Commercials and the media today have us all in panic not to leave the house until we have slopped on layers of sun block, demonizing the sun as the biggest contributor to skin cancer, which actually is one of the many things that effectively fight cancer. I have often wondered what is in most sun blocks, and what else could it be doing to my body other than preventing a sun burn, which not always works. Much of this curiosity hit me after I had realized how permeable our skin is. I do understand that too much sun is not good, we do not want the skin to become burned, and if you are planning to be in the sun for long periods of time, it is very wise to use sun protection, but slopping on layers on sun block every time we leave the house concerns me.

The sun is the absolute best way our bodies receive the amount of vitamin D it needs to maintain optimal health. Sun block does more than prevent sun burn; it also prevents your skin from producing the very important vitamin D, which to me seems like a complete waste of sun exposure. The most natural skin care treatment one can receive is from the sun. The right amount of sun exposure is very critical for not just healthier skin, but a healthier immune system as well.

In just the past 10 years alone many scientists have been exploring vitamin D more and more rapidly, and are amazed how it affects the body. Some experts suggest that over 80% of children and adults are deficient in vitamin D, which deficiency in vitamin D causes the immune system to not do its job properly.

Vitamin D helps the body produce over 200 antimicrobial peptides that fight off infections such as Crohn’s disease. Vitamin D also helps prevent and treat many cancers such as lymphoma, lung, prostate, colon and skin cancer. Scientist and Doctors are beginning to discover more and more benefits of vitamin D, and are encouraging more so today than ever before, not just those who are deficient, but everyone to get their vitamin D levels checked 3-4 times a year.

You may live in an area where you cannot receive the right amount of vitamin D from the sun and are deficient. If this is the case you can take vitamin D supplements, but want to be careful you are receiving the right amount. When receiving vitamin D naturally from the sun the body self regulates the amount it needs through the skin. The body does not do this when taking vitamin D orally. Too much vitamin D can be harmful which is why it is very important to have your blood tested. The optimal level of vitamin D should be between 55-65 ng/ml. There are two different test available, 1, 25 (OH) D, and 25(OH) D. The 25 (OH) D which is also called 25-hydroxyvitamin D is most recommended by doctors as the better marker for vitamin D status.

Most important things to consider when wanting to obtain vitamin D naturally from the sun, is common sense, “don’t overdo it”! For the first few times being exposed to the sun limit yourself to about fifteen minutes or so, before protecting your skin from the sun’s rays, gradually build a tolerance. By midsummer you can spend nearly an entire day outside without getting sunburn, and of course if you are going to be exposed to extreme sun conditions for great lengths of time, then yes, protect your skin, whether it is wearing a hat, clothing, or using a natural sun screen, that is free from harmful chemicals.

The benefits of fish oil on skin can be harnessed from fatty acids called EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid). Journal of Lipid Research in 1995 has found startling evidences that EPA works three-fold: inhibit the secretion of sebum, (which is commonly known as skin oil), produces anti-inflammatory substances called prostaglandins, and discourages the production of Arachidonic acid. The research recommends that achieve good skin health, a 1000 mg of fish oil a day with healthy food will do the trick.

Our skin, like all our body organs, is subjected to the wear and tear of daily living.  The disappearance of our once rosy pink complexion we once had when we were infants is inevitable. But the recent strides in medical technology and discoveries in science have helped us in keeping our skin’s health to the optimum, locking in the look of youth and warding away the symptoms of aging. And if there is one product that lives up to the true promise of medical research, nothing can top fish oil in the list.

The benefits of fish oil on skin can be harnessed from fatty acids called EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid). Journal of Lipid Research in 1995 has found startling evidences that EPA works three-fold: inhibit the secretion of sebum, (which is commonly known as skin oil), produces anti-inflammatory substances called prostaglandins, and discourages the production of Arachidonic acid.  The research recommends that achieve good skin health, a 1000 mg of fish oil a day with healthy food will do the trick.

