvements include reduction of age spots, spider veins, pigment variations and reduction of pores. The treatment can also be used to reduce unwanted hair. IPL is not a one time treatment. It takes multiple sessions to obtain the desired effect. While this may be considered a negative, it is important to note that you are able to return to work, etc., immediately after the treatments, which minimizes any interruption in your life.

Thermage skin treatments are another new technology that is getting a lot of publicity. At first, it was believed thermage was the big breakthrough in skin care. The technology takes the novel approach of stimulating the dermis while leaving the outer layer of epidermis intact. In so doing, the body is believed to shed the damaged outer skin while replacing it with healthier, new skin cells. The treatment actually works, but one problem has arisen. Patients report that the improvements only last three to four months. At the end of the day, thermage skin treatment is just another temporary treatment, not the end all it was supposed to be. Still, three months is better than nothing.

The medical technology field is hyperactive. New technologies are produced regularly. Many of them offer the hope of total medical solutions, but hope does not always translate to fact. In this case, IPL therapy seems a much better long-term option than thermage skin care.

Ricardo de Silva is with Plastic Surgeon Practices - a directory of plastic surgeons. Visit us to read more plastic surgery articles.

Anti Aging Nutrition and Foods Worth Eating

To help slow down the effects of aging examining what you eat is a good start. You need to begin thinking about anti aging nutrition. Although that sounds somewhat trite the truth is that everything you put in your mouth has the potential to effect your health and your skin and so your emotional reactions to aging as well.

Anti aging nutrition must include an increase in vitamins. A study done in the late 1990s has proven that vitamin B is essential in resisting aging. This includes all three of the vitamin Bs, B6, B12 and folic acid. These are important in keeping down the risks of heart disease and to assist with memory. They help to slow brain degeneration, as does taking ginkgo, which is also known to sharpen your wits and improve your memory. Vitamins C, D and calcium are also essential. These can all be taken in pill or capsule from or by increasing the foods that carry this essential anti aging nutrition for your body.

Some of the best foods you can eat include fruits and vegetables. That doesn’t mean that you have to give up enjoying those meat and potato meals you love so much. Just add some extra vegetables to your meal. The beauty of eating lots of vegetables is that they are fat, cholesterol and salt free. This is true of all vegetables except for avocados, olives and coconuts. That means that those ones should be eaten with less frequency while enjoying the others as often as you like. Diet suggestions for those who are approaching, and passing, middle age, say you should eat at least five servings of fruits or vegetables a day, but eight would be even better.

By following simple anti aging nutrition tips you will increase the fiber in your diet without increasing the calories. This also has the benefit of lowering your risks for many of the potential illnesses that reach out to us as we slide past middle age. These include cancer, diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. One thing we need as we age is antioxidants. These are found in fruits and vegetables as well as vitamin supplements. Antioxidants are helpful in protecting aging bodies from disease and that is one of the most important things you can do for yourself.

Chris Lakatos is the creator of Anti-aging Health portal =>http://anti-aging.healthylivinghub.com/ You'll find useful informations, articles and resources to every aspects of your Health and medical needs.

Sunday, September 10, 2006

Exercise Your Face to Look Healthier & Younger

Do you have a problem area on your face that you would like to change? Double chin, droopy eyes, jowls, pouches, crows feet or marionette lines? Aging is as sneaky as sun damage and it seems that in a twinkling of an eye, your face can look so different that you might wonder just who is that person staring back at you in the mirror?

Could facial exercise be the answer to the age old question –“Can I maintain a youthful appearance?” Must I spend my children’s inheritance to stave off Mother Nature’s footprints across my face?

You can certainly turn back the clock with facial exercise that employs resistance and isometric contractions of the muscles using the thumbs and fingers. This doesn’t mean that you will look sixteen or even twenty again but shaving off ten or fifteen years from your appearance with exercise rivals the results of most plastic surgery procedures.

Plastic surgery techniques do not stop the aging process; muscles in the face continue to make their downward slide dragging the skin unnaturally, creating the need for more and more surgical procedures. With exercise, the muscles become stronger, the skin looks revitalized and lifted. Most importantly, facial exercises can be performed inexpensively at home.

The muscles of the face elongate just like the muscles in your arms, thighs and buttocks; in fact, the muscles in the face will have elongated about one-half inch by the time most people have reached the age of 55. The elongation is the result of atrophy of the muscles and gravity. Even though we talk, sing or laugh, the muscles continue to soften and become lax; it’s only when the facial muscles are specifically exercised do they begin to plump up and support your skin better.

