The bright yellow flower of the St Johns Wort (hypericum perforatum) with it's ray-like petals, represents the power of the sun that forces away the darkness. This already points to the anti-depressant effects of the St Johns Wort which are highly respected, even in conventional medicine.
St. John's Wort, a perennial plant, has been used for hundreds of years to treat depression, unrest and anxiety disorders as well as nerve pain. For a long time, doctors and herbalists alike have known about its use as a sedative, but also as treatment for wounds, burns, insect bites, stomach ulcers and more. It is still used widely today and it's effectiveness has been proven to a point where some insurance companies are now covering the treatment.
It is not a powerful drug -- when used to treat depression -- in the sense of bringing a quick recovery, but shows excellent long term results in many patients. The herb assists body and soul in the healing process and helps to build a solid foundation for a complete recovery.
St John's Wort was tested in a double-blind study of 105 male and female patients in the 20 to 64 year age group, suffering from mild to moderate depression. They were divided into two groups and monitored over a period of four weeks. One group were given 300mg of St Johns Wort extract three times daily, and the other received a placebo. All of the patients had psychiatric evaluations before the start of the study and after four weeks of treatment. The results revealed that, 67% of the St Johns Wort group had responded positively to the treatment without any adverse side effects whereas only 28% of the placebo group showed any signs of improvement.
St Johns Wort is available as tea (flowers and leaves), liquid extracts and pills or capsules. It is normally taken thrice daily and it will take one week or more to notice any improvement in the condition. Treatment can be continued for long periods of time as the herb does not normally produce any side effects. But St Johns Wort can interact strongly with other medication e.g. cancer and HIV drugs, contraceptive pills and others. So it is vitally important to consult a medical specialist first before starting a course of treatment.
One effect of St Johns Wort is, that it makes the skin more sensitive to light. It is therefore important to keep out of the sun as much as possible while using the herb.
There is growing evidence to suggest that St. Johns Wort is a safe and effective, natural remedy for the treatment of mild to medium depression.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is presented for information purposes only. The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. It cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment.
Mireille Gautschi is a qualified Flower Essence Therapist and Herbalist who has many years experience with the developement of natural herbal remedies. Her products can be found on the Hillside Herbal Products website that also offers a very informative newsletter.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mireille_Gautschi
Friday, December 29, 2006
Thursday, December 28, 2006
How to Uncover the Reason You Can't Sleep Tonight
If you are like me ...you love your sleep!
Sleep deprivation has numerous positive but also negative effects. It may break our sleep neurons due to long times of sleeplessness causing malfunction. This will result in bad conduct or bad interaction or bad speech towards others.
Studies also illustrate that people deprived of sleep experience difficulties in thinking imaginative thoughts or terms. Also they suffer difficulties in delivering their declarations well. Without sleep, our brains grow weaker, and our actions and deeds will be affected.
Good sleep promotes regeneration of our system and maintains our good health and immune system function.
Physical and Other Dangers
Lack of sleep also poses dangers to ones body. As we have learned earlier, lack of sleep damages the brain and causes behavioral damages and because our brain controls the other functions in our body, sleep deprivation may also damage them.
It seems that people who lack sleep get sick more often. Also, sleep deprived persons are prone to accidents (particularly car accidents). I have found out in the internet that around 200,000 accidents are caused by sleeping drivers on their sleeping wheels.
The person who experiences sleep deprivation may also suffer financially. Because the brain (again) is affected, the person produces low-quality work. This may cause him to be kicked out of office or fired by his boss.
Sleep deprivation may also affect the person mentally. Studies shows that people who don’t get enough sleep experience difficulties in remembering things and expressing their thoughts creatively.
Researches also suggest that people who lack sleep seem to age quicker than those who get enough sleep.It seems lack of sleep affects you in many ways and you need to take action where you can rather than accept it just happens to everyone.
You could be suffering from depression or anxiety problem of some kind.
Think about events and stresses you have at present from young children crying to horrible work environments. Something is causing this and its not always one factor but can be many.
A proper bedtime routine
Every time before you go to sleep, you listen to your favorite classical tune. Then the day came when you have to go on a business trip and you forgot to bring the classical tape with you. Night comes and you simply could not get yourself to sleep without listening to that music first. That classical melody is the anchor. It signals your brain to prepare for dreamland.
Anchors could be a very powerful instrument to put you to sleep. Some people could not get to sleep without having a midnight snack. Having a light snack may have a sedative effect and is not bad at all. But eating too much before going to slumber may affect the quality of your sleep.
There are certain anchors that you do not want to be associated with sleep. Avoid watching TV in bed, because it can stimulate your senses. Do not make your bedroom an office, because you might associate your work with sleeping time. As a general rule, your bedroom is designed only for sleep.
Researchers prove that using an alarm clock to wake you up is not good. They say that alarm clocks used to wake people disrupt the sleep cycle and keeps the sleeper from having a complete, natural, and high quality sleep.The use of alarm clock also promotes sleep problems for the following days.
