Foods to Eat to Look and Feel Younger

While skimming through a magazine, an article caught my eye on what foods to eat to look and feel younger. I think we all want to feel and look younger, don’t you agree?

You can avoid wrinkles, protect your heart and keep our mind sharp by eating properly. The top foods that can give you these results are:

Sunflower seeds: These have the highest natural vitamin e content and no antioxidant is better at fighting off the aging effects of free radicals. Other great sources of vitamin E are swiss chard, Total Cereal and Propel Fitness Water.

Spinach and Beans: A research study showed that out of 400 elderly men and women who ate the most leafy green vegetables and beans had the fewest wrinkles. Hmmm. Spinach and beans are full of compounds that help prevent and repair wear and tear on your skin cells as you get older.

Red Wine and Grape Juice: These help protect you from heart attacks and strokes. The antioxidants called polyphenols found in grapes can also help middle aged skin from sagging.

Sweet Potatoes: Over exposure to the sun is one of the primary reasons for aging prematurely. Pigments from beta carotene rich foods, like sweet potatoes and carrots, can build up in your skin. This helps prevent damage from ultraviolet rays.

This next one surprised me.

Coffee: It is said to be nature’s most potent elixirs. Coffee has shown in numerous studies to retard the aging process, fight off Alzheimer’s disease and enhance short term memory.

Conquer Your Addiction

If you look up the word 'addiction' in the dictionary, you will find it to mean:

The quality or state of being addicted-compulsive need for and use of a habit-forming substance (as heroin, nicotine, or alcohol) characterized by tolerance and by well-defined physiological symptoms upon withdrawal broadly persistent compulsive use of a substance known by the user to be harmful

Some people who are suffering with an addiction to a substance fail to recognize this fact. They go on living ...well, addicted.They fail to see how living this way causes harm to not only themselves, but those around them. Maybe they get a wake up call by way of some negative happening, but what do they do next?

First, I think a person has to admit they do have a problem. Next, they have to truly want to help themselves. I know a few people who decided to try to quit their addiction by themselves. Sometimes this does work and sometimes it does not.

Accepting or getting help is not a sign of weakness. I think If they are willing to get the help to heal themselves, it is something to be proud of.

If you know someone who is addicted to a substance and they do not know what to do, it probably is a good idea to have them seek the advice of a professional.A private drug rehab may be the choice many make to help with their healing.

Promises is such a place where a person can receive individualized care by a dedicated team of professionals. They provide an environment in which a person will feel safe and learn how to live in the real world without the addiction.

Treatments include cognitive-behavior therapy, family therapy, support groups,other individual therapy and counseling services which will strengthen the mind, body and spirit.

Taking the first step may be hard for a person living with an addiction, but in the end, it will be the best decision they will make. You can Conquer an addiction.

If you want to learn more on what you can expect from a private rehab like Promises, click Here

Juicing For Optimum Health

Drinking the juice of fresh fruit and vegetables has the power to protect us from disease and illness by strengthening our immune system. It stimulates our metabolism and keeps us 'clean' on the inside.

I published a squidoo lens that will provide all you need to know about juicing...you will learn how to obtain better health, review a dosage chart so you can see the amount of vitamins needed to keep our bodies healthy, which fruit and vegetable juice will help with any symptoms you are experiencing and much more.

Read my complete informational lens by going HERE

Click here to Learn how Acai Berry Juice will Improve Your Health & Recieve 20% off

Why Men Won't Go To The Doctors?

Here's yet another mystery that I have yet to solve where men are concerned. My humorous post on why men don't ask for directions was written about a few months ago and I had gotten many replies as to why they behave in that manner.

Now, I want to hear your take on why men will not go to the doctor. It seems along with myself, many women complain that the men in their lives refuse to see a doctor, even when they are experiencing symptoms or feel ill.

Is it because they will feel weak, less manly if they go to the doctors? Do they not want to know if something is wrong?

I can't even get my son to get his yearly exam for two health issues. I get the 'eye roll' and the 'shoulder shrug'.

There are a few men I work with that obviously have a health issue, but will not go or go back to the doctors to receive treatment. It boggles my mind.

I understand that we all are fearful sometimes of what the doctor may say, but isn't it best to find out and take care of an illness before it is too late?

Us women take preventative care and in most cases, I believe it saves lives. I know we hate to take time out of our busy schedules to make an appointment, but...we do it. What women likes to go have their breasts painfully squashed during a mammogram or go see their Gynecologist? Um, they are not pleasant visits...

