d-mars.com Health & Wellness 19

Health & Wellness Journal Health

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wellness

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medical

Dec - Jan 25, 2013

INSIDE

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research

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fitness

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Lifestyle

Inspire, Inform & Educate

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beauty

19 th Edition

Re-ENERGIZE FOR THE NEW YEAR

Feel Good Half Naked

By Sandra Prior If the thought of dropping your towel, exposing your bikini-clad body and meandering towards the water’s edge fills you with horror, you are not alone.

PAGE 18

9 Holiday Depression Busters

D. Donnie Pecantte

By Shulunda Gibson It’s supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year–but not if negative emotions take hold of your holidays. So let’s be honest.

A Caring Home Care Services, A New Franchisor in the Houston Area

PAGE 24

Visual Slimming Tricks: Red Carpet Secrets

By Cyla Weiner Shapewear today is not your grandmother’s girdle or long line bra.

PAGE 26

Nzuri Natural Hair Health & Beauty Show What Is Your Energy Currency?

By Shareefah Muhammad Do you wake up in the morning still feeling like you’ve been deprived of adequate sleep? Do you get out of your bed wishing you had a few more hours?

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Fashion Show Supports HIV/AIDS Organization In Houston

Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed. ~ Cavett Robert

Dec - Jan 25, 2013

Behind The

Journal

3.

Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr. VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis

As I think over the year in retrospect, I am amazed at all we were able to accomplish with the support of our customers and friends in 2012. In an age where it is a struggle to maintain print media, I would like to extend my utmost gratitude to the community for making our journal an important voice. We were not only able to continue our mission, but we also were able to celebrate and recognize community leaders in the legal and healthcare profession as a result of our combined strength. Our strength is fueled by your passion to be inspired, informed, and educated. As long as there is a need in the community for that voice, we make a renewed commitment to do everything in our power to continue to provide it.

As always again, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support d-mars.com, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work.

Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen. Wishing You a Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!

EDITING CONSULTANT Sharon Jenkins OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE C.T. Foster Eric D. Goodwine

CONTENTS

PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines

A Caring Home Care Services, A New Franchisor in the Houston Area ..........................................

Amazingly Good Holiday Treats .......................................................................................................

Fashion Show Supports HIV/AIDS Organization In Houston ............................................................

Control Anxiousness The Appropriate Way Using All These Five Efficient Approaches .................

Study: Exercising Before Breakfast Causes More Fat Loss In Men ................................................

Mayor Parker Launches Urban Grows Initiative ..............................................................................

Feel Good Half Naked .....................................................................................................................

Why Happiness is Your Most Important Health Tool: What the Studies Say ..................................

A Celebration of Health and Wellness with the Marcus Garvey Liberation Garden .........................

Nine Holiday Depression Busters ....................................................................................................

Biofeedback Effectively Alleviates Stress And Promotes Wellness .................................................

Holiday Season Is Flu Season .........................................................................................................

How To Get Over Depression ..........................................................................................................

Parents: Are we properly taking care of our young athletes? ..........................................................

What Really Causes the “Beer Belly” in Men and How to Get Rid of Your Gut .............................

How to Reduce Risks of Heart Diseases in Men .............................................................................

Eating Raw: The Advantages and Disadvantages According to Various Experts ...........................

Women and Exercise - The Basics and FAQs .................................................................................

Visual Slimming Tricks: Red Carpet Secrets ...................................................................................

Surviving the Stress of the Holidays ................................................................................................

Twelve Health and Safety Tips for the Holidays ..............................................................................

What Is Your Energy Currency? .......................................................................................................

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ferland Antwine DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sharon C. Jenkins Mclean Dearth Lisa Washington Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade M. Farouk Radwan www.sixwise.com Shareefah Muhammad Sandra Prior www.Belief.net Mary Dezfoli Dr. Zeb Poindexter Cavanaugh Nweze Cyla Weiner Sterling Carter Sarah Cohen Kristi Fowler www.randalls.com Rodolfo Roberts Centers for Disease Control

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MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month “No race can prosper till it learns that there is as much dignity in tilling a field as in writing a poem.”

-Booker T Washington

d-mars.com 7322 Southwest Fwy, Suite 805 Houston, Texas 77074

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713-272-9511 . Phone 713-272-6364 . Fax www.d-mars.com

4.

Dec - Jan 25, 2013

A Caring Home Care Services, A New Franchisor in the Houston Area

By Sharon C. Jenkins

D.

Donnie Pecantte has a strong reputation for caring for people. That reputation propelled the launching of A Caring Home Care Services. When his brother called him and asked about him returning to the industry, he did not hesitate to do so after receiving confirmation after much prayer. Pecantte believes in the power of prayer. He did an informal survey of the elderly people in the community that he knew and there was a unanimous agreement that they would support his new endeavor. A new home health care services provider was born. They started their business with no money and a lot of faith. Pecantte stated, “Back in 2006, the state of Louisiana had just started in the Long Term Care business, dealing with Medicaid clients. Today we have over 250 clients and five offices as a result. Basically we serve veterans, the elderly, private pay, and anything including post-surgery care.

I then decided to promote my concept to the whole country, to anyone desiring to get into the home care industry.” The company opened an office ten years ago in Houston. According to Pecantte, Houston is a “business friendly city” and he moved here because he wanted to get more opportunities for his company.

A Caring Home Care Services (ACHCS) started in August of 2007 in Southwestern Louisiana. Their mission is to provide quality and dedicated care to our Military Veterans, Elderly, Expected Mothers, and post-surgery recovery patients.

They provide one on one support and interaction for their clients that reduce feelings of isolation and depression and incorporate activities that stimulate thinking and promote physical wellbeing.

Their caregivers are state licensed and certified homecare professionals. They are background screened and checked for any deficiencies. ACHCS has a proven

track record of having highly qualified caregivers. They pride themselves on having highly competent staff and a secure and safe work environment.

One of their top priorities is to deliver quality care. Their team has over 20 years’ experience in the Healthcare Industry. As a result they are now making that experience available to aspiring entrepreneurs desiring to enter that industry.

If you are an Entrepreneur and looking to get in the Home Healthcare Industry, then A Caring Home Care Services is the business for you. What separates them from their competition is: #1-They do not start making money until you start. #2-The franchisee is assigned their own company assistant throughout your whole contract. #3-You become part of the TEAM and treated as one of their own not just another franchisee.

Their TEAM will be with you every step of the way. A 3rd party billing company will handle all of your Insurance, and Military Veterans Medical Billing. As a Franchisee, all you are required to do is market your business and grow your client base. Their business strategy is a win, win scenario on both sides of the business model. They also recommend to their Franchisees that they perform multiple interviews and obtain references from previous employers before hiring individuals to perform services for their clients. To ensure client- caregiver

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compatibility, the client actually picks their own caregiver from a pool of qualified applicants. Pecanttee said, ‘I love taking care of the elderly. I love what I am doing.

Last year, I was looking at a commercial on TV of another competitor of mine and I thought, ‘Man I can beat them.’ I know I can. See our business has grown on “word of mouth” advertisement alone.

If I take our concept around the country, I know it can work. I started last year and it took me six months to get my Franchisors Disclosure documents done.” He hired one of the best franchise lawyers, Nancy Lanard from Pennsylvania and Francorp, a leader in the franchising industry in equipping companies for success. He also just hired his national sales team, Franchise Market Systems. After starting this franchise opportunity in August of this year, they have had over 530 inquiries.

They are also are a VetFran company, offering a great start for veterans seeking an entrepreneurial opportunity.

Pecantte was a millionaire at 22. He lost all of his money when he was 27. It wasn’t until he found his calling four years ago, that he was able to move forward in his life. Pecantte states, “There are two kinds of people in the world, people who make it happen or people who watch it happen, which one you will be?” He makes it happen, as evidenced by his success in the home health care industry. His desire is to serve people and now he wants to equip others to do likewise.

Dec - Jan 25, 2013

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Dec - Jan 25, 2013

Amazingly Good Holiday Treats Amazingly Good

Eggnog

I

t’s taken me several years to perfect this recipe. Now everyone asks, ‘When are you making the eggnog?!!’ This uses cooked eggs for safety, and you can use more or less rum to taste.

It’s a bit of work to make, but well worth it. You’ll never buy store-bought eggnog again!

