Nutrition Facts in Fruits and Vegetables 2

Peach

Peaches are actually native to China, but are grown in most countries with a fairly mild climate. They are a much milder tasting fruit than apples or oranges and have very little acidity meaning they are less likely to cause stomach upsets with people. As well as other nutrients, peaches are particularly high in vitamin A and potassium. Vitamin A is useful for our eye sight, demonstrating how a full and healthy intake of vitamins helps every aspect of general health. It is also used in protein synthesis and heightens overall anabolism (muscle building potential). It is a particularly important vitamin to find in your diet as most Westeners have been shown to be in low supply. They also contain vitamin B, riboflavin, niacin, calcium, iron and phosphorous and potassium.

Peaches have been noted for being particularly good for healthy and colourful complexions. They are also good for those trying to lose weight as they are mostly water and fibre and also have mild laxative and diuretic effects. They are also good as mild sedatives and can be a great remedy for hyperactive children.

Plum

Plums are related to peaches and cherries and again are rich in fibre. They come in a particularly wide variety of colours and can be found sporting red, blue, black, purple, green, yellow or amber skins (and can also be bought dried out as ‘prines’ which are high in phytonutrients – neochlorogenic and chlorogenic acid that act as antioxidants). They originate in Asia but today are grown across the globe. They are a particularly refreshing fruit and also contain vitamin C, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and citric acid.

Plums also help the production and absorption of iron in the human body which improved circulation, strength, healthy tissue and aerobic fitness. They also fight macular degeneration and heart disease.

Grapes

Grapes are excellent sources of the vitamins A, C, B6 and folate as well as potassium, calcium, phosphorous, selenium, magnesium and iron. They also contain flavonoids that are powerful antioxidants that are responsible for the often-touted antioxidant benefits of wine. Their small size makes them practical and sweet snacks that also provide energy. Dried as raisins they become even more practical snacks that are a great source of carbs and energy as well as the aforementioned antioxidants and fibre. Grape juice can also be used as a great cure for migraines.

Carrots

Carrots are sweet vegetables that are practical and tasty with many nutritional and medicinal values. Carrots are ‘edible root’ vegetables that originate from Asia. They are great sources of fibre, vitamin B1, B2, B6, C, K and biotin, potassium and thiamine. They are also the best source of beta-carotene out of the major vegetables. This has been shown to have excellent cancer-beating properties and those with a deficiency are thought to have up to twice the risk of developing cancer. Carrots are also well known for their ability to help you ‘see in the dark’ (a good way to encourage kids to eat them) which is partly due to the positive effects of vitamin A on eyesight (beta carotene is easily converted to vitamin A).

Carrot is also a fat soluble substance so is eaten best with oil to help the body utilise the nutrients. Similarly, eating the carrots raw will ensure that they maintain more of their beneficial vitamins and minerals (they’re also quicker and easier to eat this way and make a great quick snack if you haven’t had any vegetables recently).

Potatoes

Unfortunately potatoes don’t count as one of your five fruits and vegetables due to their different makeup. They have many, many other health though benefits so shouldn’t be written off completely. They’re also incredibly versatile and make up a key part of many main meals. They are filling, savoury, non-fattening and can be eaten in a variety of ways: fried, baked, boiled, mashed or roasted.

Potatoes are densely packed with nutrients, and are a great source of fibre being half soluble and half insoluble. This helps them lower blood pressure, along with the flavanoids and kukoamine that they also contain. Flavanoids have also been shown to help protect against memory loss. While they lack vitamin A, they still contain almost every other nutrient. Unfortunately much of the vitamin C is lost when you cook potatoes, but a baked potato will still provide you with vitamin B6, potassium, iron and copper. They also provide a fairly large amount of sodium, which helps with the distribution of water in the body and also works alongside potassium to help muscle contractions and prevent cramping.

It is often the preparation methods that give potatoes their bad name as we often cover them in salt and cooking fat. To avoid this, bake rather than fry your potatoes and use vegetable oil when you do.

Peas / Beans

Peas are a vegetable source of protein along with beans making them a great source of amino acids for vegetarians. They also supply B vitamins, phosphorous, potassium, magnesium, manganese, iron and fibre (particularly when dried). These are two of the main ingredients found in quorn, but vegetarians should be aware that they don’t contain as many amino acids or have as high biological value as animal sources of protein.

Sprouts

Sprouts are well known for their health benefits and also have curative ability helping to cure several conditions. They are closely related to radish and broccoli and have many of the same properties, being high in phytochemicals (plant-based nutrients).

