Treating Varicose Veins

By Samantha Everett

You know what they are because you, like 44% of women (by age 30), have some sort of abnormal vein development, or varicose veins, in your legs.

And if you’re like most women, you want to get rid of them. Now while spider veins are nothing more than an ugly nuisance, varicose veins can swell and become quite painful over time. One thing’s for sure though: If you’re anything like most women, you want to get rid of them for good.

What are varicose veins?

Without getting all “doctor” on you, your heart consistently pumps blood to supply oxygen and all that good stuff throughout your entire body. And while arteries carry blood from your heart to every area of your body, veins take the blood from these other areas of your body and return them to the heart.

Now, your veins are like a one-way street in that they have valves that keep blood from traveling backwards; however, when those valves become weak (due, for instance, to standing all day long), some of the blood trickles back into your vein and becomes clogged, thus causing what it widely known as varicose veins.

FACTOID: Hemorrhoids are varicose veins that form around the anus or, in the case of pregnancy, in the vagina.

Why are spider / varicose veins so prominent?


Varicose veins are a dark bluish hue and look all twisty. They manage to make their way to the surface of the skin so that they are annoyingly visible to the naked eye.


Spider veins can be found virtually anywhere on the body (I have some near my ribs), but are most prominent on the legs and face. Depending on the woman, they can be found all over the body or only in a very small section of the body.

The reason these veins are most prominent in the lower extremities is due to:

- The force of gravity
- The pressure of body weight
- The task of carrying blood up to the heart

The veins in your legs have it tough because they have to carry blood uphill to your heart.

Are varicose veins dangerous?

Now while it’s rare, these veins can produce very undesirable reactions in the body, such as blood clotting, skin ulcers (sores) on the skin surrounding the varicose vein area, and swelling painful rashes.

These occurrences are rare, but if you have any of the following symptoms as a result of the veins, you may want to consult a doctor regarding treatment:

- Fatigue
- Heaviness
- Numbness
- Rashes
- Skin surrounding vein(s) becomes darker

Can I cure varicose veins myself?

You cannot alleviate or get rid of these veins on your own. As well, genetics also play a factor in whether or not your body will develop varicose/spider veins. There are, however, preventive measures you can take to minimize your chances of getting more or making them worse:

- Wear sunscreen to minimize spider veins
- Exercise every day to improve circulation
- Don’t cross your legs while sitting
- Try elevating your legs higher than your body when you lie down
- Wear support hose (I know you won’t, but it is preventive)
- Avoid salt
- Increase fiber intake

What treatments are there for varicose veins?

Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution directly into the vein. The solution, in turn, causes the vein’s walls to swell up, then stick together and seal shut.

Does it hurt? No.

Does it eliminate varicose veins? Yes. Although you made need to be treated more than once, the American Academy of Dermatology states that up to 90% of patients can expect to see a dramatic improvement.

How much does it cost? Between $100 and $400 (US) per session.

Electrodesiccation
This treatment is similar to sclerotherapy except the veins are sealed off with an electrical current instead of the injection of solution. This treatment may leave scars.

Does it hurt? A bit. You will feel a mild tingling sensation.

Does it eliminate varicose veins? Most experts agree that electrodesiccation is more effective when used to treat the face rather than the legs, although the technique may be used for both.

How much does it cost? Between $150 (for the face) and $400 (for the legs) per session.

Laser surgery (small to medium veins)
Laser surgery is not really a surgery, per se, but rather a technique that involves placing a catheter (a thin tube) into the vein, which sends radiofrequency energy that shrinks and seals the vein.

Does it hurt? A bit. If you’re a complete wuss when it comes to pain, ask the doctor to apply a topical numbing agent first.

Does it eliminate varicose veins? Yes. Approved in 1999 by the FDA (Food & Drug Administration) doctors feel that this treatment will eventually become the standard in treating varicose and spider veins.

How much does it cost? Between $300 to $450 per session.

Surgical Ligation & Stripping (large veins)
Yes, this is surgery. Veins are tied shut and removed from the leg.

Does it hurt? No, you’ll be under a general anesthetic.

Does it eliminate varicose veins? Yes, patients who’ve had the surgery reported a 90% decrease in spider and varicose veins.

How much does it cost? About $700 per session.

Potential complications for all the aforementioned treatments include:

- Matting
- Discoloration
- Skin Death
- Swelling

Discuss varicose veins with your doctor

Before you decide what you’re going to do, you should head to a doctor or technician via word of mouth approval (ask around, you’re bound to find a woman who’s had her veins removed). Bruising is a common occurrence after the treatments, but you want to ensure that you don’t leave feeling worse than you did when you walked in.

Good luck.

Meditation For Women

By Alicia Socorro

Originating in Vedic Hinduism, meditation is the practice of remaining in one position and focusing the mind for personal development.

You don’t have to be religious to meditate, either. But meditation will definitely raise your awareness to spirituality.

What is meditation?

Meditation is essentially “exercise for the mind.” The objective of a woman who meditates is to increase her awareness and release stress, and God knows we can all use some of that.

Meditation is used to free your mind of all thoughts and let go of all the stresses and little things that go on throughout your day. And although this might sound simple enough, you have no idea how difficult it is to focus on nothing until you try it.

Although many religions are tied to meditation, including Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, it is not necessary to belong to any religion to meditate.

Meditation is a great way to promote your physical and mental well being.

What are the benefits of meditation?

Meditation for women benefit #1
Deeper rest
If you have trouble sleeping because so many things weigh heavily on your mind (mortgage, relationship, work), meditation will help you clear your mind of all the stressors in your life and put the focus back on you.

Meditation for women benefit #2
Lower levels of cortisol and lactate
Stress is not just a mind problem; there are physical attributes to stress as well. Two chemicals associated with stress - cortisol and lactate - are minimized due to your newfound ability to “let things go.”

Meditation for women benefit #3
Improved flow of air
Throughout your meditation, you will attempt to focus on your breathing, so that you’re able to clear your mind of other things. So if you’re focusing on your breathing, you will definitely be taking deeper breaths and increasing the amount of air that gets to your lungs.

Meditation for women benefit #4
Decreased anxiety, depression, irritability
After awhile, you will notice that you’re able to let go of unwanted negative feelings because meditation will help you realize that there’s no point in focusing on what’s wrong in your life.

Meditation for women benefit #5
Increased happiness, memory, emotional stability
And while you’re letting go of all the nasties in your life, you will start to adapt all the niceties, and before you know it, these daily meditation exercises will have you smiling and wishing everyone a nice day.

How can you meditate?

There are no definitive rules when it comes to meditation for women, but if you want to get the most out of your sessions, this is what works best, according to experts.

Meditation for women tip #1
Meditate in the morning
If you’re not a morning person, this probably won’t work well for you, but if you are, then wake up, wash your face and get into the lotus position (legs crossed, back straight) on the floor before you have your morning coffee and get your day started.

Meditation for women benefit #2
Find a room
There’s a good chance that you won’t be able to meditate in a room that has too many distractions (stereo, TV, pictures, etc) so try to find a section of your home that will allow you to focus on you.

Meditation for women benefit #3
Sit comfortably
The lotus position is the most popular for meditation – sit on your butt and cross your legs over opposing thighs, keeping your back straight. Place the backs of your hands onto your knees and keep your neck straight.

It’s possible that you may get sleepy the first few times so you’d do best to sit with your back toward a hard surface. That way, if you begin to drift off, you’re back will hit the surface, and you’ll awaken and try to focus again.

Meditation for women benefit #4
Dedicate 10 minutes to it
In a conversation, 10 minutes doesn’t sound like very much time, but how long, on average, do you think you allow for “me” time every day? Start off with five minutes each day and, as that becomes easier, try to dedicate 10 minutes each day to meditating.

Meditation for women benefit #5
Focus on your breathing
You’d be surprised to know that most women don’t know how to breathe correctly and end up breathing from their chest or sucking in their stomachs on the inhale.

To take deep, calculated breaths, inhale, letting your stomach protrude as far as it can go and exhale slowly, bringing your stomach back to its normal position. Try to last 10 seconds on the inhale and another 10 on the exhale.

