How to have Beautiful Skin Over 40

Anti-aging care for the skin when you are at your 40s is essential as after 40 you will start showing the signs of aging. If you do not take care of your skin you may end up having premature skin aging. The anti-aging skin care should also address the fact that the skin tends to retain lesser moisture. This makes the skin look uneven and dull and also you may notice that the skin feels drier.

Moistures:

Keep your skin well moisturised at all times. Don’t think that the face ends at your jaw line, apply the moisturizers on your neck as well. Moisturizing is essential as the skin becomes drier as we age. This is because the oil producing glands in the skin become less active with age. It is recommend that chose an oil-based moisturizer which employs petroleum as the base and it should contain alpha hydroxy or antioxidants acids to combat wrinkles. Going for little water based moisturizes will not be as effective because the skin is not producing oils.

Exfoliate but gently:

Exfoliation is great as it removed the dead and dry skin. The accumulation of dead skin cells on the surface of skin makes the skin look dry, uneven and old. Removing these dead cells will even the skin tone, remove oil and dirt which is clogging the pores. Exfoliating also helps to prevent adult acne. Using a face scrub will help you make the skin smooth and also refine the skin’s texture, giving you a soft and supple look. While applying exfoliates don’t be too harsh as you don’t want to get red and over treated skin.

Zap pimples:

Acne is common concern, especially around the jaw line and the mouth. Rather than changing your skin care product to acne related ones you need to simply use the spot treatment on the troubled areas. This is good as this lets you avoid the harsh products over all the face and you can specifically target the affected area.

Protect:

At this age the visible damage to the skin starts showing. Lot of this damage is due to the exposure to the sun. That’s why a big part of anti-aging skin care is protection from the sun. At this age the skin is a lot thinner which makes it more susceptible to sun damage. You need to wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, no matter what the season is you need to protect the skin against the sun. If you’re directly in the sunlight then reapply every 2 hours.

Choose the right moisturizers and cleansers:

It’s really important that you choose a moisturizer, cleanser and skin care routine which is formulated for your skin type. Following a skin care routine which is customized towards of skin type helps to keep you skin healthy. If you have a skin type which is oily then you are lucky some studies have shown that oily skin develops less wrinkles.

Drink lots of water:

All of us know that drinking enough amounts of water is essential for the body, yet we do not follow this simple tip. Drinking enough amounts of water is really helpful for the skin. Enough amount of water is about 2 to 3 litres every day. Develop a healthy habit of drinking water at regular interval, it will do wonders to your skin.

Limit your sugar intake:

You need to reduce the amount of sugar which you consume as sugar is known to damage the collagen. This damage leads to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. When you eat sugar or foods which have high glycemicvalue it is broken down into glucose, this raises the insulin levels.

Brighten up:

When done in a proper manner anti-aging skin care will help you to improve your skin and avoid that dull look which is common as the cell turnover in the body slows down with age. First thing that you should do each night is remove the makeup before bed; this cleans you pores and allows your skin to breathe and repair itself overnight. Next thing that you are supposed to do is use cleaner and toner which will help you remove the dead skin for a healthy glow. Also exfoliate 2-3 times in a week at night.

How to Care for Heart Health

Heart health Diet In Detail

The controlling of weight and regular exercises are important for keeping yourself away from heart diseases. Changing food habits can be very difficult. One must know which diets needs to be limited and which to be eaten more, so that you can follow a heart healthy diet. Some of the tips are as follows:

· The portion size should be controlled

One should eat more of low calorie and nutrient rich food like vegetables and fruits and the high calorie and the high sodium foods should be avoided.

· More of Vegetables and fruits

The vitamin and the mineral content of the fruits and vegetables and also the high-fiber content are helpful as heart healthy diets. They contain some substances found in plants, which are preventive of cardiovascular diseases. Eating higher calorie foods like snacks, meat, and cheese can be avoided by eating more of vegetables and vitamins.

· Selective whole grains

The whole grains can be used as substitutes for refined grains as they contain nutrients and fibers and can help in regulation of blood pressure and heart health. One can grind them in a food processor or coffee grinder and add a teaspoon of it to the applesauce, hot cereal and yogurt.

