Healthy Anti-Aging Resources

Recently I have had a few queries regarding natural therapy for healthy blood pressure.

My mother suffered from high blood pressure (hypertension) for many years and then died of a massive heart attack at the age of 71. The blood pressure medication she was on did nothing to prevent heart disease, nor did it cure it.

High blood pressure can result in a heart attack or stroke, and is called the ‘silent killer’ because there are no symptoms.

According to Bruce H Lipton PhD author of ‘The Biology of Belief”, ‘genes and DNA do not control our biology; that instead DNA is controlled by signals from outside the cell, including the energetic messages emanating from our positive and negative thoughts’ and the environment, that impacts on the health of our body’s cells.

So what can we do?

First of all, and I am pretty sure that you would have heard it all before,  there are 3 major things that need attention:

1. Eat a healthy diet which includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Cut out large servings of meat and dairy. Remove processed foods and takeaways from your diet. Reduce salt intake. Drink 8 glasses of water daily. Quit smoking.
2. Include moderate exercise in your daily life. Find something that you enjoy doing, so that it is not a difficult thing to keep on doing. Read more on what type of exercise is good for Hypertension here.
3. Relax! Take deep breaths. Meditate. Read. Listen to music. Whatever calms you down and slows you down. Even if you just start with 10 minutes a day.

If you can’t do those 3 things, then it is pointless taking the following nutritional supplements.
The nutritional supplements that I suggest are:
1. optimal quality anti-oxidants, vitamins and multi-minerals
2. a calcium supplement that also contains magnesium, vitamin D3 and Vitamin K.
3. a good quality omega-3 fish or flaxseed oil supplement

How effective are these supplements at reducing blood pressure? Government regulations do not allow me to voice an opinion, so allow me to hand over to my learned friends…

Here is some educational information that may help you to form your own opinion.
Dr Gerald Lewis is a cardiologist and GP. He is in the Who’s Who book for his work with blood pressure. Here is what he suggests for high blood pressure. Note that Dr Lewis says “Drugs are the treatment usually recommended by doctors. Today these are very effective and have fewer side effects (thiazide diuretics, beta blockers, calcium blockers, ACE inhibitors, A2 inhibitors), and in many cases are given together in lower doses, which further reduces the side effects” along with recommendations for nutritional supplements. Dr Lewis has also made a very informative video on coronary heart disease.

The Amazing Nutrient that Lowers Your Blood Pressure – Dr Mercola suggests that vitamin-d levels are linked to arterial stiffness

Personally, I take 4000iu of Vitamin D3 daily and I am about to go get my blood levels checked for Vitamin D.
I wrote this blog post last year and you will see that hypertension is listed in the section on disease prevention – Vitamin D does more than just prevent the flu.

• Recent research on how Combined Grape Seed Extract and Vitamin C Supplementation Improves Vascular Health
• Research news about how Grape seed, resveratrol and pomegranate provide potent blood pressure lowering effect
• A study was done on how fibre intake reduces the risk of heart disease (which includes hypertension).
• And if you still require further information, Doctor Ray Strand (Dr. Strand is a specialist in nutritional and preventive medicine and is quickly becoming one of the world’s leading authorities)  provides advice for Hypertension.

(Natural News) Increasing incidence of high blood pressure continues to be the most significant factor in death from a heart attack and advancing cardiovascular disease. Elevated blood pressure readings cause thickening of the coronary arteries as micro…read more Proper potassium balance essential to healthy blood pressure and reduced heart attack risk

Discover why eating sugar (and high glycemic foods/drinks) endangers your heart and overall health. This is an eye opening one hour presentation by Dr. David Diamond, Ph.D., of the University of South Florida College of Arts and Sciences titled: “How Bad Science and Big Business Created the Obesity Epidemic”  Dr Diamond was diagnosed with heart disease in 2005 – high cholesterol included.  Find out why he is still alive….How Bad Science and Big Business Created the Obesity Epidemic

Should we make moderate changes or major changes to our diet? Take a moment and watch this 4 minute video: Must Know Tips: Dr. Oz and Dr. Dean Ornish discuss heart attacks and diet.

For women 40+ who want to live life to the full and stay younger longer

If you would like to find out which nutritional supplements are recommended to support optimum heart health, please request my free eBook, by completing the form on your top right.  The nutritional supplements that I promote contain all of the above ingredients at optimal levels.

