Issue 157

Blushing Beauty or Rosacea Sufferer:by Ananda Mahony from Vitale Natural Skin and Body Care!

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that often occurs between the ages of 30 and 50. It is characterised by redness and flushing across the nose and cheeks but can also affect the neck, chest, eyes and ears. Rosacea is more prevalent in pale skinned people of European descent, and so is also known as the "Celtic Curse". This condition occurs more frequently in women however men are more likely to experience severe manifestations such as deformities of the nose. Currently there are no completely effective therapeutic treatments however, the condition is manageable with diet and lifestyle and there are a number of topical treatments emerging that are proving to be beneficial.

If not managed, rosacea tends to get worse over time however it does go through periods of acute flare up and then lessening symptoms. The condition starts out as mild to moderate flushing and redness, often set off by exercise, changes in temperature and cleansing. It then progresses to semi-permanent erythema (redness) and dilation of blood vessels on the face. Red bumps and pustules as well as gritty eyes and burning sensations may also manifest.

Genetic and environmental factors are thought to contribute to the development of rosacea however there is no clear cut relationship. The current theory is that chronic damage to the blood vessels on the face leads to swelling and ongoing dilation which give the flushed appearance. Localised immune responses and inflammation then activate pustules. Rosacea sufferers may also develop over-grown sebaceous glands which contribute to cyst formation. Sun damage is almost certainly plays a contributing role.

While environmental factors are most likely continue the progression of rosacea, there are a number of things that will trigger an acute attack. Commonly these include:

" Exposure to sunlight
" Hot foods and drinks particularly caffeine containing beverages
" Spicy foods and those high in histamine
" Alcohol
" Extremes in temperature from hot showers, weather, heating, airconditioning and strenuous exercise
" Stress and blushing from embarrassment
" Corticosteroids
" Drugs that dilate the blood vessels including some blood pressure medications

A survey conducted by the National Rosacea Society indicated that skin care products that contain alcohol and synthetic fragrance as well as some essential oils such as eucalyptus and peppermint are more likely to aggravate rosacea (1). Other potential topical irritants include acne and wrinkle treatments such as microdermabrasion, benzoyl peroxide and chemical peels.

The key to the management of rosacea is to minimise exposure to anything that causes a flare up. A good way to establish which factors trigger a skin reaction is to keep a rosacea diary and note down any direct associations noticed. Avoiding triggers is an important way to help slow the onset of the condition but is unlikely to cause remission except in mild cases.

Other suggestions for avoiding flare ups include wearing sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15 will help to protect the skin from sun damage. Use sunscreens based on zinc oxide rather than chemical filters. A hat will also help to minimise sun exposure. Avoid temperature extremes such as going from a heated room out into the cold air or from air-conditioning into hot weather. Hot showers and overheating may also trigger a skin reaction. Also avoid any cosmetic or skin care products with alcohol or any that cause redness, stinging sensations or irritation.

Due to the enlarged sebaceous glands with rosacea there is a greater tendency for congestion. From a skin care perspective, use light or gel based moisturisers as heavier creams may have a comedogenic effect and clog pores. Many people are tempted with oily or congested skin to use strong foaming cleansers which often contain sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS). Rosacea is already associated with damage to the endothelium and so foaming agents containing SLS should generally be avoided as they may increase irritation and further reduce skin integrity. Cleansers that contain Aloe vera or liquid castile soap are more gentle options.

Application of liquid foundation may also contribute to skin reactions. Cosmetically, mineral based make up such as those containing zinc or titanium dioxide are ideal as they cover redness without congesting pores. However, it is important to avoid any mineral make up that contains talc as again this will promote congestion.

Key areas to target with topical treatment include reducing inflammatory and immune responses and increasing blood vessel integrity. One herbal ingredient that is gaining popularity as an effective topical treatment for rosacea is Centella asiatica or Gotu kola. Therapeutically, Centella has been used as a tonic and connective tissue strengthening herb. Recent studies have shown Centella asiatica may have a positive effect on the circulatory system and may improve blood flow throughout the body by strengthening the veins and capillaries. This effect in particular is good for those that suffer from broken surface capillaries on their face and also for rosacea sufferers. By improving the integrity of the facial capillaries Centella works to reduce the "flushing effect". Other un-researched ingredients that have been used effectively with rosacea include comfrey to strengthen skin tissues, marine nutrients (kelp) to reduce inflammation and calendula for its healing qualities.