Meditation for women benefit #6
Don’t get frustrated
If you find that your mind keeps wandering away to things you have to do or things you forgot to do, don’t freak out. It’s okay to wander away, you just have to catch yourself and return to focusing on your breathing.

Meditation for women to relax

After a few weeks, you will notice that your attitude and personality have changed for the better. You will become calmer and more in tune with yourself.

And there’s nothing better than dedicating a few moments to yourself so that you can better focus on everything around you.

Tips To Stop Snoring

By Tara Fraser

It’s annoying, it’s loud, and it leaves its listeners without a good night’s sleep. It’s snoring, and whether it’s you who has the affliction or you sleep next to someone who can make the drapes moving with their inhaling and exhaling, it’s time to do something about it.

Snoring may result from sleep apnea (cessation of breathing during sleep), but more often than not, it results from habits and behaviors that, if changed, may stop the noise for good.

If you’re the one who gets the complaints about your snoring, then the following tips will help you to stop snoring. If it’s your man who has the problem, then it’s up to you to make sure that he learns what he needs to do if he wants to keep you in his bed.

Stop snoring tips #1
Lose weight
It sucks to hear it, but people who are overweight tend to snore more so than those who are at a healthy weight. And don’t get me wrong, you don’t have to be a cow to snore; being 30% over your ideal body weight (it’s 20% for men) may result in snoring.

Of course, you don’t necessarily have to be overweight to be a snorer, but if you are a snorer and overweight, dropping the pounds via exercise and healthy eating will curb it.

And you don’t even have to be fat to snore; if you’re not active in your daily life, there’s a very good chance that you will be a snorer, so get out there and try to walk for at least an hour a day.

Stop snoring tips #2
Don’t drink alcohol
If you habitually have a glass of wine with dinner, that may increase your chances of snoring at night. When you drink, it relaxes the tongue and throat muscles, resulting in partially blocked air movement as you breathe, which leads to snoring.

If you already snore, this will make the situation worse and if you don’t usually snore, drinking can contribute to this new sleep behavior. So do your best to avoid the devil’s soup and if you do end up drinking, drink lots of water before you hit the sack.

Stop snoring tips #3
Quit smoking
There’s a good chance that, if you’re a smoker, you’ll likely be a snorer as well. Why? Well, because of the effects cigarette smoking has on the nasal passages and sinuses.

If you quit smoking, all your problems with snoring (among other things) would resolve themselves, but that’s likely asking a lot of you. If you’re not up for quitting this very minute, then at least give yourself a cut off time each evening – say four hours before you go to bed.

And if you don’t smoke, you’d do best to avoid exposing yourself to secondhand smoke; it has the same detrimental effect when it comes to sleepy time.

It may not curb your snoring entirely, but it will help.

Stop snoring tips #4
Sleep on your side
If you’re a heavy snorer, there’s a good chance that, no matter what position you end up sleeping in, you’ll continue to snore. But if you are a moderate snorer, then sleeping on your side could help eliminate those nasty sounds you keep making.

Moderate snorers tend to snore when they sleep on their backs. If you habitually sleep on your back, you could opt to sew a ball onto the back of your nightwear in order to avoid doing so (sounds comfortable, I know).

Stop snoring tips #5
Avoid pillows
Some people tend to sleep on a bunch of pillows, but anything that elevates your head and neck, and throws off the natural line of your spine, tends to make you snore.

If you absolutely cannot avoid using pillows when you sleep, invest in a Tempur-Pedic pillow; this pillow allows you the use of a pillow but keeps your body aligned correctly.

Stop snoring tips #6
Deal with allergies
For some women (and men), snoring only occurs when allergy season rolls around. And because you can’t eliminate your allergy, you will have to attack your snoring from another angle.

When you notice your hay fever acting up, take a nasal decongestant (but consult your physician if you’re already taking a prescribed medication). This will help clear your air passages and limit the snoring.

Stop snoring today

Snoring is not usually harmful, but there’s no doubt that if you have to endure the sounds night after night, you’d want to do something about it, and smothering someone with a pillow is still not legal in most states.

And if you’re the culprit behind the noise at night, I’m pretty sure you’d want to do something about it because snoring is right up there with farting and burping - it just doesn’t sound right on a woman.

Should your efforts to curb your snoring not work, consult your physician to discuss medical solutions.

Menstruation Home Remedies

By Samantha Everett

Being a woman in a man’s world is tough enough as it is; throw in hormonal imbalances, cramps and unwanted bathroom breaks, and it makes life that much bitchier.

But life doesn’t have to stop because of your period; it is possible to have it and feel great the entire time. If you encounter common aches and pains when it comes to your menstrual cycle, perhaps there are certain products in your home that can cure what ails you.

From menstrual cramps to tender breasts, check out some simple menstruation home remedies that will help keep your beautiful body in its finest form, especially when it’s that time of the month.

FACTOID: A woman will have approximately 500 periods in her lifetime.

Menstruation home remedies #1
Missed periods
If your menstrual cycle is somewhat temperamental, it is widely believed that parsley can cure what ails you.

A diet consistent in parsley can aid in menstrual regularity due to the fact that it contains an oily liquid called apiol (pronounced ah-pee-oll).

Apiol was believed to cause abortions, according to Hippocrates, and it is believed that, if taken in high doses, pure crystalline apiol may cause liver and kidney damage. But if you get your apiol via the parsley route, there’s nothing to fear.

As well, you can increase your chances of having regular periods by combining your parsley intake with beets or beet juice, which is also believed to promote liver function and regulate periods.

Menstruation home remedies #2
Menstrual cramps
After each meal, add a piece of pounded fresh ginger and a tad of sugar or honey to a cup of hot water, and drink it. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce clotting and alleviate menstrual pains almost immediately.

You can also try taking an over-the-counter medication that contains ibuprofen or aspirin.

And although it may be the last thing you want to do, exercise actually reduces cramping, so you might want to head to the gym if you begin to feel achy. If the gym is not your friend, do your best to walk ½ a mile every day.

If you don’t get enough B vitamins and magnesium from your diet, take a supplement that contains them because it is believed that they help the liver metabolize estrogen. And as much as you’re dying for French fries and burgers, try to resist them, as fried foods end up blocking the body’s ability to absorb magnesium.

Menstruation home remedies #3
Bloating/water retention
Although you may have a craving for salt more so during your period, it is imperative that you avoid salt if you want to keep from getting bloated and retaining water.

You also want to avoid alcohol because it has a dehydrating effect on the body and results in the retention of water.

If you just couldn’t resist those salty chips and begin to regret it a few hours later, drink some dandelion tea, which is believed to eliminate excess salt and sodium from the body.

Menstruation home remedies #4
Excessive bleeding
Add some coriander and sugar or honey (no more than a teaspoon) to boiled water and drink this concoction about twice a day. Coriander helps to increase liver function and enhance digestion.

But don’t just rely on coriander to save the day; excessive bleeding could be a sign of something more serious. If this is a constant problem during or between your menstrual cycles, make an appointment with your gynecologist right away to discuss the issue.

Menstruation home remedies #5
Constipation
Do your best to eat foods high in fiber, such as raw vegetables and fruits, beans, and whole-grain foods. You should be getting upwards of 30 grams of fiber a day.

Drink lots of water, it helps to flush your system of toxins and aids in relieving gas and constipation.

Try to eat smaller meals throughout the day rather than three squares. By giving your stomach a little bit of food at a time, your stomach and intestines don’t need to work as hard to digest the food and get it to the exit.

Take about 25 to 50 milligrams of vitamin B6, as it acts as a mild diuretic and will keep you from harboring excess gas in your tummy.

Menstruation home remedies #6
Body aches
Lower back problems are a common complaint for most women who are menstruating and the best way to beat the pain is by applying a heating pad directly to the area.

Of course, a good old warm bath and a deep tissue massage can work wonders as well. So get your man to work on that.

Menstruation home remedies #7
Tender breasts
Many women complain about tender and sensitive breasts right before or during their periods. Applying vitamin E directly on the sensitive area should help to alleviate the sensation.

Taking a supplement that includes vitamin A, the B-complex vitamins, vitamin E, iodine, and selenium can also alleviate tenderness.