Don't take naps if you have sleep problems.Just go to bed when you feel tired.A nice warm shower can relieve stress and relax your system.
Couple that with low light and some soothing music, and you’ll feel much better when you go to sleep. You may even add some herbs like lavender, chamomile, or passion flower for a more pleasant experience.
Finally, just try and stand back and look at your present life circumstances and ask yourself are you content or feel stressed. Stress is bad for your body long term and you may have symptoms of depressive illness.
For more related information visit: http://www.DepressionSymptomsTreatment.com - a site that offers advice for avoiding, coping with depression. Get professional knowledge on dealing with symptoms, drug side effects and improving your life!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_Ruane
Sleep deprivation has numerous positive but also negative effects. It may break our sleep neurons due to long times of sleeplessness causing malfunction. This will result in bad conduct or bad interaction or bad speech towards others.
Studies also illustrate that people deprived of sleep experience difficulties in thinking imaginative thoughts or terms. Also they suffer difficulties in delivering their declarations well. Without sleep, our brains grow weaker, and our actions and deeds will be affected.
Good sleep promotes regeneration of our system and maintains our good health and immune system function.
Physical and Other Dangers
Lack of sleep also poses dangers to ones body. As we have learned earlier, lack of sleep damages the brain and causes behavioral damages and because our brain controls the other functions in our body, sleep deprivation may also damage them.
It seems that people who lack sleep get sick more often. Also, sleep deprived persons are prone to accidents (particularly car accidents). I have found out in the internet that around 200,000 accidents are caused by sleeping drivers on their sleeping wheels.
The person who experiences sleep deprivation may also suffer financially. Because the brain (again) is affected, the person produces low-quality work. This may cause him to be kicked out of office or fired by his boss.
Sleep deprivation may also affect the person mentally. Studies shows that people who don’t get enough sleep experience difficulties in remembering things and expressing their thoughts creatively.
Researches also suggest that people who lack sleep seem to age quicker than those who get enough sleep.It seems lack of sleep affects you in many ways and you need to take action where you can rather than accept it just happens to everyone.
You could be suffering from depression or anxiety problem of some kind.
Think about events and stresses you have at present from young children crying to horrible work environments. Something is causing this and its not always one factor but can be many.
A proper bedtime routine
Every time before you go to sleep, you listen to your favorite classical tune. Then the day came when you have to go on a business trip and you forgot to bring the classical tape with you. Night comes and you simply could not get yourself to sleep without listening to that music first. That classical melody is the anchor. It signals your brain to prepare for dreamland.
Anchors could be a very powerful instrument to put you to sleep. Some people could not get to sleep without having a midnight snack. Having a light snack may have a sedative effect and is not bad at all. But eating too much before going to slumber may affect the quality of your sleep.
There are certain anchors that you do not want to be associated with sleep. Avoid watching TV in bed, because it can stimulate your senses. Do not make your bedroom an office, because you might associate your work with sleeping time. As a general rule, your bedroom is designed only for sleep.
Researchers prove that using an alarm clock to wake you up is not good. They say that alarm clocks used to wake people disrupt the sleep cycle and keeps the sleeper from having a complete, natural, and high quality sleep.The use of alarm clock also promotes sleep problems for the following days.
Don't take naps if you have sleep problems.Just go to bed when you feel tired.A nice warm shower can relieve stress and relax your system.
Couple that with low light and some soothing music, and you’ll feel much better when you go to sleep. You may even add some herbs like lavender, chamomile, or passion flower for a more pleasant experience.
Finally, just try and stand back and look at your present life circumstances and ask yourself are you content or feel stressed. Stress is bad for your body long term and you may have symptoms of depressive illness.
For more related information visit: http://www.DepressionSymptomsTreatment.com - a site that offers advice for avoiding, coping with depression. Get professional knowledge on dealing with symptoms, drug side effects and improving your life!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_Ruane
The "Perfect" $1 Protein Shake
Millions of people drink protein shakes every day. They're the ideal health food: delicious, convenient, portable, and (usually) highly nutritious. Whether you're trying to lose weight, build muscle, or just improve your health, protein shakes can be an incredibly effective way to reach your goals.
A good protein shake can help you:
- increase your energy levels
- boost your metabolism to burn fat quickly (and safely)
- increase your lean muscle mass
- enhance your immune system
- reduce/eliminate your appetite and food cravings
- increase your heart health
- lower cholesterol and blood pressure
- promote healing and recovery
Unfortunately the tasty, often expensive, concoctions you get at your local "smoothie" shop probably aren't your best options. The recipes used at these places are geared much more toward taste than nutrition. Simply put, they're loaded with sugar -- often 30 grams or more -- and frequently have no more than 10 or 15 grams of protein. That nutritional profile is much closer to a milk shake than a protein shake!