From a dietary perspective a high fat, high sugar (processed foods) diet will contribute to inflammation. Avoiding foods high in saturated and trans fats and simple sugars will help to reduce this effect which will also minimise localised skin inflammation. Foods that commonly contain trans or saturated fats include milk, milk products, margarine, shortening and other synthetically hydrogenated oils as well as fried foods. It is also advisable to avoid the foods that are likely to directly cause flushing such as alcohol, coffee, hot beverages and spicy foods. Avoiding simple sugars and highly processed foods also helps avoid the over-secretion of insulin, which occurs in response to raised blood sugar levels and is linked with systemic inflammation.

There is some research to suggest that low gastric acid levels in people with rosacea may contribute to the development or progression of the condition. Some rosacea patients have responded well to hydrochloric acid supplementation. Low stomach acid is also more likely to be associated with Helicobactor pylori (H. pylori). Supporting this theory is the finding that levels of H. pylori have been found to be higher in rosacea sufferers. A breath test can be used to test for H. pylori to establish if it is a contributing factor.

Essential fatty acids are important in the treatment and management of rosacea. They work to reduce skin inflammation as well as improving skin moisture and appearance. Good sources of essential fatty acids include deep sea fish such as tuna, salmon and mackle as well as nuts and seeds. Flax oil and fish oil capsules are suitable alternatives if dietary intake is insufficient. Zinc is also important for skin repair and inflammation control. Good dietary sources of zinc include lean beef, whole grains, sunflower and pumpkin seeds.

Rosacea is a condition that can be managed with time and care. While there are no miracle cures with this condition, avoidance of triggers, gentle skin care and a whole food diet will help reduce acute attacks as well as the progression of rosacea. P.S. miracles do happen! Ananda Mahony ND is a naturopath and holistic skin specialist. Her practice focuses on the treatment of skin conditions and Food As Medicine. Ananda also owns Vitale Natural Skin & Body Care, a natural & organic skin care store in Paddington.

www.vitalenatural.com.au

Broccoli Fights Cancer: By The Medical Sanctuary!


New research suggests that broccoli is especially good in the fight against cancer.

The new work, led by scientists at Johns Hopkins University, is the latest in a 10-year series of studies on the cancer-fighting potential of broccoli.

It started in 1992, when Hopkins pharmacology professor Paul Talalay and his colleagues showed that sulforaphane, a substance produced in the body from a compound in broccoli, could trigger the production of phase II enzymes. The enzymes can detoxify cancer-causing chemicals and are among the most potent anti-cancer compounds known.

Like other cruciferous vegetables, broccoli contains the phytonutrients sulforaphane and the indoles, which have significant anti-cancer effects. Research on indole-3-carbinol shows this compound helps deactivate a potent estrogen metabolite (4-hydroxyestrone) that promotes tumor growth, especially in estrogen-sensitive breast cells, while at the same time increasing the level of 2-hydroxyestrone, a form of estrogen that can be cancer-protective. Indole-3-carbinol has been shown to suppress not only breast tumor cell growth, but also cancer cell metastasis (the movement of cancerous cells to other parts of the body).

Scientists have found that sulforaphane boosts the body's detoxification enzymes, potentially by altering gene expression, thus helping to clear potentially carcinogenic substances more quickly. When researchers at Johns Hopkins studied the effect of sulforaphane on tumor formation in lab animals, those animals given sulforaphane had fewer tumors, and the tumors they did develop grew more slowly and weighed less, meaning they were smaller.

A study published in the cancer journal, Oncology Report demonstrated that sulforaphane, which is a potent inducer of Phase 2 liver detoxification enzymes, also has a dose-dependent ability to induce cell growth arrest and cell death via apoptosis (the self-destruct sequence the body uses to eliminate abnormal cells) in both leukemia and melanoma cells.