Lastly, you’re probably not going to be happy reading this, but caffeine actually aggravates breasts tissue and contributes to the problem. If you can, try to avoid caffeine or at least cut down on it during your menses.

Menstruation home remedies

You can always find a cure for what ails you right at home, but do not live and die by home remedies; see your gynecologist and discuss your issues to get a better understanding of what’s going on inside your body.

If your doctor suggests that you go the home remedy route, then that’s what you should do, but I strongly recommend that you let him decide rather than decide for yourself.

Plastic Surgery Risks

By Samantha Everett

According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), nearly 11.5 million surgical and nonsurgical procedures were performed in the United States alone in 2005, 91.4% of which were done on women. Although there was a 2% decline from 2004, it’s quite evident that women’s quest for perfection is still in the works.

The top 5 surgical procedures for women are:

Liposuction

Breast augmentation

Eyelid surgery

Tummy tuck

Breast lift

And the top 5 nonsurgical procedures are:

Botox injections

Laser hair removal

Hyaluronic acid (for folds & wrinkle improvement)

Microdermabrasion

Chemical peel

Americans spent approximately $12.4 billion (US) on cosmetic procedures last year, and the big question is why? Why do we go under the knife, risking our lives, in a quest to look better?

The answer is simple: We’re vain. And that’s okay. But do you really realize the underlying plastic surgery risks involved when you go under the knife? I know that reality television programs tend to show successes rather than failures, but there are some great potential dangers to think about when it comes to plastic surgery risks.

If you’re considering making your thinning out your hips or getting those double Ds, perhaps you want to find out what the potential aftermath might be first. Here now are the plastic surgery risks you likely haven’t considered.

FACTOID: Between 1995 and 2005, women’s cosmetic surgery procedures went up by 700%

Liposuction
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes unwanted deposits of fat from specific areas of the body.

Plastic Surgery Risks
Toxicity – When undergoing liposuction surgery, lidocaine is used to numb the specific area. Some women have an aversion to it and may have an adverse reaction to it.

Excessive fluid loss/accumulation – Losing an excess amount of fluid can lead to shock and fluid accumulation must be drained from the body, otherwise friction burns or skin and nerve damage may occur.

Death – If the formation of fat and/or blood clots occurs, they can find their way to the lungs and lead to death.

Breast augmentation
Breast augmentation is a procedure used to enhance a woman’s breast size, preferably making it proportionate to the body (usually not the case).

Plastic Surgery Risks
Permanent scarring/formation of scar tissue – Although scars are usually hidden underneath the skin, sometimes scar tissue forms in excess causing an unsightly scar near the breasts.

Nerve/sensory damage – It is possible that you can lose all sensation in your nipples, and breasts for that matter.

Problems moving muscles – Your pectoral muscles may get damaged during the surgery and although the soreness may dissipate after awhile, the damage may be permanent.

Numbness – Certain parts of your chest may become numb and remain that way.

Discoloration of the skin – Scar tissue may leave certain areas of your breasts with discoloration that will not respond to tanning.

Tissue necrosis – Some of the living tissue or cells in the surrounding areas may die due to the trauma from surgery.

Asymmetry – After the surgery, your breasts may be uneven, too far apart or one nipple may be lower than the other. To repair it, you will have to undergo another surgery.

Infection – You may be prescribed antibiotics after the surgery if you end up getting an infection, which is quite common.

Eyelid surgery
Eyelid surgery is used to lift or remove excess skin from the upper or lower skin around the eye and can be done by persons of any age.

Plastic Surgery Risks
Infection – An infection that results in further eye complications could result from the surgery and antibiotics would be necessary to alleviate it.

Bleeding – It is possible that the surgery leaves an accumulation of blood under the skin that may require removal.

Asymmetry – Eyes may not end up looking the same, and one can end up higher, bigger or thicker than the other. A follow up surgery would be necessary to resolve the problem.

Excessive skin removal – If the surgeon ends up taking too much skin off of the lower or upper eyelid, the result may be constant tearing at the tear drain. Another surgery to resolve the issue would be necessary.

Drooping lid – Ptosis, or a drooping eyelid may occur after surgery. According to popular surgeons, the problem tends to resolve itself after a few months, but sometimes another surgery is necessary, especially if the ptosis is caused by injury to the levator muscle and tendon (eyelid).

Vision problems – Double and loss of vision may occur after the surgery and permanent blindness occurs in 1 out every 10,000 cases. But immediate vision problems that occur are mainly due to excess tearing, excess mucus and swelling, and vision is usually restored after that.

Tummy tuck
Also referred to as “abdominoplasty,” this procedure is a major surgery that removes excess fat and skin from the abdominal region.

Plastic Surgery Risks
Numbness – Areas of the tummy may become numb immediately after surgery, but the sensation should return after a few days. Keep in mind, however, that it is possible to end up with a permanently diminished sensation.

Belly button shape change – The navel may become wider, slimmer, deeper, or move to a different area on your tummy altogether. The way you heal will determine where it remains. If you’re unhappy with the result, a second surgery will be necessary.

Scarring – an accumulation of scar tissue may occur and be quite visible, and may necessitate a second surgery. Smokers are most likely to experience scarring.

Breast lift
Also referred to as mastopexy, a breast lift is a procedure that lifts or reshapes breasts. This procedure can also be used to make the areolas (dark skin surrounding the nipples) smaller.

Plastic Surgery Risks
Scarring – During the procedure, the nipples are removed and an incision is made down the middle of the bottom part of the breast. Although the scar will heal, it will remain visible.

Asymmetry – It’s possible that the nipples or even the entire breasts become unaligned following the procedure and a follow-up surgery may be necessary to resolve the problem.

Permanent loss of sensitivity in breasts or nipples – While loss of sensation in the breasts and nipples is rarely permanent, it could take months before the sensitivity returns.

Are the plastic surgery risks worth it?

Now that you know what all the potential complications and plastic surgery risks you might be taking, if you’re still adamant about going under the knife in the name of beauty and self-esteem, make sure to do your homework and find a reputable surgeon. Your objective should be to come out of the surgery looking and feeling better.

Good luck.

Women’s Gas Problems – 6 Fixes

By Meredith Thompson

It happens to the best of us and, usually, at the worst times. It’s women’s gas problems, and if you’ve ever experienced the need to suck in a fart because you’re on a hot date or at a business luncheon, you’d know that there’s nothing more annoying than stomach pains caused by holding in your gas.

And there’s only one way to figure out what’s causing your gas - eating. That’s right, most of the food you eat is what causes that undesirable feeling and need to let one go silently. And the worst part is that the silent ones are the worst.

Is it possible to eliminate women’s gas problems completely? Actually, yes, it is, but you would have to sacrifice many of the foods you love in order to do so.

Between avoiding certain foods completely to taking a gas-eliminating over-the-counter medicine, here are the best ways to get rid of women’s gas problems quickly and over the long-term.

Women’s gas problems fix #1
Avoid lactose
Many women are lactose intolerant and don’t even know it. It’s very possible that your love of dairy products is producing a stinky result at the end of the day.

Women who are lactose intolerant have a low intestinal level of an enzyme that’s known as lactase. Lactase is needed to help you digest lactose; the sugar that’s found in most dairy products.

The worst part is that you may not even be lactose intolerant, but simply unable to digest certain milk products, and it’s quite possible that you’re just not able to handle ice cream, even though it’s your favorite dessert in the whole wide world.

If you want to figure out if your gas is caused by milk products, consume them on one of those nights you spend at home alone, and if it is indeed a dairy product that’s causing your gas issues, let ‘em rip that evening and then avoid them in public.

Women’s gas problems fix #2
Avoid gas-causing foods
You’ve surely heard that beans are a big no-no because they contain a sugar called raffinose that causes gas like you’ve never heard, but there are many gas-producing foods that you probably didn’t even think cause gas.

Many vegetables cause gas, including cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, onions, artichokes, cauliflower, and radishes. So if you’re out at a restaurant with friends and any of these are part of your side dish, you might want to pass on them.

But gas producing foods don’t stop there; you can get a bout of gas from raw or dried fruits like bananas, melons, peaches, prunes, and apricots – especially if they contain sulfites.