The elongation of facial muscles affects every area of your face. For instance, the “apples” in your upper cheeks may not be positioned prominently, in fact, when a smile is made, rather than seeing fullness high on the cheeks, the muscles may appear flat and midway between the nose and mouth.

If you add one-half inch to the length of your forehead, your eye area suffers because the downward motion compresses into the brows. What happens if you add one-half inch or more to the area under the chin? The dreaded wattle is developing. One-half inch added to the jaw line means jowls are forming.

Beginning a facial exercise program to sculpt and contour the face may seem daunting at first because the movements and positioning feel somewhat awkward. Remember when you first learned to ride a bicycle? It was so scary! But after a few days of lumps and bumps, you were pedaling like you were a pro. It’s the same with facial exercise, once you become familiar with the movements, you will marvel that these simple steps can easily produce a younger looking face.

You will want to take beginning photos before you start a facial exercise regimen so that you can track your progress and you will want to update your photos at the end of every third week. In about three weeks friends and colleagues will begin noticing that something is definitely different about you. They may think you have changed your hair in some way or that you are sleeping better but you will know what they’re seeing is your pretty face returning.

In hardly any time at all, you will notice how smooth and refreshed your skin looks; your face glows with radiance from increased oxygenation to the muscles and those sagging, droopy muscles are now portraying a more youthful looking you. Without surgery, drugs or anything harmful you can turn back the clock and look at least 10-15 years younger.

Cynthia Rowland is widely recognized as an expert in all natural facial fitness with over thirty years experience in health & beauty related fields. She has appeared on The View, Fit TV, HGTV and other popular shows. This author, speaker and television personality is leading the crusade to keep men and women looking vibrantly younger through natural techniques without spending their children’s inheritance.

Cynthia Rowland, Anti-aging Expert I Save Faces http://www.facialmagic.com/

Master Athletes Age Better

Almost 50 percent of Americans die of heart attacks and strokes, diseases that are associated with a faulty diet and lack of exercise. Almost 80 percent are overweight or obese, which is also associated with lack of exercise. Yet only 13 percent of people over 65 engage in vigorous physical activity three or more days a week. Among those over 75, only six percent exercise regularly.

Master athletes are older men and women who compete in sports at a very high level, no matter how old they are. They are healthier than age-matched people in virtually every category that has been measured (Nutrition Today, Volume 40, 2006). Of course they are more fit, as measured by their maximal ability to take in and use oxygen. They have lower cholesterols, comparable to those of people in their twenties. They have lower glucose tolerance and HBA1C screening tests for diabetes. They have lower waist-to-hip ratios, decreasing their risk for metabolic syndrome and diabetes. They have far less body fat.

Many people who have never exercised are afraid to start an exercise program. They should check with their doctors and get a special exercise stress test. If they pass the test, they are at low risk for complications during exercise. Then they should join an organized exercise program. One study showed that 85 percent of middle aged Americans who start an exercise program quit in the first six weeks. Those most likely to remain exercised with a spouse or friend, used a personal trainer, or participated in classes such as aerobic dancing or spinning. Successful lifelong exercisers usually make their sports part of their social life, not just a tedious chore.

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Dr. Gabe Mirkin has been a radio talk show host for 25 years and practicing physician for more than 40 years; he is board certified in four specialties, including sports medicine. Read or listen to hundreds of his fitness and health reports -- and the FREE Good Food Book -- at http://www.drmirkin.com/

Thursday, September 07, 2006

Detoxifying Your Body

Detoxification (Detox): Is the removal of toxic substances from the body. This is mainly performed by the liver and kidneys. When the kidneys are not functioning correctly or not working at all an artificial technique called dialysis is used.

Why do we need to detoxify our bodies? Due to many elements our bodies are subjected to toxins. Sometimes these toxins accumulate in the body and make us sick. Therefore it is advisable to detoxify our bodies when this happens. There are several ways this can be done.

One of the most common ways is to modify your diet. This is known as a detox diet. Many people do this on a regular basis. They find it not only improves overall health but results in increased energy, helps your immune system and can also help in weight loss. Different diets commonly used are:

Fasting or abstinence of food- is a very common way of detoxing the body. Some just drink water others only juice. This can usually be done over a period of 24-48 hours.

Increased consumption of fish
Different combinations of foods
Eating foods which are high in antitoxins

How do we detoxify our bodies? The liver is the main organ that helps us deal with toxins in the body. There are 2 phases:

Phase 1: This is when the liver, by a chain of chemical processes, changes the toxic substance into a less toxic one. When this process takes place substances called free radicals are released into the body. These are potentially harmful to the body. Certain types of foods contain antitoxins that help us keep the body safe from these free radicals.