Sulforaphane may also offer special protection to those with colon cancer-susceptible genes, suggests a study conducted at Rutgers University and published online in the journal Carcinogenesis.

In this study, researchers sought to learn whether sulforaphane could inhibit cancers arising from one's genetic makeup. Rutgers researchers Ernest Mario, Ah-Ng Tony Kong and colleagues used laboratory mice bred with a genetic mutation that switches off the tumor suppressor gene known as APC, the same gene that is inactivated in the majority of human colon cancers. Animals with this mutation spontaneously develop intestinal polyps, the precursors to colon cancer.

The study revealed that in animals fed sulforaphane, tumors were smaller, grew more slowly and had higher apoptotic (cell suicide) indices. Additionally, those fed a higher dose of sulforaphane had less risk of developing polyps than those fed a lower dose.

The researchers found that sulforaphane suppressed certain kinase enzymes. Kinases are cell signaling enzymes that are present not only in animals, but also in humans. The kinases suppressed by sulforaphane signal cellular activities that promote colon cancer.

According to lead researcher, Dr. Kong, "Our study corroborates the notion that sulforaphane has chemopreventive activity…Our research has substantiated the connection between diet and cancer prevention, and it is now clear that the expression of cancer-related genes can be influenced by chemopreventive compounds in the things we eat."

Another study, published in Cancer, the journal of the American Cancer Society, looked at indole-3-carbinol (I3C), a naturally occurring component of Brassica vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, and brussel sprouts. I3C has been recognized as a promising anticancer agent against certain reproductive tumor cells. This laboratory study evaluated I3C's effects on cell cycling progression and cancer cell proliferation in human prostate cancer cells. Prostate cancer kills more men than any other kind except for lung cancer. Each year, 680,000 men worldwide are diagnosed with the disease and about 220,000 will die from it.

I3C was shown to suppress the growth of prostate cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner by blocking several important steps in cell cycling and also to inhibit the production of prostate specific antigen (PSA), a protein produced by the prostate whose rising levels may indicate prostate cancer. Researchers noted that the results of this study demonstrate that "I3C has a potent antiproliferative effect" in human prostate cancer cells, which qualifies it as "a potential chemotherapeutic agent" against human prostate cancer.

Broccoli (as compared to other cruciferous vegetables) has a particularly powerful type of sulforaphane, which the researchers believe gives broccoli, its particular cancer-fighting properties. The power of nutrition in normalizing chronic disease and helping you achieve optimal health is quite profound.

If you're looking for the variety of broccoli that will pack the most nutritional punch, broccoli sprouts are as close to a "sure thing" as you will get. Because sprouts are just beginning their growth process, they are packed with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and more. The nutrition in sprouts is so concentrated that they are said to be among the healthiest ways to consume vegetables, and broccoli is no exception.

Just 5 grams of broccoli sprouts contain concentrations of the compound glucoraphanin (a precursor to sulforaphane) equal to that found in 150 grams of mature broccoli.

By far the most simple and most effective way to exploit the benefits of sulforaphane is to take a broccoli sprout in a concentrated powder form with a guaranteed level of sulforaphane. DefenCell 12000 is the only product on the market which has been developed through unique Australian technology to yield a standardized product with high sulforaphane activity.

The Medical Sanctuary is currently stocking the DefenCell broccoli sprout powder in both 100gm and 250gm containers. Contact the clinic for more details.

The Medical Sanctuary Office C2 Ashmore City Shopping Centre, 206 Currumburra Road, Ashmore, Qld 4214 Phone: 07 5564 5013

 

http://themedicalsanctuary.com.au/

How To Make Your 2009 Resolutions Work For You:by Sue Lester Master Practitioners NLP, Hypnosis, Results Coaching!

 

Imagine a seagull, soaring effortlessly over the ocean on pristine white wings. It's keen eyes spot several ships in the distance. As it glides closer the gull notices strange maneuverings. Some ships are moving in a relatively straight path, at varying speeds. Others seem to be zigzagging, a few are going around in circles, some seem to be stopped in their tracks, and suddenly, a few do U-turns and go back the way they came! Mutiny at sea!