As well, eggs, sodas, fruit juices, wine, beer, whole wheat flour, and wheat bran can also give you a bad case of the farties.

Women’s gas problems fix #3
Start slow with fiber
Fiber is highly encouraged for digestive health, but if it’s not taken correctly, it may lead to a serious increase in gas. If you need to add fiber to your diet because you need to “regulate,” start out small.

In order for your bowels to get used to the fiber, add a small amount to your cereal or juice in the morning and as your body adjusts, add a little more every few days. If you still happen to get gas, according to doctors, your gas production will return to normal after a few weeks of taking fiber.

Of course, it would probably be a good idea if you were single and living alone if you wanted to go this route. It would also be great if you were working from home for that matter.

Women’s gas problems fix #4
Avoid sugar & sugar substitutes
Most women don’t know it, but sugar substitutes like maltitol, mannitol and sorbitol can lead to serious gas problems, and I’m talking explosive, uncontrollable gas.

These types of sugars are usually found in sugar-free foods, drinks, candy, gum, and even fruit (sorbitol) so pay attention to the way your body reacts after ingesting any of these things.

Women’s gas problems fix #5
Take charcoal tablets
Some women believe that activated charcoal tablets help to curb their flatulence problems because charcoal absorbs gas and can alleviate your gas problems.

But before you head to your health food store and pick up a box, consult your doctor if you’re taking any other medication because charcoal may also absorb your medicine.

Women’s gas problems fix #6
Head for the pharmacy
When all else fails, it’s time for you to make that trip to the drugstore and pick up those attractively named over-the-counter medicines like Bean-O and Gas-X.

Unlike charcoal, which absorbs the gas, these OTCs relieve gas by preventing gas pockets from forming in the tummy and intestines.

Other women’s gas problems fixes

-Drink peppermint tea – the menthol in this tea relaxes the smooth muscles of the digestive tract.
-Drink plenty of water
-Avoid laxatives and constipating drugs

Stop your gas problems today

It’s exhausting to let one go constantly and then stare at others in the elevator in an accusatory way, so your best bet is to start watching what you eat and figure out which foods give you gas.

Nobody likes stinky farts (unless they’re their own, in which case they need to get a whiff), so take heed of the aforementioned tips and say goodbye to gas for good.

Top 10 Fattening Foods In Disguise

By Tara Fraser

You try your best to eat right and live right every day. You go to the gym and perform your cardio exercise, you lift weights, you even play sports on the weekends. As for your diet, you make sure to eat right, get the right amount of calories and avoid fattening foods.

But are you really avoid fattening foods? More often than not, I meet women who think that their food choices are smart when, in fact, they’re actually hindering their efforts by eating fattening foods that are disguised as “healthy.”

What are these fattening foods? Well, I’m glad you asked.


Fattening foods #10
Juice
You might think that drinking orange juice in the morning is the smart way to go, but unless it has absolutely no added sugar, you’re actually doing more harm than good to your body.

Most juices contain loads of sugar and should be avoided at all costs. The only way to ensure that the juice you’re drinking is actually good for you, read the labels diligently or get yourself a juicer and make your own.

Fattening foods #9
Rice cakes
Although they are low in calories, rice cakes cause a spike in your blood sugar and could end up storing unwanted fat by slowing down your body’s ability to burn fat.

As well, most women don’t eat plain rice cakes, opting instead for flavored ones that are, in turn, very high in sodium. Your best bet would be to steer clear of rice cakes altogether and opt for something healthier like a raw fruit or vegetable.

Fattening foods #8
Flavored oatmeal
While oatmeal is incredibly good for the body as it helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol in the body, the flavored variety is packed with sugar and would end up hindering any of the beneficial value oatmeal has.

Your best bet would be to buy the original variety, add some Splenda, cinnamon, walnuts and raisins to it yourself, and enjoy. This way, you can ensure that it doesn’t contain any extra additives without sacrificing flavor.

Fattening foods #7
Muffins
Although the term low-fat muffin doesn’t sound so bad, the fact of the matter is that in order to make up for the lack of fat, a whole lot of sugar is added to the mix in order for the muffin to keep its yummy flavor.

If that weren’t bad enough, muffins are rarely as small as they used to be. The amount of calories these gargantuan muffins contain nowadays equate a meal (400 calories). You can either keep up your muffin purchases and spread out your consumption (eat half for two mornings), or give up your muffins and opt for some whole-grain toast with sugar free jam instead.

Fattening foods #6
Diet sodas
Scientists have found a link between diet sodas and obesity. That is not to say that diet sodas cause obesity, mind you, but it is widely believed that diet sodas inhibit the hormone leptin, which regulates appetite and metabolism.

So when you enjoy your burger, fries and diet cola, you’re not doing yourself any favors. And no, regular soda is no better considering one can contains 7 teaspoons of sugar. Your best bet? Regular old water.

Fattening foods #5
Breaded shellfish, fish or chicken
Most breaded foods generally contain a boatload of fat. Add to that the fat that breaded foods are typically deep-fried and you’re basically screwed in the calorie department.

Rather than ingest breaded foods, opt to have them grilled instead. Grilled chicken and fish taste fantastic and will maintain their moisture. If you absolutely need to have breaded food, however, don’t fry it; broil it instead.

Fattening foods #4
Cereal bars
While it’s possible to find cereal bars that are healthy and full of nutrients, more than half of all cereal bars found on supermarket shelves are high in sugar and saturated fat.

Although they’re great when you’re on the go in the morning, they won’t be as great when all the calories begin to show themselves on your butt and hips. Be more vigilant about reading the labels and pay close attention to the saturated fat and sugar content.

Fattening foods #3
Granola
While granola was touted as a diet food in the late ‘70s, most of us now know how calorie-laden it really is. A ¾ cup serving contains about 350 calories and 12 grams of fat. That’s crazy!

Rather than ordinary granola, there are new low-fat, low-sugar varieties available, so snack on that.

Fattening foods #2
Deli meats
Cold cuts are not only full of sodium and fat (and sometimes even sugar), they also contain nitrites, and while their objective is to help prevent botulism, they are also associated with cancer of the oral cavity, urinary bladder, esophagus, stomach, and/or brain.

I know that deli meats are convenient and easy, but they can do more harm than good to your body. You can keep having your deli meats in moderation and opt for better options like chicken and turkey breasts. Or you can always buy a cooked chicken and take it apart to make healthier sandwiches and salads.

Fattening foods #1
Frozen yogurt
Add the word “yogurt” to anything and suddenly everyone thinks it’s healthy. Unfortunately, that is rarely the case. Even the low- or non-fat varieties use loads of sugar to make up for the decrease in fat, so if you eat too much, the calories consumed will be stored as fat.

Keep your frozen yogurt intake to a minimum and, again, pay close attention to the ingredients list.

Recognize those fattening foods

It is up to you to be aware of what goes into your body, and by paying attention to labels and understanding that low-fat does not necessarily mean “this doesn’t count,” you can keep your waist line intact and feel good about what you ingest.

Health Q&A

By Emily Bennett


If you have a health question, submit it to Emily at info@ladythrills.com.


Cannot lose the baby weight

Dear Emily,

I had my baby about 7 months ago, but have not been able to drop the last 15 pounds from my pregnancy. I have been walking, dieting and doing whatever I can, but cannot seem to drop the weight.

Please help me,
Vanessa

Baby weight can be difficult to lose, but it is not impossible, so long as you commit yourself to it.

First off, if you are breastfeeding, dieting is not the ideal way to go. Your body needs more calories to feed your baby and you. Eating less only sends your body into “starvation” mode, causing it to hang on to every calorie you do give it for fear of not getting more food.

Reducing calories is not the answer; perhaps eating smaller portions and more often will help you. You also need to do more rigorous exercise than just walking because the body adapts to exercise quickly.

Invest in a fitness stroller and go for jogs with your baby. Or sign up to a gym and head out for an hour a day to do some strength training .

Fill your diet with whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and good fats, and exercise at least four days a week, and before you know it, the weight will melt off.

Emily

More sex for pregnancy?

Dear Emily,

My husband and I are trying to get pregnant and have been having a lot of fun doing it, but a friend of mine told me that too much sex could hinder our chances of conceiving. Is this true?