I trust you found this helpful. If you did, please share it with others by clicking on the Facebook and/or Twitter icons below. And be sure to leave your comments and questions below. Thank you!

This post is from Bea Kinnear, a lady who has spent a lot of time researching skincare.
Bea is the author of Your Skin & You 5th Edition

I was watching a favorite T.V. show today, like all shows it seems to me, they advertise yet another skin care product with “amazing” ingredients. Naturally they all sound like they discovered a special ingredient and that no one else has anything which could perform like theirs.

I decided to go through the best anti-aging skincare ingredients and point out some “amazing” ingredients for you.
Well I never realized what a tough job that was going to be. Thus I decided to select only a few. Well that didn’t work as you will see because I picked one, then the next one was just as important and excellent so it was hard to decide just which ones I would list.

The following were chosen because they really do assist in “anti-aging”, smooth beautiful skin as well as healthy skin. Although sunscreen ingredients are the best anti-aging ingredients, I did not list those because you already know that. So, here is my list of the fantastic ingredients that helps towards antiaging when used daily.

Algae Extracts: These marine plant extracts helps to diminish visible signs of aging. A blend also helps to enhance skin firmness.

Bearberry Extract: It is a skin brightener and helps to enhance a healthy skin tone and appearance.

Bisabolo: A natural ingredient that is soothing and has a strong calming effect on skin.

Shea Butter: A natural moisturizer that actually also has some sunscreen ability. It absorbs quickly, has a softening effect on skin and helps to restore an even tone.

Calcium PCA: Calcium PCA strengthens our skin’s protective barrier to help guard against the harsh environment.

Green Tea: Green tea has many benefits but the key ones are the forms of Antioxidants like vitamins C & E. It has amino Acid, that is naturally found in our skin and green tea is also known for its soothing properties.

Gotu Kola Extract: This extract tightens the skin and increases its elasticity. Its calming agents can speed cell reproduction ( a bonus for the older generation).

Ceramide 3: This ingredient has been found to reduce roughness, increase water content and protect against irritant-induced dermatitis.

Irish Moss: Is a rich emollient with hydrating properties. Excellent as a skin softener.

Cyclomethicone: This has strong moisturization and humectant properties.

Cyclodextrin: This is what we call an “active” ingredient that acts to help deliver healthful compounds to the cells.

Decyl Glucoside: This is another blend of some natural ingredients that releases skin surface tension so the foreign substances are easily rinsed away. It is another form of cleansing.

Disodium EDTA: Metallic ions may remain on our skin from our water, this ingredient is important to neutralize these offending ions.

Coneflower Extract: This extract is rich in Vitamins A, E, C, iron, iodine and copper. It has strong skin-firming ability and a powerful MMP inhibitor.

Glucosamine HCL: A derived marine source that firms skin and has calming exfoliating agents.

Glycine: One of three main amino acids found in collagen. It is a strong moisturizer that can also help stabilize Vitamin C.

Licorice: Powerful oxidative-stress inhibitor, natural skin brightener and has soothing properties.

Meadowfoam Oil: Rich in Vitamin C.

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate: Water-soluble Vitamin C It creates smoother and firmer skin.

Mallow: Reduces the visible sign of aging. This extract has soothing and nourishing ability.

Mango Butter: Contains nonessential fatty acids naturally found in the body. It is an excellent lubricator and skin
moisturizer.

Olive Leaf Extract: Powerful extract of antioxidants that can help reduce the visible signs of aging while it soothes and moisturizes the skin.

Panthenol Vitamin B5: Helps to eliminate dry, scaly skin patches and provide fullness to the skin.

Avocado Oil: Wonderful hydrating oil for dry skin and mature skin.

Sea Plankton extract: Has calming properties and is considered a cell revitalizer that enhances the skin’s complexion.

Clary Sage: This extract clarifies, soothes and relaxes the skin.

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate: Oil-soluble vitamin C. Fights free radical damage, diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. A skin firming agent. A highly efficacious vitamin C.

Threonine: A Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) that has antioxidant properties and wound healing.

Tocopherol: Scientific name for Vitamin E. A powerful antioxidant and deep moisturizer easily absorbed by skin.