· Limiting unhealthy fats and cholesterol

One can limit the saturated and trans fat can reduce the blood cholesterol and coronary artery diseases. There is a buildup of plagues in the arteries, called atherosclerosis which may result in cardiac diseases like stroke. The best way to limit is to avoid margarine, shortening and butter being used as cooking media.

Recommended food in diet for healthy heart

Some of the heart and blood vessel protective foods that are recommended in healthy heart diet.

· Salmon: It is a source for Omega-3 fatty acids.

· Flaxseeds: This is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, phytoestrogens and fibers. One can have them with yogurt, muffins and cookies, morning cereals.

· Oatmeal: It contains Omega-3 fatty acids, niacin, calcium, fibers, magnesium, potassium folates. The oatmeal can be topped with many types of seeds, nuts and fruits like berries. They can be made into cookies with cherries.

· Black Kidney Beans: They contain Vitamin B-Complex, Omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, folates and niacin.

· Almonds and Walnuts: They contain Omega-3 fatty acids, mono and poly unsaturated fats, phytosterols, magnesium, fiber and folates. They can be made into salads, fruit salads, muffins, pancakes etc.

· Tuna: It contains Omega-3 fatty acids, niacin and folates. Canned tuna can be used with green salads and fruits.

· Soy Milk: They contain Isoflavones, B Complex Vitamins, calcium, potassium, magnesium and phytoestrogens.

· Broccoli: It contains beta-carotene, Vitamins C and E, fiber, folate, calcium and potassium. Chopped broccoli can be added to soup.

· Asparagus: They are rich in beta-carotenes, luteins, folate, Bcomplex vitamins, folate, and fibers. They can be grilled and steamed and lemon and olive oil is added,.

· Dark Chocolate: It contains reservatrol and cocoa phenols.One truffle per day can lower blood pressure but one must opt for minimum 70 % cocoa content.

· Papaya: It contains lutein, beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, folates, Vitamins C and E, magnesium, potassium and calcium. Papaya salsa can be served with Salmon.

· Tea: It contains flavanols and Catechins. It makes Sun tea.

Foods to be avoided in heart Problem diet

· Foods High in Saturated Fats: To maintain a good heart health avoids foods that contain Trans and saturated fats. These fats get build up in the arteries and can clog and even in some cases block them. Cut the amount of fried foods, baked goods, desserts and fast foods which all increases the amount of Trans fat in your diet. Avoid high-fat meats, skin, beef and some plant based foods which also contain saturated fats.

· Foods High in Salt and Sugar: Salt and sugar causes serious danger to heart patients. Salt contains sodium that causes the blood pressure to shot up. Limit the quantity of sugar content in the diet, as it increases the weight and causes heart attack.

· Foods High in Cholesterol: Avoid the foods like meats, butter and dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt. Kidney, liver, sweetbread, organ meats, and brains are extremely high in cholesterol and are avoided in the heart disease.

Diet Tips for heart health

· Use up at least as many calories as you take in.
· Eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods have vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients which are lower in calories.
· Unrefined whole-grain foods contain fiber that can help lower your blood cholesterol and help you feel full, which may help you manage your weight.
· Eat fish at least twice a week. Eating oily fish containing omega-3 fatty acids may help lower your risk of death from coronary artery disease.
· Eat less of the nutrient-poor foods.

Magnificient Benefits of Basil

Basil is an annually cultivated herb that grows in India and other tropical regions of Asia, Italy and France, places with rich and fertile soil. Apart from the sweet basil other varieties are perennial herbs. A green leafy herb, basil belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae.
For its uncompromising health and freshness, basil leaves are good sources of valuable nutrients comprising of essential oils, minerals, thiamine, omega3 fatty acid and vitamin A, C, E and K.

Serving Ideas For Basil

  

Here are some serving ideas for basil: 

· Make pesto with a mixture of basil leaves, pine nuts and parmesan cheese.