Carol

Your friend is wrong. While having frequent sex will lower his sperm count slightly, with every ejaculation, he releases millions of sperm, so there is no fear in having sex every day. After all, all you need is one of those sperm to get pregnant.

Emily

Pregnant with genital herpes

Hi Emily,

I have genital herpes and am pregnant. I haven’t told my OBGYN and was wondering if it can be harmful to my child in any way.

Afraid

Dear Afraid,

Although quite rare, if you gave birth via your birth canal whilst having an outbreak, the outcome may result in neurological damage, mental retardation or, in the worst-case scenario, the death of your baby.

Most women who have herpes can give birth without issue, especially if they’re not having an outbreak at the time of labor, but it is better to err on the side of caution and avoid taking any chances.

I strongly recommend that you tell your OBGYN about this and work together to find the best solution for you and your baby.

Good luck,
Emily

Anorexic teenager

I think my 14-year-old daughter is starving herself. She barely eats and when she does, it’s never more than a couple of carrots or something to that effect. How can I talk to her about it without her freaking out on me? She gets defensive easily.

Joanne

Hi Joanne,

If you suspect that your daughter is not eating, the last thing you want to do is accuse her of it. To start, ask her if she can make some time to talk with you, like an appointment. When you do get to talk, voice your concerns about her recent behavior. If she begins to get defensive, hear her out and don’t interrupt her or make any accusations. As well, do not offer up simple solutions to her problem.

Your best bet would be to set up an appointment with your family doctor and ask for his professional opinion and help in the matter.

Good luck Joanne,
Emily

Spa Massages Explained

By Alicia Socorro

So you’ve decided that it’s time to start spoiling yourself, but when you grabbed a pamphlet from your local spa and noticed that there were a multitude of spa massages to choose from, you felt intimidated and decided that maybe that spa visit can wait.

Who can blame you, considering all these weird names and no explanations? Of course, if you keep putting it off, you will be missing out on the many benefits associated with spa massages… and there are many.

Spa massages are beneficial due to their muscle relaxation properties, stress alleviation, their ability to combat constipation and improve muscle tone, and, if performed regularly, can even reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Depending on what ails you or if you simply want to chill out for an hour and have someone rub you up and down, there are spa massages that is perfect for you.

First massage trip tips

If you’re paranoid about being completely naked, don’t worry, you can opt to leave your underwear on; leaving on any more than that will hinder the massage therapist’s ability to massage you effectively. You are covered with a sheet the entire time anyway.

If you’re more comfortable being massaged by a woman, call ahead and request one.

You can keep exact change with you so that you can tip the massage therapist or you can leave a tip with the front desk before you leave.

Tell the therapist if there’s a certain area of your body that aches.

If you’re uncomfortable with the music, the pressure being applied, or anything else, tell the therapist and he or she will be more than happy to make the necessary adjustments.

If you want to stay quiet or carry on a conversation during the massage, the therapist will follow suit.

Shower beforehand. It is important that your body is clean for the massage; otherwise the therapist may refuse to massage you.

Spa massages #1
Swedish
This massage technique involves rolling and kneading strokes. Using oil, the massage therapist spends his or her time performing movements that will leave you feeling both relaxed and rejuvenated.

Swedish benefits: Stimulates circulation and helps the body relax.

Spa massages #2
Shiatsu
This traditionally Japanese massage is designed to use your life force, or Chi, to help your body become more harmonized. The massage therapist uses their thumbs to locate strategic areas on the body and use acupressure to refresh and restore balance to the body and mind. This massage is sometimes performed on a floor mat with no massage oil.

Shiatsu benefits: Reduces stress and fatigue, and minimizes back pain, shoulder and neck problems, headaches, constipation, and menstrual cramps.

Spa massages #3
Lymphatic drainage
With a self-explanatory objective, this type of massage persuades the lymph capillaries to open and close, which helps the body cleanse itself and begin a cell renewal process. With soft, circular motions, the massage therapist uses his or her fingertips to massage all the lymphatic areas on your body.

Lymphatic drainage benefits: Raises energy levels, removes toxins from the body, reduces cellulite, and improves immune function.

Spa massages #4
Reflexology
This massage is based on the belief that there are reflexes in the hands and feet that correspond to the entire body. The massage therapist uses their thumbs and index fingers to apply pressure to these reflex points. After the pressure, you will be treated to a relaxing foot and hand massage.

Reflexology benefits: Improves circulation, cleanses your body of toxins and impurities, and restores energy.

Spa massages #5
Aromatherapy
With the objective of combining the sense of smell and the sense of touch, this type of massage aims to relax you with a soft massage and lightly scented oils.

Aromatherapy benefits: Releases pressure and stress from the body and mind, and restores a sense of peace.

Spa massages #6
Deep tissue
Using a kneading motion, the massage therapist reaches deep down into muscle tissues to correct problems in the body including whip lash, backaches and other muscle injuries. The different types of deep tissue massage include Trager, Rolfing, Feldenkrais, and Hellerwork. It is possible to feel sore the day after this type of massage.

Deep tissue benefits: Realigns muscles.

Spa massages #7
Reiki
This type of massage existed in ancient Tibetan times and was brought to North America in the 1950s; it involves healing through light touch. Chakras, or energy centers, are aligned and the massage therapist is trained to serve as a vessel by which your life force is revitalized.

Reiki benefits: Relaxes the entire body and heals general maladies.

Spa massages #8
Stone therapy
Stone therapy, or thermotherapy, combines heat and pressure with the use of smooth stones placed on strategic areas on the back.

Stone therapy benefits: Relaxes the body, promotes healing, and releases stress and toxins.

Spa massages

Spas offer a whole lot more than just massages, but if it’s your first time, get a massage at a variety of spas before settling on one.

Some people think that massages are a luxury, and it’s true, they are, but they are also very beneficial to the body and you shouldn’t wait until you get a gift certificate before visiting one.

Get your rub on.

7 Bad Breath Cures

By Tara Fraser

You’re pretty, you have a great body, a nice complexion, and great teeth. There’s just one problem; your breath is atrocious.

Save for halitosis, which usually stems from the intestines, bad breath can be easily treated and, with some time and dedication, you can kiss bad breath goodbye for good.

Bad breath cures #1
Visit the dentist
I know it can get expensive and I have yet to meet a woman who likes going to the dentist, but it is important to get a cleaning every six months in order to avoid plaque buildup and gingivitis, among other things.

The cleaning you get from a dentist feels unlike anything else and if you want to make sure that you breath stays fresh, this is one important step you cannot let fall by the wayside.

Bad breath cures #2
Avoid sugar
Without eliminating it completely from your diet, if you know that you are going on a date or that you will be in close proximity with people’s noses while you talk to them, make sure that you avoid sugar that day.

Sugar is used like food by bacteria that live in your mouth and at the back of your throat, which is what causes offensive odors. So if you opt to chew mint gum, make sure it’s sugar-free.

Bad breath cures #3
Floss & scrape
Brushing your teeth is a given and I don’t need to go into why it’s necessary to brush at least twice a day. But what most people don’t do is floss. I know it’s a bore, but it doesn’t take more than a minute and can definitely help you eliminate unwanted stank you’re your mouth.

As well, you can use your toothbrush or invest in a tongue scraper to get rid of any bacteria that’s on your tongue. If your tongue is white, then you especially need to get started on brushing your tongue ASAP. A white tongue may be the result of yeast buildup, as well as other, more serious medical conditions.

Bad breath cures #4
Eat parsley
After every meal, have a bunch of parsley snips on hand that you can chew and swallow. Rinse your mouth with water to avoid getting any stuck in your teeth.

Sometimes, if you don’t have gum and can’t brush your teeth, parsley works in the same way by neutralizing your breath.

Bad breath cures #5
Eat & drink well
Hunger and thirst can lead to excess bad breath (this is what causes morning breath), and you’ll begin to notice that whenever you feel hungry or thirsty your saliva will even begin to taste bad.
Eat something small every couple of hours so that you never feel like you’re starving and try to drink half your body weight in ounces of water each day (e.g. if you weigh 120 pounds, half of that is 60, so you need 60 ounces, or almost eight glasses of water each day).