If you really want to enjoy all the great health and fitness benefits of a protein shake, it's best to make your own. You can control exactly what goes into it and "optimize" it for your own goals: less calories/fat for weight loss, more protein for muscle building, etc. But maybe the biggest benefit of making your own shakes is that you can load them up with ultra-healthy ingredients that you may not eat otherwise (eg. flax seeds, coconut oil, fresh/frozen berries, etc.)
Here's my personal recipe for what I call "The Perfect $1 Protein Shake" -- an extremely healthy, energy-boosting, muscle-building shake you can make in about 3 minutes. If you buy the ingredients in bulk like I do, the total cost-per-shake should be about a dollar. Not a bad price for something much healthier than your average fast-food meal and just as convenient...
(Note: The following recipe actually makes enough for about 2 medium-sized shakes... or 1 really big shake! Feel free to add more or less of each ingredient to suit your own tastes and needs.)
Put all of the following ingredients into a large, heavy-duty blender and blend until liquefied:
16 oz. Low-Fat, Organic Milk -- A very tasty "base" for the shake with slow-digesting casein protein, calcium, and several vitamins/minerals. If you don't drink milk you can substitute soy milk or filtered water.
2 - 3 Scoops Whey Protein Powder (Generally 30 - 50 grams of protein, depending on the brand) -- If you haven't already heard, whey protein is an incredibly healthy substance that isn't just for bodybuilders. No other protein feeds your muscles or boosts your immune system like whey. Just about anyone can benefit from this amazing food! (Note: Try to avoid protein powders sweetened with the artificial-sweetener aspartame.)
1 Cup Frozen Berries -- Packed with fiber and antioxidants -- with a very low glycemic impact -- berries are some of the healthiest foods you can eat. Unsweetened frozen berries can be purchased year-around and are a great substitute for ice in any protein shake recipe.
1 Tbsp. Virgin Coconut Oil -- A "good" saturated fat with a variety of health benefits that is full of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a great source of energy.
1 Tbsp. Natural Peanut Butter -- A great-tasting, highly filling nut butter with healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats. Recent studies have shown that peanut butter is great for dieters because it reduces hunger and food cravings more than almost any other food.
1 Tbsp. Ground Flax Seeds -- Flax seeds contain all-important omega-3 fatty acids, a vital component to good health. They also contain lignans (powerful antioxidants) as well as healthy dietary fiber. Many people prefer the nutty flavor of ground flax seeds over the "fishy" flavor of flax seed oil.
1 Medium Ripe Banana -- A good source of potassium, fiber, and healthy carbs, a ripe banana is a great way to sweeten any protein shake.
Optional sweeteners -- If you want to sweeten this (or any) protein shake, two good low-calorie sugar-alternatives are stevia and xylitol, both of which can usually be found in health food stores.
As you can probably tell, my "Perfect $1 Protein Shake" isn't exactly low-calorie. In fact it has quite a bit of healthy fat and a decent amount of carbohydrates. But keep in mind that you don't have to, and probably shouldn't, drink the whole thing at once -- unless your primary goal is to pack on muscle (in which case you might want to drink 2 or more a day!). What I like to do is make a blender-full in the morning, drink a glass for breakfast, take some with me to have as a "pick-me-up" in the afternoon, and then drink the rest at night.
Remember, there are literally thousands of ways to make a protein shake. Find some recipes you really like and don't be afraid to experiment. As long as you base it around whey protein, just about any shake you make should have plenty of health benefits!
Jamie Clark is a long-time health researcher/writer who is a co-editor of FreshHealthyUseful.com. To learn more about the best protein shakes, be sure to visit: http://www.freshhealthyuseful.com/main/protein-shakes/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jamie_Clark
A good protein shake can help you:
- increase your energy levels
- boost your metabolism to burn fat quickly (and safely)
- increase your lean muscle mass
- enhance your immune system
- reduce/eliminate your appetite and food cravings
- increase your heart health
- lower cholesterol and blood pressure
- promote healing and recovery
Unfortunately the tasty, often expensive, concoctions you get at your local "smoothie" shop probably aren't your best options. The recipes used at these places are geared much more toward taste than nutrition. Simply put, they're loaded with sugar -- often 30 grams or more -- and frequently have no more than 10 or 15 grams of protein. That nutritional profile is much closer to a milk shake than a protein shake!
If you really want to enjoy all the great health and fitness benefits of a protein shake, it's best to make your own. You can control exactly what goes into it and "optimize" it for your own goals: less calories/fat for weight loss, more protein for muscle building, etc. But maybe the biggest benefit of making your own shakes is that you can load them up with ultra-healthy ingredients that you may not eat otherwise (eg. flax seeds, coconut oil, fresh/frozen berries, etc.)
Here's my personal recipe for what I call "The Perfect $1 Protein Shake" -- an extremely healthy, energy-boosting, muscle-building shake you can make in about 3 minutes. If you buy the ingredients in bulk like I do, the total cost-per-shake should be about a dollar. Not a bad price for something much healthier than your average fast-food meal and just as convenient...
(Note: The following recipe actually makes enough for about 2 medium-sized shakes... or 1 really big shake! Feel free to add more or less of each ingredient to suit your own tastes and needs.)