· Top up your tomato dish, soups, salads, sauce and pasta with some basil.
· For the Thai flavour, add basil to stir-fries that include cabbage, chilli peppers, tofu and cashew nuts.
· Blend tomato puree, olive oil, basil leaves and onions and add the puree to tomato soup.
· Boil chopped basil for eight minutes to enjoy a cup of basil tea (mild anti-septic) that reduce nausea and reduce extra calories and fat.

How Does Basil Works ?

Basil contains high amounts of (E)-beta-caryophyllene (BCP) that is great at treating 74% arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases. Besides it is a good source of iron, potassium and calcium all help in progressing cardiovascular health. The vitamins present help in blood coagulation. Basil also contains flavonoids that maintain cell structures being exposed to radiation and excess oxygen.

Advantages of Basil

· It improves the functioning of heart
· A good cleansing herb
· Boost memory
· Alleviate the gastrointestinal problem - indigestion, constipation and stomach cramps
· Improves blood circulation
· Helps blood clotting
· Treats respiratory diseases
· Prevents the growth of tuberculosis
· Lessen inflammation and swelling
· Reduce cold and fever
· Protects from lung and oral cavity cancer

Side-effect Of Basil

Basil is never considered to have a side effect. However, basil, especially sweet basil is not recommended for allergy-ridden people. Basil should be properly washed before use otherwise estragole present in basil might cause liver and kidney damage. Also estragole is considered having carcinogenic properties stimulate uterine contractions. Most importantly, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid basil as it contains volatile liquids.

Acai Berry Health Benefits

Origin of Acai Berry can be traced back to the Amazon rainforest of Brazil. It has been used for centuries as a treatment and cure for a variety of illnesses and ailments.

The Acai Berry is an inch-long reddish, purple fruit that resembles grape. It is harvested from Acai palm trees which matures up to 80 feet (25 meters) in height and has cluster of branches at the top with long and lean leaves from which the Acai Berries hang. Around 20 kg of fruit per year is produces by an individual palm tree.

Serving Ideas For Acai Berry

· To Prepare Acai smoothies with freeze dried Acai powder, blend a cup of blue berries, two tablespoon of raw cacao nibs and a tablespoon of dried Acai powder and a cup of water.
· Add Acai powder to soups and meals
· To make Acai berry tea, combine freeze dried Acai powder or Acai juice with teas like green tea and black tea
· Acai is also used in food and beverages such as juice, energy drinks, jelly and ice cream.

How Does Acai Berry Works ?

Acai berries constitute of several antioxidants and other nutrients that are important for our health. Presence of Anthocyanins and flavonoids which are powerful antioxidants helps defend the body against life stressors. They also play a crucial role in the body cell protection system. The antioxidants also have anti-aging effect and helps reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.

Advantages of Acai Berry

· Boosts the immune system
· Provides protection from various heart diseases
· Used for improving blood flow in the body
· Helps cleanse and detoxify the body
· Helps fight cancerous cells
· Slows down the ageing process
· Reduces inflammation
· Reduces free radicals in the body
· Promotes Sound Sleep
· Enhances Visual Acuit
· Contains Important Minerals and vital vitamins
· Helps Skin look healthier and young
· Helps in improving mental focus
· Protects against prostate cancer

Side-effect Of Acai Berry

Acai Berry is considered safe and side effects will only occur if one’s body mechanism is not tuned to take Acai berries. Most people who suffer from Acai Berry side effects is because of consuming unmonitored doses.Some of the common side effects of the Acai berry, although they do not occur frequently. Too much Acai berries may cause excess bleeding. It is one of the common effects of most of the herbal organic supplements which are used for losing weight.
Patients with liver problems shall not use Acai berry. It can cause stomach diseases such as diarrhea due to the presence of some ingredients in Acai berry. It may increase the blood pressure.

Glorious Benefits of Water Melon

Karela or Bitter Melon Fruit or Momordica Charantia has tons of benefits. It originated in India and then eventually reached China by the 14th century. It is an excellent source of nutrients for the body. It is used to in cooking to make dishes and also has a host of medical purposes.
Some detail about bitter melon’s nutrients, it contains twice the amount of calcium when compared to spinach, twice the amount of potassium when compared to banana, and twice the beta-carotene of broccoli. It is also a great source of zinc, fiber, folic acid, manganese, peptides, steroidal, saponins, fiber, phosphorus, Vitamin C, B1, B2, B3.