Bad breath cures #6
Gargle with hydrogen peroxide
Although it sounds crazy, gargling with 1/3 cup hydrogen peroxide (3%) and 2/3 cup water will neutralize your breath for up to eight hours.

When you do it, you will have this weird taste in your mouth, which is normal. It will release oxygen in your mouth which kills the anaerobic bacteria.

Don’t do it daily, however, as it may begin to eat away at your tooth enamel.

Bad breath cures #7
Clean your colon
You are probably wondering what your backside has to do with your mouth, but if you think about it, it’s not that difficult to figure out. When your intestines are clogged up, terrible stenches release themselves via your anus or your mouth.

If you cleanse your colon, however, chances are your breath and gas problem will improve. That said, slowly add more fiber to your diet to ensure natural and consistent intestinal cleansing. If you prefer more immediate effects, see your doctor.

Fresh breath is great

If you do all of the above and still find yourself having issues with your breath, it may be indicative of something more serious and it’s probably best if you visit a doctor.

Bad breath is a problem most of us deal with on a morning-to-morning basis, but with some time and dedication, we can all make sure that every man we come in contact with revels in our sweet-smelling mouth.

Top 10 Tips For A Better Night’s Sleep

By Tara Fraser

They call it “beauty rest” for a reason; if you, like 68% of women, aren’t getting your recommended 8 hours of sleep a night, it will begin to show on your face.

Of course, there are a few exceptions (my mom goes to bed late and wakes up early and looks fantastic), but for the most part, a better night’s sleep is incredibly important to most women.

Sometimes, things like future plans and bills get in the way of our precious sleep time and we find ourselves lying there, stressed out, watching the minutes go by.

But is it that you’re really stressed out by the day’s events and pending situations, or are you simply not taking the necessary steps to ensure a better night’s sleep that leaves you feeling refreshed and energetic?

Perhaps there are some things you should change about your daily and nightly rituals that will ensure that you are knocked out the moment your head hits the pillow (given there’s no one lying next to you, waiting for something good to happen, that is).

Check out 10 small changes you can start making to improve the quantity and quality of your sleep and start getting a better night’s sleep tonight.

Better night’s sleep tip #10
Take a warm shower
If you enjoy warm baths, take one every once in a while before bedtime. If lying in a bath doing nothing drives you crazy, then take a warm shower instead. The warm water against your body will help you to relax physically and the sound of the water will put you at ease mentally.

Better night’s sleep tip #9
Keep nothing but a bed
You bedroom should not have a bunch of electronics in it, let alone an exercise machine. Of course, you aren’t expected to keep nothing but a bed; I give you permission to have a couple of night tables, a dresser, and a mirror as well.

But above and beyond all else, your bedroom should be used to have wicked and wild sex, and sleep like a baby afterwards. Nothing else.

Better night’s sleep tip #8
Eat dinner three hours beforehand
If you get home late and you plan to be in bed within the hour, don’t chow down on a three-course meal and hit the sack. Even if you do fall asleep right away (we’ve all had that tired feeling after eating too much), you won’t sleep well due to your body’s work on digestion.

And the last thing you want is to go to bed thinking you’re going to sleep like a baby all night only to be awoken by indigestion.

Better night’s sleep tip #7
Have a snack
I know, I know, I just told you not to eat right before you go to sleep, but you shouldn’t go to bed starving, either, otherwise hunger will be the culprit that wakes you up.

If you’re hungry enough that it’s bothering you (and you’re not just in need of water), then have something light and easily digestible like a fruit or raw vegetable.

Better night’s sleep tip #6
Exercise regularly
You must be tired of hearing about the benefits of exercise , but it’s a fact that exercising can increase the quality of sleep. A solid workout that includes cardio and weight training can easily help exhaust any pent-up energy you may have.

You should note, however, that you shouldn’t workout too close to your bedtime, just in case you’re the type of person who becomes more alert after a workout.

Better night’s sleep tip #5
Avoid caffeine in the evening
It would be great if you could avoid caffeine altogether, but I’m not about to set unrealistic goals for you. Morning coffee and even an afternoon soda are fine, but your caffeine intake should stop there.

And don’t think that coffee and soda are the only things that contain caffeine – teas, chocolate, and some over-the-counter medications also contain the stimulant. Do your best to avoid ingesting caffeine after 3 p.m.

Better night’s sleep tip #4
Keep a regular schedule
If you wake up at 7:30 every morning, wouldn’t it make sense to get to bed around the same time each night as well? After all, your body begins to set its internal alarm clock so even if you get to bed later, you will continue to wake up at 7:30, and become quite crabby when you do.

It’s best to set a time for bed (of course, there are exceptions to the rule) so that your body can adjust to sleeping at a certain time.

Better night’s sleep tip #3
Make it dark & quiet
If your bedroom has cafeteria lighting or there’s a noise that sounds every now and then (say, from a radio), it’s best to eliminate mood busters that will hinder your ability to sleep.

Soft, subtle lighting and a noise-free zone work best when it comes to laying your head on the pillow and passing out till morning.

Better night’s sleep tip #2
Hide the clocks
Although it’s necessary to check the time when you’re chilling in bed in the morning, having a clock sitting right in front of you, staring you in the face will only serve as a sad reminder of the time you have left before you have to get out of bed. And that just sucks.

What you can do is turn the clock away from you when you sleep so that you can turn it back when you wake up, or you can rely on the alarm-clock radio DJs to let you know the time every now and then.

Better night’s sleep tip #1
Buy a phenomenal mattress
If your mattress digs into your back, makes you feel achy, or makes a lot of noise every time you toss and turn, it’s time to invest in a new one.

And there are some amazing mattresses on the market. For example, the Tempur-Pedic mattress contains memory foam that takes the shape of your body and keeps your entire body in alignment. Tempur-Pedic pillows are also on the market.

Get a better night’s sleep tonight

It’s time for you to treat the 1/3 of your life that involves dreaming more seriously. Some women may believe that sleeping for eight hours will deprive them of what’s going on in life, but I think that a better night’s sleep will help you take a minute to smell the roses.

3 Cellulite Treatments

By Samantha Everett

If you have cellulite anywhere on your body, you are in the same boat as about 90% of women. Which begs the question: How did that 10% get so damn lucky?

Cellulite is a tough opponent and while you’ve likely tried the different creams and balms, chances are the changes weren’t incredibly significant, and worst of all, they weren’t permanent.
There is nothing harmful about cellulite, per se, but it is quite unsightly. And when bikini season rolls around, most of us cringe at the thought of having to show off our orange peel thighs.

Fortunately, there are some temporary cellulite treatments that will help you survive the half-naked summers.

FACTOID: American women spend more than $20 million a year on cellulite treatments.

What causes cellulite?

Cellulite surfaces on the body as girls hit puberty and, in some cases, gets worse and worse. It is not caused by weight gain, as some may suggest, but rather genetics, bad diet, hormone fluctuations, smoking, constipation, and ingesting caffeine.

Of course, I’m sure you know that one girl who smokes and lives on coffee, eats garbage all day, never exercises, and yet doesn’t have a drop of cellulite. Well, that bitch happened to get the good genes.

Different grades of cellulite

Cellulite comes in different grades and, depending on which one you are at, there are ways to nip the situation in the bud (or butt, as luck would have it).

Grade I Cellulite
This type of cellulite is not visible when you’re simply standing or even walking, But if you squeeze your butt cheeks together, you will see the beginning of what may become a serious problem if left untreated.

Grade II Cellulite
This is the level where you are able to see cellulite if you squeeze your glutes or if you sit on a chair and your thigh is pushed to the side. When your body is relaxed, however, you would not know that cellulite was present.

Grades III & IV Cellulite
These are the toughest grades of cellulite to reduce or temporarily eradicate, as this cellulite is visible even if you’re just standing without squeezing your butt or thigh muscles.

Cellulite treatments, not cures

Is there a permanent solution? No, there isn’t. Even exercise and a clean diet, although they may minimize cellulite, will not permanently eliminate those dimples. But there are temporary cellulite treatments and, if you’re willing to dedicate time, money or both to making sure your butt and thighs look smooth as silk, then here are your options.