Put all of the following ingredients into a large, heavy-duty blender and blend until liquefied:
16 oz. Low-Fat, Organic Milk -- A very tasty "base" for the shake with slow-digesting casein protein, calcium, and several vitamins/minerals. If you don't drink milk you can substitute soy milk or filtered water.
2 - 3 Scoops Whey Protein Powder (Generally 30 - 50 grams of protein, depending on the brand) -- If you haven't already heard, whey protein is an incredibly healthy substance that isn't just for bodybuilders. No other protein feeds your muscles or boosts your immune system like whey. Just about anyone can benefit from this amazing food! (Note: Try to avoid protein powders sweetened with the artificial-sweetener aspartame.)
1 Cup Frozen Berries -- Packed with fiber and antioxidants -- with a very low glycemic impact -- berries are some of the healthiest foods you can eat. Unsweetened frozen berries can be purchased year-around and are a great substitute for ice in any protein shake recipe.
1 Tbsp. Virgin Coconut Oil -- A "good" saturated fat with a variety of health benefits that is full of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a great source of energy.
1 Tbsp. Natural Peanut Butter -- A great-tasting, highly filling nut butter with healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats. Recent studies have shown that peanut butter is great for dieters because it reduces hunger and food cravings more than almost any other food.
1 Tbsp. Ground Flax Seeds -- Flax seeds contain all-important omega-3 fatty acids, a vital component to good health. They also contain lignans (powerful antioxidants) as well as healthy dietary fiber. Many people prefer the nutty flavor of ground flax seeds over the "fishy" flavor of flax seed oil.
1 Medium Ripe Banana -- A good source of potassium, fiber, and healthy carbs, a ripe banana is a great way to sweeten any protein shake.
Optional sweeteners -- If you want to sweeten this (or any) protein shake, two good low-calorie sugar-alternatives are stevia and xylitol, both of which can usually be found in health food stores.
As you can probably tell, my "Perfect $1 Protein Shake" isn't exactly low-calorie. In fact it has quite a bit of healthy fat and a decent amount of carbohydrates. But keep in mind that you don't have to, and probably shouldn't, drink the whole thing at once -- unless your primary goal is to pack on muscle (in which case you might want to drink 2 or more a day!). What I like to do is make a blender-full in the morning, drink a glass for breakfast, take some with me to have as a "pick-me-up" in the afternoon, and then drink the rest at night.
Remember, there are literally thousands of ways to make a protein shake. Find some recipes you really like and don't be afraid to experiment. As long as you base it around whey protein, just about any shake you make should have plenty of health benefits!
Jamie Clark is a long-time health researcher/writer who is a co-editor of FreshHealthyUseful.com. To learn more about the best protein shakes, be sure to visit: http://www.freshhealthyuseful.com/main/protein-shakes/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jamie_Clark
Double Double Boil and Trouble - How to Cure Your Boils Naturally
Boils are not a pleasant topic, but it is something that most of us will experience at some point in our lives. This article will show how you can cure your boils naturally by using inexpensive natural remedies.
What is a boil? Another name used to describe a boil is a skin abscess, but basically it's just an infection deep in the skin. I like to describe a boil as being a really big zit because that's what it looks like. Below are several different types of boils:
Cystic acne -- An abscess that forms when the oil ducts become infected or clogged. This type of boil is found mostly on the face and primarily effects teenagers.
Furuncle or carbuncle -- An abscess of the skin caused by Staphylococcus aureus. This type of boil may cause a fever or chills.
Pilonidal cyst -- This abscess is usually found in the crease of the buttocks . People who sit a lot or travel over long distances, like a truck driver, are more prone to getting this kind of boil.
Hidradenitis suppurativa -- This is when you have multiple boils that form in the arm pits and groin area and are associated with the sweat glands.
Why do we get boils? The most common cause is believed to be clogged sweat glands or hair follicles that become infected. It is also possible for a scratch or any other break in the skin to become infected and turn into a boil. Believe it or not, an ingrown hair can cause a boil. People with compromised or suppressed immune systems are more likely to get boils. That includes people with diabetes. Medications can also suppress the immune system -- especially cortisone, prednisone, prednisolone and medications used by cancer patients.
How to cure boils naturally? If you have been searching the Internet for information on how to cure boils, you probably found that most Websites recommend that you go to your doctor and be put on antibiotics. I think that's a bit radical when most boils can be effectively cured at home. If, however, after you have tried to cure the boil yourself, but it doesn't work, then go to your doctor immediately. Below are four natural cures you can try:
Turmeric -- Turmeric taken internally can help dissolve and heal boils in as little as three days. It has anti-inflammatory and blood purifying effects on the body. Just take one teaspoon of turmeric powder in warm water three times a day or buy turmeric in capsule form and take about 450 mg each day. You can also make a paste out of the turmeric powder and place it directly on the boil and cover it with gauze. Be careful as turmeric can stain your skin and your clothes. The stain on your skin will go away in about two weeks.
