Category: Fitness & Lifestyle

Jul 14 2009

Herbs

Herbs are plants that are used for cooking, scent, or other things, such as medicinal or spiritual uses. The procedure of using the plant is different when being used for cooking versus medicine. For instance, in medicine, practically the entire plant in all it’s parts are considered herbs, whereas in cooking only special parts are considered. These natural herbs are used in various ways.

Flowers on lemon basil
Creative Commons License photo credit: quinn.anya

There are hundreds of culinary herbs and spices. These are not used as an essence of a meal, rather simply to flavor it. Some culinary herbs are considered shrubbery, meaning they come from leaves or trees. Many people enjoy growing herbs in their own herb garden.

Phytochemicals and numerous nutrients are in plants and have effects on the body. These plants are herbs that are used for medicinal purposes. Certain herbs relieve stress. Others can reduce high blood pressure. The use of these medicinal herbs can be traced back to the 10th century. Many herbs that were used back then are still used today to treat illnesses without any side effects. Unfortunately, large doses of these herbs can cause the herbs to become poisonous.

Herbs are also used for religious practices. In Christianity, baby Jesus was brought Frankincense and Myrrh to his bedside. In Hinduism, Tulsi is worshipped, and many Native Americans use herbs to have religious experiences. In mythology, the Norse God was even killed with mistletoe.

Herbs can be used for taste, scent, religion, or medicine. It is no wonder that the herb has become such a great addition to the plant family.

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Jul 14 2009

Should You Use Hair Loss Products?

Bald Isle
Creative Commons License photo credit: Wall Tea

There are a number choices available if you're fighting thinning hair issues.  Regardless of what some of the more eclectic solutions may suggest, the truth is, your hair loss is most likely due to genetics or hormonal impalances.  Keep that in mind when looking for solutions.

In most treatable cases, thinning hair is caused by a hormone called DHT which is a by-products of testosterone. Almost every treatment on the market will attempt to decrease the amount of DHT in your system. Regardless of whether it's a natural or chemcial treatment, that's going to be the ultimate goal.

That is a good explaination of what causes thinning hair and how most products try to put a stop to it. Now, you may still be asking do hair loss products work? Unfortunately, there isn't a clear answer to that.  It depends on a number of factors and nobody can predict which product, if any will work for you.

The best bet is to try the most affordable solution first.  If it doesn' work, move your way up the list until you find one that does.  Be prepared as you may not find one that works for you.

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Jul 14 2009

Mobile Beauty Salons Can Relieve Stress

Katie on her wedding day
Creative Commons License photo credit: Foxtongue

Finding the right beauty salon can be almost a lifelong quest for most women.  For some reason, it's nearly impossible to find someone who understands you and understands the needs of your hair.  I know from my experience, the few times I've found the perfect place, either they or I have had to up and move within a short time.

If you've never found the perfect beauty salon, you may not know how good it can be for your hair.  It's not just about a cut and color, but also about someone who knows what your hair needs to look it's best.  Also, not someone who's trying to sell you a product because it's the big promotional item that month.

Your best bet to find beauty salons that meet your needs would be your friends. They've heard you complain about your hair when it wasn't right and they know when and why you've been thrilled with your look.  If your friends find someone you may like, follow their lead and give it a shot.  Otherwise, the quest continues.

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Jul 13 2009

It’s Time for the Latest Gadget – The Ab King Pro

2008.11.24 - Things you don't believe when you're 16
Creative Commons License photo credit: a.drian

I guess it's that time again... every three to four months, someone comes out with the latest greatest little contraption to get you into perfect shape without doing very much work.  This time it's something called the Ab King Pro.

This has been selling all around the world and is just now coming to the United States.  Whether you've seen it or not, I figured it was time I did my Ab King Pro Review.  I'm not one to hold any punches on these types of things, so hopefully you're not offended by what I'm about to say.

First of all, you gotta sweat like an athlete sweats if you're going to have a body like an athlete has.  That's just the rock bottom truth about the matter.  Like so many other products sold through infomercials, the makers of the Ab King Pro want you to think it's as easy as watching a football game on a lazy Sunday afternoon.  Truth is, it's not.  That's good, because that means it might actually be doing something for your figure.  Unfortunately, the infomercial makes it look like its easy.

This is gym quality equipment and it probably won't withstand too much in the way of stress and strain.  I'm not saying it's junk, but isn't what you're used to using at the local fitness center.

Can you benefit from using the Ab King Pro? Of course you can and it might be a fun way to mix in some new exercises to an already intense routine.  But, it's not going to be the magic road to rock hard abs.  If this disappoints you... sorry!