Cellulite treatments #1
Coffee grinds & plastic wrap
This is going to be messy, but if you have a hot date, or just want to wear a micro mini, this is worth a shot because it really does work.

Caffeine is bad for cellulite when ingested, but when it is placed directly onto cellulite, it works wonders. The next time you brew coffee grounds, mix them with some grapeseed oil, and take them to your bathroom, along with a roll of plastic wrap. Bring along some reading material or something to keep you occupied while you wait for the formula to take effect.

Step inside your shower and, grabbing handfuls of coffee grinds, rub them into your problem areas in a circular motion. When you think you’ve covered everything, use the plastic wrap to tightly pack the grinds in by wrapping it around your body.

Wait about five minutes and then remove the wrap and wash off the grinds with warm water. It’s a bitch to do, but you will see instant results that will last for hours.

Cellulite treatments #2
Endermologie
Essentially a massaging vacuum, endermologie is effective in reducing the appearance of cellulite and making the skin look more youthful. It works, yes, but you must continue the procedures twice a week for the rest of your life. This treatment is FDA approved and non-surgical, but it will hurt your pocket: Each session will run you between $90 and $120 US.

Cellulite treatments #3
Swimming
Although any sort of activity performed on a daily basis is a good thing, swimming seems to have a more magical affect on cellulite than other modes of exercise.

Unfortunately, it is the ocean water that is most beneficial to the body and not chlorinated water. The natural minerals coupled with exercise help to stimulate the stubborn fat cells that cause cellulite better than anything else.

Cellulite treatments

I don’t think I need to tell you that all those creams and gels being sold in drugstores are nothing more than gimmicks. If you want to eliminate cellulite for good, good luck, because it’s not going to happen and, if you find a way to make it happen, you’ll be the richest woman on Earth - guaranteed.

Some experts recommend taking Vitamin C, Gingko biloba and Gota kola, and if you are interested in trying them, talk to your doctor first. As well, don’t get discouraged and give up on exercise, a good diet and drinking water altogether. Give your body a fighting chance by taking good care of it.

Health Q&A

By Emily Bennett

Curing dishpan hands, reversing salt intake, avoiding TSS with tampon use, and more.

If you have a health question, submit it to Emily at info@ladythrills.com.

Dishwashing is destroying my hands

Dear Emily,

I feel like I spend most of my day washing dishes and my hands are beginning to look like it. They look dry and scaly, and I was hoping you could give me some pointers on how to make them look beautiful again.

Thanks,
Yolanda

Hi Yolanda,

There are a few ways to minimize the effects that water and household cleaning agents are having on your hands. First, buy some rubber gloves and use them any time you do dishes, whether it’s a plate and a glass that need washing, or a sink full of dishes.

Next, keep a moisturizing cream by the sink. After you finish cleaning up, put some cream on your hands to soften your hands.

Finally, you can always buy a dishwasher! If it’s getting to the point where you’re spending the majority of your day on dishes, a dishwasher is a worthy investment.

Finally, at least once a week, before bedtime, apply a thick amount of cream to your hands, put on some thick wool or cotton mitts and go to bed. This will help restore your hands’ youthful appearance.

Emily

Salt intake reversal

Dear Emily,

I do my best to avoid salt because I know that too much of it is no good for me. When I go over to someone’s house (read: my mother-in-law), however, I am sometimes forced to eat salt-laden foods (well, I just don’t want to be rude). Is there any way to remove the salt from my body afterwards by eating or drinking something?

Mina

Hi Mina,

It becomes difficult to keep up our good habits when we’re guests at another person’s house, especially our mothers-in-law! But there is a way to reverse large amounts of salt that you ingest.

First, drink lots of water – double what you’d normally drink. This will flush out your system and remove the impurities from your body.

Second, purchase dandelion tea, which can be found in natural foods stores. According to renowned dietitian Elizabeth Cerqueira, dandelion tea will flush your system of unnecessary salt and sodium, and hydrate it.

Hope this helps,
Emily

The tampon issue

Hi Emily,

A friend of mine swears by tampons and has never even used a sanitary pad. I, on the other hand, was taught that tampons are dangerous and leave women prone to infection and other vaginal complications.

Can you clear up my confusion?

Emma

Hi Emma,

You’re not alone; a lot of women I speak to, especially the old school ones, agree with what you were taught. Fortunately, all these rumors about tampons are not true.

The one problem that may arise from tampon-use is TSS, or Toxic Shock Syndrome. TSS is a potentially-fatal disease that results from a bacterial toxin. There were only five cases reported in 1997 and it’s very rare, but if you use a super-absorbent tampon and are having very light days, you may develop TSS.

As for infections and vaginal complications, there have been no reported cases of such. So long as you change your tampon every few hours and use the lightest absorbency necessary for your flow, there is no danger in using them.

Emily

Weird menstrual cycle

Emily,

Sometimes I get my period on time with no problems; other times I get it late, it lasts for about 11 days and I’m in pain for most of them. What’s the deal and is there any way to regulate it?

This has been the story of my life for about 12 years now. I’ve had two children and plan to have more. Any help is much appreciated.

Georgia

Dear Georgia,

The only thing that can help regulate your period is the birth control pill, but since you want to have more children, taking it is out of the question.

Every woman’s body is different and although the pill would have us believe that a woman’s period should run every 28 days, women’s periods are actually anywhere from 24 to 35 days apart.

If your period is giving you this much grief, I recommend that you find yourself an endocrinologist and have him study the hormonal changes throughout your cycle.

I don’t recommend that you treat yourself, but rather consult a professional and find ways to regulate your period and minimize the pain associated with it.

Good luck,
Emily

8 Foods For Healthy Skin

By Meredith Thompson

There’s no doubt that nature provides a wealth of nutritious foods to help you stave off infections and live a healthy life. But what about the specific foods that can help you avoid a visit to a plastic surgeon?

It may sound impossible but there are actually foods that help rejuvenate your face and keep it looking youthful and vibrant, and healthy skin is where it’s at. All you have to do, and this is the fun part, is eat them.

So start fighting off the wrinkles and start feeling and looking younger in no time, with the help of these fantastic foods. Healthy skin is just a simple diet away.

Healthy skin food #1
Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain lycopene; a powerful antioxidant that repairs damaged skin cells and premature aging cause by your hanging out in the sun for way too long.

Of course, this isn’t to insinuate that you can worship the sun and eat tomatoes and be fine; you need to start avoiding the sun and eating tomatoes more often.

How to eat them: Tomatoes are one of the only fruits (or vegetables, depending on how you look at it) that increase their natural chemicals upon being stewed or cooked, so you can enjoy a good tomato sauce or add them to your favorite salads for a dose of the good stuff.

Healthy skin food #2
Seafood
The goodness of fish has been touted for years and the news just keeps getting better and better. Selenium, which is known to fight off damage caused by sunburn, is found in yummy seafood such as halibut and oysters.

If that weren’t great enough, fattier fish (and don’t worry, it’s the good kind of fat) like salmon and tuna, contain Omega-3 fats , which are known to reduce inflammation and soften skin.

How to eat it: If you’re not a big fan of raw oysters, grill or bake some halibut or salmon by creating a rub. First, pour some olive oil and lemon into a bowl. Dip your fingers into it and rub the liquid onto the flesh side of the fish. Then pour some pepper, parsley and garlic powder into another bowl. Scoop some up with your fingers and rub it on the fish. Bake the fish at 375º for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Healthy skin food #3
Olive Oil
Packed with monounsaturated fat, olive oil, eaten raw, helps your skin to not only remain touchably soft; it also helps your skin maintain its natural oils.

The best of all the olive oils on the market is extra virgin olive oil, because it is rich in antioxidants and oleic acid. Olive oil also contains squalene, which is believed to help repair and rejuvenate skin’s texture.

How to eat it: Drizzle olive oil onto salads and vegetables, but do not cook with it, as it will not retain all its nutritive value.

Healthy skin food #4
Avocados
Not only is this fruit loaded with monounsaturated fats, it also contains plenty of fiber, vitamins B6, C, and E, potassium, magnesium and folate.