If your conscious mind is your captain, and your unconscious mind is your crew, what is your ship doing in the picture? Is there mutiny on your ship? Do you find yourself 'deciding' to do something e.g. a resolution to get fit, eat healthily, make that telephone call, then realize you are doing something else or nothing or the same old thing over and over?

And that's the key to making your goals (after all New Year Resolutions are simply goals made at a particular time of year) actually work. And yes, goals are important as they are your dreams, with a deadline. How do you get your captain and crew communicating effectively and powering in the direction you choose?

You need to be really clear about what your goal is,why you want it (your Values), how you are going to start to achieve it and how you'll know when you have reached it. That way both your conscious and unconscious minds are clear on what path you really want.

Setting a goal to 'get pregnant' may not give you the outcome you actually really want. If your goal is to 'have a healthy baby', you'll know! If your goal is to have 'a successful business', well, how do you define that? If you don't be specific you'll never reach your goal, because there are many many levels of 'success'. Define and reach one level, then re-set your goal for the next stage.

S.M.A.R.T. goal setting is one way. Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely.

Another is the C.R.E.A.T.E. model of goal setting. C for Clear & Concise (sharp focus!). R for Realistic (is it possible with a stretch?). E for Ecological (is it safe for you, others and the environment). A for As Now (write your goal as if it has already happened). T for Timed & Toward (with a date, and in positive language). E for Evidence Procedure (how will you know you've achieved it).

For example, if you wish to drop a dress size from 14 to 12, with exercise in your strategy, you might write your goal as: "It is now 20 March 2009 (specific future date) and I notice in the mirror how flattering my new size 12 Pilates gear is on." An example which wouldn't work is "It is now March and I am no longer fat." See the difference? If your goal is a successful business, will your 'evidence procedure' be when your monthly nett profit is $1000 or $10000, or when your business runs efficiently whether you are there or not?

For free instructions on how to easily set your goals at the unconscious level so you are compelled towards them, email me at sue@growingcontent.com.au

It's all about Focus and Commitment…and if you need a helping hand, consider individual coaching to propel you along your way. www.imagineifyou.vpweb.com.au

Sue Lester Master Practitioner NLP, Hypnosis, Results Coaching

www.growingcontent.com.au

0428 128679.

Paddington and Valley Locations

Paddington Clinic 12/261 Given Tce, Paddington,

432 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley Qld



Flax Seed, Lose Fat, Have More Energy: with Bodizone!


What is Flax Seed?

Flax seeds are a great source of fiber, lignans, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. We will examine each of these nutrients.

Fiber Flax seeds are an excellent source of fiber. They contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. They also contain a special fiber called mucilage. Mucilage helps stabilize blood sugar levels, protects against bowel cancer, and is a natural laxative.

Dietary fiber is important because it keeps the digestive system functioning properly. It enhances our body's ability to use other dietary nutrients. Fiber goes through our digestive tract almost completely undigested. Once it reaches the colon and/or the large intestine, fiber is then broken down.

" Dieting lacking sufficient fiber can lead to:
" Chronic Constipation (That can't be fun)
" Hypertension
" Cancer
" Weight Control problems
" Heart Disease
" Diabetes

Lignans Lignans are natural plant chemicals. They are molecules with anti-cancer, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial properties. Flax seeds are the richest source of lignans. Diets high in lignans can lead to a lower chance of getting colon, prostate, and breast cancer.

These plant hormones are also believed to block the formation of hormone based tumors. Lignans also boost the productions of a substance attached to estrogen and carries it out of the body.

Researchers also believe lignans to have antioxidant properties. Flax seed has 75 to 800 percent more lignans than other vegetables and grains! Making flax seed worth the investment.

Vitamins and Minerals

The vitamins and minerals found in flax seeds are zinc, iron, vitamin E, carotene, B-group vitamins, magnesium, calcium, sulfur, potassium, phosphorous, manganese, silicon, copper, nickel, molybdenum, chromium, and cobalt.