Phase 2: The liver cells then add a substance to the toxin to make it water soluble and allow it to be filtered out by the kidneys in the urine. They are also eradicated in the feces. Certain foods can help in this process.

Foods that contain antitoxins:

Beets,contain a variety of substances that help cut down damage caused by free radicals. They contain antitoxins such as beta-carotene, carotenoids and flavonoids, that help the body heal itself. Broccoli have Vitamin C and B These vitamins help the liver in the phase 1 process.

Spinach has vitamin B and folic acid, used in phase 1 by the liver. Tomatoes are a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant. They are also a good source of vitamin E and C, which are both used, in the liver’s detoxifying process.

Brown Rice provides B vitamins and the antioxidant selenium. Carrots contain beta-carotene and other carotenoids Eggs supply B vitamins. Garlic has selenium and glutathione, both of which act as antioxidants. Wheat germ contains selenium and vitamin E which are a good source of phytochemicals.

Melons and peppers and citrus fruits are good sources of vitamin C. Tomatillos, papaya, plantains, carambola, and guava are good sources of the antioxidants beta-carotene and vitamin C.

Caution should be exercised in detoxifying dieting to ensure that toxins are not released into the body more rapidly than the body can eliminate them. When this happens the condition is called the Herxheimer reaction. Symptoms include, nausea, vomiting and headaches. Some things that may help are:


Drinking a lot of clean water
Taking light exercise
Sunlight
Detoxifying slowly

Detoxifying your body can be beneficial to your health but you need to be careful when doing this. If necessary consult your doctor to be sure that there is no underlying problem that can be worsened by this process. Many people do experience beneficial symptoms from detox diets and make them a regular part of their eating habits.

Zach Thompson is a Glyconutrients Consultant. His clients range from pro athletes and actresses, to cancer patients and children with Learning Disabilities. To learn if glyconutrients can help you, visit Buy Glyconutrients Product.

Anti-aging: Is It Really Possible?

Although it is obviously not possible to turn the clock back entirely, we can take many steps now to ensure that not only do we slow down the aging process, but we can also reverse many of the signs of aging that we may presently be experiencing.

The biggest key in the fight against aging is of course our diet and nutrition. The old adage, "you are what you eat" is absolutely true! It is impossible to expect to be healthy and vital if we are not eating the nutrients we need to keep our bodies performing at its best.

I truly believe that the increase in lifestyle diseases that we are presently seeing is in great part due to poor diets and junk food. It is very important to try to increase the amount of whole foods that we eat and decrease the amount of processed foods that we eat.

Processed foods have almost no nutrients left in them ... they are considered "empty calories". But even worse than that, the preservatives, additives and chemicals that are in these processed foods interfere with many bodily functions including hormones. These chemical toxins are called "xenoestrogens" and they often trigger a condition called "Estrogen Dominance".

What is Estrogen Dominance? Simply explained, it is when the ratio of Estrogen and Progesterone get out of whack and you have higher levels of estrogen, compared to progesterone. There are many things in our modern society that contribute to this imbalance including birth control pills, caffeine, alcohol and xenoestrogens (which are caused by external toxins and pollutants like detergents, pesticides, plastics etc.), as well as impaired liver function and even stress!

The hormonal imbalances caused by Estrogen Dominance have many negative effects on the body and can make you feel a lot older by triggering many symptoms like poor memory, "foggy brain", weight gain and difficulty losing weight, increased facial hair, decreased sex drive, vaginal dryness, darkened skin pigmentation, water retention and much, much more. Estrogen Dominance also increases the risk of many lifestyle diseases like cancer, fibrocystic breasts, breast cancer, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and much more.

Estrogen Dominance is much more common than people think, thanks to the world we live in. And it is happening to women at younger and younger ages, even to women in their twenties or thirties! So how do you combat estrogen dominance? One of the most important changes you can make is losing weight if you are overweight, since this triggers a vicious cycle of hormonal imbalances and weight gain, especially in the abdominal area.

But of course, how you lose weight is just as important, if not more, than just losing weight. If you lose weight following unhealthy weight loss diets, you could be unbalancing your hormones even more. The better method is to lose weight in a slow, steady fashion by eating healthy, nutritious food and NOT starving yourself.