Tea Tree Oil -- Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic that is able to help in the healing of all kinds of skin problems. All you have to do is apply one drop of tea tree oil directly on the boil everyday after bathing until it's gone.
Castor Oil -- Put some Castor oil on a cotton ball and place it on the boil. You will need to secure it with gauze or a band-aid. Castor oil will draw the poison right out of the boil and can heal it in as little as two days.
There are other remedies that I did not mention as I felt the three above were the best. Some other remedies are iodine, a paste made out of baking soda or you can take an epson salts bath.
Kathy Love is the creator and webmaster for http://www.natural-cure-remedy.com where she has compiled information about natural cures and remedies for various health issues.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathy_Love
What is a boil? Another name used to describe a boil is a skin abscess, but basically it's just an infection deep in the skin. I like to describe a boil as being a really big zit because that's what it looks like. Below are several different types of boils:
Cystic acne -- An abscess that forms when the oil ducts become infected or clogged. This type of boil is found mostly on the face and primarily effects teenagers.
Furuncle or carbuncle -- An abscess of the skin caused by Staphylococcus aureus. This type of boil may cause a fever or chills.
Pilonidal cyst -- This abscess is usually found in the crease of the buttocks . People who sit a lot or travel over long distances, like a truck driver, are more prone to getting this kind of boil.
Hidradenitis suppurativa -- This is when you have multiple boils that form in the arm pits and groin area and are associated with the sweat glands.
Why do we get boils? The most common cause is believed to be clogged sweat glands or hair follicles that become infected. It is also possible for a scratch or any other break in the skin to become infected and turn into a boil. Believe it or not, an ingrown hair can cause a boil. People with compromised or suppressed immune systems are more likely to get boils. That includes people with diabetes. Medications can also suppress the immune system -- especially cortisone, prednisone, prednisolone and medications used by cancer patients.
How to cure boils naturally? If you have been searching the Internet for information on how to cure boils, you probably found that most Websites recommend that you go to your doctor and be put on antibiotics. I think that's a bit radical when most boils can be effectively cured at home. If, however, after you have tried to cure the boil yourself, but it doesn't work, then go to your doctor immediately. Below are four natural cures you can try:
Turmeric -- Turmeric taken internally can help dissolve and heal boils in as little as three days. It has anti-inflammatory and blood purifying effects on the body. Just take one teaspoon of turmeric powder in warm water three times a day or buy turmeric in capsule form and take about 450 mg each day. You can also make a paste out of the turmeric powder and place it directly on the boil and cover it with gauze. Be careful as turmeric can stain your skin and your clothes. The stain on your skin will go away in about two weeks.
Tea Tree Oil -- Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic that is able to help in the healing of all kinds of skin problems. All you have to do is apply one drop of tea tree oil directly on the boil everyday after bathing until it's gone.
Castor Oil -- Put some Castor oil on a cotton ball and place it on the boil. You will need to secure it with gauze or a band-aid. Castor oil will draw the poison right out of the boil and can heal it in as little as two days.
There are other remedies that I did not mention as I felt the three above were the best. Some other remedies are iodine, a paste made out of baking soda or you can take an epson salts bath.
Kathy Love is the creator and webmaster for http://www.natural-cure-remedy.com where she has compiled information about natural cures and remedies for various health issues.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathy_Love
Choosing The Right Bodybuilding Supplement
Before wasting your money on a pile of bodybuilding supplements you really need to work out what you are hoping to achieve. Don't lose sight of the fact that sound nutrition forms the basis of any muscle building program and no amount of supplementation with the latest and greatest products will make up for bad eating habits. The bottom line is, bodybuilding supplements should be used IN ADDITION to regular food, not INSTEAD OF it.
Now that we've got that out of the way, let's go on to think about what supplements could be of use and this is something that can only be determined by your physical and performance goals. Don't make the mistake of copying your training partners or believing all the garbage spouted in magazine ads. Decide first what you want to achieve and then choose the supplements that will help you reach your goals.
To help you make an informed choice, the most popular and useful bodybuilding supplements available today are listed below, broadly divided into two goal-related categories.
Determined to build muscle? This cannot be achieved without dedication, sheer hard work and sound nutrition. With a solid foundation in place you can help the process along with supplements like creatine, whey protein, prohormones, testosterone boosters and amino acids.
Need to lose fat? There is no point in building awesome muscles if they're covered by layers of fat. Once again, the key to success is hard work but you can boost fat loss by using products from supplement categories that include fat burners, stimulant-free products, appetite suppressants and carb blockers.
Many more supplements are available to support your bodybuilding endeavors. These include energy boosters and products aimed at enhancing the condition of your mind and body. As we progress through this series of articles we'll look at each of these in turn.
In the meantime you can find out more by visiting the web site listed below.
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Muscle Building Supplements
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Mitchell
Now that we've got that out of the way, let's go on to think about what supplements could be of use and this is something that can only be determined by your physical and performance goals. Don't make the mistake of copying your training partners or believing all the garbage spouted in magazine ads. Decide first what you want to achieve and then choose the supplements that will help you reach your goals.