Undecylenoyl Glycine: From Coconut oil this glycine is a major constituent of dermal-structure proteins.

Urea: Naturally found in skin and is a NMF. It fosters the skin’s absorption of other nourishing ingredients.

Grape Extract: A proanthocyanidin (strong antioxidant) that is known to improve, brighten, nourish and enhance skin color.

Yucca Extract: Rich in Vitamins A,B-complex, C, as well as calcium, iron, phosphorus, manganese and cooper. An
amazing natural cleanser with a high saponin content.

Have a Sensé-tional Day!
Bea Kinnear, Author
Note: You can find all these ingredients and more in my book Your Skin & You 5th Edition

All these amazing ingredients and more can be found in one skincare range. If you would like more information regarding this skincare range I can help you. Please go to Contact Helen and leave your request and details.

This post is from Bea Kinnear, a lady who has spent a lot of time researching skincare.
Bea is the author of Your Skin & You 5th Edition

The absolute truth is that there are good and bad products in all price categories.

The amount of money you spend on skin-care products has nothing to do with the quality or uniqueness of the formula. Any irritant-free toner is infinitely better than a toner that contains peppermint, menthol, essential oils, eucalyptus, lemon, or other irritants, no matter how natural-sounding the ingredients are and regardless of the price or claim. Lots of expensive products are little more than water and wax, and some inexpensive products are beautifully formulated. Spending less doesn’t hurt your skin, and spending more doesn’t help it. It’s all about the formulation, not the price.

Whatever preconceived notion someone might have or media-induced fiction someone might believe about natural ingredients being better for the skin; it’s not true, there is no factual basis or scientific legitimacy for that belief. Just because an ingredient grows out of the ground or is found in nature doesn’t make it automatically good for skin; and the reverse is also true, just because it is synthetic doesn’t make it bad. Consumers should not necessarily assume that an ‘organic’ or ‘natural’ ingredient or product would possess greater inherent safety than another chemically identical version of the same ingredient. In fact, ‘natural’ ingredients may be harder to preserve against microbial contamination and growth than synthetic raw materials.

People should not interpret even the USDA Organic seal or any organic seal of approval on cosmetics as proof of health benefits or of efficacy.
(Source: www.ams.usda.gov/nop/FactSheets/Backgrounder.html). The National Organic Program is a marketing program, not a safety program. Steak may be graded prime, but that has no bearing on whether it is safe or nutritious to eat.

Women have problems with their skin because they often like what isn’t good for them. For example, you may like getting a tan, but that can cause skin cancer and most certainly will cause wrinkles and skin discolorations. You may like smoking cigarettes, but that will cause skin cells to die and will cause the growth of unhealthy, malformed skin cells. You may like that daytime moisturizer you are using, but if it doesn’t contain sunscreen it leaves your skin wide open to sun damage. What it takes to help your skin be at its best and to function normally and really fight wrinkles or acne or any other skin problem is far more complex than just using what you “like.” This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t like what you use, but do take the time to select from among products that are truly healthy and beneficial for skin. Don’t pick a product just from smell or how fancy the package is, they are just marketing tools to get you to buy. It does not qualify the enclosed ingredients any more than price can.
Have a Sensé-tional Day!
Bea Kinnear, Author
Your Skin & You 5th Edition

Learn more – the best anti-aging skincare ingredients currently available.

Vitamin D deficiency has long been associated with poor bone development and has been identified as the cause of rickets. The latest review indicates that vitamin D insufficiency is still very common globally.

The vitamin D status depends on the production of vitamin D3 in the skin under the influence of ultraviolet radiation and vitamin D intake through the diet or vitamin D supplements. The serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration is often used to assess vitamin D status. The minimum required serum 25(OH)D for all ages is set at 50 nmol/l. However, current guideline indicates that sufficient serum level should be 75 or 80 nmol/l or even higher.

Usually, between 50% and 90% of vitamin D in the body is coming from the production in the skin. The production of vitamin D3 in the skin depends on sunshine exposure, latitude, skin-covering clothes, the use of sun block and skin pigmentation. In general, serum 25(OH)D is lower with higher latitudes and with darker skin types.