What do these three things mean and what are the benefits of fish oil on skin?  EPA lessens the production of androgens, the male sexual hormone that signals the body to produce sebum. Less androgens would mean less sebum on the skin. By reducing the amount of sebum on the skin surface, teenagers suffering from acnes will see less pimples and facial lesions. Remember that excessive production of oil clogs the skin pores, producing vile facial eruptions.

Prostaglandins are substances that keep the cell repair at work. Without prostaglandins, the cells in the body find it more difficult to remove waste products. In addition, the absence of prostaglandins would mean less production of new cells in the body. By renewing the cells, the fish oil makes it possible for skin to stay younger-looking and supple. This means that the products delay ageing and  keep wrinkles away.

Arachidonic acids are found in people with inflammatory skins, such as those who are suffering from skin problems like psoriasis and eczema. The fatty acids in fish oil make it possible for arachidonic acid to be produced in large amounts, giving relief to people whose skin and appearance have been severely affected by disease.

Lastly, one of the most important benefits of fish oil on skin is that fish oil improves blood circulation. If blood is allowed to flow without impediments, this would mean that the skin will receive sufficient supply of nutrients. Skin cells will have greater ability to renew, making it possible for the skin to stay young and wrinkle-free.

Gentle, relaxing lymphatic massage can help you fight off illness and heal from injuries.  Despite its feather-light touch, it offers powerful benefits for your immune system.

If you knew that there was a gentle, safe, and relaxing technique that could

* help you heal from illness, injury and surgery;
* promote a healthy immune system;
* reduce inflammation;
* support the health of your entire body;
* and promote healthy, radiant skin

–would you do it?

I’m guessing you would!

That procedure is lymphatic massage- (also called lymphatic facilitation or manual lymphatic drainage). It increases lymph flow eight to ten times. This removes harmful substances from your tissues, nourishes tissues, reduces inflammation, and generally increases immune function.

Developed as a manual therapy in Europe, it has been well researched and used in hospitals and clinics for decades.

It can speed recovery from

* sprains, strains, and sore muscles
* acute injuries
* congestion due to allergies
* surgery
* wounds (as long as there is no infection present)
* congested sinuses
* acne
* headaches
* swollen ankles, puffy eyes, etc.
* allergies/allergic reactions
* toxic side effects of drugs administered for surgery or other medical purposes
* scarring.

It also helps people manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia and arthritis.

Skin Health
Lymphatic work to the face is a lovely, gentle, treatment that enhances skin health, thereby improving skin appearance.  Done regularly, it can keep skin looking healthier. Facial lymphatic work can also help improve acne.

Pre- and –Post-Surgical Support
More and more doctors—especially plastic surgeons–are becoming aware of the value of manual lymphatic drainage before and after surgery to help clients heal. Many plastic surgeons routinely recommend it for their cosmetic surgery patients. (Post-surgical treatment needs a doctor’s permission.)

A Light, Relaxing Touch
People are often surprised about how light lymphatic facilitation is. It doesn’t feel anything like a “normal” massage (which provides deeper pressure into the skin and muscles of the body).

That’s because this form of bodywork works with the lymphatic system, rather than the muscles, and over half of the lymph nodes and vessels are just underneath the skin.  A deep or heavy touch would close off, rather than encourage, lymphatic flow.

The feather-light strokes and soft, pumping action stimulate lymphatic flow, with powerful results both for general wellness and for specific conditions including inflammation, traumatic injuries such as strains and sprains, headaches, sinus issues, healing from surgery, osteoarthritis, skin conditions, and swelling from unresolved injuries such as ankle sprains.

Lymphatic facilitation is also deeply relaxing. This too helps boost immune function.

How It Works: the Lymph System
The lymph system is a critical part of our immune system, playing a crucial role in the body’s ability to heal from injury, ward off disease, and purify itself.  It includes a network of thin vessels, nodes, tissues, ducts, and organs (e.g. spleen, thymus, bone marrow) throughout your entire body.

The lymphatic system has three major functions:

* It removes excess fluids from body tissues.
* It defends the body against harmful micro-organisms.
* It absorbs fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive system and transports them to the circulatory system.