Men you are no different. You are not indestructible. Taking preventative care is important for you as well.

Men's Health magazine posted a guideline to follow. On my blog, Mind Body & Soul, I posted their recommendation. If you men aren't interested, Women...go take a look and see if you can't get the man in your life to take care of himself.

Believe it or not, we women want you around for a long, long time...

God Gave Us....

Food to help each part of our body. As you read each description, visualize what each looks like. It is amazing how these foods are right under our noses and do correspond to a part of our body.

Carrot: A sliced carrot looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye... and science shows carrots greatly enhance blood flow to and function of the eyes.

Tomato:When you slice a tomato, you will see that it has four chambers and is red. The heart has four chambers and is red. All of the research shows tomatoes are loaded with lycopine and are indeed pure heart and blood food.

Grapes: Grapes hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart. Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food.

Walnut:When you crack open a walnut, it looks like a little brain. It has a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are just like the neo-cortex. We now know walnuts help develop more than three dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function.

Kidney Beans: They actually heal and help maintain kidney function and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys.

Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb: They look many more like bones. These foods specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium. If you don't have enough sodium in your diet, the body pulls it from the bones, thus making them weak. These foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.

Avocadoes, Eggplant and Pears: These target the health and function of the womb and cervix of the female - they look just like these organs. Today's research shows that when a woman eats one avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight, and prevents cervical cancers. And how profound is this? It takes exactly nine (9) months to grow an avocado from blossom to ripened fruit. There are over 14,000 photolytic chemical constituents of nutrition in each one of these foods (modern science has only studied and named about 141 of them).

Figs: They are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow. Figs increase the mobility of male sperm and increase the numbers of Sperm as well to overcome male sterility.

Sweet Potatoes: look like the pancreas and actually balance the glycemic index of diabetics.

Olives: assist the health and function of the ovaries.

Oranges, Grapefruits, and other Citrus fruits: They look just like the mammary glands of the female and actually assist the health of the breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts.

Onions: They look like the body's cells. Today's research shows onions help clear waste materials from all of the body cells. They even produce tears which wash the epithelial layers of the eyes. A working companion, Garlic, also helps eliminate waste materials and dangerous free radicals from the body.

The Benefits of the Acai Berry

If you are not familiar with the acai berry, it is known to increase energy, stamina, vitality and promote overall well being. It also is high in antioxidants and helps fight premature aging.
It contains fatty acids and omegas, which helps lowers harmful cholesterol and sterols that helps in the reduction of blood plasma cholesterol. The acai berry is also an excellant source of dietary fiber.

I had posted a three part series about this berry and it's benefits on my blog: Mind,Body & Soul back in March.
The Benefits of the Acai Berry-Part 1
26 Reasons to Drink Acai Berry Juice-Part 2
26 Reasons to Drink Acai Berry Juice-Part 3

The acai berry grows on palm trees in the amazon rain forest. They are considered to be the most nutritious and edible berry on the planet. The berries are dark purple and about the size of a blueberry with a thin layer of edible pulp surrounding a large seed.

I found that at The Total Health Shop, they provide not only the best price, but their unique blend of juice provides the best benefits. In their acai berry juice, you will also find additional ingredients.
See below:

Pomegranate Juice Concentrate
~ Helps maintain a healthy heart
~ Has naturally occurring high levels of ellagic acid
~ Helps to maintain healthy cholesterol levels
~ Helps to maintain healthy blood pressure
~ Helps to alleviate symptoms commonly associated with menopause
~ Pomegranate is a natural astrigent and is high in both Vitamin C and Iron

Raspberry Juice Concentrate
~ Helps to rid the body of phlegm
~ Strengthens and vitalizes blood circulation
~ Natural source of ellagic acid which can help protect against cell damage
~ Raspberries are rich in antioxidants; both phytonutrients and vitamin compounds

Blueberry Juice Concentrate
~ Helps maintain eye and vision health
~ Contains powerful, active antioxidant compounds which combat free radicals and help protect against cell damage
~Helps maintain Heart Health
~Helps maintain healthy Kidney and Urinary Tract function
~ Blueberries can help to prevent premature aging
~ Blueberries have anti-inflammatory properties

Essential Vitamins and Minerals: B1, B2, B3, C & E, Calcium and Potassium.