Recent studies from different continents and countries recognized general patterns on the vitamin D status worldwide.
Vitamin D deficiency (serum 25(OH)D < 25 nmol/l) is highly prevalent in India and China while vitamin D status is better in Japan and South-East Asia.
Vitamin D deficiency is very common in the Middle-East and there is a relationship with skin covering clothes and staying out of the sun.
A poor to moderate vitamin D status is also common in Africa, probably caused by the dark skin types and cultural habits of staying outside of the sunshine.

Vitamin D status is much better in North America where vitamin D deficiency is uncommon but vitamin D insufficiency (serum 25(OH)D between 25 and 50 nmol/l) is still common. In the United States and Canada milk is usually supplemented with vitamin D and the use of vitamin supplements is relatively common.

Vitamin D status in Latin America usually is reasonable but there are exceptions and vitamin D insufficiency still occurs quite often.
In Australia and New Zealand a poor vitamin D status was seen in the elderly who were often vitamin D deficient and also in immigrants from Asia. Vitamin D deficiency also occurred in children when the mother was vitamin D deficient.

Within Europe, vitamin D status usually is better in the Nordic countries (Northern Europe) than around the Mediterranean. This may be due to a lighter skin and sun seeking behaviour and a high consumption of cod liver oil in the Northern countries; while in Southern Europe people stay out of the sunshine and have a somewhat darker skin. A very poor vitamin D status was observed in older people and in non-western immigrants, especially in pregnant women.

Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency are globally still very common especially in risk groups such as young children, pregnant women, elderly and immigrants. Moderate sunshine exposure and food fortification with vitamin D can improve the vitamin D status. In order to rise serum 25(OH)D to 50 nmol/l (20 ng/ml) or higher, a large part of the population will need vitamin D supplementation in winter or all year long.

Source:
P. Lips, Worldwide status of vitamin D nutrition. Journal of Steroid Biochemistry & Molecular Biology 121 (2010) 297–300

In white adults, being overweight or obese (and possibly underweight) is associated with increased all-cause mortality. All-cause mortality is generally lowest with a BMI of 20.0 to 24.9.

A high body-mass index (BMI) is associated with increased mortality from cardiovascular disease and certain cancers, but the precise relationship between BMI and all-cause mortality remains uncertain.

A large analysis reported in the December 2, 2010 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine confirms the relationship between being overweight or obese and a greater risk of dying from all causes.

An international team of researchers pooled data from 19 prospective studies totalling 1,462,958 white male and female participants between the ages of 19 and 84. Body mass index (BMI), calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters, was determined for all subjects. The participants were followed for periods that ranged from 7 to 28 years, during which 160,087 deaths occurred.

Upon enrollment, the average BMI was 26.2. Compared with women whose body mass index was between 22.5 and 24.9, having a BMI of 25 to 29.9 correlated with a 13 percent greater risk of death over the follow-up period. This risk rose with increasing body mass index categories, with women whose BMI was 40 to 49.9 having 2.5 times the risk of death from all causes than those with a BMI of 22.5 to 24.9. Risks among men were similar. Although a small risk of death was also observed for those whose BMI was below 20, the authors suggest that the finding was in part caused by pre-existing disease.

In white adults, overweight and obesity (and possibly underweight) are associated with increased all-cause mortality. All-cause mortality is generally lowest with a BMI of 20.0 to 24.9.

To learn more or to calculate your BMI, please visit the following link:

http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/

Source:
de Gonzalez AB, Phil D, et al. 2010. N Engl J Med 363:2211-9.

High dietary fiber intake, especially from a variety of sources, is related to a reduction in many cardiovascular disease risk factors.

Increased dietary fibre intake is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. The results of a cross-sectional study published in the December 2005 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition added unique insight to the growing body of evidence linking higher dietary fibre intake with reduced risk of heart disease.

In this study, data was collected from roughly 2,500 men and 3,500 women (5,961 in total). These individuals were already participating in the SU.VI.MAX Study, a trial designed to evaluate the effect of antioxidants on cancer and heart disease incidence over an eight year period. Participants from this study were selected because the SU.VI.MAX Study already required detailed dietary information, making it easy to estimate fibre intakes for the participants.