Serving Ideas For Bitter Melon

You need to wash bitter melon thoroughly before using for my kind of preparation. Mostly the pods are used for preparation but you can use leaves which are young and tender in cooking as well.
· The most common method of preparation of this vegetable involves stir-frying or stuffing with masala mixture, while cooking bitter melon fruit or karela tomatos, onions, garlic, ginger, chilles, curry leaves etc might be used depending upon the style of preparation.
· In japan bitter melon is stir-fried onion, tofu, eggs, or pork to make a dish which is great tasting as well as healthy.
· The fresh juice of karela or bitter melon is great for the body.
· It is also used to make pickles of different types. There are host of other ways in which one can enjoy this healthy and healing vegetable.

How Does Bitter Melon Works ?

Bitter melon or karela has the ability to support blood sugar levels which are normal. As it contains compounds such as momordicin and charantin. This activity is makes it so popular amongst diabetics. The insulin like activity and ability to increase insulin secretion makes karela great for diabetics. It has the ability to improve the serus protein levels and improves the peripheral glucose utilization. The fruit also offers improved insulin sensitivity and reduces cholesterol levels.

Advantages of Bitter Melon

Bitter Melon is used with various health concerns so you can use and get following benefits and advantages of Bitter Melon.
· The compound in bitter melon activates the protein kinase in the cells which compensates for the insufficient insulin or resistance to insulin and hence the cells can absorb sugar form the blood.
· It has the ability to boost the immunity and protects your body against infections and diseases.
· It acts as a liver topic and promotes the functioning of the liver and clears the liver of toxins. To see effective results one needs to drink one glass of fresh juice of this vegetable daily for a week.
· It also has the ability to treat boils, itching, psoriasis, ring-worm, and fungal diseases.
· Regular consumption of this disease is excellent for curing or avoiding problem of the respiratory system such as asthma, cough, cold etc.
· Add karela to your diet to reduce indigestion and relieve constipation.
· It reduces the bad cholesterol and lower the blood sugar levels. These actions and other of bitter melon help promote heart health.

Side-effect Of Bitter Melon

Bitter melon or karela is safe for most people when used in appropriate amounts. Excess use can cause hypoglycemia, so you need to balance your bitter melon intake. If you are on diabetes medications which lower the blood sugar then you need to monitor the amounts of bitter melon intake as the compounded effects of medication and bitter melon might lower your blood sugar too low.

Benefits of Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera first discovered in the northern Africa. The low height succulent plant has green colours thick and fleshy leaves. The miracle plant belongs to Lily family has some resemblance with cactus, normally grows and thrives in warm and dry tropical climate.

How Does Aloe Vera Works ?

Whether you apply it on skin or take it orally, Aloe Vera works in all form tremendously due to its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and bio-stimulant properties. Aloe Vera contains chlorophyll and phytochemicals they improve our immune system and detoxify the body. The jelly of Aloe Vera works well to cure abdominal ulcers, inflammation and curing of many prostrate problems.

Chemical Constituents of Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has variety of chemical constituents like anthraquinones, lignins, salicylic acid, saponins, nataloins, barbaloins, amino acids, enzymes, sterols and many minerals.

Nutritional Facts about Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a very rich source of essential nutrients and it consists a dozen of vitamins, amino acids and around twenty minerals. Aloe Vera contains vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B12 and Beta-carotene. If we talk about minerals then it has iron, magnesium, copper, calcium, zinc, sodium, chromium and manganese.

Aloe Vera is used with various health concerns so you can use and get following benefits and advantages of Aloe Vera.
Aloe Vera treats gastrointestinal problems, cures constipation, detoxify body and gives us fresh feelings.
Aloe Vera treats stomach ulcers and prostrate problems.
It works as an anti - ageing substance and keeps you young for years.
Aloe Vera controls the blood pressure and saves us from brain strokes.
Aloe Vera is good for people suffering from arthritis, joint pain and inflammations.
Aloe Vera works effectively to cure asthma and congestion.