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Jul 11 2009

How to lose body fat

Many people are asking themselves how they can loose weight. They want to lose body fat and look younger again. This seems to be a very difficult thing to do but it can be very easy if you are prepared to change your lifestyle. The first step should be monitoring what you are eating and how many calories your intake is on a regular day. After that it is up to you what you want to reduce in your intake. There are many charts on the Internet that can help you with this.

Reducing intake will not solve all of your problems. Consider doing exercises to build up muscles and doing fitness training like swimming, jogging or cycling to burn body fat. The hardest part is to keep up with your new lifestyle and don't fall back into your old habit.

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Jul 11 2009

Double Jogging Strollers

Man pushing baby trike - Runners at 1st Annual Rock 2 Rock 5 Mile Fun Run
Creative Commons License photo credit: mikebaird

If you see yourself as Supermum or Superdad then get yourself down to the shops immediately and choose from one of the many double jogging strollers on offer. Yes, if you want to be a great role model for your kids what better way then to show them how tough and healthy you are. It doesn't matter that you've only had three hours sleep and you've got an important business meeting at 9.00 am, you've still got the time and the energy to hammer down the beach pushing you're little angels in front of you. That guy in the picture? What a wuss, he's only jogging with one child! It don't mean a thing unless you've got that double jogging thing going on. Good luck, next stop cardiac arrest!

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Jul 10 2009

What is Smart Lipo?

Smart Lipo is a minimally invasive way to remove fat from your body. With this procedure, you have less down time, bleeding, and swelling.

Smart Lipo has been gaining popularity in the U.S. like wild fire. This procedure is safer than the original liposuction techniques. Some patients have been known to have the work done on Friday and go back to work on Monday. Although this is not recommended, it is certainly possible if the area is small, like your chin or the back of your neck.

The secret is in the laser and the way the fat is removed. No more long rod being shoved in and out of your body, instead there is a very small tube containing a laser that gets the job done. This tubing is inserted under the skin and moved back and forth to break up the fat cells so they can drain more easily.

Smart Lipo also comes with added bonuses. This procedure encourages collagen growth which helps your skin appear younger and tighter. It also causes your blood to clot faster lessening your blood loss, bruising, and swelling.

About the Author:

Stephanie McLain is a freelance writer who enjoys writing on topics like cosmetic surgery. Read her smart lipo reviews.

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Jul 09 2009

How to Use Inversion Tables

Global Fitness Media
Creative Commons License photo credit: Rance Costa

Using inversion tables can be a very difficult challenge if you don’t know what you are doing. However, if you follow a few tips then you can overcome this challenge and will be able to enjoy all the benefits of the table.

First, go slow. When you first use any exercise equipment there will be an adjustment period. Read more »

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Jul 09 2009

Bring on the KFC Coupons

Right or wrong, I enjoy going out and eating fast food.  It isn't a habit, but it could be.  It doesn't take much to convince me to stop somewhere.  One time when a friend of mine was riding with me to work, he somehow produced KFC coupons while we were driving.  Actually, he had clipped them that morning on a whim.  We ended up going there to eat every day that week!  With the coupons, I actually spent about ten dollars less that week on lunches than I normally do.

I think it's interesting watching the changes in fast food as society transforms.  KFC is actually a great example of this.  They started out with chicken that tasted so good that it was "finger lickin' good" and now Oprah is hawking for their healthy menu.  Heck, they used to be Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Good luck selling that as a new idea today.

Oven Fried Chicken
Creative Commons License photo credit: thebittenword.com

I have to admit that I miss the old days of just being able to enjoy a meal without being served a side of guilt.

Jul 08 2009

The Walk In Tub – Some Benefits To Your Health

IMG_0602
Creative Commons License photo credit: iambarr

Most of us who have any knowledge of a walk in bathtub are aware that they are made specifically for people with special needs. Folks with limited mobility issues are the main target audience. However, they have many health advantages for anyone who is willing to use one. Depending on the way you use it, you can receive different health benefits. If you are willing to submerge yourself up to your neck in the warm, soothing water for a period of time you can help regulate metabolism. If you are looking to relieve those tired feet then a foot bath up to your calves or so will help you, as well as, assist in getting your blood pressure to a more regular level if you have an issue with that. If you have trouble with pelvic congestion, intestinal pain, or cramping a sitting bath can help resolve those issues. While it is definitely not a cure all, a walk in tub can give you some real assistance or even relief when it comes to your health.

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