The lymphatic system has no pumping mechanism (such as the heart has for arterial blood flow) and depends on muscle contraction through deep, abdominal breathing and exercise to move its fluid.

A sluggish lymphatic system can contribute to many health issues, including an increase in the frequency and severity of illnesses; joint pain; headaches; arthritis; fatigue; acne; slow healing of wounds; and swelling in extremities.

When the lymphatic drainage becomes impaired for some reason, lymphatic massage, with its ultra-light touch and pumping motion performed in the correct sequence and direction, can greatly increase lymphatic flow.  This helps the body remove toxins; brings white blood cells and nutrients to cells; and decreases inflammation.

Contraindications
As with all massage therapies, there are some contraindications. These include having a bacterial infection anywhere in the body, malignant tumors, thrombosis and major heart  or circulatory problems. Your therapist should screen you for these issues before giving you a lymphatic treatment.

Conclusion
Of course, you should always consult your medical doctor if you have or think you have a medical problem. But if you are basically healthy and seeking to enhance your health and healingFree Reprint Articles, lymphatic massage can be a valuable complement to your regular wellness program.

Having plenty of fruits also serves the same purpose that vegetables does. Fruits that are rich of Vitamin C are very good for your skin that reduces wrinkles and fine lines. Green tea is another very effective element for skin care. It has the properties to improve your skin quality and you will notice the change within a few weeks.

Too few women ( and men as well) ex foliate their epidermis properly. Remember, your skin is constantly leaving dead cells on the surface that may be invisible to your naked eye, but are dulling your appearance is dramatic ways you can’t see. Exfoliating not only helps here, but equally as importantly, it will allow true acne treatments, creams and medications to do their job more efficiently.

Japanese skincare products have a greater natural effect and form an excellent remedy for all types of skin. All such ingredients will keep away the dryness from the epidermis. A great advantage about phytesence wakame is its ability to inhibit the advantages of hyaluronidase. This helps in breaking the important element hyaluronic in our skin. It keeps the skin glowing and free from infections by providing regular airflow into the epidermis.

Being unhappy with one’s appearance or self-loathing are among the most common causes of acne. Your body responds to your thought process, if you don’t release your negative thoughts or bottled up emotions yourself, your body finds a way to release them in the form of pain or skin diseases like acne. Therefore in order to get rid of your skin problems you must first learn to love and accept yourself and release all bottled up negative feelings.

You also might have heard of skin creams and lotions that contain collagen as their primary ingredient. The problem with these products is that the collagen molecules themselves are too big to be absorbed through the skin. The collagen will simply remain on the surface and will not interact with nor improve the quality of your skin.

To maximize the benefits of skin care products, they should be layered on in a certain order. Applying products in the wrong order will diminish their benefits. A heavy cream applied before a lighter serum will block the absorption of a lighter serum and not allow it to work on your skin. Putting your skin care products on in the correct order will go a long way towards helping the products to work.

Another great way to give your skin a boost and improve the tone and texture is to make sure your eat a healthy balanced diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables. Getting the recommended five portions a day will not only give your skin a boost but you will feel more energetic and your whole body will benefit.

Muscle tone is important, because if you want tight skin, you have to get some muscle tone and this is best done by weight-bearing exercise. Many shy away from this type of exercise, but it is one of the best natural skin tightening methods and works very well!

Potassium represents 5% percent of the total mineral content of a human body, even though only about one litre is found in the body at a time. Potassium is found in our bodies both inside and outside cells and is a very important mineral required every day to stay healthy. More than 98% of the body’s potassium is intracellular. The body easily absorbs potassium, but nearly 90% of it is excreted through the kidneys and bowels. Thus, potassium is a natural diuretic and is important for the elimination of body wastes, such as water and sodium.

Potassium is a primary electrolyte, it is a great alkalizer, and important for maintaining pH and water balance.

Benefits of potassium:

1. Along with other minerals such as sodium, chloride and calcium, potassium helps in normal cellular function, such as transmission of nerve impulses, digestion, healthy muscle contractions, proper cardiovascular functioning (heartbeat irregularities are normally a sign of potassium deficiency), and helping the body to convert glucose into glycogen (the body’s stored form of energy).