To help you make an informed choice, the most popular and useful bodybuilding supplements available today are listed below, broadly divided into two goal-related categories.
Determined to build muscle? This cannot be achieved without dedication, sheer hard work and sound nutrition. With a solid foundation in place you can help the process along with supplements like creatine, whey protein, prohormones, testosterone boosters and amino acids.
Need to lose fat? There is no point in building awesome muscles if they're covered by layers of fat. Once again, the key to success is hard work but you can boost fat loss by using products from supplement categories that include fat burners, stimulant-free products, appetite suppressants and carb blockers.
Many more supplements are available to support your bodybuilding endeavors. These include energy boosters and products aimed at enhancing the condition of your mind and body. As we progress through this series of articles we'll look at each of these in turn.
In the meantime you can find out more by visiting the web site listed below.
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Muscle Building Supplements
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Mitchell
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Valtrex - Cold Sore Medication Review
Do you suffer from cold sores? If so, then you certainly want a medicine that can shorten their duration for sure. Well, does Valtrex cold sore medication help in this regard? Here's a review to give you some answers.
As a cold sore remedy, Valtrex by Glaxo Smith Kline may well be one of the better medications available. Valtrex is the actual brand name for Valacyclovir Hydrochloride. It comes in pill form to treat herpes, herpes simplex or cold sores, in addition to shingles and chicken pox.
While it is true that Valtrex is one of the best as a cold sore remedy, it is not cheap. A 500 mg pill will cost approximately $6.00 each, while a 1000 mg pill will run $10.00 each. Taking four of the 1000 mg pills will cost you $40, but if you are suffering from a cold sore, I consider it money well spent.
I have a friend who suffers from several bouts with cold sores throughout the year. He has tried every cold sore remedy, cold sore medication, and every other home remedy for cold sores. Nothing has worked for him like Valtrex.
He starting taking Valtrex just as the instructions say to do, at the first sign of a tingling sensation. He took two 1000 mg pills twice a day for one day. The cold sore went away without ever breaking out. it never broke the surface. This was amazing.
If you suffer from cold sores, then you know that when they break out you're looking at 10-14 days of an ugly, painful cold sore. If you're taking Valtrex this won't happen. Compared to any over-the-counter cold sore remedy, there is no question about which is the best.
The key for any cold sore medication to work is catching the sore before it breaks through the surface of your skin. Once it breaks out there is no cold sore remedy that will eliminate it in a day or two, Valtrex included. But if you take Valtrex before this happens, then it will flat out eliminate it immediately.
For anyone who has cold sores and has been looking for a medicine that works, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider about Valtrex. It may be the cold sore remedy you're looking for.
All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Reprint Rights: You may reprint this article as long as you leave all of the links active and do not edit the article in any way.
Do you suffer from cold sores? You can find out much more about Valtrex Cold Sore Medication as well as more information about cold sores at http://www.AllAboutColdSores.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Edwards
As a cold sore remedy, Valtrex by Glaxo Smith Kline may well be one of the better medications available. Valtrex is the actual brand name for Valacyclovir Hydrochloride. It comes in pill form to treat herpes, herpes simplex or cold sores, in addition to shingles and chicken pox.
While it is true that Valtrex is one of the best as a cold sore remedy, it is not cheap. A 500 mg pill will cost approximately $6.00 each, while a 1000 mg pill will run $10.00 each. Taking four of the 1000 mg pills will cost you $40, but if you are suffering from a cold sore, I consider it money well spent.
I have a friend who suffers from several bouts with cold sores throughout the year. He has tried every cold sore remedy, cold sore medication, and every other home remedy for cold sores. Nothing has worked for him like Valtrex.
He starting taking Valtrex just as the instructions say to do, at the first sign of a tingling sensation. He took two 1000 mg pills twice a day for one day. The cold sore went away without ever breaking out. it never broke the surface. This was amazing.
If you suffer from cold sores, then you know that when they break out you're looking at 10-14 days of an ugly, painful cold sore. If you're taking Valtrex this won't happen. Compared to any over-the-counter cold sore remedy, there is no question about which is the best.
The key for any cold sore medication to work is catching the sore before it breaks through the surface of your skin. Once it breaks out there is no cold sore remedy that will eliminate it in a day or two, Valtrex included. But if you take Valtrex before this happens, then it will flat out eliminate it immediately.
For anyone who has cold sores and has been looking for a medicine that works, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider about Valtrex. It may be the cold sore remedy you're looking for.
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Do you suffer from cold sores? You can find out much more about Valtrex Cold Sore Medication as well as more information about cold sores at http://www.AllAboutColdSores.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Edwards
Creatine: No Way to Know What You're Taking
Creatine can help to strengthen muscles, but athletes who take these supplements need to know how much they can take safely before they harm themselves. When you exercise and your muscles get as much oxygen as they need, they burn carbohydrates, fats and protein for energy. When you exercise so intensely that you cannot get all the oxygen you need, your muscles use creatine and ATP. So when you exercise so intensely that you can't get enough oxygen, you can delay fatigue by taking creatine and it allows you to do more work, which makes you stronger.