Essential Fatty Acids: (Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9). These polyunsaturated essential fatty acids help lower LDL (harmful cholesterol) while maintaining HDL (beneficial cholesterol). This unique ratio resembles the same combination as olive oil. Omega fatty acids can increase healthy cell development. Omega fatty acids are essential for healthy nervous system development and regeneration. They help rapidly repair and rejuvenate muscles after intense exercise. Essential fatty acids (Omega-3 in particular) help the brain to run smoothly.

You can visit the Total Health Shop if you want to purchase or just learn more about acai berry.

Defibrillator Lead Recall

If you have a family member or know someone who has a implanted defibrillator, you should read this post.

According to Wikipedia, Defibrillation is the definitive treatment for the life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Defibrillation consists of delivering a therapeutic dose of electrical energy to the affected heart with a device called a defibrillator. Defibrillators can be external, transvenous, or implanted, depending on the type of device used.

The invention of implantable units are invaluable to some regular sufferers of heart problems, although they are generally only given to those people who have already had a cardiac episode. The system is implanted near the shoulder with one or more leads attached to the heart.

Medtronic Inc has voluntarily removed the Sprint Fidelis defective defibrillator leads
from the market. Below are the models that may be at risk of lead fracture.

Sprint Fidelis 6930
Sprint Fidelis 6931
Sprint Fidelis 6948
Sprint Fidelis 6949

The FDA has reported that some deaths and other serious injuries have occurred after these leads have fractured. Approximately 268,000 patients in the United States have been implanted with the Fidelis lead, including patients with defibrillators made by manufacturers other than Medtronic, such as Guidant, Boston Scientific and St. Jude.

Go HERE to learn more about this recall, your rights regarding a defibrillator lead lawsuit and to watch a video giving you more information..

Your Digestive Health IS Important

Do you suffer from IBS or any other digestive issue? Living with someone (my son) who suffers from Crohn's disease, I see first hand the discomfort, pain and other problems that can arise from digestive problems.

When my son is experiencing a flare up, he takes an acidophilus pill(along with a quick change in diet-see tip below),which contains a probiotic blend. These are cultures that helps better digestion and also can be found in yogurt. He can't seem to bring himself to eat yogart, so this pill is like getting the benefits of yogart without actually eating it. It really does help and he can even eat dairy when taking this product. That is huge!

Probiotics are a good kind of natural bacteria. They give your system the friendly active cultures it likes.
Prebiotics are the natural dietary fiber that helps keep those beneficial cultures happy.
The two work together to help crowd out unfriendly bacteria in your system.

I try to do my best in caring for my own digestive health. As I am getting older, my body is certainly changing. What I once could eat, now affects my stomach. You may know what I mean.

I just came across this video which explains how you can care for your own digestive health. Take a look. It may be something you want to try and see if you see a difference in the way you feel.

*TIP: I've done ALOT of research on crohn's and diet. I found that using a crock pot for cooking helps immediately. Cooking foods the traditional way doesn't break down the molecules enough for your digestive system to handle. That's why we experience bloat, cramps and diarrhea. When cooking in the crock pot for up to 9 hours, you are breaking down the molecules, so your body digests the food so much easier. That's why when cooking a roast or chicken etc, the food literally breaks apart. Think about this and you will see it is simple. Cooking meat for only about an hour (give or take) doesn't allow for the chemicals and molecules to break down. The crock pot enables this process and it really is a much healthier way to eat.

Are you a Hugger?

Beth is the author of one of my favorites blogs called My Life Starts at Forty-two.
She wrote a post about being a "hugger". She pointed out the interesting reactions of people when hugged.

Like Beth, I too am a hugger and sometimes crave a hug. Whether it is because I had a bad day or just want to feel close to someone, I find myself asking for a hug. The secure feeling when wrapped in someone's arms is such a pleasurable feeling. I grew up in a family that hugged often and I have always shared hugs with my son....and I hug my dog too!

I think it's an important way to show many feelings. Love, understanding, joy of seeing someone, reassurance, support, comfort, happiness.

I used to see only women exchanging hugs with each other, but more and more, I see men greeting each other with a quick hug. I have to admit, I love to see that men are now getting more comfortable with showing this kind of expression.

We all need hugs from time to time.

I found an interesting site about hugging at Georgia Girl. There were great uplifting messages about hugging on this site. I wanted to share a few with you.

Hope you enjoy them and keep hugging !

This is a picture from an article called, "The Rescuing Hug."


The article details the first week of life of a set of twins. Apparently, each were in their respective incubators, and one was not expected to live. A hospital nurse fought against the hospital rules and placed the babies in one incubator. When they were placed together, the healthier of the two threw an arm over her sister in an endearing embrace. The smaller baby's heart rate stabilized and her temperature rose to normal.
They both survived, and are thriving! In fact, now that the two girls are home, they still sleep together, and still snuggle. The hospital changed their policy after they saw the effect of putting the two girls together, and now they bed multiples together.