If instead of following an unhealthy diet, you follow a healthy eating program you will not only lose weight, but will have many health benefits as well. Check out these little-known, powerful anti-aging benefits you get from eating a healthy, balanced diet:

- Eating a healthy diet decreases free radical production through proper nutrition, which is a powerful anti-aging technique, as well as decreasing the risk of developing different types of cancer

- Eating healthy also helps to promote anti-aging by lowering cholesterol and triglycerides to healthy levels

When you follow a healthy diet and do not skip meals or starve yourself, you actually speed up your metabolism and increase fat burning capabilities. Dieting is one of the best ways of slowing down your metabolism, which of course makes losing weight very difficult. Yo-yo dieting is a good example of this. Each time you lose weight and gain it back, you are slowing down your metabolism so that each subsequent diet gets harder and harder to lose weight.

- It is also possible to make a few simple changes to your diet so that the food you eat stabilises your blood sugar levels and reduces insulin and improves insulin resistance ... ultimately decreasing the risk of Diabetes. And did you know that Insulin is a major culprit in weight gain?

- And here is a very powerful anti-aging secret: eating a healthy, balanced diet supports your liver! If your liver works better, your body detoxifies more efficiently, which improves all areas of your health (including cellulite reduction the natural way), as well as supporting your immune system which is of course very important for good health

And not only do unhealthy diets unbalance your hormones, one thing that many people don't think about when they decide to lose weight following unhealthy fast weight loss diets: the faster you lose weight, the bigger the chances that you will be left with loose, sagging skin! A healthy eating program decreases the chances of having loose, sagging skin, because you lose weight in a slow, steady way, which gives your body a chance to firm up your skin. There are also many foods you can eat that promote healthy, firm skin tone. (The "Diet Free ... At Last!" Weight Loss Program teaches which foods promote anti-aging and also which foods you can eat to help to improve skin tone and prevent loose, sagging skin.)

About the author

Geri Richard is the owner of the "Diet Free ... At Last!" Weight Loss Program website. This program teaches you how to lose weight the healthy way, without hunger, food cravings or starving yourself on endless diets. It even includes a free e-book that focuses on how to reverse aging and improve your health and quality of life. Visit the website at http://www.weightloss-dietfree.com/ to see how you can get this free e-book.

The Perfect Anti Aging Supplements

Everyone is in search of the proverbial fountain of youth. Anti aging supplements and anti wrinkle treatments promise to reverse aging and make us look ten years younger. Some anti aging supplements even up the ante by claiming to reignite the fires in the bedroom as well. A recent survey conducted in the U.S., polled 100,000 Americans on their most wanted desires in life– the desire to be young was among the most popular answers; second only to the desire to be rich and famous.

The increasing risks involved with plastic surgery are turning more heads towards the billion dollar industries of anti aging supplements, anti wrinkle creams and treatments. But of course, there are always natural alternatives if we are willing to make a few lifestyle changes.

There are a number of factors involved in maintaining health and longevity, but to simplify things a bit, our diets are the beginning and the end to a vibrant life. With this in mind, we should focus on the vital importance of enzymes, which inarguably are the key to life. Our enzyme levels diminish as we age. But a more accurate way to state this would be to say that “We age as our enzyme levels diminish”. These enzyme levels in the body diminish because a typical diet of cooked food has no available digestive enzymes which puts a tremendous strain on the pancreas to produce enzymes for digestion and assimilation. The perfect anti aging supplement would focus on maintaining a high level of enzymatic activity whether through a natural, enzyme-rich, raw food diet or with digestive enzyme supplements.

Another underrated anti aging supplement and anti wrinkle treatment whose benefits can be attained almost immediately is pure water! If we think about it, aging and disease is merely dehydration. Our cells are dehydrated and cannot flush toxins, the bones become dry and brittle, and the skin wrinkles. If we look to nature for guidance, we’ll see that to restore life and vitality to any organism, we need the world’s oldest anti aging supplement called water. Like a raisin to a grape, once we are rehydrated life is juicy again!

Commercial anti aging supplements cater to the magic pill syndrome that has taken hold of today’s society. Unfortunately for most of us, the mere thought of changing our diets is too horrible to imagine. We want to be different without changing anything about our lifestyles. We desire health and vitality yet we consume lifeless, processed foods without care or concern for what it does to our bodies. But we can’t depend on anti aging supplements to save us from ourselves. Instead theyshould be used for exactly what they are– supplements.

Try using anti aging supplements and digestive enzyme supplements as an adjunct to a healthy, natural lifestyle of fresh air and exercise, plenty of rest, raw foods, and pure water. A natural lifestyle comes standard equipped with its own built-in anti aging supplements and anti wrinkle treatment. Live and be healthy!