Enjoy!

Prep Time: 20 Minutes Cook Time: 8 Minutes Ready In: 28 Minutes Servings: 12

Directions

Ingredients

• 4 cups milk • Whole Cloves • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 12 egg yolks

• 1 1/2 cups sugar • 2 1/2 cups light rum • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg • 4 cups light cream

1. Combine milk, cloves, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, and cinnamon in a saucepan, and heat over lowest setting for 5 minutes. Slowly bring milk mixture to a boil.

2. In a large bowl, combine egg yolks and sugar. Whisk together until fluffy. Whisk hot milk mixture slowly into the eggs. Pour mixture into saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 3 minutes, or until thick. Do not allow mixture to boil. Strain to remove cloves, and let cool for about an hour.

3. Stir in rum, cream, 2 teaspoon vanilla, and nutmeg. Refrigerate overnight before serving.

Recipe by: NATALIESMOM | Photo by: Allrecipes

S

our cream gives enough tangy bite to take the edge off this banana bread’s sweetness.

Dusting the baking pans with cinnamon sugar gives these small four loaves a gentle spice undertone.

Ingredients

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree • 1/4 cup dark brown sugar • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 3 eggs, beaten • 1 (9 inch) unbaked deep dish pie crust

• 1 cup apple butter • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1 cup evaporated milk

Apple Butter Pumpkin Pie

Streusel Topping

• 3 tablespoons butter • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour • 1/3 cup dark brown sugar • 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

2. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin, apple butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Stir in eggs and evaporated milk. Pour into prepared pie shell.

3. Bake in preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a knife inserted 2 inches from the center comes out clean. Sprinkle streusel topping over the pie, and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

4. To make the streusel topping: In a small bowl, combine butter, flour, and 1/3 cup brown sugar. Stir until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in pecans.

Banana Sour

Cream Bread

A

Recipe by: Joyce Lowe | Photo by: Allrecipes delightful combination of two Autumn standards - apple and pumpkin - in this lightly spiced pie with a streusel topping.

Prep Time: 30 Minutes Cook Time: 1 Hour Ready In: 1 Hour 30 Minutes Servings: 8

Directions Prep Time: 10 Minutes Cook Time: 1 Hour Ready In: 1 Hour 10 Minutes Servings: 32

Prep Time: 30 Minutes Cook Time: 1 Hour Ready In: 1 Hour 30 Minutes Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 3 1/4 cup white sugar • 3/4 cup butter • 3 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 3 eggs • 6 very ripe bananas, mashed • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 3 teaspoons baking soda • 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 (16 ounce) container sour cream • 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

1. 1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). Grease four 7x3 inch loaf pans. In a small bowl, stir together 1/4 cup white sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Dust pans lightly with cinnamon and sugar mixture.

2. 2. In a large bowl, cream butter and 3 cups sugar. Mix in eggs, mashed bananas, sour cream, vanilla and cinnamon. Mix in salt, baking soda and flour. Stir in nuts. Divide into prepared pans.

3. 3. Bake for 1 hour, until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Recipe by: Esther Nelson | Photo by: MuffinPuffin317

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Taken from www.randalls.com

Dec - Jan 25, 2013

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Dec - Jan 25, 2013

FASHION SHOW SUPPORTS HIV/AIDS

ORGANIZATION IN HOUSTON

T

he Ultimate Runway Fashion Show took place on World AIDS Day, The 4th Annual Ultimate Runway Fashion Show, founded by Anne Grimsley, began as a catalyst to increase awareness of HIV/AIDS and has since become an annual tribute to such a positive cause.

“We would like to be a catalyst for change by spreading health knowledge and risk reduction,” says Anne Grimsley.

“Our neighborhood continues to be devastated by this disease; however, with education, advocacy and prevention, a difference can be made.”

The mission of the Ultimate Runway Fashion Show is to provide a night of glamour and entertainment, while increasing HIV/AIDS awareness in community. And also to create change

by spreading health knowledge that could lead to risk reduction.

Neighborhoods continue to be devastated by this disease; however, with education, advocacy and prevention, they believe a difference can be made.

All proceeds from The Ultimate Runway Fashion Show were donated to the organization Positive Efforts, Inc. Positive Efforts was established in 1999 in response to a growing need for African Americans to receive culturally competent and linguistically appropriate HIV/AIDS related services. Since its inception, the organization has been involved in a variety of neighborhood a nd communit y outreach, HI V counseling and testing, and community mobilization activities in Houston..

“After 30 years of this epidemic and we continue to bring awareness to our

communities, however, we are still seeing increases in new cases,” says Barbara Joseph, who heads Positive Efforts. “So it continues to be extremely important that we all know our status, continue to educate and get people into care.”

In addition to the runway show, guests received a chance to attend a meet and greet at Damian Walter’s Salon Rivet with host Dwight Eubanks, Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Atlanta who emceed the Ultimate Runway Fashion Show.

Eubanks has been an advocate for HIV/ AIDS awareness for years.

“I come from two generations of ministers and we did not talk about sex,” Eubanks said in an interview with the media. “All the things I learned about sex, drugs and alcohol, I learned from the street.”

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Dec - Jan 25, 2013

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Dec - Jan 25, 2013

Control Anxiousness The Appropriate Way Using All These Five Efficient Approaches

Study: Exercising Before Breakfast Causes More Fat Loss in Men

By Lisa Washington

Men:

Are you afraid of developing that holiday gut due to seasonal overeating? Well to combat that you may want to exercise before eating those leftovers for breakfast.

Walter Jones, a resident of southwest Houston, says he’s had a tendency to gain more weight during the holiday season because that “sweet potato pie and turkey are irresistible.”

According to the study published in the British Journal of Nutrition, those who exercised before breakfast used up to 33 percent more fat than those who ate their morning meal before exercising.

“I know I need to lose about fifty (50) pounds, but watching football all day and sitting at these tables full of food is a recipe for disaster. I’m sure I’m not the only man in Houston or the country with this problem,” says Jones, 48, with a laugh. “

Dr. Jason Gill, the lead researcher, said in statement, “Any exercise you do is beneficial but the indications are that there might be an extra benefit associated with exercising before eating, compared to after.”

Conducted at Glasgow University, the results revealed that doing a workout on an empty stomach before the first meal of the day helps reduce weight and burn more body fat. The added bonus, according to researchers, is that it can ward off heart disease and those blood fats that clog up your arteries. This is due to the fact that this early morning exercise forces the body to access the already stored fats for energy.

By Mclean Dearth

P

roblems with anxiety are common in our modern societies. People work in stressful environments, they don’t have enough time for themselves, and they worry about money and their health. But controlling anxiety symptoms without the use of medications or drugs is possible, and can be quite effective for some.

1. Remove yourself from situations that cause stress, when possible. While you might not be able to leave a stressful job right away, start looking for a new one. If Sunday dinner with the in-laws is stressing you out, consider going less often, or moving the gathering to a place where you feel more relaxed. This is the most obvious method of reducing stress, but it is worth mentioning, because often people can feel better if they just make a few simple changes.

2. Get enough sleep. People who don’t sleep at least 8 hours a night often find that they have a lower tolerance for dealing with stress. A well-rested body is much better equipped to allow you to remain calm and deal healthily with the stress in your life.

3. Get up and go outside. Even moderate amounts of low-intensity exercise can help you deal with stress better. Exercise produces chemicals in the brain that create a calming influence, and even a short walk can trigger them. As with sleep, exercise is an important component of both a healthy

body and a healthy mind.

4. Take some ‘me’ time to do something relaxing. Often, people have so many responsibilities in their lives that they don’t spend any time on themselves. It may seem selfish, but if spending an afternoon at the movies with friends, or an evening in the bubble bath with a book helps you be more relaxed, your family and work will benefit, too.

5. Lower your sugar and caffeine intake.

Both of these items can cause people to feel jittery and not deal with stress as well.

Cutting back on coffee, caffeinated soda, energy drinks, and other sources of caffeine and sugar can help you cope better.

No one is immune to the effects of anxiety. But it shouldn’t control your life, and allowing it to do so can make you miserable. Controlling your anxiety might take some time and experimentation to see what works best for you, but there are effective and simple methods that do not require drugs, and can even improve your health at the same time.