They have been shown to be helpful in aiding osteoporosis, menopause, PMS and fibrocystic breast tumours due to their large amount of estrogens. Alflalfa sprouts have been shown to contain canavanine in high doses which can benefit pancreatic, colon and lukemia cancer. Another unusual sounding one, ‘saponins’, are also high in sprouts which stimulate the immune system to increase protection of T-lymphocytes and interferon – which help protect vertebrates in response to viruses, parasites and tumor cells (alfalfa sprouts contain almost 450% more saponin making these the most potently beneficial form). They are also abundant in antioxidants so protecting against damage to the DNA and making them generally great defenders against all kinds of illness and age related degeneration.

Broccoli

When you’re told to eat your greens, broccoli is often one of the common culprits, which is just as well considering the vast nutritional benefits it carries with it. In particular it is high in beat carotene (which is converted into vitamin A) and vitamin C as well as folic acid, calcium and fibre. It is actually particularly important as a source of calcium containing almost as much as a glass of milk making it great for those who don’t eat dairy. This helps to build strong bones and connective tissue and promotes healthy nails and teeth. Furthermore it strengthens contractions and beats high blood pressure and colon cancer.

Broccoli belongs to the cabbage family and provides many of the same benefits. A ‘cruciferous vegetable’ it contains important phytochemicals called ‘indoles’ and ‘isothiocyanates’ which helps protect against cancer. They’re also high in iron which is crucial for the transport of oxygen around the body as the main compound in haemoglobin and myoglobin (the red blood cells). This provides us with oxidative energy and helps our body to deliver other essential nutrients.

Cabbage

This list wouldn’t be complete without cabbage which is one of the least calorific vegetables available. Some claims even state that chewing cabbage burns more calories than you gain from eating it! This makes it a ‘negative calorie food’ and great for dieting. Whether or not this is true, cabbage contains large amounts of glutamine – an amino acid with anti-inflammatory properties. Hence in ‘folk’ medicine cabbage is used to treat inflammation by being wrapped around affected areas – some even use it to treat sore breasts for breast-feeding mothers! It is also a great source of calcium and iron – all the mineral benefits with none of the calorific cost. It’s also shown to have oestrogen combating properties leading to more testosterone as a result. This is good for muscle mass, drive and sexual potency and is particularly useful for bodybuilders and gym-goers. Finally, as a source of indole-3-carbinol (I3C), it can be used to treat recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, a disease that affects the head and neck that’s potentially fatal! Cabbage juice has also been shown to promote the healing of peptic ulcers making it all round something of a miracle vegetable!

Spinach

Saving (one of) the best until last, spinach will immediately increase your biceps by up to thirty percent and help you save the day… if Popeye is to be believed anyway… Actually the rumour that spinach had such fantastic health properties came from a misplaced decimal point – though that isn’t to say they aren’t still highly useful.

Spinach is a great source of calcium and one of the best sources of iron. Its iron content as discussed is crucial for helping the transport of oxygen and nutrients around the blood and is the key compound in the red blood cells. Iron is also useful however for strengthening bones, increasing muscle strength. Iron is often low in women who are going through PMT as it is lost in the blood. To check for low iron look at your nail beds and under your lower eyelid – if they look pale then you could do with some spinach! This iron however is non-heme iron, which essentially means it is best absorbed with vitamin C to get the full effects. So eat spinach along with other vegetables or fruits. Spinach is also rich in antioxidants as well as: vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, magnesium, manganese, folate, iron, vitamin B2, calcium, potassium, vitamin B6, folic acid, copper, protein, phosphorus, zinc, niacin, selenium, omega-3 fatty acids and folic acid. Quite impressive. Be strong to the finish and eat your spinach!

Nutrition Facts in Fruits and Vegetables 1

Governments and health officials recommend getting five to seven portions of fruit and vegetable a day. The reason for this is that in the wild we’d have actually survived from mostly fruits and vegetables, meaning that we’re designed to consume at least that amount a day. The nutrition facts in fruits and vegetables show how many important vitamins, minerals and other nutrients they contain and so explain why they were and are so important. Each fruit and veg however has different things to offer, and by selecting precisely which you eat you can control which benefits your body gets.

Apples

The saying goes that ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’, and while it’s probably not 100% effective, eating one at least every day will give you a massive health boost. Not only are they tasty and easily portable, but they’re also a great way to freshen yourself up and so rich in vitamins are they that you can almost feel yourself getting healthier. There are also a good selection of apples to choose from, green or red, granny smith or red delicious… there’s an apple for everyone’s tastes!