Protein

For every 100 grams of flax seeds, you get about 25-30 grams of protein, which is great considering the other nutrients you get along with this.

Fat

Flax seed is one of the best sources for the essential fatty acid alpha linolenic acid. Alpha linolenic acid is so important for bodybuilders because it "enhances insulin sensitivity within muscle cells." (1) This omega-3 fatty acid also has many other beneficial effects:

"Stimulating steroid production Systemization of hormones Mediating immune response Directing endocrine hormones to target cells Regulating smooth muscle and autonomic reflexes Construction of healthy cell walls Transportation of oxygen to body cells Keeping saturated fats mobile in the blood stream Regulation of nerve transmission Serving as the primary energy source for the heart muscle" (2)

They also have beneficial effects towards:

" Cancer
" Stroke
" Heart Attacks
" High Cholesterol
" Hypertension
" Heart pain
" Multiple sclerosis
" Psoriasis
" Eczema

Those are just some of the beneficial effect of Omega-3. Omega-3's are sometimes defined as "anti-fats". This is due to their ability to speed up the metabolic process and aid in fat loss.

So What Does All of This Mean For Bodybuilders?

" Reduced Body fat
" Enhanced Performance
" Shortened recovery time
" Good source of energy
" Reduced muscle soreness
" Increased utilization of oxygen
" Increased utilization of other nutrients
" Overall better health
" And what do all of those lead to? MORE MUSCLE!

Seed vs. Oil

Most of the nutrients are contains in the flax seed. So from a nutritional standpoint, flax seeds are the way to go. BUT, the flax seed oil gives you a concentrated source of the "good" fats we are looking for. Which would give the oil an edge.

The solution... Use them BOTH! By using both the seeds and oil, you get all the nutrients, fiber, lignans, protein, and fat.

How to Use Flax Seed

If using the seeds, make sure the seeds are milled, ground up. Otherwise, you won't be able to absorb them. You can add the ground up seeds to cereal, salads, protein shakes, rice, or just eat them plain. You can add the oil to other liquid drinks, or just drink it straight. A good plan is using 1-2 TBSP of the ground flax seed and 1/2 TBSP Oil in the morning and before bed. Also use 1 TBSP of oil with 1 other meal during the day. You want to get 1-3 TBSPs a day.

So what are you waiting for? Starting flaxing!

Do you need to lose fat? Increase Energy? Tone or build muscle? At Bodizone Sport Supplements this is what we do! We get you into the best shape of your life and make you feel energised each and every single day. And even better you get to eat the foods you want every single week!

Bodizone is a one stop shop for all your health and fitness needs. We offer diet advice and can write you out your own personal diet and training program. We have our own in store personal training studio. We cater for all ages and offer a range of fitness programs including circuit training, weights, cardio, boxing and boot camps.

And with our introductory price for 3 personal training sessions for just $59 there is no excuse! Get into great shape today, let us point you in the right direction, motivate and drive you.

And as a further offer to MHS customers, mention this editorial and receive 20% off your next supplement order. We carry over 45 brands and 2000 products, so chances are we have the product you need!

Visit our website to find articles on why your body needs protein and good fats. Did you know that there are essential proteins and essential fats, but there is no such thing as an essential carbohydrate! Is your diet holding you back from success? Come in and see us for diet overhaul and begin to "Build the Body youWant!"

Your first 3 personal training sessions just $59 and 20% off your next supplement purchase, lose fat and feel great…today!

BodiZone Sport Supplements 12 Railway Parade Geebung Qld 4034

Ph 07 3265 3553 Email info@bodizone.com.au

 

 

 

Curves Fitness Franchise For Sale!

 

An opportunity has come along to purchase the largest and first Gold Coast territory, classed as Robina. Curves Robina opened in July 2004 at the Robina Town Centre but have since relocated to Varsity Lakes, with water views to make exercising even more enjoyable.This new location is rapidly developing and the potential to grow in this area is wonderful and with the right ownership will prove a very profitable business in the coming years.The lease is 5 years with a 5 year option and the sale includes everything needed to run the business.The premises are large and bright overlooking the water on Lake Orr. Curves is the largest fitness franchise in the world with over 10,000 locations worldwide, don,t miss this chance to be part of this franchise as territories are all sold out on the Gold Coast.