Higher total and insoluble dietary fibre intakes were associated with reductions in the risks of elevated waist-to-hip ratio (a marker of obesity), hypertension (high blood pressure), plasma apolipoprotein B (LDL cholesterol), apolipoprotein B to apolipoprotein A-I ratio (LDL to HDL ratio), triacylglycerols, and homocysteine. Fibre from cereals was associated with a lower body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, and homocysteine concentration; fiber from vegetables with a lower blood pressure and homocysteine concentration; and fibre from fruit with a lower waist-to-hip ratio and blood pressure. Fibre from dried fruit or nuts and seeds was associated with a lower body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, and fasting apo B and glucose concentrations.

The findings of this study illustrate the significance of increasing fibre intake from various dietary sources. The results also indicate that 25 grams total dietary fibre per day may be the minimum intake required to attain a significant protective effect against cardiovascular disease, and that total dietary fibre intakes of 30-35 grams/day might provide an even greater protective effect.

Source:
Lairon D et al. Dietary fiber intake and risk factors for cardiovascular disease in French adults. 2005. AJCN 82(6):1185-94.

As many of us know, October is breast cancer month. Many thousands of dollars are collected to supposedly help women combat breast cancer. We are encouraged to take part in ‘early detection’ for your protection, but how often do we hear messages about breast cancer prevention? I have had one friend survive breast cancer, one friend who had both breasts removed and another friend who died after a long five year battle. Did they know what they could have done to prevent breast cancer????

This weekend I attended a health seminar where it was refreshing to hear from two female health professionals talking about breast cancer prevention. Here in ‘clean, green’ New Zealand, it is astounding that 1 in 8 women will be affected by breast cancer. Researchers are now saying that only 5% of cancers can be attributed to genetics, so the remaining causes are….????? Well, let’s say that we are in charge – yes, it is down to us, our lifestyle, our environment and our thoughts.

One of the speakers on the weekend was Lynda Wharton who wrote a book this year titled ‘Well-Being’. Lynda’s book is ‘an essential guide to vibrant good health for women’ and contains ‘comprehensive information on holistic breast cancer prevention – a must for every woman’. I believe that it is our duty as mothers to teach our daughters what they can do to prevent breast cancer.

Lynda provides a summary of things we can do to prevent breast cancer after she provides in-depth information. I do recommend her book – so if you can, get yourself a copy and use it for reference.

Lifestyle choices:

• Do not smoke, and avoid inhaling second-hand smoke
• Keep weight within a healthy range
• Keep calorie intake within a healthy range
• Exercise aerobically for at least 4 hours a week
• Minimize exposure to ionizing radiation such as X-rays and CT scans
• Sleep in a very dark room at night
• Try to get at least 7 hours of sleep a night
• Minimize use of antibiotics as much as possible
• Avoid (or minimize use of) hormone replacement therapy and the oral contraceptive pill
• Choose environmentally friendly cleaning products which are less likely to contain toxic chemicals
• Use plastic gloves and face masks if you are forced to use toxic chemicals, especially if they are sprayed.
• Always move well away from the car when you are refueling to avoid petrol fumes
• Use safety-conscious personal care products that contain no parabens
• Avoid hairspray, nail polish and perfume containing phthalates
• Avoid underarm antiperspirants containing aluminum; instead use aluminum-free deodorants (still controversial)
• Breastfeed your babies
• Avoid cooking or storing food in plastics; using plastic kettles; wrapping food in plastic cling wrap
• Go without a bra whenever possible to allow unimpeded blood and lymphatic circulation in breasts
• Aim to have at least 15 minutes of sun exposure every day, at the lowest ultraviolet times of the day (before 10am and 4pm)

Nutritional Choices

• Eat organic foods as much as possible to minimize intake of potentially estrogenic or carcinogenic spray residues
• Eat 9 or more servings of organic fruits and vegetables every day
• Always wash fruits and vegetables well before eating
• Eat brassica vegetables every day (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts)
• Drink 3-6 cups of green tea daily
• Eat leafy green vegetables daily to boost intake of folate
• Minimize or avoid drinking alcohol
• Eat a high-fiber diet containing plentiful amounts of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds.
• Include in your diet a moderate amount of fermented soya foods, as in an Asian diet and a wide variety of other phyto-estrogen-rich foods
• Decrease intake of saturated fats, trans-fats and omega-6-rich polyunsaturated fats, and increase intake of omega-3 and omega-9 fatty acids from fish, flax oil, flax seed, avocado, nuts and seeds, and olive oil.
• Reduce intake of red meat and increase fish-based or vegetarian meals.
• Avoid processed meats that contain carcinogenic nitrates
• Never eat charred or burned foods. Minimize consumption of barbecued meat.
• Support friendly gut bacteria with unsweetened low-fat acidophilus yoghurt or probiotic drinks
• Choose low-GI carbohydrates and minimize intake of sugars and process foods that contain added sugar, which cause insulin spikes
• Cook with generous amounts of turmeric and garlic
• Consult a naturopath or nutritionist for advice on nutritional supplementation and breast cancer.