Go look at the very best source of information with regard to Panic Disorder and exactly how to Reduce Stress and anxiety by visiting http://www.

PanicAttacksHelp101.com/ Article Source: http://www.articlesphere. com/Article/Control-Anxiousness-TheAppropriate-Way-Using-All-These-FiveEfficient-Approaches/248095

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Jones also says he keeps a membership at a local gym but uses only about twice a month. He thinks the recommendation from this study is worth a try if he can overcome one other small barrier: Getting up in the morning.

“I’m usually grabbing some breakfast at a fast food window on my way to work because I’m frequently running a little behind schedule. It’s going to take a lot of discipline for me to try it, but hey I’m sure it will be worth it,” says Jones.

Either way, doing some form of workout is definitely better than doing nothing at all!

Dec - Jan 25, 2013

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Dec - Jan 25, 2013

Mayor Parker Launches

Urban Grows Initiative New

Garden Initiative Utilizes City Land For Vegetable Gardens

By M. Farouk Radwan

M

ayor A nnise Parker announced, with Urban Harvest, the launch of Urban Grows, the first vegetable allotment garden program utilizing City of Houston property. Urban Grows, part of the City of Houston’s Healthy Houston initiative, aims to help communities build vegetable gardens, farms and orchards on vacant land in areas with poor access to healthy fresh foods, often referred to as food deserts.

“Limited access to nutritional food and fresh fruits and vegetables is a problem we are working to address,” said Mayor Parker. “By giving neighborhoods tools to grow their own vegetable gardens, we are not only improving nutritional choices that increase health but bringing neighbors together to build a positive environment.”

The City of Houston will provide lots through its LARA program (Land Assemblage Redevelopment Authority), which works to redevelop tax-delinquent and abandoned properties. Community members, partnering with local nonprofits, foundations or churches, will then work to transform these vacant lots into usable, productive and attractive green spaces.

The first vegetable garden to be built as part of the Urban Grows initiative, with Urban Harvest as the lead agency, is in Sunnyside. Residents have named their allotment garden the Harry Holmes Healthy Harvest, in honor of the man who built the community.

Urban Grows is the first initiative

launched as part of Mayor Parker’s new program, Healthy Houston, which is designed to reduce obesity and increase healthy eating and exercise. Healthy Houston will promote programs, policies and actions designed to reduce food deserts, promote the availability of locallygrown foods, encourage the development of sustainable food systems and promote recreational opportunities.

Urban Grows will: • Encourage urban agriculture in neighborhoods, utilizing vacant City property.

• Improve access to healthy, affordable and locally produced food for all neighborhoods.

• Support education regarding the benefits of sustainable agriculture.

Urban Grows will complement the City’s existing efforts, including the launch of the City Hall Farmers Market and farmers markets at the City’s multi-service centers; new vegetable container gardens downtown and throughout the City; a Grocery Access Task Force that works with grocers on providing economic tools and incentives to help spur more supermarket and grocery development in areas where they are needed; the launch of Bike Share in Houston and the expansion of bike lanes and trails.

“We want to create and support numerous vegetable allotment gardens in neighborhoods throughout Houston,” said Mayor Parker. “I encourage community leaders to work with us to successfully grow Urban Grows.”

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Dec - Jan 25, 2013

13.

Feel Good Half Naked

By Sandra Prior

I

f the thought of dropping your towel, exposing your bikini-clad body and meandering towards the water’s edge fills you with horror, you are not alone.

Despite knowing, on an intellectual level, that most women do not have the picture perfect bodies we see in the media, many of us still feel self conscious at the thought of prancing around semi-naked in front of others.

The truth is, how we feel about our bodies has little to do with what we actually look like and is more about self-perception and how we think others perceive us. The first step to a more positive body image is to challenge your negative self thoughts. Keep asking yourself. Is it really true that my arms are flabby, or my bum outrageously large?

Notice the thoughts you have about your body and acknowledge that these thoughts influence the feelings you have about yourself. Replace these negative thoughts with more positive ones. But keep it realistic. Don’t tell yourself your body is beautiful if you don’t believe it. Rather say, ‘My bodyworks hard for me all day and I do the best I can to take care of it.’

Ask others what they think of the parts of your body you’re unhappy with. And

believe them when you receive positive feedback. At the same time, ignore people who are likely to be critical and negative.

Because body image is not based on reality, women who are considered to have a perfect body are as likely to be unhappy with their body image as women who are actually overweight. This is certainly true of Simone, 28, a mom of two. Despite being a professional ballet dancer in her early twenties, Simone struggled with body confidence, feeling that she didn’t shape up to her fellow dancers.

She recalls: ‘I was fortunate enough to attend the National School of the Arts where I trained as a ballet dancer, but I was tortured by self-doubt about my body. I always felt like I had the wrong body shape and that I was never slim enough. I have an athletic body with a high muscle tone, which felt wrong as a dancer.’

It seems women are particularly prone to unfounded negative body image. From a young age, we internalize the concept of a perfect woman with a perfect body, which leads most of us to feel inadequate when it comes to what we look like.

Women typically have far greater expectations of themselves, often leading to misperceptions about self. Basically, the enemy is within. On top of this, many of us

have internalized the belief that beautiful is good and that physically attractive people are better than physically unattractive people. It’s no wonder so many women refuse to go to the beach in a bikini.

For Simone, it was only after she stopped dancing that she realized her body issues were unjustified. ‘I realized I had an unrealistic ideal of what type of body I should have. My body might not be the perfect shape for a ballet dancer, but it is the perfect shape for a normal woman.’

Simone also attributes her current body confidence to her supportive husband who always says I look beautiful whether I’m in a bikini or my pajamas and the fact that she lives a healthy lifestyle. After she stopped dancing, Simone didn’t stop exercising.

Instead, with her growing acceptance of her body she was more inspired to take care of herself. ‘I go to gym and do yoga regularly and also eat healthily,’ she says, ‘but I don’t do this because I’m trying to lose weight or change my body. I do it because it makes

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me feel good about myself. I feel strong and healthy and want to set a good example for my kids.’

A healthy lifestyle can go a long way in boosting body confidence. Knowing that you are nourishing your body rather than sabotaging it with junk food can improve your body image. It’s not about dieting.

People who are constantly dieting have the disadvantage of having a changing perception of themselves as they get bigger and smaller.

If you forget about your weight, and focus wholly on healthy eating, weight falls off, your body tone improves and your mind is nutritionally nourished, resulting in a far more positive body image. And a little exercise wouldn’t go amiss.

Sandra Prior runs her own bodybuilding website at http://bodybuild.rr.nu Article Source: http://www. articlesphere.com/Article/Feel-Good-HalfNaked/266667

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Dec - Jan 25, 2013

Cosmetic Dentistry Creates

“Captivating Smiles”

By Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade

I

f there’s something you don’t like about your smile, you’re not alone half of the population is unhappy with their smile. Captivating smiles are not reserved for celebrities and beauty queens! You’ll be absolutely amazed at what our Cosmetic Dentistry can do for you!!

One of the Leading Causes of “Happiness” is Smiling!

Scientific evidence points toward “smiling” as a cause of happy feelings! Some of the most significant smile studies were published by the late Dr. Robert Zajonc, a distinguished Stanford University professor, psychologist and author. In one study, his subjects were asked to repeat vowel sounds that strategically created various facial expressions. Naturally, the long “e” sound (as in glee) stretches the corners of the mouth upwards. The long “u” sound (as in you), creates a pouty expression. Participants said they felt better after making the “u” sound. Seems simple enough, but Dr. Zajonc’s rigorous studies and findings are highly regarded in his field of social psychology! He offered a detailed explanation on how facial changes involved in smiling have a direct effect on specific brain activities associated with

happiness.

TOP 5 “Smile Flaws” that patients want corrected: 1. Chipped teeth 2. Discolored teeth 3. Uneven teeth 4. Missing teeth 5. Gaps between teeth

TOP 5 R EASONS

oral and overall health, such as aligning your bite and making it easier to clean your teeth and keep your gums healthy.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Patients want to Improve Their Smile…..

Tooth-colored fillings, onlays and inlays 1. IMPROVE Appearance are restorations that look just like your 2. BOOST Self-Esteem natural teeth.