Apples are also a great source of fibre, both soluble and insoluble. These have different uses for the body and while the soluble fibre (another example of soluble fibre is protein) will help prevent the build of cholesterol and the risk of heart disease, insoluble fibre will provide you with bulk in the intestinal and digestive tract which will clean the system to help food travel through it more quickly and efficiently.

Apples, like oranges are also particularly known for their high quantity of vitamin C which helps the body to fight illness by boosting the immune system – and this is really where the saying comes from, vitamin C is a great way to guard against colds, flu and other viruses. Furthermore, vitamin C is an antioxidant meaning that it helps protect the cell walls against mutation and other damage – even fighting age and cancer! Much of this vitamin C is kept just beneath the apple’s skin, which is also high in insoluble fibre – so it’s advisable to eat them whole rather than peeling them. Calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, vitamin C, vitamin A, folate 4 can all be found in apples.

High in energy and low in calories they also make a great snack for after lunch to help see you through your day.

Pears

Pear is a particularly tasty and soft fruit that is related to apples, evident by the core which contains the seeds. They are a great source of a large variety of vitamins and minerals including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin C, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc. Not only do they have the benefits of the vitamin C and fibre but also vitamin B6, which is a great energy booster used for improving the body’s utilisation of energy stored in carbs.

This vitamin B6 works particularly well as an energy enhancer combined with the high amounts of glucose and fructose that they also contain. Again many of the vitamins are contained in and around the skin… but then who seriously peels a pear anyway? Studies on pears have also demonstrated that they may help protect women against breast cancer, lower the risk of macular degeneration due to age (troubles with eyesight) and lower blood pressure and the chances of a stroke. They have also been shown to be good for the colon and again lowering colestrol.

The Boron in pears also serves another role, aiding in the retention of calcium (which they also contain). This makes them great for a variety of purposes – strengthening muscle contractions, building bone and ligaments and improving the condition of health and nails (you can spot a calcium deficiency by the white marks that sometimes adorn the nails).

Baring this in mind, pears are actually one of the healthiest fruits of all, which is why it’s a shame that they aren’t as commonly found in family fruit bowls as apples, bananas and oranges. This is possibly due to their quick ripening and easily bruised skin. Try keeping them in the fridge to prevent these problems.

Oranges

Orange is another fruit that’s quick and easy to eat along with its close relatives clementines, mandarins and satsumas. They are an even better source of vitamin C than apples making them great antioxidants and for strengthening the immune system. ‘Oxidisation’ of the cells essentially describes our body rusting and (in reality it’s the cells being battered by free radicals). This slowly wears them down and hampers their ability to divide accurately and is what over time leads to the affects of ageing. Vitamin C works by protecting against this process. They also contain vitamin A and B and like pears help with the absorption of calcium (which they also contain). They are also a good source of iron, sodium, copper, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and sulphur.

Mango

Mangos are another fruit that many people don’t eat as often as others. Again it’s a shame as mangos are actually one of the sweetest and softest fruits out there. They are also a great source of copper, potassium, manganese, calcium, selenium, iron, phosphorous and magnesium. The also contain one of the widest range of vitamins including C, A, E, B and K. The less ripe the mango the more rich in these vitamins it will be.

Banana

The banana is definitely the odd one out when it comes to fruit and is unique in many ways. Firstly, the banana does not actually come from trees, but large plants that are themselves herbs related to the lily and orchid family. In this way they are somewhat like a cross between fruit and vegetables. They also look unusual and are easy to peel, making them particularly practical to carry in a lunch box etc.

Bananas in particular are a great way to get a shot of instant energy. Like most fruits bananas contain no fat, cholesterol or sodium but are high in sugar and complex carbs giving them the same energy boosting properties as less healthy snacks (with a longer lasting high and less come down). They are also particularly tasty making a great substitute for chocolates or sweets. If you are going for a run then a banana is great one hour before for maximum energy release, likewise they are great with breakfast to keep you going through the morning or as a lunch-break snack to help you through your afternoon slump and improve productivity.

As well as containing low fat carbs, bananas again contain vitamin B6 meaning your body can utilise these carbs to the fullest and gets an immediate re-energise – a lack of vitamin B6 can lead to weakness, low mood and insomnia. Like other fruits mentioned here, they are again good sources of vitamin C and fibre. Bananas are also a particularly good source of potassium (giving you around 400mg in a regular sized banana) which can help lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of stroke. Potassium also helps muscle contractions, and if you suffer from cramp then eating bananas is a great way to combat against the problem. They are also particularly easy to digest (which couple with their sweet taste makes them great as a snack for babies and young toddlers).