The other health professional also recommended breast massage.

Stress is a big factor in all cancers. To negate the stress factor, I recommend you:

• Avoid stress as much as possible
• Learn to meditate, do yoga, relax
• Get 8 hours of good sleep at night
• Take advanced quality, broad-spectrum nutritional supplements

This very comprehensive list may appear over-whelming but if we just gradually make the changes over time, not only do we have a better chance at preventing breast cancer naturally, but we will also have the side-effects of feeling healthier with much more energy, vitality and zest – to live life to the fullest!

Living Downstream by Sandra Steingraber

After reading Sandra Steingraber’s book “Living Downstream” and learning about all the carcinogenic toxins in our water, air, soil and hence food – I realize:

• Just how important it is to keep on taking high quality supplements to support a healthy immune system,
• To ensure that our fibre intake is high enough to help remove toxins from our body,
• The importance of eating organic food as much as we can,
• To be aware of the source of our water so that we can negate the effects of contamination and
• To be more aware of keeping our environment clean and green.

If you wish to begin to understand what toxic chemicals are affecting our environment and causing a great many more cancers, then I do recommend this book (or DVD).

Recently a friend was staying with me and was curious about my supplements. I take a basic “wellness” program plus enhancers. I recommend the basic wellness program to people who are happy with their health and wish to maintain the status quo. For others who wish to prevent certain health issues, then a program can be tailored taking into account their nutritional requirements and their budget. As we age, I feel that we need extra nutritional support for our long-term health.

I would like to stress that taking supplements is no substitute for a healthy diet – we must avoid processed foods and eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. Exercise and getting out into the fresh air and sunshine is important for our good health.

There are many more toxins and chemicals in our environment now compared to pre World War Two and our bodies require high-quality and optimum nutrition to combat these onslaughts.

The basic wellness program:
1. Antioxidants and multi-vitamins – whilst it is important to eat a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, we have no way of knowing how much nutrition is available or how fresh the products are that we purchase. Plus we do not know how much free radical damage is occurring in our bodies. So we need to keep our body’s cells ‘oiled’ to prevent the internal ‘rust’.

2. Multi-minerals – Vitamins and enzymes cannot function without minerals. Minerals are missing from our soils, and thus our food. Minerals must be in a form that is readily absorbed by the body (i.e. bioavailable).

3. Calcium/magnesium/vitamin D3 – vital for our bone health. Calcium supports strong bones, tissues and teeth, as well as healthy cartilage, joints and muscular activity – keeps you standing tall. All three nutrients work in synergy and keep our bones strong. Calcium and magnesium are also necessary to support healthy blood pressure.

4. Omega-3 – from fish oil or flaxseed oil. Much research has been done on this nutrient. All cells in our body require omega-3.

5. Fiber – An added option to the basic wellness program is a Fiber product. Fiber is necessary for our indigestion, and many people with health issues do not get enough fiber in their diet.

Enhancers I add to my program:

Glucosamine sulfate/Vitamin C/Manganese/Turmeric
Both my parents suffered from arthritis. This product is the building block of healthy cartilage. The body does repair damaged cartilage but if the building blocks are not available then joint pain and osteoarthritis may result.
Grape Seed Extract
Before I started taking supplements, I used to get 3-4 colds/flu a year plus I suffered from hay fever and sinusitis. Grape Seed Extract helps in relieving the symptoms of colds plus is an excellent source of health-assisting antioxidants. Grape Seed Extract is naturally high in silicon, a mineral essential for healthy, soft, smooth skin. Grape Seed Extract may keep collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid within the skin in good shape by blocking enzymes that might disrupt their chemical structure. Its flavonoids also inhibit allergic reactions that can generate skin problems.
Phytoestrogens and soy isoflavones
These provide a natural approach to maintaining health before and after menopause. Phytoestrogens in the diet are believed to be a stabilizing factor throughout hormonal cycles. This stabilization may help to maintain bone mass into the mature years. Always check the source of soy products because many these days are GMO.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis. Collagen is essential for strengthening muscles, teeth bones, skin and blood vessels. Human bodies are incapable of manufacturing vitamin C so we must rely on our diet to satisfy our daily requirement.
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D3 plays an important role in helping the body absorb calcium and in bone mineralization, supports a robust and healthy immune system, important for the maintenance of muscle strength to prevent body sway and increased risk of falling. Accumulating scientific evidence is proving that Vitamin D provides more health benefits than simply bone health. Deficiency has been associated with increased risk of common cancers, autoimmune diseases, hypertension, and infectious diseases. Evidence is emerging that there is wide spread vitamin D deficiency in the broader population. People are covering up when outside in the sun to prevent skin cancer and many others are their spending days inside, and not getting any sun exposure at all. We need sun exposure for the body to make Vitamin D. Vitamin D is currently heavily researched – for up-to-date information visit the Vitamin D Council. Get your Vitamin D levels tested by your doctor to ensure that you are not deficient (“25 OH Vitamin D” blood test (also known as “25 hydroxy vitamin D”) and you want to be in the 50-80 ng/ml range).

From time to time, I will take these two extra products to ensure good digestive health:
Probiotics
Probiotics help to maintain healthy gut flora. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most common diagnosis in gastroenterology. Reduced quality of life caused by IBS affects approximately 20% of adult Westerners. Studies suggest certain probiotics to be beneficial, and provide a promising therapeutic alternative.
Milk Thistle
To help support healthy liver function and normal detoxification process

Both my parents suffered from heart disease. My mother died from a heart attack after many years on blood pressure medication. My mother also suffered from diverticulitis for many years. My father had a triple bypass heart operation and eventually died as a result of prostate cancer. My parents never discovered the benefits of nutritional supplementation. My aim is to stay healthy until the day I die, which is why I am being proactive now.

For women 40+ who want to live life to the full and stay younger longer

If you would like to find out which nutritional supplements are recommended for healthy aging, please request my free eBook, by completing the form on your top right.

I trust you found this helpful. If you did, please share it with others by clicking on the Facebook and/or Twitter icons below. And be sure to leave your comments and questions below. Thank you!

Do you want a temporary skin fix or healthy skin for life? How much money do people spend on temporary fixes – cosmetics, botox, micro-dermabrasion, fillers and plastic surgery without thinking about providing nutrition for the skin from the inside? There is a now a new word ‘neutracueticals’ to describe taking care of our skin not only from the outside but also from the inside. Neutraceuticals are nutritional supplements that benefit our skin and the longer we take them the healthier and younger-looking our skin becomes.

You may have noticed that more and more companies are providing skincare products that contain herbs, nutrients and anti-oxidants – such as ‘amino peptide complex’, ‘Q10’, ‘feverfew’, ‘retinol’, ‘oatmeal’, ‘soy’, ‘lavendar’, ‘chamomile’, ‘ylang ylang’ as well as genes! The list goes on and on.

Our skin, being the largest organ in our body does require care. And using products on the outside that are chemical-free and healthy is just as important as what we eat and drink. It goes without saying that our skin thrives on a healthy diet, proper sleep and good clean water. A good quick test to check if you are hydrated enough is to pinch the skin on the back of your hand – it should bounce back quickly when you let go. If not, drink more water.

Last week I had a BodyTalk appointment with a lovely young practitioner. She asked my age and told me that I look about 10 years younger! I have been supplementing my healthy diet since the year 2000 and I believe it is really making a difference not only to my energy levels but also to my skin.

Which supplements nourish our skin from the inside?

Calcium with balanced levels of magnesium, Vitamin D3 and Vitamin K – helps with cells renewal, lipid barrier protection and antioxidant protection from DNA damage. A deficiency will manifest itself in dryness, itching, premature aging/wrinkling and an increased tendency to develop skin cancers. When there is a calcium deficiency, your body will ‘steal’ calcium from your bones and teeth.