Side-effect Of Aloe Vera

Although Aloe Vera is a natural herb, but it does not mean that it is free from all side effects. In normal circumstances Aloe Vera is considered very safe to use orally and for its external applications. But one should not forget that excessive consumption of anything can lead to harmful effects. People who are allergic to plants of the Liliaceae family like garlic and onion might also get allergies from Aloe Vera. Over consumption of Aloe Vera for a long time can lead to hives and eczemas.

Aloe Vera these days is available in raw form, gel, jellies, dried and many other.
One can also take the dried juice within the recommended dosages of a qualified health practitioner.
You can also add a teaspoon of honey with Aloe Vera both in plain and warm water, if you are not diabetic.
You can add Aloe Vera in fruit juices.
For external use Aloe Vera is available these days in creams, lotions and other forms for skin treatment.

Amazing Benefits of Amla

One of the widely used herb worldwide known for its rich calcium and iron content, this extremely sour little fruit contains more than 80 percent of water. A medium-sized deciduous tree with gray bark and reddish wood which successfully grows in variable agro-climatic and soil conditions.
Know detail about amla by reading further. Known as Indian gooseberry in other parts of the world, found mostly in tropical areas and grows on trees. It contains three times the protein concentration and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) concentration than apple and nearly 20 times as much vitamin C than in oranges.

Serving Ideas For Amla

Amla can also be used, amla juice benefits a lot to the body and so does dried amla.
· An ingredient of green mint and coriander chutney.
· A spoon of amla juice in Lemon syrup and in jalzeera.
· Cook it with seasonal vegetables, mixed form.
· Can be used with sugar ice candy.

How Does Amla Works ?

It inhibits pitta and thus helps in getting relief from all the skin disorders, amla extracts slow the activity of osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone. Amla stimulates the isolated group of cells that secrete the hormone insulin. Thus it reduces blood sugar in diabetic patient. Amla Juice with a pinch of turmeric twice a day before each meal. It increases red blood cell production.

Chemical Constituents of Amla

Amla is used with various health concerns so you can use and get following benefits and advantages of Amla.

· Regulates blood sugar.
· Very powerful antioxidant, preventing damage from free radicals that cause cell oxidation.
· Enhances the efficiency of the liver.
· Makes bones and teeth stronger.

· Improves digestive system
· Helpful to alleviate cough and asthma
· Rejuvenate mind.
· Strengthen heart and lungs.
· Lowers bad cholesterol
· Prevents dandruffs
· Improves eye sight
· Helpful in constipation
· Helpful in reducing stress
· Prevents gray hair
· Amla is useful for remedies for diarrhoea and dysentery.
· Helps the body to fight better against infections.
· Enhance overall immunity of the body

Side-effect Of Amla

It is difficult to find the side effects of amla. Excessive consumption can cause the side effects like stomach upset i.e. Diarrhea, kidney stones and in some cases it also causes burning sensation during urination because of the large quantity of the vitamin C present in amla.
Heart patients are needed to be a little careful. Amla doesn’t cause any serious side effect but if a person is suffering from the heart ailment should consult a doctor before taking amla.

Online Health Care Tips

Goji is also known as wolfberry. It is a light orange-red berry which originates from a shrub that is native only to China.  In Asia, Goji has been consumed for generations with the hopes of living longer. Goji grows on an evergreen shrub present in subtropical and temperate regions of Mongolia, China and the Himalayas in Tibet.  They belong to nightshade (Solonaceae) family.  Goji are normally found totally dried-up.  They are shriveled red berries which appear like red raisins.

                                                                                

Serving Ideas For Goji:

Goji berries can be baked, blended, stewed, added to cereals and more. Here are some amazing and fun serving ideas of goji berries.

Goji berry juice:

This is one favourite of many; simply add a handful of goji berries to one glass of water. Let them sit and hydrate for a few minutes and then you can simply add sugar to taste. While drinking the juice simply chew on the berries to get a wonderful experience. It is great between meals and is always a delight.