3. ACHIEVE Professional Success Tooth Bonding 4. IMPROVE Health Bonding is a tooth-colored material 5. IMPROVE Relationships that is used to fill gaps between teeth or cover the entire outside surface of your Everything You Need is Here…. tooth to improve its shape. Bonding can UNDER ONE ROOF! be effectively used to whiten your smile if We provide cutting-edge cosmetic you’re not a candidate for bleaching.

Porcelain Veneers dental treatment for discolored, chipped, A thin layer of color- matched porcelain overlapping, misshapen or missing teeth.

Our advanced technology makes it possible is custom fabricated to fit over the front of for us to reshape your teeth, close spaces, your tooth making it possible to transform straighten, and restore wore down teeth, even the most unsightly teeth into idea along with precision color matching. Some ones!

Crowns of these improvements are more than just Our durable “custom-crafted” crowns cosmetic! They also enhance both your

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cover or “cap” your entire tooth to restore its normal shape and color.

Contouring & Reshaping

Tooth reshaping and contouring can be done in a single appointment!

Dental Implants

Implants replace the roots of your lost teeth, prevent bone loss, and have the look and feel of natural teeth. Implants are a viable option to bridgework and can also be used to secure dentures.

Orthodontics

Advances in orthodontics today make it possible for most anyone, even older adults to comfortably and affordably correct crooked, hard-to-clean teeth!

Daily oral hygiene, along with routine dental exams and cleanings, help to ensure that you have a healthy framework for cosmetic dental procedures. Healthy, Happy Smiles are created here!

Dec - Jan 25, 2013

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Dec - Jan 25, 2013

A Celebration of Health and Wellness with the Marcus Garvey Liberation Garden

By Cavanaugh Nweze

I

am in love with my community! Every morning I awake, I am honored to serve my community with fresh and organic produce. There is no reason lower economic neighborhoods should be sentenced to overpriced or unhealthy food and life-long obesity related illnesses. There are many issues that are prevalent in our community. (ie. Justice system, education, and lack of employment) However, we are not subjected to any injustice as much as the injustices served on our plates and sold to use in our local grocery stores.

Many people are searching high and low for solutions to obesity and malnutrition issues. Out of genuine concern and love for the complete well-being of my community, I am proud of the progress that we have made in moving towards a “food oasis” rather than a “food desert.”

While I was a student at Prairie View A&M University a group of friends and I founded a nonprofit organization, Divine Leaders Inc., and over the last three years we have operated the Marcus Garvey Liberation Garden (MGLG) as well as a number of other programs focused on the supply of healthy food in our community. The Shrine of the Black Madonna and Divine Leaders formed the principle idea for the MGLG immediately following Hurricane Ike. After the storm, our communities went weeks without electricity and access to fresh produce. As a result we took it upon ourselves to make sure we knew how to grow and produce our own food! Since February 2010 to Present Day we have grown from a 300 square foot garden to a ½ acre farm! This is a wonderful reason to celebrate.

Starting a garden on the property of The Shrine of the Black Madonna is not a foreign idea. In every city The Shrine is located; a community garden is operated

on its grounds. Also, The Shrine of the Black Madonna owns the largest black owned farm in the entire United States (Beulah Land Farms is located in Calhoun Falls, SC). As an attempt to continue to provide more food for the local Houston community we have increased the services we offer this year. Not only do we grow food not commonly found in our local grocery stores, but we now educate people on the medicinal purpose of the “Plant of the Month” via our blog (Divineleaders. blogspot.com).

We have also started our own medical study involving Red Clover and its healing benefits. We have become a supplier of Organic Kale to Sunshine Health Food Store and Vegetarian Deli. The number of healthy eating establishments in our area has increased due to us starting our mobile produce stand we call “The Living Grocery Store”. Our produce stand is located at prominent community institutions such as The Shrine, Sehah Youth and Fitness Center, and Shape Community Center.

We are now creating our own Farmer’s Market in the community in Our Park located right next to the Shape on Live Oak and Alabama. Lastly, we work directly with property owners to teach them how to grow their own food via our program “Grub Not Grass”.

Our work over the past few years utilizes very simple tactics to profoundly revolutionize how our community purchases their produce. Now since the work has been done, come celebrate what we have accomplished and learn how we can achieve more!

(Cavanaugh Nweze manages the Marcus Garvey Liberation Garden and the Living Grocery Store in Houston, Texas. Visit his website www.mglg.net and follow him on Twitter @DivineLeaders)

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Dec - Jan 25, 2013

17.

Nine Holiday Depression Busters By www.Belief.net

I

t’s supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year–but not if negative emotions take hold of your holidays.

So let’s be honest. The holidays are packed with stress, and therefore provoke tons of depression and anxiety. But there is hope. Whether I’m fretting about something as trite as stocking stuffers or as complicated as managing difficult family relationships, I apply a few rules that I’ve learned over the years. These 9 rules help me put the joy back into the festivities–or at least keep me from hurling a mistletoe at Santa and landing myself on the “naughty” list.

1. Expect the Worst

(or even tolerable) holiday. Eating well and exercise are codependent, at least in my body, because my biggest motivator for exercising is the reduction in guilt I feel about splurging on dessert. Another acronym to remember during the holidays is HALT: don’t get too Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired.

3. Beef Up Your Support

If you attend Al-Anon once a week, go twice a week during the holidays. If you attend a yoga class twice a week, try to fit in another. Schedule an extra therapy session as insurance against the potential meltdowns ahead of you. Pad yourself with extra layers of emotional resilience by discussing in advance specific concerns you have about X, Y, and Z with a counselor, minister, or friend (preferably one who doesn’t gossip).

Now that’s a cheery thought for this jolly season. What I’m trying to say is that you have to predict bad behavior before it happens so that you can catch it in your 4. Avoid Toxic People holiday mitt and toss it back, instead of This one’s difficult if the toxic people having it knock you to the floor. It’s simple happen to be hosting Christmas dinner! math, really.

2. Remember to “SEE” But in general, just try your best to avoid No, I don’t mean for you to schedule pernicious humans in December. And if an appointment with an ophthalmologist. you absolutely must see such folks, then SEE stands for Sleeping regularly, Eating allow only enough time for digestion and well, and Exercising. Without these three gift-giving.

5. Know Thyself basics, you can forget about an enjoyable

In other words, identify your triggers.

Before you make too many plans this holiday season, list your triggers: people, places, and things that tend to trigger your fears and bring out your worst traits.

6. Travel With Polyester, Not Linen

By this, I DO NOT mean sporting the polyester skirt with the red sequined reindeer. I’m saying that you should lower your standards and make traveling as easy as possible, both literally and figuratively.

Do you really want to be looking for an iron for that beautiful linen or cotton dress when you arrive at your destination?

I didn’t think so–life’s too short for travel irons.

7. Make Your Own Traditions

Of course, you don’t need the “polyester”

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rule if you ban holiday travel altogether.

That’s what I did this year. Making your own tradition might mean Christmas Eve is reserved for your family and the extended family is invited over for brunch on Christmas Day. Or vice versa. Basically, it’s laying down some rules so that you have better control over the situation.

8. Get Out of Yourself

According to Gandhi, the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in service to others. But that doesn’t necessarily mean holding a soup ladle. In other words, start with the things you like to do.

9. Exercise Your Funny Bone

“Time spent laughing is time spent with the gods,” says a Japanese proverb.

Research shows that laughing is good for your health.

18.

Dec - Jan 25, 2013

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Dec - Jan 25, 2013

19.

Biofeedback Effectively Alleviates Stress And

Promotes Wellness

By Mary Dezfoli

B

iofeedback counseling is an innovative counseling technique used to teach awareness about the body’s unconscious physiological processes. It is effective in teaching patients how to alleviate stress and to take control of their own health.

A recent study by the American Academy of Family Physicians found that two-thirds of all visits to family doctors are linked to stress-related symptoms. Biofeedback is used to teach the unconscious mind to respond to stress and lessen its effects on the mind and body. It has proven useful in combating a variety of ailments including: addictions, anxiety, asthma, insomnia, chronic pain, depression, fatigue, headaches, high blood pressure and irritable bowel syndrome.

Biofeedback treatment involves attaching sensors or electrodes to the body that provide a variety of readings - instant feedback - on things such as skin temperature, muscle tension and brainwave function.