Ensign magazine May '98 pg. 94
Adapted from the Readers Digest article
"A Sister's Helping Hand" May 1996 Pp. 155-56



A DOCTOR'S PRESCRIPTION FOR HUGGING:
by Mark Katz, M.D., Member of L.A. Shanti's Advisory Board

"How important are hugging and physical and emotional contact for people affected by life - threatening illnesses? In my work, I have found that people who receive nurturing maintain a better outlook on their situation -- and historically, positive attitude is an important factor in long-term survival. Hugging and physical contact make a difference in a person's frame of mind, and may help their medical condition. Best of all, hugging has no side effects and does not require a trip to the doctor.

Hugging is good medicine. It transfers energy, and gives the person hugged an emotional boost. You need four hugs a day for survival, eight for maintenance, and twelve for growth. A hug makes you feel good. The skin is the largest organ we have and it needs a great deal of care. A hug can cover a lot of skin and gives the message that you care. It is also a form of communication. It can say things you don't have words for. The nicest thing about a hug is that you usually can't give one without getting one.



Hugging is healthy: it helps the body's immunity system, it keeps you healthier, it cures depression, it reduces stress, it induces sleep, it's invigorating, it's rejuvenating, it has no unpleasant side effects, and hugging is nothing less than a miracle drug.

-- Sharon Lindsey --

AND,...animals also engage in similar exchanges of warmth.

Perimenopause Dilemma

Ok, this post is one for women and maybe a few of you can understand what I'm talking about.

So... I am quickly becoming aware of the meaning of perimenopause. I never thought I would be going through such horror..haha.. This is the time many women experience an array of symptoms as their hormones shift during the months or years leading up to menopause.
I experienced my first case of night sweats...oh my...how awful. I scared my dog who sleeps on the edge of my bed. I threw off the covers in such rage that they flew on top of her and she jumped right off the bed!

Then there's...'aunt flo', my 'friend' or whatever pet name you have for your monthly arrival of pain, moods and the blues. Since my friend has a mind of it's own these days, it's arrival is never known and always comes as a surprise.

Let's not forget bloat. Geez...my clothes that once fit me last week, are fitting a little more snugly. Luckily I've gained only a pound, according to the scale, but even so...the clothes fit differently. No more belly shirts for me! haha...just kidding...I never wore them, but I think you understand what I'm saying.

When did this happen? My doctor said I can take the many over the counter medications offered,but after doing some research,these so called "natural" remedies are not natural at all. Some made with horse mare urine. How in the world is that natural for me? for horses maybe, but why would I want to take that?

After reading Suzanne Somers book, The Sexy Years: Discover the Hormone Connection: The Secret to Fabulous Sex, Great Health, and Vitality, for Women and Men, I am contemplating natural, bioidentical hormonal replacement. This seems to make more sense to me than other treatments available. I learned how estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone work together and the book provided me with enough information so I can at least have an intellectual conversation with my doctor.

I never before gave any thought to symptoms I would experience in my later years. I never gave thought about the changes my body would go through. Well, those years have arrived I suppose. The Wonderful signs of aging.

There is so much information available giving the pros and cons, but it can make ones head spin. What's the truth? I've read about herbs, vitamins and minerals that can help symptoms, but how do you make an informed decision with so many opinions out there?

I am a little confused on how to handle the hormone dance. Does anyone have any advice or have any tips to help a woman go through this natural part of our aging perimenopause years?

Coping With Grief

Losing a loved one can be one of the most difficult and stressful experience we ever face in our lives. Yet an experience we all, unfortunately, will have to face and cope with at some point in our lives.

As my Dear Zubli wrote in a comment he left for me:

For each of us the inevitable moment. The one has returned to reality. While we are still in this movie, we shall prefer to say, I know that I shall pass this way but once, lest I forget to safeguard my only one chance, let me give purposefully the best now here and in the here after I shall gain, for I shall never ever pass this way again.

Loss can include the break-up of a relationship, a miscarriage, the termination of pregnancy, separation from family and friends (homesickness), loss of health, moving. Other forms of loss can still touch us so profoundly, such as the death of a pet or if you happen to be a medical or nursing student, you may have experienced feelings of loss when a patient dies. With loss comes a strong feeling that part of our emotional world has changed forever and can never be retrieved or made good.