The body of a 160 pound man contains 120 grams of creatine and he takes in and uses about two grams a day. No good studies have been done to show what amounts are safe to take beyond what your own body makes, so let the buyer beware. Creatine may allow you to lift more weights and make you stronger, but it may harm you.
Taking too much creatine can cause weight gain, increased insulin production and possibly kidney damage. High levels of insulin constrict arteries to cause heart attacks and affect the brain and liver to make you fat. The chemical process of extracting creatine in the laboratory forms toxic contaminants called dicyandiamide and dihydrotriazines, that have to be removed before humans can take them safely. The industry that distributes creatine is unregulated and you have no way to know what you are actually buying.
Dr. Gabe Mirkin has been a radio talk show host for 25 years and practicing physician for more than 40 years; he is board certified in four specialties, including sports medicine. Read or listen to hundreds of his fitness and health reports at http://www.DrMirkin.com
Free weekly newsletter on fitness, health, and nutrition.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gabe_Mirkin,_M.D.
The body of a 160 pound man contains 120 grams of creatine and he takes in and uses about two grams a day. No good studies have been done to show what amounts are safe to take beyond what your own body makes, so let the buyer beware. Creatine may allow you to lift more weights and make you stronger, but it may harm you.
Taking too much creatine can cause weight gain, increased insulin production and possibly kidney damage. High levels of insulin constrict arteries to cause heart attacks and affect the brain and liver to make you fat. The chemical process of extracting creatine in the laboratory forms toxic contaminants called dicyandiamide and dihydrotriazines, that have to be removed before humans can take them safely. The industry that distributes creatine is unregulated and you have no way to know what you are actually buying.
Dr. Gabe Mirkin has been a radio talk show host for 25 years and practicing physician for more than 40 years; he is board certified in four specialties, including sports medicine. Read or listen to hundreds of his fitness and health reports at http://www.DrMirkin.com
Free weekly newsletter on fitness, health, and nutrition.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gabe_Mirkin,_M.D.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
What's The Best Way To Get A Natural Golden Tan?
If you’re the kind of person who takes pride in their appearance, then you know how great a good sun tan can make you feel. There’s something about a nice tan that makes us feel healthy and attractive.
But few of us have the time to spend tanning in the sun, and we all know of the dangers associated with being exposed to the sun’s UV rays.
So what options are left for the person who wants a nice golden brown sun tan?
One of the most effective ways of getting a natural tan is with a tanning bed. Over recent years the technology has made tanning beds very effective, and much safer. Many of the best model of tanning bed even feature cooling systems to keep you feeling comfortable during the tanning experience. Since when has the sun ever done that for you?
But despite all the benefits a tanning bed can give you, you still need to follow the basic safety guidelines to reduce your risk of developing health issues, maybe even cancer, from being exposed to UV rays for too long.
You must always use an appropriate tanning lotion when using a tanning bed. Not only do they keep you safe from the UV rays to some extent, but they also help you tan evenly and thoroughly.
If you’re considering buying a home tanning bed, then you will want to pay enough money to get a good high powered tanning bed. Why? Because a tanning bed with a low max exposure rating (which also means it’s high powered) will allow you to get your tanning in a shorter amount of time, thus meaning less time spent under UV rays.
In conclusion, tanning beds are the best way of getting a nice tan. They can be expensive, but for most people who own them, they definitely feel it was worth the investment. But make sure you never neglect the safety issues of your tanning bed. If they are used appropriately, you can have your nice all year tan without putting yourself at higher risk for cancer.
Sarah is the owner of the Tanning Bed Review Blog, where she reviews all kinds of tanning beds, from home tanning beds to residential tanning beds. She also gives advice and answers questions on all aspects of owning and using a tanning bed, so be sure to visit her blog for more information.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Wright
But few of us have the time to spend tanning in the sun, and we all know of the dangers associated with being exposed to the sun’s UV rays.
So what options are left for the person who wants a nice golden brown sun tan?
One of the most effective ways of getting a natural tan is with a tanning bed. Over recent years the technology has made tanning beds very effective, and much safer. Many of the best model of tanning bed even feature cooling systems to keep you feeling comfortable during the tanning experience. Since when has the sun ever done that for you?
But despite all the benefits a tanning bed can give you, you still need to follow the basic safety guidelines to reduce your risk of developing health issues, maybe even cancer, from being exposed to UV rays for too long.
You must always use an appropriate tanning lotion when using a tanning bed. Not only do they keep you safe from the UV rays to some extent, but they also help you tan evenly and thoroughly.
If you’re considering buying a home tanning bed, then you will want to pay enough money to get a good high powered tanning bed. Why? Because a tanning bed with a low max exposure rating (which also means it’s high powered) will allow you to get your tanning in a shorter amount of time, thus meaning less time spent under UV rays.