During a session, the patient is asked about a life event, such as a stressful situation at work. The patient’s response to this event, which could involve a cooling of the hands, tensing of the muscles or sweating, is instantly recognized and “fed back” to the patient by a machine. This trains the patient to understand, and unconsciously respond to, the effects of stress through self-regulation techniques, such as taking deep breaths, relaxing tensed muscles or even slowing the heart rate.

Recently, the technique has gained popularity as a way to help top athletes relax in high-stress situations. In fact, four members of the Italian national soccer team used biofeedback as part of their training for the 2006 World Cup, while India’s lone gold medalist from the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing, Abhinav Bindra, cited biofeedback as a key ingredient in his 10-meter air rifle victory.

Research suggests that biofeedback is as good or better than any medication for

Holiday Season Is Flu Season

By Zeb Poindexter DDS

C

ontrary to popular belief, how hot or cold the weather is has no bearing on the spread of the flu. The flu and the common cold are caused by viruses, not weather.

This increased likelihood of passing germs is much higher when it is cold outside and people are indoors, than when it is warm and people are outdoors. Viruses spreads more readily the longer people are exposed to them in close quarters.

During the winter people tend to pending more time indoors to keep warm, in effect resulting in higher frequency and longer duration of human contact. This extra contact makes the spread of germs more likely, which allows viruses to spread more easily. For example, consider school children. If you are wondering why kids seem to get sick more often during the winter season, it’s because school is in session, and kids are around each other all day in an environment which constantly exposes them to germs.

A second example can be seen in tropical areas where it does not get cold. In those regions, flu season generally occurs during the rainy season. However, as mentioned, these viruses/illnesses are not caused by the rain or weather. They are just more prevalent because people come in closer contact with each other (to stay out of the rain) than they do during the dry season.

However, there is evidence now which also suggests that viruses spread more easily through dry air. When it is cold outside,

the air is drier both outdoors and inside (where people have their heaters on) which may make it easier for germs to pass from one person to another. But it is not the cold weather that causes the cold; it just might make it easier to spread the virus.

Here are some things you can do this holiday season to help ward off potential viruses and help protect your loved ones: • Be vigilant about washing your hands.

The best way to get rid of germs is to wash them away. Carrying around hand sanitizer in your purse, or keeping it in your car can also be helpful you don’t have access to a sink or water.

• Take your vitamins (especially vitamin C). Your immune system is your primary line of defense against viruses. Vitamins are the essential building blocks for a healthy immune system. Drinking fruit juice can be a great source of vitamin C (i.e. orange juice, cranberry juice, etc). Taking a zinc supplement can also help encourage a healthy immune system.

• Be mindful of others if you are exhibiting symptoms of a virus. You can do this by covering your nose and mouth when you sneeze, and trying your best to get rest and avoid public places until symptoms subside.

We want you and your loved ones to have a joyous holiday this year. So, be mindful to not run yourself down, and celebrate this season with discipline and healthy living. Happy Holidays!

controlling headache and jaw pain related to excess muscle tension.

Benefits of biofeedback are not limited to the office. Follow-up studies several months after ending formal biofeedback treatment show that people who continue practicing cognitive-behavioral techniques often experience symptom relief.

Regarding high blood pressure treatment, research supports biofeedback as being consistently effective for blood pressure reduction and maintenance. In fact, the biofeedback device used by the Center for Psychological Services is the first non-pharmacological treatment approved by the FDA for controlling hypertension.

Research on biofeedback to control psychological and behavioral conditions

such as anxiety and ADHD suggests significant symptom reduction, particularly when used in combination with cognitivebehavioral techniques. For example, breathing techniques learned through biofeedback, combined with techniques to re-direct anxious thoughts, often reduce physiological and psychological symptoms associated with anxiety.

Healthy lifestyle helps you live longer and better. Check out bewellbuzz for healthier and happy life.

Article Source: http://www.articlesphere. com/Article/Biofeedback-EffectivelyAlleviates-Stress-And-PromotesWellness/237274

How To Get Over

Depression

By M. Farouk Radwan

W hat really causes depression? working on another plan then hope will be

F

rom the outside depression might seem like a complex phenomenon but as soon as you get a deeper understanding of people’s psychology you will find that depression is one of the simplest mood disorders.

The mistake most people do when dealing with depression is trying to blame the chemical imbalance that happens in the brain. While depression is caused by a chemical imbalance still this imbalance is just a symptom of the real problem that is taking place underneath.

In this article I won’t tell you to think positively or to be optimistic but instead I will tell you about 5 super effective methods that can help you combat depression.

How to get rid of depression

1). Understand the real cause: Depression happens when your subconscious mind finds that all roads towards fulfilling a certain important desire are blocked.

If a man was raised in such a way that suffered from intense financial insecurity then he might become depressed if he failed to become rich or to earn money.

Understanding the real cause of your depression is the key to getting over it.

2). Can you bring hope?: In order to cure depression you don’t need to change your world but you just need to restore hope since depression is nothing more than a state of loss of hope. Getting rid of limiting beliefs, educating yourself or learning new skills are all greats ways to restore hope.

3). Work on getting back what you lost: If that man who wanted to be rich started

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restored and his depression will go away provided that he trusts his new plan.

4). What if you lost something that can’t be restored? What if you lost a friend or a close relative? In this case getting over depression is all about learning how to accept what happened. So in order to cure depression you either need to get back what was lost or to accept what has happened.

Don’t try to fool yourself into accepting something that can be changed because your subconscious mind wont like the idea and you will still depressed. For example if you are not satisfied with your weight then you might not be able to accept this fact because this is something that can certainly be changed.

5). Find another way to fulfill your unmet needs: if you lost something that can’t be restored and you still can’t accept what happened then you must find another way to fill the psychological gap that occurred after you lost that thing.

For example, when I coach people who broke up I discover that many of them feel bad after the breakup because their self confidence was affected. As soon as I guide them to another way to feel worthy other than being loved by their ex their depression disappears. www.2knowmyself.com, The ultimate source for self understanding 10,000,000 Million visits and counting. Best treatment for depression.

Article Source: http://www.articlesphere. c o m /A r t i c l e / H o w -To - G e t- O v e rDepression/259591

20.

Dec - Jan 25, 2013

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Dec - Jan 25, 2013

Parents: Are we properly taking

21.

Nzuri Natural Hair Health care of our young athletes? & Beauty Show

By Sterling L. Carter, PT, MS, CSCS

I

t’s estimated that more than 30 million children and adolescents (ages 5-22) participate in organized sports in the U.S., with about 12 million of those suffering sports-related injuries annually.

Despite these facts, the amount of evidence on the short and long-term effects of injury on young athletes’ lives is lacking, and the medical community is beginning to take notice and increase research. Healthrelated quality of life (HRQOL) measures the effectiveness of treatment on injured athletes and takes into consideration not just physical components, but mental, social and emotional ones as well. Though it’s an important measurement, HRQOL is poorly studied in athletes, a fact that spurred a study to further examine the complete role injuries have on adolescent athletes’ lives.

The study group, which consisted of 160 uninjured and 45 injured high school athletes, was administered a health status questionnaire and two measurement tests.

After compiling responses, it turned out the most common injuries were to the lower extremity and frequently caused by overuse.

Taking a look at the bigger picture the study revealed that recent injuries

to adolescents affected areas beyond the physical component of health, and likely had a negative impact on other areas, including social functioning. Based on these findings, it’s suggested that a more holistic approach be used for the care of injured adolescents, one that evaluates and treats the overall wellbeing of the athlete rather than their mere physical progress.

An injury’s negative effect on the social function of an athlete, can potentially lead to athletes’ dropping out of sports and future health-related complications.

Therefore, in order to properly care for our kids, we must continue to further develop the understanding of how injuries impact our young people and focus on treating the whole individual. The intent is that young athletes will return to sports and continue to be physically active.

Physical Therapy is one viable option that focuses on the overall wellbeing of patients in addition to their recovery from injury.

Until Next Month, Thanks from Sterling Carter, PT, MS, CSCS Sterling Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation www.sterlingtherapy.com 281-240-3140

Advertise TODAY in d-mars.com Business Journal Call Us TODAY! 713.272.9511

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22.