Eaten in moderation, avocados can help to keep your skin looking young and replenish it, whether you decide to eat it or mash it and apply it directly to your face.

How to eat it: Make a great guacamole by mixing one avocado with a diced tomato, two teaspoons of olive oil, a teaspoon of fresh cilantro, and a finely chopped small onion.

Healthy skin food #5
Berries
All berries contain a high amount of vitamin C, a necessity for collagen production (collagen keeps your muscles and skin tight and reduces the chances of developing fine lines).

Another fantastic trait of berries, besides the fact that they taste so awesome, is their ability to reduce inflammation.

How to eat them: Throw some berries and yogurt into a blender and whip yourself up a smoothie or add some berries to your morning cereal.

Healthy skin food #6
Almonds
One ounce of almonds provides you with half of your daily recommended vitamin E to fight off free radicals (as bad as they sound, free radicals destroy your body’s naturally produced elastin, which causes wrinkles).

Almond skins also contain an antioxidant known as flavonoids, which protect cells from damage – namely skin cells.

How to eat them: You can snack on a handful of almonds or add them to yogurt or frozen yogurt for a crunchy treat.

Healthy skin food #7
Carrots
Carrots are chock full of beta-carotene, the most active form of carotenoids; a plant substance that forms vitamin A. The vitamin A, in turn, helps prevent the skin and eyes from getting dry.

And because of their high mineral content, carrots also lend themselves to healthier skin, hair and nails. But beware – consuming too many carrots will, indeed, turn your skin orange.

How to eat them: Carrots may be enjoyed raw on their own (baby carrots taste sweeter than the larger variety), you can add them to salads, or even opt to juice them.

Healthy skin food #8
Ground flaxseed
Flaxseed will not have any skin healing properties unless they are ground, so you need to make sure that if you decide to purchase them, that they are already ground.

Ground flaxseed is full of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support skin health and increase energy.

How to eat it: Sprinkle some onto your cereal or add it to your salads.

Keep your healthy skin

Getting old is inevitable, no doubt, but if you take care of your skin by staying out of the sun, using an SPF when you do end up in it, and eating a healthy diet that promotes better skin, you’ll be looking 20-ish well into your 40s.

Top 10 Healthy Breads

By Renee Carter

Although bread has gotten a bad rap of late, there are some awesome tasting and good-for-you breads on the market that you’re not paying attention to simply because the low-carb craze still hasn’t been completely curbed.

But carbs are necessary for a healthy diet and lifestyle, and by incorporating healthy breads into your diet, you will be able to create easy meals (enter the sandwich) without having to turn on the stove every time.

But be careful with bread in general. Even the healthiest of breads should be consumed in moderation; otherwise, your pancreas will grow to three times its normal size and most breads contains more calories than your body knows what to do with. And it’s not as though we’re working the farm all day long and need so many calories.

That said, here are the top 10 healthy breads on the market, and all can be found at high end health food stores or even in your grocer’s market.

Healthy breads #10
Pumpernickel
Originating in Germany, pumpernickel is a type of sourdough bread and its main ingredients include rye flour and rye meal, as well as molasses, which is what gives it its dark, intense color.

Although they’re not very easy to find in typical grocery stores the United States, if you do find them, note that they are rounded.

Calories: 80 per slice
Ingredients to look for: rye flour, rye meal flour, water, molasses, cornmeal, unsweetened cocoa, coffee, salt, dry yeast, wheat gluten, caraway seeds

Healthy breads #9
Flaxseed
High in good fats like omega-3 and alpha-linolenic acid, flaxseed can help to reduce arthritic pain and the chances of developing heart disease. If you opt for bread containing flaxseed, ensure that it is ground into the bread so that your body is able to absorb the omega-3 benefits.

Calories: 160 per slice
Ingredients to look for: whole rye, mountain spring water, whole wheat, flaxseed, yeast, sea salt

Healthy breads #8
Hemp bread
THC, a compound used to make cannabis, is not found in hemp bread, so you don’t have to worry about testing positive for drugs should you consume it. Hemp itself is very high in protein and omega-3 fat, and is quite beneficial to the body.

Calories: 90 per slice
Ingredients to look for: Stoneground whole wheat flour, unbleached wheat flour, flaxseed, hempseed flour, raw pumpkin seeds, oat fiber, water, sesame seeds, raw sunflower seeds, poppy seeds, hulled millet, shelled hempseed, unrefined sea salt.

Healthy breads #7
Crispbreads
Crispbreads, like Ryvita, are crunchy, hearty, nutty tasting snacks that you can put anything on. Rather than opting for topped crackers, put some smoked salmon and light cream cheese on a crispbread and keep your diet in check.

Calories: 25 per slice
Ingredients to look for: whole grain rye, salt

Healthy breads #6
High-fiber walnut bread
Breads fortified with fiber are always a good thing (fortified is not the same thing as enriched – see below), and when you add heart healthy walnuts to the mix, you’ve got yourself a tasty and satisfying situation.

Walnuts are low in saturated fats and high in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which help lower bad cholesterol in the body.

Calories: 100 per slice
Ingredients to look for: whole wheat flour, rye flour (or meal), walnuts, salt

Healthy breads #5
Oat bread
Oats contain flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants that help protect cells from the process of oxidation. That’s why oatmeal is touted as part of a healthy breakfast, but now you can opt to enjoy oat bread instead.

Calories: 110 per slice
Ingredients to look for: wholemeal flour, oatmeal, milk, water, olive oil, molasses, yeast

Healthy breads #4
Manna bread
A grain bread slowly baked at low temperatures, manna bread can be found in your grocer’s refrigerator and is rich in flavor.

With a naturally sweet flavor and rich texture, the reason manna bread tastes so amazing is due to the breakdown of complex carbs and gluten into simple sugars, which your body can digest more easily.

Calories: 80 per slice
Ingredients to look for: sprouted organic whole wheat kernels, filtered water

Healthy breads #3
Stone milled
If you’re not a big fan of crunchy wheat in your bread, then stone-milled bread is not for you. But for those of you who enjoy the natural taste and filling effect of grains, stone-milled bread makes an interesting addition to sandwiches.

Calories: 80 per slice
Ingredients to look for: unbleached flour (wheat flour, malted barley flour), water, rye, caraway seeds, salt

Healthy breads #2
100% whole wheat
When you see the word “wheat” without the word “whole,” put the bread down and step away from it. Wheat bread can be made using both whole wheat and white flour, and the bread could even be made with enriched flour, which isn’t good for you at all.

Calories: 100 per slice
Ingredients to look for: Whole wheat flour, water, flax, honey, yeast, salt

Healthy breads #1
100% whole grain
If the packaging has “100% whole grain” on it, you can be certain that the whole-grain flour will list before refined flour on the ingredient list (although you should probably avoid “refined” or “enriched” ingredients altogether -- see end of article). When buying whole-grain bread, however, keep an eye out for sodium – many whole grain breads tend to be high in it.

Another great thing about whole grain breads is that they tend to have a lower GI, or glycemic index, which means that they can help control your appetite and your blood glucose and cholesterol levels, and lower your risk of getting heart disease and type-2 diabetes.

Calories: 90 per slice
Ingredients to look for: whole grains, whole wheat flour, water, sea salt, dry yeast, vegetable oil

Other things to watch for when buying bread:

Avoid enriched – Enriched flour is not a good thing – it means that the flour had all its beneficial properties (vitamins, minerals) removed and that some were added back.

Go for fortified – Fortified means that on top of what’s already in the food, vitamins and minerals were added.

High fiber – bread should contain about 5 grams of fiber per serving.

Low sugar – if one of the first three ingredients on the list ends in -ose (glucose, lactose, and sucrose), or is sugar or corn syrup, you shouldn’t buy it (that actually goes for all food).

Good fats – try to find breads with monounsaturated fats (canola or olive oil) or polyunsaturated fats (corn, peanut or sesame oil).

Avoid hydrogenated – hydrogenation is the process of cooking oils and fats, resulting in their saturation.

Keep your healthy breads

Bread is a great addition to your diet, so long as you consume it in moderation. And with the 10 breads listed above, there’s no doubt that you will be adding more flavor to your life every now and then.