Even more impressive, and making bananas one of the top fruits for all-round goodness, is that bananas have been shown to contain serotonin and norepinephrine – two ‘feel good’ hormones that make them excellent for lifting the mood. The humble banana has actually been shown to be a quite effective anti-depressant and help sufferers with depression. Further, this mood-boosting effect further helps with the energy high banas provide. A dose of banana and sunlight can be a great remedy for feeling down.

Home Remedies for Acne

Do you suffer from acne? There is no need to try out all possible chemical concoctions available in the market to get rid of acne. A few simple home remedies will go a long way in helping you deal with acne.

Listed below are some good home remedies for acne. They are also tried and tested of course.

• Apply a paste of nutmeg and milk over the acne affected region. Leave it on for 1 or 2 hours.

• Combine honey with cinnamon to get a great cure for pimples.

• Make a pack of blackberry, raspberry and strawberry leaves boiled in water and apply on your skin.

• Take the remains from used tea bags and mix with basil leaves and apply over acne affected regions.

• Mix gram flour with milk to get a paste that works wonders for acne.

• Simply make a paste of ripe tomatoes and apply over the acne affected areas.

• Make an orange face pack by drying orange peels, powder them and mix with water to get a smooth paste.

• Garlic has antibacterial properties. Rub a clove of fresh garlic over pimples and watch them disappear.

• Soak fenugreek or lettuce leaves in water overnight and wash your face using the water next morning.

• Witch hazel and tea tree oil are also good remedies for acne.

• A mixture of lime juice and rose water can be applied over pimples to reduce acne.

• Buy fresh mint leaves and grind to extract the juice. This juice can be applied over the acne affected region.

• Turmeric is also an effective anti-bacterial. Mix turmeric with any of the above remedies to enhance their efficacy.

• If you have aloe vera in your garden, you have a good treatment for acne right there in your backyard or garden. Apply aloe vera gel over your face for fresh and blemish free skin.

• A mixture of yoghurt and oatmeal can be used as scrub for your face.

• A paste made of sandalwood and rosewater makes a great face pack for acne.

• You can use pomegranate to treat acne. Dry and powder the skin of pomegranate to make a paste with rose water or lime juice or mint juice and apply over your face.

• A paste made of neem leaves in combination with lime juice, mint juice or rose water is effective against acne.

• You may find it hard to believe but something you use daily can be a good cure for acne. Yes, toothpaste is believed to be effective in treating acne.

• Calamine lotion or milk of magnesia can be dabbed onto cotton balls and applied over acne prone regions.

• Steep basil leaves in hot water and after cooling; use the water to wash your face.

• A face pack made using egg white, honey and lemon juice can be applied on your face to combat acne.

• A mixture of lemon juice and cucumber juice is effective in treating acne.

• Wash your face with an antibacterial face wash and apply virgin olive oil and leave it on for 10 minutes. Then rinse away the oil and pat dry your skin.

If you have very severe acne, you can combine medications prescribed by your doctor in combination with a home remedy that suits you. Remember, home remedies which are effective for one person need not necessarily be effective for someone else. Choosing a good home remedy for your skin is a matter of trial and error.

Skin Vitamins for Healthy Skin

Most of you do not consider skin as an essential organ and do not pay much attention to take care of it. But the fact is that skin is the largest organ of the body, and a high degree of attention is in demand. The only secret for a healthy body and ultimately healthy organs is having a balanced diet rich in all nutrients. For a bright skin, it is essential to flush all the free radicals off the body. It can be achieved by having foods that are rich in antioxidants.

Let’s discuss on some of the nutritional requirements especially the vitamins for a healthy skin.

Vitamin A: Most of you know Vitamin A, the vitamin that is essential for good functioning of eyes. Good news for people with acne is, Vitamin A helps to reduce the secretion of sebum and controls acne. It functions as an anti-oxidizing agent, eliminating the toxic free radicals generated by various metabolic activities and even helps in rejuvenating the skin cells. About 10,000 IU of daily intake of Vitamin A is found to help fight against acne.

Vitamin B Complex: Stress plays a great role in altering the secretion of hormones that in turn result in increased secretion of sebum, causative factor of acne. The B-Complex group of vitamins is found to reduce stress and hence help to prevent acne. To fight against acne, it is essential to take approximately 100 mg of B-Complex vitamins. Thiamin with its antioxidant properties helps to eliminate the toxins from the body. Riboflavin in association with Vitamin A strengthens the mucous membrane. Niacinamide helps to improve the circulation throughout the body.