Goji apple salad:

Take 2 dice apples and 3 tablespoons pine nuts, walnuts, sunflower deeds, 3 tablespoons of goji berries. Mix well and enjoy this amazingly health salad. You can substitute the fruits and nuts according to your needs.

Goji trail mix:

Kids simply love this. Use goji berries along with flax seed, pine nuts, walnut, dried blue berries, apple slice, pineapple, peaches, coconut shreds. Now add dark chocolate chip to the blend to make it simply amazing. Also you can make goji jam, sauce, cream, cookies, pickle, rice salad and much more. 

How Does Goji Works ?

Goji contains Polysaccharides called LBP1, LBP2, LBP3, & LBP4.  All these Master molecules are responsible for immunity enhancing properties of Goji and seem to possess a connection to its anti-aging effect.  Furthermore, these elements could boost your well-being and health by regulating DNA repair and restoration, as well as maintaining regular cell growth. In addition to Polysaccharides, Goji even contains 18 amino acids (which includes 8 essential amino acids). A Rich source of Vitamin-C (more Vitamin C than are in Orange).  A Rich source of vitamins B1, B2, B6 (needed to transform food into energy).  A Rich source of Vitamin E (generally Vitamin E has only seen in seeds and grains).

Chemical Constituents of Goji

Goji contains several Phytochemicals for which there aren’t any established DRI values. Examples are Beta-carotene-7 milligrams for every 100 gms of Goji.  Reported content values of Zeaxanthin in Goji vary quite considerably, from 2.4 mg for every 100 gms to 82.4 milligrams/100 gms to 200 milligrams/100 gms.  Higher values will make Goji one of the richest edible herb sources known for Zeaxanthin.

Side-effect Of Goji:

There might be few possible herbal-drug interactions with Goji.  If Warfarin (a blood thinner) is taken, you should definitely avoid Goji.  Goji might even interact with blood pressure and diabetic drugs. When taken in regulated quantities, Goji seem to be safe.  Prior to adding Goji or their supplements to your meal, consult your concerns with a physician. Two published case documents described old aged women those who had increased bleeding, expressed as a heightened INR, post taking liquid preparation of Goji tea.  Further in-vitro testing showed that the tea resisted Warfarin mechanism, showing enough evidence for a possible interaction in between undefined Wolfberry Phytochemicals and Warfarin. Atropine is a toxic Alkaloid that is found in other members of Solanaceae family, occurs naturally in Goji fruit.  Atropine levels in Goji from Thailand and China was tested and found to be quite variable, with highest content of 19 ppb, well below the toxic levels.  Hence, adulterated and misidentified samples of higher Atropine levels might explain earlier, higher, measures.

How To Use: 

·  Goji is used as an edible food; Goji is traditionally prepared prior to consumption. Dried Gojis regularly mix with almond jelly and rice congee, and used in Chinese tonic and soups, in blend  Goji is used as an edible food; Goji is traditionally prepared prior to consumption.  Dried Gojis regularly mix with almond jelly and rice congee, and used in Chinese tonic and soups, in blend with pork or chicken, green vegetables, and other herbs like Astragalus membranaceus, wild yam, licorice root and Codonopsis pilosula. 

•  Gojis are boiled and prepared as an herbal tea, regularly along with red jujubes and/or chrysanthemum flowers or even with tea, specifically packaged teas and pu-erh tea are available.

•  Several wines containing Goji (known as gǒuqǐ jiǔ) are prepared, including many which are a mix of wolfberries and grape wine.

•  Young Goji leaves and shoots are used as a leaf vegetable.

Health Benefits of Goji:

·         Goji has properties that can boost your body’s immune function.

·         Regular use of Goji improves blood circulation in body.

·         Goji promotes life’s longevity.

·         Enhances Eyesight and cures eye diseases.

·         Goji berries are rich antioxidant agents.

·         Carotenoids like Zeaxanthin and beta-carotene in Goji are antioxidants.

·         One of Zeaxanthins key properties is to protect retina of the eye.