When my cousin unexpectedly lost her husband at the age of 47 in April 2007 and then loosing her mom (my aunt) one month later, I wrote a Squidoo Lens on How To Cope With Grief.

Truth be known, it really was a way to help myself over come the grief I was feeling. Losing my Dad 7 years ago still feels like yesterday. I find that when someone close to me crosses over, it stirs up memories and sadness I felt from a loved one that previously passed on.

Doing research for my Squidoo Lens on the various forms of grief and finding ways to help get through it, made me realize that what I was feeling was a normal response to loss. It was very helpful to me and so I wanted to share it with others.

Now as I feel myself riding this carousel of loss once again, I turned to my own Squidoo Lens for support.

If you are experiencing any type of loss, please read How to Cope with Grief.
I hope it offers support and helps get you through.

I give you this one thought to keep

I am with you still -- I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow, I am the diamond glints on snow, I am the sunlight on ripened grain, I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning's hush, I am the swift, uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not think of me as gone -- I am with you still -- in each new dawn

SELF ESTEEM: Don't Let Anyone Take It Away ~ Conclusion

HOW SELF-ESTEEM WORKS

All of us have been conditioned to believe who we are by the words that have been said to us over the years by the people that we love, respect, and admired. If we were told positive things then we developed a high or positive self-esteem and the opposite is also true. If they told us negative things we developed a negative or low self-esteem. Basically, It develops by what is said to us repeatedly, over time- that's it , that's how it works.

is affected by the mind: The powerful mind ! The mind believes what it hears most. If you are constantly told negative things, the mind will come to believe them. It's that powerful !
If you are told over and over again that you are fat, ugly and lazy you will come to believe it. Remember the mind believes what it hears most. Well, the opposite is true . If you are told that you are thin , smart and beautiful, you will be ! The mind believes what it hears most! You can build your self- esteem with positive self dialogue.

Say positive affirmations daily, hourly, and constantly. Do it out loud to your self, in private , in the car, in the shower, etc....The mind believes what it hears most ! The mind only hears a voice, your voice or someone else's . It doesn't differentiate who is saying it. The mind only hears it . Say what you want your mind to believe about yourself and it will come to pass. Feed the mind positive talk and positive words and you soar to new heights. Repeat them regularly and often;never tire and don't stop doing it! You need to make it a way of life. You will see the positive outcomes.

STOP listening to negative talk from anybody about you. If you can't stop the talk then you need to leave! FAST !! and quick without explanation ! " I'm out of here" should be your mantra when this kind of negative talk occurs. Stop listening to negative talk and start your positive self - talk!

I know this will help - good luck !!
Your Friend , Lou De Lorca

If you have any questions or want help after reading this series, you can contact Lou directly. He is graciously giving his telephone number for my readers to use.
1-951-676-1299

Learn More about the Author: Lou De Lorca

THANK YOU Lou for being a guest here at A Circle of Women. I truly appreciate your contribution and I know this subject is one that is important to so many people...women, men, and children.

Many Blessings

SELF ESTEEM: Don't Let Anyone Take It Away ~ PART II

It's easy to lose your self-esteem, just remember
" misery loves company ". There are so many people living a fake life. Out in the open these people appear to be happy and content, but behind closed doors they're monsters and vampires waiting to eat and suck the life right out of you ! They come in the form of friends, spouses, family members and significant others.

The irony about self-esteem is that it can only be affected negatively or positively by people who are close to us or that we care for dearly. We rarely consider any personal comment from a stranger or acquaintance much less take to heart. But, when someone we love, respect, or admire says something personal we take it to heart and allow it to affect us !!

These people have been conditioned to see things in a negative manner and basically their self-esteem has been effected at some point in their lives and now ,they want to share in the negative perspective. When you don’t, the arguments start and the PROCESS begins ! Arguments start over the choices you make, the colors you pick, the way you drive, comb your hair, look , feel , sleep, ETC....

NOW, we begin to justify ourselves by defending our positions and choices. This sets up the barriers and then, the lines are drawn - the battle for self-esteem is on !

An interesting point to note : the titles that people have , mom , dad , brother, sister , wife, husband, boy/girl friend , good friend, can put in question and affect what we consider and affect our self--esteem. When our spouses , family members and significant others personally attack us we listen, and consider it BECAUSE the MIND tells us to . We begin to question ourselves by the mere consideration of thinking that what they said might some merit - otherwise why would they have said it? It must be true since she/he loves me ; they wouldn't have said it if it wasn't true. YES they would !