Vitamin C: Its excellent anti-oxidant property helps to fight against acne by eliminating the toxins off the body. It even helps to develop the immune system and fights against skin infections. Vitamin C plays role in collagen production and the skin remains firm if Vitamin C is consumed in required amounts. It is recommended to consume about 500 to 1000 mg of Vitamin C thrice a day for a healthy skin, free of acne.

Vitamin E: Another vitamin with anti-oxidant property. It helps in healing and tissue repair. It is found to have healing action of wounds caused by burns or cuts and inflammation. It is recommended to consume about 400 IU daily to have a healthy skin.

Given the importance of various vitamins for a healthy skin it is essential to have a diet rich in all the vitamins. If you are a person who doesn’t pay much attention to diet then it is recommended to take multivitamin tablets regularly.

Coming to the natural sources of these vitamins, fruits and vegetables are rich sources of vitamins. In particular:

• Vitamin A - Egg yolk, carotene rich vegetables like carrot, fruits like papaya and dairy products that are rich sources.

• Vitamin B - Poultry, fish, whole grains, pulses, leafy vegetables, meat and dairy products, which are rich sources of vitamin B-complex.

• Vitamin C - Citrus fruits, cabbage, broccoli, tomatoes have good amount of vitamin C.

• Vitamin E - Green leafy vegetables, vegetable oil, whole grains, and nuts have abundant amount of Vitamin E.

Include appropriate amounts of the above foods in your regular diet and enjoy the beauty of your skin.

Beauty Foods That Will Keep You Young and Healthy

You have heard that old saying "Real beauty comes from inside". Well, at present nutrition experts have proved that you truly are what you eat. Throw away french-fried potatoes and buttery beef burgers. If you prefer to look attractive and spirit young and fit, you will have to eat many kids of fruits and vegetables that have been evidenced to work magically on the human body.

Whether you are on a fat free diet, low carbohydrate diet, high protein diet or no diet, adding these magical foods to your meals should become a must to you as apply your lipstick on your lips in the morning.

For tight and healthy skin eat

Fruits: blueberries, apple, raspberries, strawberries, cherries, oranges, purple grapes

Vegetables: pumpkin, carrots, cucumber, sweet potatoes

For getting rid of black circles around eyes eat

Fruits: All citrus fruits are beneficial as they are best source of vitamin C

Vegetables: broccolis, cabbage, cauliflower, Chinese white cabbage, lettuce, spinach, romaine, Indian mustard, white turnip

For strong bones eat

Yogurt, Soya bean, bean curd and drink skim milk

To reduce stress eat

All kinds of beans (navy, pinto, red, black, green etc) should be included in the diet. Additionally you can add snap pea, garden pea, and Egyptian pea.

To supercharge immune system eat

Meat: Turkey, chicken breast and pigeon’s broth

Vegetables: broccoli, turnip leaves, cauliflower, spinach

Drinks: Drink plenty of green or Chinese tea

To avoid ultravoilet and sun damage eat

Vegetables: Love apple (tomato), watermelon

Fruits: Pink grapefruit is the best natural sun block

Eat healthy and look beautiful :)

Wrinkles and Sagging Skin

Wrinkles are the thin, creased, and sagging skin that is especially noticeable on the face, neck, and hands. Most wrinkles appear on the parts of the body where sun exposure is greatest. These especially include the face, neck, the backs of the hands, and the tops of the forearms. There's not a magic age when everyone suddenly gets wrinkles. Some people in their 20s have little wrinkles around their eyes from squinting or spending too much time in the sun. Skin wrinkles typically appear as a result of aging processes such as glycation or, temporarily, as the result of prolonged immersion in water.

Wrinkling in skin is caused by habitual facial expressions, aging, sun damage, smoking, poor hydration, and various other factors. The hair and nails also change with aging, including graying of the hair, hair loss, and brittleness of the nails. Dry skin with weak collagen and elastin will sag, shrivel, and wrinkle. The skin around the eyelids, jaw, and neck is especially thin, and therefore more naturally prone to aging.

Wind, heat and chemicals and the natural effects of aging cause a certain amount of wrinkling in everyone. Exposure to ultraviolet light, UVA or UVB, from sunlight accounts for 90% of the symptoms of premature skin aging. The dermis has an elastic quality thanks to fibers called elastin that keep the skin looking and feeling young. A protein in the dermis called collagen also plays a part in preventing wrinkles. Changes in the epidermis caused by the sun include thinning of the epidermis and the growth of skin lesions such as actinic keratoses, basal cell carcinomas, and squamous cell carcinomas. Sunlight damages collagen fibers and causes the accumulation of abnormal elastin. When this sun-induced elastin accumulates, enzymes called metalloproteinases are produced in large quantities. Habitual facial expressions cause the skin to wrinkle as it looses elasticity.