Dec - Jan 25, 2013

What Really Causes the “Beer Belly” in Men and How to Get Rid of Your Gut By www.SixWise.com

I

f you see a man with a big belly, he must be indulging in plenty of libations, beer in particular, or so the stereotype goes. But does drinking beer actually cause a beer belly?

Well, it certainly can. But so can drinking any alcoholic beverage, particularly in binge amounts. In fact, according to The Centre for Alcohol Research in Denmark, people who drink large amounts of alcohol in one or two sittings are more likely to be “apple-shaped.”

“We have some indication that people who are binge-drinking are more frequently apple-shaped,” said Professor Morton Gronbeck in BBC News. “They tend to be abdominally obese, but drinking the same amount of alcohol spread out over the week would not give you an apple shape.”

So while there is certainly a link between excess drinking and a “beer belly,” why this link exists is still not known.

To some extent, carrying weight around the midsection in men may be genetic.

Your body stores fat where there are fat cells, and for most of us they concentrate on the upper and lower midsection.

Exactly where the fat goes may depend on the lipoprotein lipase, which is an enzyme necessary for fat storage.

Women have more of this enzyme in the thighs and buttocks while men have higher concentrations in the abdomen.

The Health Risks of a Big Belly Carrying extra fat around your midsection is extremely dangerous, as people with large bellies are at a higher risk of dangerous visceral fat, which can infiltrate your liver and other organs, streak through your muscles and even strangle your heart.

According to the Mayo Clinic, extra belly fat can lead to: • Diabetes • Some types of cancers • High blood pressure • Sleep apnea • Abnormal lipids -- high triglycerides and low HDL (“good” cholesterol) • Insulin resistance • Metabolic syndrome So whether you are a man or a woman, losing excess weight around your belly is much more than a cosmetic issue; it’s a health issue.

What’s the Best Way to Trim a Beer Belly?

Contrary to popular belief, doing endless crunches and sit-ups is not the secret to slimming your midsection.

“There is no food, no exercise, and no herb that will cause your body to remove fat in one place versus another,” says Mike Adams, the Health Ranger To remove fat, no matter where it may be, you must follow the basic rule of weight

loss: burn Ideally this should be done with a combination of two things you’ve surely heard of before: diet and exercise.

Exercise in particular is extremely effective at reducing visceral fat. A study

by Duke University Medical Center researchers found that people who were physically inactive had significant increases in visceral fat, while those who exercised frequently had significant decreases in visceral fat, over an eight-month period.

Just a brisk 30-minute walk six times a week was enough to prevent accumulation of visceral fat, while even more exercise (17 miles of jogging per week) was found to actually reverse the amount of visceral fat.

Along with exercise, the following tips will also help to decrease belly fat: 1.

Cut out excess “empty” calories like those from soda, candy, cookies, sweetened drinks and chips first.

2. Avoid unhealthy trans fats, and opt for healthier natural fats from olive oil, nuts, and avocados instead.

3. Don’t focus your workouts on a specific body area (like abs or legs). Use a whole-body approach instead.

4. Avoid eating too many processed carbs (white sugar and white flour, etc.).

These extra carbohydrates are easily converted into fat.

5. Don’t get caught up in yo-yo dieting. The more you lose weight and regain it again, the worse it is for your health and the harder it will become to get rid of fat.

6. Limit your alcohol intake. It’s high in calories and excessive drinking will leave you little energy to stick with your exercise routine.

7.

Bake, grill, steam or broil food instead of frying it (fewer calories and better for health and energy).

8. Eat a wide variety of vegetables, including dark greens. Along with the many outstanding nutrients, the fiber in vegetables (and whole fruits) will help you feel full.

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Dec - Jan 25, 2013

How to Reduce Risks of

Heart Diseases in Men

By Rodolfo Roberts

H

eart diseases are one of the most common causes or mortalities these days.

Different kinds of heart diseases are affecting many people in the world today and are becoming an internationally alarming issue. Due to various factors in the environment and the very risky lifestyle of people, the possibility of developing certain heart problems is very high. This is the reason why people must be very careful of their lifestyle including the things that they do, drink and eat.

There are various methods that people can observe to reduce the risks of developing heart diseases. These methods will not only minimize the risks of heart diseases in men, but will also help in avoiding other health problems like some cancers and diabetes. This changes may require a big amount of effort, but they are proven to be all worth it since people can enjoy a life that is healthier and risk- free.

Many health risks and heart diseases in men are increased because of their unhealthy diet. A high- calorie diet has high chances of harming the heart. Stay away from foods that are salty and fatty, as well as sweets. To take care of your heart, it is best to eat high- fiber foods like fruits

and vegetables. It is also best to stay away from junk foods, as well as preserved and greasy foods. Eating red meat should also be avoided.

Smoking is also a threat to the cardiovascular system. It is a known fact that smoking, as well as second-hand smoke can cause a lot of diseases and heart diseases are among them. This is also true with high consumption of alcohol. Thus, people need to avoid smoking and excess consumption of alcohol .

Moreover, a healthy lifestyle counts the most. Work out every day for at least 30 minutes. Avoid stress and venture into stress- debriefing if needed. A life that is stagnant and stressful is very prone to health problems and heart diseases in men.

Rodolfo Roberts is a health professional of over 10 years. In his time in the professional field he has encountered a lot of things concerning gynecomastia. He now specializes in researching and keeps writing on the subject he knows so much about.

Article Source: http://www.articlesphere. com/Article/How-to-Reduce-Risks-ofHeart-Diseases-in-Men/245831

23.

Eating Raw:

The Advantages and Disadvantages

According to Various Experts

By www.SixWise.com

A

raw food movement is sweeping across the United States, advocating a diet of anywhere from 70 percent to 100 percent raw foods.

Raw foodists claim that switching to a predominantly raw food diet will give you more energy, slow down aging, improve your skin, boost your mood, and fight a host of chronic diseases including chronic fatigue syndrome, Crohn’s disease and even cancer.

A true raw food diet consists of only raw foods, traditionally vegan ones like vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds. However, some raw foodists also eat raw dairy products, raw eggs and even raw meat.

“When you cook something, you destroy the enzymes,” said Karyn Calabrese, a wellknown raw foodist in the Chicago-area in an NBC5 article. “You need enzymes for every metabolic purpose in your body.

When you lose enzymes, that’s when you die.”

Enzymes begin to be destroyed at temperatures above 110-115 degrees, so raw foodists are allowed to use a dehydrator, which alters food slightly by blowing hot air on it.

Raw foods, advocates say, are also higher in vitamins and nutrients, which are also destroyed by cooking.

As evidence of raw foods’ growing popularity, all-raw restaurants are popping up across the country, drawing raw foodists and locals alike. Far from the bland, cold and hard meals you might expect from raw foods, diners describe raw food offerings as “vibrant,” “flavorful,” and “refreshing.”

“I’m 58 years old. I don’t know what illness is. I have more energy then I know what to do with. I truly believe it is the life style I lead,” said Calabrese, who owns a raw food restaurant in Chicago.

Is Raw Food Really Better Than Cooked Food?

As adamant as raw foodists are about the benefits of eating raw, proponents of old-fashioned cooked foods are just as outspoken.

“The claim that somehow raw foods give you better energy, are more healthful, improve your immune system and all of that is simply not substantiated,” said

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Dennis Miller, a professor of food and nutrition at Cornell University, in a USA Today article. “And moreover, it’s not biologically plausible.”

He points out that certain foods, like beans, actually become more nutritious after cooking. Cooked tomatoes are also known to contain particularly healthy compounds like lycopene -- more so than raw tomatoes -- that help fight prostate cancer.

There’s also the question of digestion.

According to Donna Gates, author of The Body Ecology Diet, “Many people’s digestive systems are simply too weak to digest raw vegetables in spite of all their natural enzymes.”

She recommends “cooking your vegetables by baking, simmering, sautéing or lightly steaming them to make them more digestible” while simultaneously eating more fermented, or cultured, foods.

The good bacteria in fermented foods, Gates says, will help you to create a healthy inner ecosystem and digest foods more efficiently.

Meanwhile, researchers at Rutgers University and Taiwan found that iron is more easily absorbed by the body from 37 of 48 vegetables they tested when they’re boiled, stir-fried, steamed or grilled.

