How to Avoid Getting the Flu: Top Ten Ways to Protect Yourself and Stay Healthy

With the media attention, and the potential for rapid spread, many have become concerned about their own personal safety. While this may seem like a new problem, the precautions are the same ones you have heard for years. Here are the top ten ways you can protect yourself from the flu.

1. Wash your hands! Wash or sanitize before eating, after restroom use and often in between.
2. Keep your hands off your face, especially eyes, nose, and mouth.
3. Cover your cough. Ideally cough into your sleeve at the crook of your elbow (prevents hand to hand to hand, and hand to surface, spread). Dispose of tissues properly and then wash your hands.
4. Keep at least an arms distance (three feet is recommended) between you and anyone known to be ill.
5. Avoid crowded events and gatherings when possible. Wear a mask if you are concerned.
6. Use extreme precautions when touching common-use items such as ketchup/mustard/salt/pepper/menus at a restaurant, or multi-use areas such as desks, tables, light switches, faucet handles, key boards, chair backs, water fountains, phones, magazines, doorknobs, and etc.
7. Wash hard surfaces regularly with a sanitizer or bleach solution. Carry hand sanitizer and use regularly. Note: Always wash with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
8. Keep your immune system strong by eating properly, exercising, getting adequate rest, and proper vitamin and mineral supplementation.
9. Stay home when you are ill with a fever and respiratory complications.
10. If you become severely ill with fever and massive aches and fatigue, seek medical attention within the first 48 hours of the onset of symptoms (earlier the better) to seek an antiviral medication. This can reduce the severity of symptoms and the duration of the illness.

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Skin Care Tips - How to Combat Dry Skin This Autumn Season

It's official, fall has officially arrived. Good for you, bad for your skin. Skin dryness is very common this season due to the sudden decrease of humidity in the air. If you're not prepared, this will surely make your skin parched and flaky in no time. This is the reason why it's important to prevent your skin from getting dry to avoid further skin problems such as wrinkles, fine lines and dermatitis. With his, here are some ways on how you can combat dry skin this autumn.

1. No long baths and definitely no hot baths. Taking a long hot bath may be the best thing in the world on a cold morning, but as relaxing as it may seem, it is really bad for your skin. Hot water strips off moisture out of your skin which makes it prone to dryness. This fall and winter, remember to limit your daily baths to less than 10 minutes and use lukewarm water instead.

2. Don't use harsh soaps. Most soap bars are notorious for drying out skin. Such soaps strip off moisture off your skin, so it's best to avoid using them. Instead, use moisturizing soaps that are fragrance free. Why fragrance free? The chemicals that create that fragrant smell on your soap can also dry out your skin so you might as well skip on that.

3. Switch from lotions to creams. You might need to switch to a moisturizer with a heavier formulation during the fall and winter months. Of course, your facial moisturizer is a different story. You still have to use something that fits your current skin type to avoid breakouts.

4. Nourish your skin from the inside out. Always remember to drink lots of water and take skin friendly supplements such as omega 3 and vitamin E every day. It is also best to avoid drinking too much alcohol and caffeine as these two act as diuretics in the body.

5. Indulge in a facial treatment at least once a month. Facials help get rid of dead skin cells and deep seated dirt in the skin. This allows your moisturizer to penetrate the skin more effectively because your skin is free from impurities.

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Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar - A Natural Fat Burner!

Apple cider is made from apple must, also called cider. The unfiltered type can be purchased. It has a deep brownish/yellow color.

Here is the process: Apple juice is fermented to become alcohol containing apple cider. After that, oxygen is allowed to interact with the cider. This turns the alcohol into acetic acid. You will find this ingredient in the finished product.

What assists this process is a spider-web-like foam of bacteria that is the result of the fermentation process. This is referred to as the "mother".

You can buy commercially prepared apple cider vinegar any time of year at specialty stores, health food stores, grocery stores, and supermarkets.

The Fat Fighting Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

You can't beat this as a weapon in your battle with fat. There is no argument here. Actually, scientists have found that there are ninety different substances contained in it. Included are: 8 ethyl acetates, 18 kinds of alcohol, 20 types of ketones, 4 aldehydes, 13 kinds of carbolic acid, and more.

Here are some of the other great things you will find in it: Fiber in the form of potash and apple pectin, enzymes, amino, lactic, propionic and acetic acids, trace elements, minerals and vitamins.