Treatments and products (including anti-aging creams) promising to reduce, remove, or prevent age-related wrinkles are big business in many industrialized countries.

* Vitamin A Acid has the longest track record of success in treating aging skin and fine lines.
* Creams containing tretinoin must be used on an ongoing basis. They may produce redness and peeling at first, but discomfort can usually be minimized by lowering the cream's concentration or applying it less often until the skin gets used to it.
* Alpha-hydroxy acids: These so-called "fruit acids" include glycolic and lactic acid.
* Antioxidants: These include preparations that contain the vitamins A, C, and E, as well as beta-carotene. Such creams may provide a certain amount of sun protection as well as mild improvement of fine wrinkles.

To minimize skin wrinkling, stay out of the sun as much as possible.

Get Rid of Wrinkles

* Close your lips, take your mouth in the left and then in the right. Practice it 3-4 times.
* Tap the face slowly and lightly with the fingertips to increase the blood circulation.
* Breathing should be proper while doing any of the workouts no matter whether.
* Use your fingers upwards from the lower of your eyes to the sides of the forehead; it relives the stress from the facial muscles.
* Stroke your chin in upward motions using both your thumbs. It helps reducing the double chin. * Blow off air from mouth as you are filling air in a balloon, it's a helpful exercise in filling the flat cheeks.
* Making a smiling face and then holding it for few second and releasing it are as good exercise for the cheeks.
* There are some lightweight, battery operated equipments are available in the market to use for facial exercises.

How to Keep Your Skin Young and Healthy

The aging process of the skin is caused by known factors. Skin aging can in great extend be avoided by simple means and aging symptoms in the skin can also often be cured by the same measures. Here are some practical anti-aging measures for the skin presented:

PROTECTION AGAINST THE SUN

You should enjoy the sunshine with reason. Some daily exposure from sun-rays on the skin will not hurt. On the contrary, it will in fact do your skin good. The skin gets a better colour, and it gets somewhat thicker and more robust. Massive daily exposure, however, has a very disturbing influence on the skin, and will cause all types of skin problems: Wrinkles, brown spots, discolouring, very thin or very thick skin, dry skin and cancer. To keep your skin young and healthy in the long run, you must protect your skin when you are outside for longer times.

TAKING LECITHIN

You should take some supplement of lecithin or a product containing lecithin. Lecithin is a fatty substance. It is an important constituent of all body tissues. It consists of glycerol, fatty acids, cholin, ethanolamine, inositol and serine. The four latter constituents are working tools used in nerve signal transmission and in tissue regeneration. Lecithin is especially important for the function and regeneration of nerve tissue and the skin. Lecithin also has a cleansing effect upon the skin. It helps the sebaceous gland to produce cleansing secretions. Taking a daily dose of lecithin alone or a product containing lecithin will greatly help to keep the skin young and regenerate the skin from damage.

EATING FISH AND SEA-FOOD

A dish of fish or seafood at least every second day has proven to keep the skin in good condition and help the skin to avoid sun damage. You should include fat fish, since fat fish has an especially high content of vitamin A and D, important for the skin health.

USE OF PLANT-OILS UPON YOUR SKIN

Using a topical product containing certain types of plant oils or even using some of the pure oils upon the skin daily will make the skin smooth and ease regeneration from damage. Oils that have these effects are: Evening Primrose Oil, Flax Seed Oil, Borage Oil, Soy Oil, Wheat Germ Oil and Olive oil. Pure olive oil of good quality can be used alone upon the skin after the daily wash. The amount needed is very little. Use exactly as much that is needed to saturate the skin and make it smooth.

CONSUMING OLIVE OIL AND OTHER NATURAL OILS

Using olive oil in your dishes will help to keep your skin young, and help the skin to regenerate from damage and aging symptoms. Olive oil contains much mono-unsaturated acids and much of vitamin E. However, your skin will also need essential poly-unsaturated fatty acids. Therefore you should also consume some amount of other types of oils or supplements containing poly-unsaturated oils especially valuable for your skin. Other plant oils with fatty acids beneficial for your skin are: Evening Primrose Oil, Flax Seed Oil, Borage Oil, Soy Oil, and Wheat Germ Oil.