“We’ve been promoting a more vegetarian type of diet for decades, and I still want people to move in that direction,” Dr. Robert Kushner, medical director of Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s Wellness Institute in USA Today. “But to put up artificial barriers and silly rules that say you can’t cook fruits and vegetables is pushing the envelope a little too far ...

You can become deficient in a variety of nutrients, like vitamin B-12, calcium, iron and protein. And you can become sick.”

The general consensus among conventional nutritionists continues to be that eating lots of fruits and vegetables is always nutritious ... but it’s not necessary to restrict yourself to only raw foods to be healthy.

As for the general public, very few have crossed the line to 100 percent raw ... but the interest, or at least the curiosity, of many has been peaked.

24.

Dec - Jan 25, 2013

Women and Exercise The Basics and FAQs

By Sarah Cohen

T

here are plenty of reasons why women should exercise, but some aren’t as obvious as others.

• • • • • • • • •

To decrease anxiety To increase flexibility To build bone density To increase lean muscle mass To improve athletic performance To control weight and eating habits To increase cardiovascular health To increase motor coordination and balance To decrease risk factor for heart disease, uterine cancer, breast cancer and diabetes

But what constitutes exercise in the first place? There are two main types of exercise: 1. Cardiovascular Exercise walking, running, biking, swimming,

rowing, water running, dancing 2. Strengthening Exercises weight training, yoga, pilates, plyometrics, exercise bands

Osteoporosis The Silent Thief

Osteoporosis is a disease that causes a decrease in bone mass density, resulting in weakened bones that are vulnerable to fracture and deformation. It’s referred to as the “silent thief” because fractures are often the first symptom - though by then, the disease is often very advanced. Fractures commonly affect the spine, hips and wrist area. Approximately 12 million Americans are affected by this disease, and it’s estimated that nearly 40 per cent of U.S. Caucasian women and 13 per cent of U.S. Caucasian men aged 50 or older will experience at least one fragility fracture (caused by osteoporosis) in their lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Women and Exercise

How does Exercise Help Increase Bone Mineral Density?

Exercise can help to build up your bone mineral density. The vertical trabeculae in the bone are the “weight bearing” structures, and their density can be increased with exercise.

How Does Exercise Decrease the Risk of Heart Attacks?

Regular exercise can alter your cholesterol in just a few months.

As little as 30 minutes a day can decrease your LDL (Bad Cholesterol) and increase your HDL (Good Cholesterol).

What is the Best Form of Exercise for Weight Control?

For the majority of the population, a combination of

both cardiovascular training and weight training is the most efficient way to control your weight. Recent research shows that a shorter period of interval cardio training (20 minutes divided into alternating 30-second intervals of intense and easy cardio training), along with a 30 to 40 minute weight training program produces the best results in terms of decreased body fat percentage and an increase in lean muscle mass.

How Early Can a Child Begin Regular Exercise?

Children of all ages can and should be exercising regularly.

The rates of American childhood obesity are alarmingly high (tripling from 6.5 per cent 20 years ago to 19.6 per cent today). Heavy weight-bearing exercise should be avoided until after puberty, but cardiovascular activity is encouraged at any age.

How Can Walking or Running Alter Premenstrual Symptoms?

Just as our heart and muscles adapt when exercising, so does the endocrine system. Exercise can cause the ovaries to adapt by decreasing the level of estrogen that they produce, which can lead to a decrease in fluid retention, breast soreness, and irritability.

Exercise also releases “feel good”

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hormones called endorphins.

How Does Exercise Help Pre and Post-Menopausal Women?

Studies have shown that exercise helps to relieve and prevent many menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal and urinary irritation, insomnia and depression. Post-menopausal women who exercise are half as likely to develop diabetes.

As a Chiropractor, Kinesiologist and a Personal Trainer Dr. Cohen has ten years experience in athletic training and rehabilitation and is currently working with runners and triathletes at the city, varsity, national and professional levels.

Dr. Cohen has been a guest speaker for trainers and athletes at the Toronto and Whistler Can-Fit-Pro Conference, HSBC Triathlon Series Awards Event and Running Room Clinics on various topics including running biomechanics, training techniques and injury prevention and treatment. http://www.fitnessrepublic.com Article Source: http://www. a r t ic le s phe r e .c om /A r t ic le / Women-and-Exercise---TheBasics-and-FAQs/251870

Dec - Jan 25, 2013

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25.

26.

Dec - Jan 25, 2013

Visual Slimming Tricks:

Red Carpet Secrets

By Cyla Weiner

S

hapewear today is not your grandmother’s girdle or long line bra. Instead, this intimate apparel essential product has been amazingly updated with contemporary new fabrics that control and smooth out any lines you want to make invisible.

Shapewear hides those little bulges and rolls and that makes your clothes look great, regardless of size. It doesn’t matter if you are 110 pounds or 210 pounds, shapewear products smooth out problem areas from back and bra bulge to the hips and thighs. The appearance of looking firm and toned is realized by these red carpet secret undergarments.

Key words for shapewear today are comfortable, breathable, and enhancement.

Depending on your problem area, different types of shapewear exist that help different body areas. Below are benefits of a variety of product types and brand recommendations for all body types and shapes.

The Cami Shaper: Body shaping camis come in many styles. A strapless cami shaper is offered by Spanx which minimizes your midriff while simultaneously smoothing out your back. Or you can get a V-Neck shaper from Cass and Co. that has wide straps and a flattering neckline. You can get an underwire cami shaper from Sassybax for a little more lift for your bust and has been designed with fuller figured women in mind and provides support for those sporting a DD bust size. The Sassybax cami is available in sizes up to extra large, designed for women wearing a size 16-18.

Eliminating bra bulge and bra lines and back and torso smoothing are a few of the slimming results.

The Body Suit: This style is great because it is comfortable, you can go to the bathroom easily, and the product makes you looked pulled together. My favorite body suits are from Body Wrap as they make one with and without a leg. Their full-figure seamless underwire body suit has a tummy control that flattens and slenderizes, while the rear lifts and shapes.

The seamless underwire cups provide lots of support and lift. Wacaol offers a fullfigure body briefer as well.

The Bottom Shaper: Many styles of panty shaper products exist. You can go from a thong, to a brief, to a biker short, to mid-thigh, and to long leg. Grenier

offers some sexy shaper products and I really like the Cass and Co. and Body Wrap selections. Again, Body Wrap has the best selection for plus sized women.

These shapers do not cut into the waist and smooth out bottom bulge. While firming the tummy, slenderizing hips, firm control is provided and the products are invisible under clothing.

The Dress Shaper: One of my favorites is from Cass and Co. This shaper lifts and supports the bust. The benefit to a dress shaper is that it is one piece with overall slimming control, hence smoothing out any bulges back or otherwise, and stays put about 3 inches above the knee. Depending on your size, Body Wrap offers a strapless slip that accommodates a D cup and is available in sizes small to extra large. Spanx offers a full slip available in sizes up to extra large (size 14-16).

A Final Tip-Color: Many of these shapers come in fashionable colors such as brown, cream and pink. Also black, nude and white are staples and basic colors. Nude is always your best color choice because it is skin toned and works with white and black. If your natural skin tone is dark try a brown or suntan for color.

Cyla Weiner is a bra, intimate apparel and swimwear fitting expert who grew up in the fashion industry with her sister Helen along side her parents, who owned a lingerie retail store in New Jersey. She opened Sylene of Washington (SW), a womanowned lingerie and swimwear boutique, in the Washington-DC area more than 30 years ago. She and SW’s fitting experts specialize in helping women, brides to be, and teens who appreciate a combination of personal attention and superior, luxurious selections. Cyla hand picks intimate apparel, swimwear and accessory products from domestic and international suppliers.

SW’s staff helps clients make beautiful and perfect choices when it comes to a first bra, a wedding trousseau, honeymoon registry, swimsuits, nursing bras, or after breast surgery. There is no lingerie shopping experience like a Sylene of Washington experience. For more information, visit http://www.sylenedc.com Article Source: http://www.articlesphere. com/Article/Visual-Slimming-Tricks-Red-Carpet-Secrets/118102

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Dec - Jan 25, 2013

Surviving the Stress of the Holidays

By Kristi Fowler

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urviving the holidays can be a challenge, right? It’s funny how that changes with time. As a kid I loved the holidays… no school… presents… I got to see family.