Their motives can't be explained, but this is how they take your self-esteem , your core self ; when they make the negative remark and you consider it and then you act on it - they engaged you in a losing battle ! This is IMPORTANT ! Re - read it and understand it and then commit to memory.

You have options. You don't have to listen to it ; you don't have to consider it ; and you DON'T have to act on it. Remove the titles and then see them only as a voice in the wind without the title and what they say will mean nothing !! And It won't affect you.

Look for PART III on Friday

Learn More about the Author: Lou De Lorca

SELF-ESTEEM: Don't Let Anyone Take It Away

I am honored to have an acquaintance of mine be a guest here at A Circle of Women.

I will be bringing you a 3 post series focusing on Self -Esteem. I believe more women (and men) need to boost their self-esteem and have the confidence to be successful in their lives. To feel great within their own skin...love yourself and not allow ANYONE to take away your self-esteem.

About the author: Lou De Lorca.
He lives in Temecula, California and is a Personal Life Success Coach. Over the last twenty years, he has studied humanities, education, personal improvement, leadership and instruction. He has worked with university research professors and top noted experts in the field of Meta-Cognition, Motivational Psychology, Business Leadership, and Personal Instruction, all of which are the basis for today's successful speakers, trainers and coaches.
He is the author of the Competent Writer and the creator and producer of the "Winning Life" audio series. He is also a professional inspirational speaker, motivational and leadership coach, a school reform expert and a consultant for the California Department of Education.

PART ONE:

Self - esteem is the main component of all that comprises the self - the YOU ! It's the essence of who you are. Self - esteem is the glue that holds everything together-that's why when you lose it you just seem to fall apart. And it's a downward spiral from there.

The study of self- esteem has volumes written about it but much of it is presented in a clinical format that makes it hard for the average person to understand- much less apply it. SIMPLY put self-esteem is basically how one feels about him/her self. Over the years one has encountered words and experiences that etched into our mind and our mind tells us how we feel about or we perceive ourselves; how we are, which eventually leads us to believe what we are capable of doing.

This is why self-esteem is so important . It permeates all aspects of our lives when it's depleted or gone - then our direction , perspectives and images are distorted , or dissolved. When this occurs one becomes or falls into something of the unknown. When someones self-esteem has been negatively affected or depleted a downward spiral occurs and the person becomes a victim and continues to fall until they are no longer the same person that we once knew. These victims fall prey to drug abuse , lethargy, abusive relations , and ultimately WORTHLESSNESS !

I use the term " victim " specifically because that is what people without self-esteem truly become . Anyone with low self-esteem or no self-esteem are candidates to nowhere and fast ! They are no longer the same people , and their sense of worthlessness becomes a self- fulfilling prophesy. It continues to feed itself from there.

Part II will be posted on Wednesday


More on Lou De Lorca

Take Care of Your Bones: Take Calcium

When I was 14 yrs old, I had scoliosis surgery (curvature of the spine) and 5 yrs ago, I had another surgery which fused one of my disks. Due to the previous issues with my spine and now that I'm getting older, I have to take extra care of my bones/spine. I certainly don't want to develop osteoporosis or be affected with low bone density.

Osteoporosis is a condition that features loss of the normal density of bone and fragile bone.
According to Health Reports an estimated 10 million Americans over the age of 50 years old have osteoporosis. In addition 33 million people, mostly women, are afflicted with low bone density, placing them at an increased risk for developing this condition. At menopause, bone loss can range from 4% to 8%

Magnesium is an important supplement to add to your diet.Magnesium suppresses the hormone that tells your body to pull calcium from the bones, and stimulates the hormone that tells the body to put calcium in your bones.

A diet rich with calcium not only can help build strong bones and teeth, but also may help prevent osteoporosis, reduce the risk of colon cancer, control blood pressure, ease PMS and calm your nerves

The National Osteoporosis Foundation's daily recommendation of calcium is 1,000 to 1,500 milligrams each day.

Here's what you need at every age and stage of your life:
Ages 1 to 10: 800 to 1200 mg
Ages 11 to 24: 1200 to 1500 mg
Women 25 to 50: 1000 mg (pregnant & breastfeeding women should check with their doctor)

Men age 25 to 65: 1000 mg
Postmenopausal Women: 1000 mg if on hormone replacement therapy
1500 mg if not on HRT
Men over 65: 1500 mg

Health and Diet / True or false: The calcium content of low-fat dairy products is equal to regular, fat dairy products? True!
They both have the same amount of calcium, but the fat content is different. To cut down on the fat and not the calcium, choose 1 percent or fat free milk (or other low-fat dairy foods). Calcium is crucial for healthy bones and to ward off the effects of osteoporosis. Both men and women are susceptible.