When we speak of health and fat fighting benefits, how does this information fit in? The following are the main benefits:

The metabolism is sped up when apple cider vinegar is introduced. When you consume it before meals, this is even more true.

It helps to process proteins and fats.

It also helps increase metabolism and supports good digestive processes.

It is low in fat, sugar, and salt.

It assists with the metabolism of minerals and fats. It aids in the digestion of greasy and fatty foods. It supports the liver in detoxifying the body. The body will burn calories better with the introduction of this vinegar. These are very beneficial in burning fat.

As a purifying and detoxifying agent, this particular vinegar is quite powerful. It helps to break down deposits of phlegm, mucous, and fat throughout the body.

Both your overall health and the functioning of your liver, bladder, kidneys and other areas of your body are assisted by this purifying and detoxifying process. The reason for this is that it thins and oxidizes the blood and prevents an excess of alkaline in the urine. It helps prevent high blood pressure by thinning the blood.

This detoxification and purification can help to prevent the formation of harmful bacteria. It is also helpful in preventing inflammation and infections. Reduction of nasal discharge and the soothing of a sore throat can be accomplished with apple cider vinegar. It detoxifies and purifies due to the potassium it contains. Poor health and toxic buildup may be the result of a lack of some salts and minerals. When this buildup occurs, the result can be boils, acne, blisters, and a variety of other symptoms.

It also assists in cleansing these buildups from the body. It also oxidizes the blood and supports healthy blood clotting.

The heart is benefited by the addition of potassium, which works to lower cholesterol and regulate blood pressure. Additionally, this is needed to help the body replace tissues that are worn. Just as calcium helps repair bones, this ingredient helps with soft tissue repair. Hair loss can be prevented by the addition of potassium to the diet.

You will feel more energetic and vitality when you take this vinegar, thanks to the potassium and enzymes it includes. Food is effectively broken down and digestion assisted thanks to hydrochloric acid and pepsin. This is an enzyme that is working within an acid environment. It assists in preventing indigestion.

Here are the benefits you will reap from the tartaric and malic acids found in this vinegar:
1. Balanced acid levels.
2. Eradication of negative bacteria found in the digestive tract.

This particular vinegar protects the immune system with its anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. It helps the blood to have a balanced alkalinity. This is because its high potassium electrolyte content assists in re-mineralizing the body.

Doctors and scientist think that it can help with symptoms of osteoporosis and arthritis. The reason for this is that it dissolves deposits of calcium around the joints and helps to strengthen bones. The reason for this is the calcium, silicon, manganese, and magnesium content of the vinegar.

It has amino acids that work as antibiotics and antiseptics.

Toxicity in the body is reduced by the acetic acid found in this vinegar. It forms acetate compounds that assist in this process.

It helps to fight free radicals in the body because it is a powerful antioxidant. Free radicals are the harbingers of diseases such as heart disease and some forms of cancer. It has antioxidant properties that assist it in neutralizing the free radicals that oxidation forms within our bodies.

It contains a water soluble fiber called pectin. It helps to soak up cholesterol and fat in the body and carry them out in waste. Cholesterol is lowered by the use of this particular vinegar. The fiber content protects against both diarrhea and constipation. Diabetics can benefit from the use of it because its dietary fiber is helpful in controlling blood glucose levels.

Macular degeneration, cataracts, and other eye diseases respond well to the addition of antioxidants and beta carotene to the diet. The vinegar is rich in these.

Preparing Apple Cider Vinegar

It is most often used when preparing salad dressings, pickles, and vegetable dishes. You will also find it in ketchup, mayonnaise and mustard. You can use it as a condiment on veggie chips.

Chutneys and marinades benefit from the addition of a bit of it.

Additionally, you will note that you can substitute apple cider vinegar for lemon juice in a number of recipes. This is especially so in some sorts of bread than in others. You may be worried that it will taste bitter, but it doesn't. Surprisingly, because of the apple content, it helps the dish to be very tasty. It is fairly common knowledge that apple sauce is a good substitute for oil or shortening when baking. Follow this principle and substitute it for lemon juice whenever it makes sense to do so. This gives you yet another alternative - happily, it is a healthy one.

Get started using this amazing vinegar with some of these ideas: When you begin to seek recipes actively, you will uncover quite a few.