Antioxidants and grape-seed extract – these have anti-inflammatory, anti-allergy and anti-acne capabilities. They repair aged skin, reduce wrinkles, reduces free-radical damage, have wound healing properties and contribute to a healthy looking, glowing complexion. They stop us from ‘rusting’ inside.

Omega-3 (from pure fish oils and flaxseed oils) – these block oxidation of skin oil and reduce acne. Without these essential fatty acids, dryness, skin irritation, whiteheads and blackheads will become regular features on the skin. They sooth inflamed skin and help prevent immature aging. They are essential for dry, sensitive skin.

Minerals – these act as essential co-factors for vitamins and help catalyze many biological processes. Copper together with Vitamin C and the mineral zinc, helps to develop elastin, the fibers that support skin structure from underneath.

Co-enzyme Q10 – it is better to be taken as supplement than to place it on our skin. It blocks oxidation of the oils in the skin and helps with the health of our skin therefore there is less chance of acne. It fights free radicals and improves the look of wrinkles. A vital nutrient if you are over 50, in so many ways.

Ginkgo biloba – helps to increase circulation, prevent capillary fragility, improves tissue irrigation and helps to boost collagen formation and create fibroblast.

Vitamin C – increases collagen production, (including dermal collagen) which is significant for wrinkle reduction, strengthening the skin’s barrier response, enhances the skin’s repair process and reduces inflammation. Lack of Vitamin C can also affect your nail strength and appearance.

Glucosamine – not only supports healthy joints but a study (American Academy of Dermatology) has shown that glucosamine could prove an effective treatment to reverse the effects of skin cells damaged by UV exposure.

Lutein – is not only good for our eyes but also contributes to increased skin hydration, elasticity and skin lipid content (according to a recent human clinical study).

Phytoestrogens – important for preventing skin aging.

Saw Palmetto – useful in the treatment of acne. Saw palmetto blocks the action of 5-alpha-reductase, reducing the amount of DHT in the skin and thereby reducing the stimulation of excessive sebum. Oral and tropical antibiotics can reduce the bacteria, which oxidizes skin oil. Antioxidants block the oxidation of skin oil and can reduce acne.

By looking after your skin from the inside, you may never have to pay for expensive skin treatments. Plus you will have the added bonus of more energy, better sleep and better health.

Further reading
Bea Kinnear, has written a very comprehensive book on skin care covering skin types to preservatives, hair types to natural ingredients. It will open your eyes to the sometimes ludicrous claims made by many popular beauty products.
Your Skin & You, 5th Edition

If you would like to find out which nutritional supplements are recommended for healthy aging plus more information about self-preserving skincare, please request my free eBook, by completing the form on your top right.

I trust you found this helpful. If you did, please share it with others by clicking on the Facebook and/or Twitter icons below. And be sure to leave your comments and questions below. Thank you!

For women 40+ who want to live life to the full and stay younger longer

Higher Intakes of Fibre Help Prevent Weight Gain

Newly published research shows that adults with high fibre intakes are less likely to gain weight and inches around the waist.

It is known that dietary fibre may play a role in obesity prevention. However the role that different individual fibre sources play in weight change is less certain. In a recent paper published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers investigated the association of total dietary fibre, cereal fibre, and fruit and vegetable fibre with changes in weight and waist circumference.

The prospective cohort study included 89,432 European participants, aged 20–78 years, who were initially free of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Participants were followed for an average of 6.5 years. Adjustments were made for follow-up duration, dietary variables, and baseline anthropometric, demographic, and lifestyle factors.

Total fibre was inversely associated with weight and waist circumference change during the study period. For a 10 gram/day higher total fibre intake, there was an estimated 39 g/year weight loss and waist circumference decreased by 0.08 cm/year. A 10 gram/day fibre intake from cereals results in 77 g/year weight reduction and 0.10 cm/year reduction in waist circumference. Fruit and vegetable fibre was not associated with weight change but had a similar effect on waist circumference as total and cereal fibre intake.

Over a period of 6.5 years, weight gain and increases in waist circumference would be expected in typical adults. The findings of this research may support a beneficial role of higher intake of dietary fibre, especially cereal fibre, in prevention of weight and waist circumference gain.

Source : Am J Clin Nutr Vol. 91, No. 2, 329-336, February 2010