TAKING CONJUGATED LINOLAEIC ACID (CLA)

CLA is a fatty acid produced in the stomach of cows by bacteria, taken up into the cow’s blood-stream and secreted into the milk. This acid has shown to help the skin regenerate from damage and keep the skin in a juvenile state. Taking CLA as a supplement may help you get finer skin, and also help you to keep your weight at a wanted level. Fat milk and diary products also contain CLA and can improve your skin health. However, great amounts of fat diary products are not good for your heart and circulation.

THE DAILY CARE OF YOUR SKIN

The skin should be washed at least once every day with a mild soap or cleansing product. Men should shave during the wash or after the wash, depending upon the shaving method used. Then you should use some oil or cream to protect your skin and to make it smooth and elastic. Use a product containing natural oils with anti-aging properties. If you suffer from acne or other skin problems, the cleansing product and the protecting cream should contain ingredients to treat this problem.

Before exposing your skin to heavy sunshine for a longer time, you should also use some additional product with sun-shield. If you have used a product with sun-shield or make-up during the day, this should be washed away in the evening, and a new layer of protecting cream laid on.

More basic washing and care that that outlined here, is not necessary, and may in fact damage your skin. The same is true for heavy use of make-up.

DON'T SMOKE

Smoking has a very negative effect upon the skin in the long run, and will cause a lot of wrinkles.

Natural Herbal Skin Care

Skin is the body’s mirror of our inner health and wellness, both physical and emotional. Skin plays a vital role in our life, how one looks and feels directly correlates to ones skin. A healthy lifestyle reflects on the skin so staying in good physical condition can aid in the good appearance of the skin. There are two sets of glands found in the dermis the sweat glands and the oil glands. The sweat glands are employed in the elimination of the water-soluble cellular waste. The oil glands secrete oil, which lubricates the skin surface. Skin care is very important for women and men of all ages. Proper moisture levels in your skin (epidermis) help diminish signs of aging and distress from the outdoors, and prevent frequent makeup and cosmetics use from diminishing the skin’s glow and general health. Great skin is the first step toward an excellent makeup. One of the most important factors of skin care is skin cleansing. Because of dirt, pollution, residual makeup, etc.

There are different variants of bath lotion for dry skin, oily skin, and normal skin.

Providing the right skin care (including cleansing skin surface of the skin).

All skin care is not created equally. Beautiful skin often begins inside and radiates outward. Women’s skin care differs from that of children and men, and among women, skin care even differs at various stages of life. Poor nutrition, unhealthy lifestyle choices and stress all contribute to the overall poor health of the skin. Facial skin is very thin and more sensitive to irritants and allergens then the rest of the body. Regular body care is essential for good health and well-being. However, frequent showers and bathing can deplete of body of its natural oils and upset your skin’s protective moisture barrier. The skin of the peach is useful in improving the complexion. Gently massage the inside of peach peelings on the face every night for a few minutes. Don’t rub off the moisture afterwards.

Natural Herbal Skin Care Tips

* The vitamins of the B group are important in producing beautiful skin.

* Get adequate rest and nutrition.

* Vitamin B1 aids skin health by helping to keep the circulation normal.

* Vitamin B2 or riboflavin deficiency can lead to brown pigmentation, or liver spots on the skin.

* Squeeze lemon juice in a bowl of iced water. Splash this over the face, massage for five minutes and then wash off with water.

* Mix half teaspoon of lime juice with one teaspoon of cucumber juice and a few drops of rose water. Apply on the face and neck and leave on for 15 minutes.

* Lime juice is an important natural aid for healthy skin.

* Mix a teaspoon of olive oil with an egg. Smoothen the face and neck with it. Let it remain till the skin gets dry.

* Grind rose petals and mix with cream on the top of milk and apply to your body. Shower after 10 minutes.

* Avoid pus and rashes, eat plenty of sprouts, alfalfa, barley, tomatoes, spinach, strawberries and figs.

* Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables - while avoiding oily and spicy food and go easy on sweets - that’s for those who have a smooth tooth.

* Mix a tablespoon of rice flour with 2 tablespoons curd. This is an effective cleansing milk which removes stale makeup and cleans open pores.

Homemade Facials, What Is Best for Your Face?

Everyone knows that having a facial done at least four times a year can be amazing for your skin. Those beauty experts have the tools and the know-how to unclog your pores and exfoliate properly. The only thing is you are talking at least $60 dollars a visit.

If you can’t go to a fancy day spa due to lack of time why not pamper yourself at home with a homemade facial. It can be just as effective using real food you have around your kitchen. These can be such things like yogurt or cucumbers. Be careful if you have never used these items before on your face, you would hate to have a allergic reaction to it. If fact never used on your face any food item you are allergic to. It’s a known fact that if you are allergic to a food it will cause you to break out even if you did not eat it.