Best calcium rich foods:
Nonfat milk, Ricotta cheese, yogurt, calcium-fortified soymilk, tofu, spinach, sardines, swiss chees, legumes, almonds

See 14 Calcium Rich Recipes from Better Homes & Garden


Don't fall behind with taking your calcium. Take Care of Your Bones!

Source: http://www.ediets.com/

July Awareness

July 2007 ~ Health Related Current Events
Awareness Event:

Int. Group B Strep Awareness Month: World
The Jesse Cause

Sickle Cell Awareness Month: United Kingdom
Sickle Cell Society

Hemochromatosis Screening Awareness Month: United States
American Hemochromatosis Society

Eye Injury Prevention Month: United States
American Academy of Ophthalmology


July 2007 Health Awareness Weeks

Alzheimer's Awareness Week: 2nd - 8th
ADEAR

Gut Week: United Kingdom 18th - 24th
The IBS Network

Sign the Petition: Breast Cancer Patient Protection Act

Story from a nurse:
I'll never forget the look in my patients' eyes when I had to tell her
she had to go home with the drains, new exercises and no breasts. I
remember begging the Doctors to keep this women in the hospital longer, only to hear that they would, but their hands were tied by the insurance companies.
So there I sat with my patient giving her the instructions she needed to
take care of herself, knowing full well she didn't grasp half of what I
was saying, because the glazed, hopeless, frightened look spoke louder than the quiet 'Thank you' she muttered.

A mastectomy is when a woman's breast is removed in order to remove
cancerous breast cells/tissue. If you know anyone who has had a mastectomy,
you may know that there is a lot of discomfort and pain afterwards.
Insurance companies are trying to make mastectomies an outpatient
procedure.
Let's give women the chance to recover properly in the hospital for 2 days after surgery.

Mastectomy Bill in Congress
It takes 2 seconds to do this and is very important! Please take the time
and do it really quick!

Breast Cancer Hospitalization Bill - Important legislation for all women.

There's a bill called the Breast Cancer Patient Protection Act which will require insurance companies to cover a minimum 48-hour hospital stay for
patients undergoing a mastectomy. It's about eliminating the drive-through mastectomy' where women are forced to go home just a few hours after surgery against the wishes of their doctor, still groggy from anesthesia and sometimes with drainage tubes still attached.

Lifetime Television has put this bill on their web page with a petition drive to show your support. Last year over half the House signed on.

PLEASE!! Sign the petition by clicking on the web site. You need not give
more than your name, email and zip code number.

http://www.lifetimetv.com/breastcancer/petition/signpetition.php

This takes about 2 seconds.
On behalf of all women, THANK YOU.

The 5 Deadly LIES

According to Raphael Calzadilla, BA,CPT,ACE, an ediets Chief Fitness Pro, fitness-equipment manufacturers, diet books and supplement companies have one thing in common.
Guess what that is?
PROFITS! Sure, profits are nice, But, at the expense of people who are truly searching for a way to get fit, and healthy, it's not so great.

After you read his article, it will lay to rest some of the myths you've heard and maybe what you thought were the best way to receive results. I know you'll be more inspired and confident. I learned that Consistency and level of effort is the key, not the number of days I exercise, which made me feel less guilty about my 2-3 days of work outs.

READ.... THE 5 DEADLY LIES Click here

A drug-free competitive bodybuilder and 2005 winner of the prestigious WNBF (World Natural Bodybuilding Federation) Pro Card, Raphael Calzadilla is a veteran of the health-and-fitness industry. He specializes in a holistic approach to body transformation, nutrition programs and personal training. He earned his B.A. in communications from Southern Connecticut State University and is certified as a personal trainer with ACE and APEX. In addition, he successfully completed the RTS1 program based on biomechanics.

It Can Happen to You....

I have a pretty big family...aunts/uncles, cousins and then more cousins. The younger family members are now getting older, marrying and having kids of their own.


Being at a wedding last night, our family had a chance to be all together, share memories, catch up with the goings on in our lives. We mostly heard good and happy things, but one young, college aged cousin shared something that was scary and upsetting. Although there is a happy ending, I wanted to remind people of the importance of seeking medical attention when you notice any suspicious skin markings and/or any changes in the way your skin looks.