In conclusion, tanning beds are the best way of getting a nice tan. They can be expensive, but for most people who own them, they definitely feel it was worth the investment. But make sure you never neglect the safety issues of your tanning bed. If they are used appropriately, you can have your nice all year tan without putting yourself at higher risk for cancer.
Sarah is the owner of the Tanning Bed Review Blog, where she reviews all kinds of tanning beds, from home tanning beds to residential tanning beds. She also gives advice and answers questions on all aspects of owning and using a tanning bed, so be sure to visit her blog for more information.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Wright
Best Natural Acne Treatments
The term best natural acne treatment is one of the constant search topics of a teenager, since acne is such a common teenage problem. Acne is basically a skin problem, caused because of the clogging of the sebaceous glands, which help to accumulate sebum in the closed pores. In conventional medicine, many treatments are suggested in the over the counter drugs and prescription drugs. The relevance of the natural medicines is its toxic free nature. Also, conventional medicine can only temporarily cure the disease, whereas, natural method can help for prevention of acne.
Natural living and using natural products is the essential pre requisite for the natural method of acne treatment. To avoid the difficulties of the disease such as irritation, pain and pus formation, herbal mask can be used. The leaves of the herbs are pasted into a poultice and applied on the affected parts. This will gradually reduce the eruptions and avoids the future scars on the face. The powders of turmeric and almond can also be used for herbal pack as the turmeric will be a remedy to prevent inflammation since it is a proven bactericidal. Honey face packs are also popular as acne reducers.
Proper habits are also important for naturally curing acne. The acne affected parts must not be touched with hands, since it will induce the bacterial infections. Washing the acne affected parts three times or more is also a necessity to avoid the spreading of the infection and oil nature of the skin. It is also to avoid the oily hair, getting in touch with acne since more oil will help to increase the intensity of the disease. The use of chemical moistures and other cosmetics is also not advisable since it may result in worsening of the condition, by any kind of reaction with inner fluids.
Diet is another most important factor that has to be taken care in natural care. The fresh vegetables with beta carotene, such as carrots and pumpkins, are essential to build up innate immunity. Vitamin A, B complex and E are essential for smooth functioning of skin. It is also recommended to include adequate amount of zinc and chromium in the diet. Many companies have marketed the diet supplements in the label of natural cure for acne treatment.
Exercise is also an essential part of natural curing as stress is also suspected as a major triggering cause for acne. Exercise will help to relax muscles and to burn out excess fat in the body. Mind relaxing techniques such as meditation or any relaxation technique has to be practiced to ease the mind while all the bad habits such as smoking and alcohol have to be essentially stopped. The use of packaged snacks also must be discouraged.
The best natural treatment must be comprehensive, and must have this holistic approach. A natural cure may not be as fast to relieve acne as conventional medicines even if it is recommended because it has no side effects on the body.
Jason Rickard is the owner of Your Favourite Shop - Offering White Noise and Relaxation CDs - Visit Hapa Health for more articles.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Rickard
Natural living and using natural products is the essential pre requisite for the natural method of acne treatment. To avoid the difficulties of the disease such as irritation, pain and pus formation, herbal mask can be used. The leaves of the herbs are pasted into a poultice and applied on the affected parts. This will gradually reduce the eruptions and avoids the future scars on the face. The powders of turmeric and almond can also be used for herbal pack as the turmeric will be a remedy to prevent inflammation since it is a proven bactericidal. Honey face packs are also popular as acne reducers.
Proper habits are also important for naturally curing acne. The acne affected parts must not be touched with hands, since it will induce the bacterial infections. Washing the acne affected parts three times or more is also a necessity to avoid the spreading of the infection and oil nature of the skin. It is also to avoid the oily hair, getting in touch with acne since more oil will help to increase the intensity of the disease. The use of chemical moistures and other cosmetics is also not advisable since it may result in worsening of the condition, by any kind of reaction with inner fluids.
Diet is another most important factor that has to be taken care in natural care. The fresh vegetables with beta carotene, such as carrots and pumpkins, are essential to build up innate immunity. Vitamin A, B complex and E are essential for smooth functioning of skin. It is also recommended to include adequate amount of zinc and chromium in the diet. Many companies have marketed the diet supplements in the label of natural cure for acne treatment.
Exercise is also an essential part of natural curing as stress is also suspected as a major triggering cause for acne. Exercise will help to relax muscles and to burn out excess fat in the body. Mind relaxing techniques such as meditation or any relaxation technique has to be practiced to ease the mind while all the bad habits such as smoking and alcohol have to be essentially stopped. The use of packaged snacks also must be discouraged.
The best natural treatment must be comprehensive, and must have this holistic approach. A natural cure may not be as fast to relieve acne as conventional medicines even if it is recommended because it has no side effects on the body.
Jason Rickard is the owner of Your Favourite Shop - Offering White Noise and Relaxation CDs - Visit Hapa Health for more articles.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Rickard
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