For further details call Robyn on 07 5578 7980 or click here to email

Nourishedmagazine.com.au:Bread Dread Are You Gluten Intolerant?

by I. N. Cognito

Many believe themselves to be gluten intolerant. How then, did our agrarian ancestors live on the stuff? Clive Lawler puts the blame for modern digestive damage from wheat and other gluten grains squarely on the shoulders of the food convenience industry. . ...More

 

Brought to you by www.nourishedmagazine.com.au

Short and Sweet:Avocodo, Beetroot and Spinach Salad!

 

Serves 4

1 tbsp coriander seeds, dry roasted 1 tbsp olive oil 1 can whole baby beetroot 250 gm baby spinach leaves 2 avocados, halved, seeded and thinly sliced 150 gm marinated feta, drained and coarsely crumbled ½ cup chopped celery Slice beetroot into wedges and place in a large bowl Place all remaining ingredients (except feta) together and toss - top with crumbled feta.

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Brought to you by www.massattack.com.au

Download our new FREE e-book 7 Secrets of Weight Loss Revealed

http://www.massattack.com.au/sevensecretssubscribe.html

Laughter is the best medicine!

Help Wanted

A local business looking for office help put a sign in the window saying: "HELP WANTED. Must be able to type, must be good with a computer and must be bilingual. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer."

A short time later, a dog trotted up to the window, saw the sign and went inside. He looked at the receptionist and wagged his tail, then walked over to the sign, looked at it and whined. Getting the idea, the receptionist got the office manager. The office manager looked at the dog and was surprised, to say the least. However, since the dog looked determined, he led him into the office.

Inside, the dog jumped up on the chair and stared at the manager, who said, "I can't hire you. You have to be able to type."

The dog jumped down, went to the typewriter and typed out a perfect letter. He took out the page and trotted over to the manager, gave it to him and then jumped back on the chair. The manager was stunned, but then reminded the dog, "the sign says you have to be good with a computer."

The dog jumped down again and went to the computer. He then demonstrated his expertise with various programs, producing a sample spreadsheet and database which he presented to the manager.

By this time the manager was totally dumbfounded! He looked at the dog and said, "I realize that you are a very intelligent dog and have some interesting abilities. However, I still can't give you the job."

The dog jumped down and went to a copy of the sign. he put his paw on the part about being an Equal Opportunity Employer. "Yes," the manager said, "but the sign also says that you have to be bilingual."

The dog looked him straight in the face, and said, "Meow."

Quote of the week!

The way to love anything is to realize that it might be lost.

For a Good Cause: Why Support The 2009 Victorian Bushfire Fund

The 2009 Victorian Bushfire Fund to assist individuals and communities affected by devastating bushfires in Victoria has been launched by the Premier John Brumby in partnership with Red Cross and the Federal Government. There has also been an overwhelmingly generous response from corporate Australia. As at 7.00pm on the 10th February, the Fund had received $30.4 million from over 166,000 website and phone donations, with governments including the Victorian Government and Federal Government and corporates pledging additional sums. Donations are still continuing to flow in.

 

http://www.redcross.org.au/vic/services_emergencyservices_victorian-bushfires-appeal-2009.htm

 

BACK ISSUES OF NATURALLY HAPPY

In the next issue of "Naturally Happy"

  • Vive Organic Market!
  • Healthwise
  • West End Osteopathic Clinic!
  • Mass Attack!
  • The Medical Sanctuary!
  • nourished.com.au!
  • Short and sweet!
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My Health Specials provides this information for your personal education and enrichment. Information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Nor should the information replace the advice of your health care practitioner. Always seek professional advice if suffering an illness. My Health Specials Pty Ltd and all parties involved in the conception, production, ongoing maintenance and operation of Naturally Happy accept no liability and no responsibility for any damage whatsoever arising from or in connection to your use or operation of the website or information contained in this e-magazine.