This "bump"on my cousin's back turned out to be cancer. Two surgeries later, he is clear, but will constantly need to have x-rays of his lungs to make sure.

Treatment is more likely to work well when cancer is found early. If not treated, some types of skin cancer cells can spread to other tissues and organs.

Many teens have a feeling of immortality, as do adults...that bad things only happen to other people. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in this country. About one million Americans develop skin cancer each year.

Better Safe, than Sorry....Do a self Exam
The best time to do a self exam is after a shower or bath. You should check your skin in a room with plenty of light. You should use a full-length mirror and a hand-held mirror. It's best to begin by learning where your birthmarks, moles, and other marks are and their usual look and feel. By checking your skin regularly, you will learn what is normal for you.

Check for anything new:
New mole (that looks different from your other moles)
New red or darker color flaky patch that may be a little raised
New flesh-colored firm bump
Change in the size, shape, color, or feel of a mole
Sore that does not heal
Check yourself from head to toe.

Support

Skin cancer has a better prognosis, or outcome, than most other types of cancer. Still, learning you have any type of cancer can be upsetting. Information Specialists at 1-800-4-CANCER and at LiveHelp (http://cis.nci.nih.gov/) can help you locate programs, services, and publications.

Take Time To Smell The Roses

How many times have we heard...Take Time to Smell the Roses? How many times have we really taken the time to s l o w down?
My prior post concerning women who are so busy with "life" they forget about themselves in the process, also don't take time to slow down, enjoy or appreciate what they have accomplished.

So in keeping with the "me" that is so important, I offer how you can learn to take time for renewal....Take Time to Smell the Roses....

Are you beyond busy? Is your mind and body continually in overdrive? For the majority of women, the answer is yes.
Feeling overwhelmed with responsibilities and tasks is a common occurrence in today's world. The ability to multitask is admired and the more you can achieve by the end of the day, the better.

However, no matter how much we accomplish on a daily basis, we tend to focus on what didn't get done. Have you ever lain in bed at night thinking of everything you didn't accomplish that day, and then feel overwhelmed with demands of tomorrow? We are then stressed trying to complete our To Do list and instead of acknowledging what we have gotten done, we berate ourselves for things not accomplished.

In other circumstances, procrastination may take over. Sometimes we are so overwhelmed that we do nothing because of not knowing where to start.
The expectations women place on themselves are huge. Conversations between friends are often about the stressors and demands present in their lives. In this fast paced society, it is the norm to constantly be in a state of action.

The consequences of no down time however are serious, leading to irritability, fatigue, anxiety, depression and burn out. Our mind and body are not designed to be in constant motion. Both require rest, relaxation, rejuvenation and since we only receive one, it is our responsibility to nurture what we have.

So, how can we begin to slow down? Consider first the reasons why you may be demanding so much of yourself. What is the rush? Does everything need to be done at this moment? Can you take small steps towards achieving big goals instead of feeling the need to accomplish it all at once?

To be more productive and efficient in reaching our goals, we need to take time for renewal. How do you fit some relief into your busy life?
Start by making a habit of deep breathing several times throughout the day. It triggers an automatic relaxation response and can be done anywhere.
Take frequent small breaks. Coffee breaks were designed for a reason, so use them effectively. Do not pass on your break thinking you will accomplish more. We need this down time for maximum efficiency. Be aware however, of how you spend your break, because a healthy snack, short walk, and stretch are more energy producing than a coffee and doughnut.
Do what you love on a regular basis. If you have a favorite sport or activity, make sure you participate in it often. An hour or two a week of doing what you love can have many positive benefits, mentally and physically.

Make your holidays a priority. Vacations are a luxury no longer--they are a necessity. You need time to recharge and rejuvenate from the daily stressors. If you are having a difficult time taking vacation due to job demands, consider taking a day of down time when you can squeeze it in. Remember; nurture yourself first and everyone else will also benefit.
Finally, start listening to your body. You will begin to know when a break is needed. It may need to be a minute, an hour, a day, or a week. Whatever it is, take it. Pay attention because your body doesn't lie!

Peggy Porter is a registered nurse, presenter, writer, wellness coach and president of SEEKING BALANCE.Peggy is passionate about wellness and personal growth. Throughout the past 12 years as a registered nurse in an Addiction Center she has been educating and supporting clients to improve the quality of their lives.
Peggy was very happy to be a guest on this blog. She has offered to share her passion and inspirational messages to women and the importance of them caring for their own health. She is a true believer that you can’t give what you don’t have and so she makes self care a priority in her own life.