Whatever food you do use, you should test it on your inner arm before smearing it on your face. Then wait at least one hour to 24 hours before going ahead and trying it out on your face. It’s just to make sure that the spot doesn’t become red or irritated.

Give these four kitchen facials recipes a try, they can make you feel and look younger and you might be tempted to eat the leftovers! Because each of us has different types of skin, its best to try out a recipe geared towards your skin-type.

We all know that peaches and cream are amazing for your face but have you tried these recipes out before?

For all skin types:

Tropical Breeze Facial

1 Banana
1 Mango
1 Cup Crushed Pineapple
1 Tbs Olive Oil
Mix all 3 fruits together in a blender until it becomes a thick liquid. Apply it to your face avoiding your eyes. Wash off with warm water after three to five minutes. Pat face with cool water. Moisturize with olive oil.

Got dry skin, try this:

1~ Egg Yolk
1~ Tablespoon Honey
Mix them well and set aside

1~ Tablespoon Oatmeal
1~ Tablespoon Almond Meal
Mix those together and then mix that into the egg mixture. Add 1 tablespoon milk or yogurt.

Apply the mixture to your face and allow it to dry completely. About 20-30 minutes. Wash with a cloth soaked with warm water, rinse with warm then cool water. Pat dry, then apply your moisturizer.

For oily skin why not try this?

1~ Egg White
Beat the egg white till foamy. Then apply to your face especially to the T-zone. Leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water, then cool water. Pat dry.

Got Blemishes? Then try these simple but very good homemade facials.

Mike and honey does your face good.

1~ Tablespoon Milk
1~ Tablespoon Honey (well documented for its drawing power)
1~ Egg
Mix everything together and let sit till warm temperature. Apply to your face at least 20 minutes or till hardened. Rinse your face thoroughly with warm water, then cool water. Pat dry.

Did you know that a tomato can help draw out blackheads naturally? Take one tomato and rub it on the affected areas. It helps restore acidity to your skin’s surface. Rinse and pat dry. Apply your moisturizer.

Take time to visit your kitchen for homemade facials and you will find your face feeling soft and smooth and younger looking starting today! Nature knows what is best for us, and it’s always going to be better for your skin to check out other recipes if needed. You can make most of what you need without the high price tags that comes with spa done facials.

How to Make Homemade Skin Bleach

Each and every one of us faces skin problems. It is essential to get rid of these problems without any delay. It is best to prefer home remedies than going for cosmetics which will cause more damage in a long run. One of the common skin problem faced by many of us is skin darkening due to various reasons like acne, which results in melanin accumulation after healing of the pimple and exposure to sun for a very long time.

Regular application of sun screen lotion helps to protect the skin from harmful UV rays of the sun. In women, the hormonal disturbances seen at the time pregnancy causes dark pigmentation. However, pregnancy induced skin darkening generally gets back to normal after giving birth to the baby. But the pigmentation caused due to acne has to be treated without neglect. Skin bleach helps to reduce the extent of pigmentation and therefore gives a bright look to our skin. But this is not a permanent result. You have to keep applying the bleach once in a while.

Here are some simple ways to make a skin bleach right at your home:

• An ingredient that you need includes 2tbsp of ground oatmeal, 1tbsp of plain yogurt, 1tsp of olive oil and 2tsp of lemon juice. Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until it forms a paste of required thickness. Now, apply it over to your skin and leave it for 15-30 minutes. Wash the bleach with water and apply a moisturizer.

• Orange is a highly nutritious fruit. The rich content of vitamin C present in the fruit helps to fight against diseases. Even the peel helps to improve the skin health. Dry the orange peel under the sun and make it into powder. Make it to a paste by mixing with milk. The paste can be applied to the skin.

• Mix of lemon juice, cucumber juice and little turmeric helps to maintain a healthy white skin. The antiseptic property of turmeric and lemon juice helps to heal any cuts caused due to acne or other reason very easily.

• Soak almonds overnight and make them into a paste by adding honey to it. This helps to give a new shine to the skin.

• A combination of coconut milk and pineapple juice also helps to whiten the skin.

Precautions to be taken to use skin bleach:

• Never apply it to over a large area if you are using it for the first time. Check how your skin responds by applying over in a small area. If you observe any redness or itching sensation discontinue using.

• Do not forget to apply over the neck region if you are applying the bleach to your face.

However, while using homemade skin bleach it is essential to be cautious during the preparation to maintain correct proportions. In addition to saving money, you can have control over the concentration of the preparations. If you notice that your skin is unable to take higher concentrations you can automatically make it to lower concentrations.