Edwin Geronimo is a writer, musician, and seeker. He has a bachelors degree in Biochemistry and has been a raw/vegan health enthusiast for 7 years. Edwin has turned back the aging clock through a natural lifestyle in conjunction with anti aging supplements. Visit http://nappy-head.com/?p=70

Turn Back The Hands Of Time And Slow The Aging Process With Vital Vitamins and Minerals

The search for a fountain of youth has been going on since the dawn of creation. All of us as we get older look for ways to turn back the clock and regain the vitality of our youth. One of the primary causes of aging is the change in hormone production which decreases as we get older. One thing we can do to help with this is to work to get those hormone levels back closer to the levels found in healthy young adult. We can do this with a combination of hormone replacement therapy and exercise.

Another threat to our health is the presence of free radicals, which are unstable oxygen molecules that collide with other particles and tissues in our bodies. They look for other molecules to join with to make them more stable. Some are actually good because they help fight bacteria, inflammation, and help to keep your muscles toned.

Too many free radicals attack the healthy parts of the body and cause diseases such as heart disease and cancer. The secret to managing these free radicals is intake of antioxidants which can slow down or prevent growth of cancers and actually work as anti-carcinogens. These substances render free radicals harmless by giving them an electron. Rich sources of antioxidant vitamins and minerals are fruits, vegetables, and grains.

An important amino acid and antioxidant in guarding against aging is carnosine which exists in large quantities in the brain, muscle tissue, and the lens of our eyes. It helps to prevent muscle fatigue, reduces stress and hyperactivity, and also helps to create good sleep patterns.

Another powerful antioxidant seen a lot in the news recently is lycopene, which is found in large quantities in tomatoes. As we grow older the levels of lycopene in our systems decreases. The substance is crucial for the health of organs such as the adrenal glands, prostate, liver colon, and testes. It has also been shown to help guard against cancer in the digestive tract.

One of the most important antioxidants is lypoic acid which is able to quell free radicals both in water and fat cells. This fat and water soluble substance eliminates free radicals in the water compartment of a cell and protects against oxidation as well as helping turn carbohydrates into glucose so that energy can be produced.

An antioxidant that is needed for proper nervous system function is xanthones which helps people suffering from depression and helps to reduce appetites as well as help combat addictions. It is also essential in the creation of the neurotransmitter, dopamine which communicates to the pituitary glad that releases growth hormone and improves immune response. It also helps stimulate brain activity no matter what the age. A good source of this substance is blueberries.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find out more about nutrition and Benefits of Coral Calcium at http://www.coralcalciumetc.com/

Tuesday, September 05, 2006

Anti Aging Benefits of Exercise

How are exercise and anti aging benefits connected? As we age, certain changes in lifestyle and physical fitness are predictable, especially in Western cultures. We tend to become less active and begin to gain weight. The percentage of our body weight attributable to fat increases, while the percentage attributable to muscle decreases. A less active lifestyle results in a decreased ability to use oxygen as well. Though predictable, these changes are avoidable with a commitment to regular exercise - among the anti aging benefits of exercise are the ability to maintain a healthy body weight, physical strength and aerobic fitness long into our senior years.

Advice for anti aging exercise varies, with some experts advocating strength training, while others emphasize aerobic exercise or stress the importance of stretching. Many people turn to activities like qigong or yoga for a blend of therapeutic exercise of both body and mind. A combination of activities including all of these things in moderation probably provides the best anti aging benefits. Strength training will keep you strong and decrease your chances of joint or back injury, or muscle strain. Stretching also helps to avoid muscle strain, and increases flexibility. Aerobic exercise reinforces cardiovascular fitness and keeps your joints working.

The key to achieving the anti aging benefits of exercise is to exercise regularly. Again, you'll find many different variations of advice on when you should exercise and for how long. You should probably aim for a minimum of an hour of exercise, three to four times a week. If this seems too much at first, start with 15 minutes a day and work up to longer periods.
Choose an activity you enjoy: you'll be more likely to stick with it. Perhaps you like swimming, biking, walking or playing tennis. Gardening, raking, and even housework are all good forms of exercise. Walking to the store and taking the stairs instead of the elevator count as well. If the weather's bad, you could use a stationary bicycle and get your exercise while watching the news - there are lots of ways to sneak a little exercise into your day and achieve some anti aging benefits without much effort.

Many people are very busy and feel that they don't have time to set aside for exercise. If this is you, think seriously about trying harder to find time: it really is important, and the anti aging benefits of exercise mean that you can look forward to getting it all back and more - in years of good health added on your life.


R. Drysdale is a freelance writer with more than 25 years experience as a health care professional. You can learn more about anti aging benefits of exercise on the AntiAging Information site.