2. Potassium helps promote healthy cardiovascular health. It is strongly believed that potassium has the ability to pump sodium out of the body’s cells and reduce body fluid.

3. Potassium, along with sodium, helps to regulate blood pressure. Increasing potassium in the diet may protect against hypertension in people who are sensitive to high levels of sodium.

4. Potassium also affects blood vessel tone as well as the way blood vessels react to the flowing hormones, thus affecting pressure within blood vessels.

5. Potassium therapeutically assists in the treatment of alcoholism, acne, alleviating allergies, promoting the early healing of burns.

6. It also helps with problems such as congestive heart failure, chronic fatigue syndrome or kidney stones.

7. Potassium plays a vital role in cellular integrity by regulating the transfer of nutrients into the cell.

8. Potassium also attracts oxygen to tissues, helps correct positioning of vital organs. Potassium deficiency indicates that probably albumin, sugar, sodium, and chlorine are also in short supply or not being properly absorbed.

9. Potassium helps proper functioning of the adrenal glands. It helps support healthy sugar balance in the body.

Deficiency of potassium –

The kidneys excrete excess potassium from the body, and deficiencies are rarely found in people on a normal balanced diet. A deficiency may result in fatigue, cramping legs, muscle weakness, sluggish reflexes, acne, dry skin, mood swings and irregular heartbeat.

A shortage of potassium in body may cause a fatal condition known as hypokalemia, resulting from diarrhea, increased diuresis and vomiting. Hypokalemia can occur in people with a chronic disease or due to aging process. Deficiency symptoms include muscle weakness, ECG abnormalities, decreased reflex response, congestive heart failure, cardiac arrhythmia and respiratory paralysis.

If the fluid and electrolyte balance is not restored, the risk of heart failure increases.

Potassium deficiency increases acid levels in the body, lowers the natural pH balance, causes problems with the formation of connective tissue. Kidney diseases (such as acute renal failure), diabetes can also cause fluctuations in the levels of potassium. Many medications such as diuretics, cortisone, prolonged use of aspirin, and laxatives also cause depletion of potassium.

Dietary sources of potassium:

Eating a variety of foods that contain potassium is the best way to get the required amount. Individuals who eat a balanced diet do not need potassium supplements. Foods, which are rich sources of potassium include turnips, whole grains, molasses, fish, citrus fruit, apple cider vinegar, bananas, avocados, yoghurt, tomatoes, poultry, oranges, apricots, potatoes (especially their skins), leafy green vegetables such as spinach, lettuce; and meat. One large orange will supply one with 250 mg of potassium, one-eighth of a person’s daily need. Dried apricots contain more potassium than fresh apricots.

Steaming of foods helps to retain nutrients that are lost through other cooking techniques such as boiling (loss of about 50% of potassium content). Steaming results in only a 6% loss of potassium.

Recommended Daily Allowance of potassium:

There is no recommended daily allowance (RDA) for potassium, but it is advised to get between 2,000-3,000 mg per day. The range of intake for children is 780 to 1,600 mg per day.

This is not difficult, and most people meet this requirement on their own through a normal diet. In general, nutritionists recommend reducing salt intake and ensuring adequate supply by increasing the amount of fresh fruit and vegetables in the diet.

If one is into bodybuilding, he must increase the potassium intake, since potassium is needed to maintain muscles in good form, and also because potassium is lost from excessive sweating and urine.

Symptoms of high intake of potassium:

Excessive potassium can be toxic and will affect the heart. This is a problem especially when one is suffering from some problem such as kidney failure. Irregular heart beat and muscle fatigue is sign of toxic potassium levels. In healthy people, the kidneys in the urine excrete excess potassium.

Who requires extra potassium?

People who require potassium supplements include:

# women on oral contraceptives,

# chronic alcoholics or drug abusers,

# smokers

# people undergoing stress

# athletes

# people doing strenuous exertion,

# anyone suffering from any degree of mal-absorption syndrome

# people with eating disorders, especially bulimia and anorexia..