But as the “mom” now, I am shocked at how stressful it can be. As I anticipate my entire extended family traveling to all stay at my home it is going to be interesting. Just the thought of it can make my heart start beating faster.

Why is that? I feel pressure because I want everyone to have a great time. I want them to be impressed with my home. I want things to be organized.

Basically I want things to be perfect.

Why? The truth is many of us (me included) can get myself so worked up to make everything perfect I miss the most import part – my family. I don’t want my kids to say “Holidays were not fun because of how stressed out mom would get.” I do want to make memories. I can only do so much.

Here are some things to think about so that you don’t get so stressed you miss what’s really important.

1) Pay attention to you – if you are not having fun and are stressed out do something to change it. Don’t be a victim by saying “that’s just the way it is around the holidays”. This is huge. You really do have choices don’t ever believe anything different. There might not be an easy answer but there are options.

2) Don’t lose sight of the meaning of the season. It’s a time of celebration.

It’s a time to be reminded what we are grateful for. It’s a time to remember the gift of Christ. Maybe ask yourself – why am I or why does our family celebrate this holiday? Lets get back to the meaning of things. It does matter.

Going through all of this stress just because “this is what we always do” doesn’t cut it.

3) It’s okay to say “No” – even to family, to the church, to work. There is only so much of you. You can’t give it all away. I know this makes a lot of people feel guilty. Spreading yourself too thin has its negative affects

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you will have much more to give.

and your family.

To strategize on how best to deal with I know this is a lot to think about but your particular family situation this important. As a counselor, the holidays holiday season, take me up on my free are one of my busiest times of the year 30-minute consult offer. If you want People are incredibly stressed out. more information, please contact me at Don’t let that be you. Remember… the kristfowler.com or at 208-731-0558. *In our 18th Edition Kristi Fowler holidays were meant for celebration, not deflation. With the right boundaries, also wrote “How to Advioid Caregiver the holidays can be a great time for you Burnout”.

Twelve Health and Safety Tips for the Holidays

as well. Think about it in terms of a price tag. How much is this going to cost me – emotionally? Financially?

Time? Energy? Another way to look at it is you have so much fuel in your Provided By the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tank. Where are you going to use that fuel. Fuel is expensive and fuel has to be replenished.

4) Everything doesn’t have to be perfect. It is the thought that counts.

This really is true. If you have a critical person in your family will it ever be good enough for them? My guess is it won’t be. Let it be ok because that is about them. What is it you really want?

Everyone to enjoy their time together?

Then what needs to take place to make that happen? Having a spotless house isn’t going to do that. Buying the perfect gifts isn’t going to do that.

Making everything from scratch isn’t going to do that.

5) Identify and communicate what you need, what you expect, what will make the holidays fun and meaningful for you. Please hear me on this – it is OK to ask for help. You can’t be the one that does all the giving.

You will be burned out, exhausted and more than likely angry. Have people bring things. Don’t try and do it all by yourself. Tell your spouse exactly what you expect and need from them for to do items to what you need emotionally while your family is there. If you know what you want/need/expect and communicate it you are setting yourself up for much better results because other wise you will be frustrated and not even know why. No one can read your mind. You must be specific about what you need because your family loves you and wants to be helpful but they can’t do that if they don’t know.

6) Don’t forget to take care of you – don’t stop exercising, get your sleep, prioritize what you need to do, drink water – not just the spiked drinks.

There are so many parties, activities, etc. It is easy to get carried away with all of the goodies around. There is lots to be done so take care of you first and

1. Wash hands often to keep yourself from spreading germs and getting sick. Wash your hands with soap and clean running water for at least 20 seconds.

2. Bundle up to stay dry and warm. Wear appropriate outdoor clothing: layers of light, warm clothing; mittens; hats; scarves; and waterproof boots.

3. Manage stress. Don’t overcommit yourself and prevent holiday anxiety and pressure.

Get enough sleep.

4. Don’t drink and drive or let others drink and drive.Whenever anyone drives drunk, they put everyone on the road in danger.

5. Be smoke-free. Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.

There is NO safe amount of tobacco or secondhand smoke. Breathing even a little secondhand smoke can be dangerous.

6. Fasten seat belts while driving or riding in a motor vehicle. Always buckle your child in the car using a child safety seat, booster seat, or seat belt according to his/her height, weight, and age. Use a seat belt on every trip, no matter how short the trip.

7. Get exams and screenings.

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Ask what exams you need and when to get them. Update your personal and family history.

8. Get your vaccinations, which help prevent diseases and save lives.

9. Monitor the children. Keep potentially dangerous toys, food, drinks, household items, and other objects out of kids’ reach. Dress warmly for outdoor activities.

Develop and reinforce rules about acceptable and safe behaviors including electronic media.

10. Practice fire safety. Most residential fires occur during the winter months, so be careful to never leave fireplaces, space heaters, stoves, or candles unattended. Have an emergency plan and practice it regularly.

11. Prepare food safely.

Remember these simple steps: wash hands and surfaces often, avoid cross-contamination, cook foods to proper temperatures, and refrigerate promptly.

12. Eat healthy, and get moving.

Eat fruits and vegetables. Limit your portion sizes and foods high in fat, salt and sugar. Be active for at least 2½ hours a week and help kids and teens be active for at least 1 hour a day.

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Dec - Jan 25, 2013

What Is Your Energy Currency?

By Shareefah Muhammad

D

o you wake up in the morning still feeling like you’ve been deprived of adequate sleep?

Do you get out of your bed wishing you had a few more hours? Don’t worry, this is not a new advertising for an amazing pill that will just zap those worries away!(smile) Many people suffer from such scenarios mentioned, the big question is, what do we do about it?

Outside of some undiagnosed medical condition,proper rest and exercise, many people have fatigue or lack of energy due to the inadequate diets we have that literally suck the life and vitality out of us.

As a result, we rely on various substances to sustain us throughout the day. Next to coffee, the more common energy boost now being energy drinks. Living in such a fast pace society, we hardly dedicate the thoughts to the long term effects of such quick fixes or a better option that will not only give us energy but improve our health and increase our longevity at the same time.

Let’s take an inside look at some of the ingredients in theses popular energy drinks. Three main ingredients we find across the board are; taurine, Vitamin B12 and caffeine.

Caffeine is widely known as a stimulant.

It is naturally found in foods such as coffee, tea and other foods. Extracts of it (from making decaf coffee and other products) are placed in artificial, processed or synthetic beverages. As a stimulant, it increases heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, stomach acid output, kidney function and mental activity. People with cardiovascular disease, ulcer problems or young children should avoid it. But with so many people suffering unknowingly with heart problems, that would be a difficult task. Could this be a reason why energy drinks have had at least 13 deaths, including a 14 year old?

Taurine is an amino acid that plays an important role in metabolism in the brain; it helps maintain the integrity of its cells along with the heart. In order to perform its many beneficial functions adequately,

it relies on minerals such as potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium and other components that you don’t find in energy drinks.

Vitamin B12, the red vitamin, naturally produced is called cobalamin and is necessary for the health of the entire nervous system. It is also needed for the formation of normal red blood cells along with Vitamins C and B6, iron, copper, protein, and folic acid.The common processed version of it found on most product labels is cyanocobalamin because it contains a cyanide molecule. This molecule alone causes the body to absorb the vitamin differently than it normally would and in lesser amounts. Also known as the “energy” vitamin, it increases the energy level whether by food or through supplements.

Food sources for B12 include: fish, eggs, milk products (especially yogurt) and meat.

Understanding the hype that energy beverages have some appealing ingredients that don’t perform at their best because of the “supporting actors” that are missing leaves one asking, how do we get the full deal? The best way is through whole foods themselves as opposed to “some foods”.

A good start would be to make your own juice drinks with fruits and vegetables but of course most people think, “I don’t have that kind of time!” Well a nice alternative choice is to consume whole food beverages like the fruit and vegetable blends of Odawalla, Naked Juice, Bottle House Farms, and others whose whole food combinations provide us with many vitamins and minerals that co-operate synergistically and improve many of our body functions along with giving us energy that will sustain us throughout the day.

In such a package you would get nature’s antioxidant effect that will not only give you energy, but help protect against irritating effects of smoke and other pollutants and assist in prevention of infection and disease.

That’s a deal that just can’t be beat! So the next time you need an energy boost, make a choice that will sustain your life!

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