Here are some of the dishes that benefit from the addition of apple cider vinegar: Baked goods, soups & stews, tandoori chicken, pickled goods, salad dressings, marinades & chutneys, sweet & sour chicken, caramelized onions, coleslaw, braised red cabbage, and barbecued or baked tropical spareribs. When you bake, you will not add apple cider vinegar to delicate baked goods. Nonetheless, bread is quite well suited for the addition it.

How Much Apple Cider Vinegar Should I Use?

Generally speaking, one tablespoon is the correct amount. This is the general amount for most recipes; however, be sure to read your recipe carefully. Whenever you add it to a drink, a tablespoon full is a good amount.

When Is The Best Time For Exercise?

Did you know that the actual time of day that you exercise to reduce unwanted fat is important if you are looking to maximize your health benefits? A regular exercise program helps you to maintain a healthy weight and healthy heart. When you exercise to reduce weight in the morning rather than the evening or the middle of the day, you create a positive health routine that delivers more benefits than just the physical exercise itself.

Research has shown that those who exercise in the morning rather than at the end of the day tend to be more dedicated and consistent. And it's easy to see why when you think about it. At the end of a long and busy day, it is very easy to make excuses about missing your workout session. Whereas in the morning, you are fresh and can get your exercise done before you start your day.Did you know that the actual time of day that you exercise to reduce unwanted fat is important if you are looking to maximize your health benefits? A regular exercise program helps you to maintain a healthy weight and healthy heart. When you exercise to reduce weight in the morning rather than the evening or the middle of the day, you create a positive health routine that delivers more benefits than just the physical exercise itself.

Benefits Of Morning Exercise

You have fewer problems scheduling your workout sessions in the morning than at any other time of the day. Throughout a typical day, you are working at home or at the office and you may also have the kids to sort out. But when you schedule your exercise in the morning, you can avoid any such scheduling conflicts.

The benefits of early morning exercise stays with you throughout your day. Your body continues to burn calories for hours after exercise. That means that during the day, while you are eating healthy meals, your metabolism is boosted. This increases your calorie burn, and decreases your fat and weight retention.

Productivity is increased when you are alert. There is nothing like a good morning exercise program to get you going at the start of your day. And there are significant studies which show that once your endorphins get moving, your mental clarity can increase for anywhere from 4 to 10 hours after your exercise is over.

Why Exercise In The Morning?

Even though it sounds strange, when you exercise in the morning, in contrast to the evening, it actually helps you to sleep better. Studies show that people who exercise in the morning have healthier sleep patterns than those who exercise at the end of the day. This is most likely because exercise is a stimulant. It is harder for your body to relax and for you to fall asleep if you have just finished an evening exercise session.

There are many benefits when you choose to exercise in the morning. You will achieve better long-term results, fewer scheduling conflicts and improved productivity in your day.

The best exercise to lose weight will only do the job if you have a plan on how you are going to do it. Get a plan, know what you have to do, keep to it, and see it through. You don't want to waste time trying to decide when to start or what to do. And if you are not making a note of your exercises to lose weight and your eating habits, then you are not losing as much fat as you probably can.

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Ready-Set-Go! 7 Quick and Healthy Breakfasts

Breakfast is really important for so many reasons. It boosts your metabolism, stabilizes your blood sugar, and ultimately helps you avoid overeating later on in the day. You are more likely to lose weight, or maintain a healthy weight, if you are eating breakfast.

I love making oatmeal pancakes from scratch, or homemade scones and muffins are great coupled with some fresh, seasonal fruit.

But, if you don't have the time or desire to bake, here are 7 healthy ways to start your day with quick and easy nutrient-rich foods that will sustain you:

(1) Coconut Yogurt with apples and nut butter

(2) Good quality toast with sliced avocado, Spectrum mayo and sea salt.

(3) Good quality toast with ghee and unsweetened apple butter

(4) Hardboiled eggs with sea salt

(5) Fruit and protein smoothie: Combine almond milk, hemp protein powder, two tablespoons of unsweetened coconut and a tablespoon of chia seeds (great for energy) with a banana or frozen organic berries for a delicious, quick, nutritious smoothie option.

(6) Oatmeal made with rolled oats (not instant), almond milk, apples and cinnamon

(7) Chia Goodness with almond milk and seasonal fruit: Chia goodness is a combination of hemp, sprouted buckwheat (gluten-free) and chia seeds. It was introduced to me at a nutrition conference and it's been a favorite since.

You're probably wondering about breakfast cereals, which I haven't included for a reason. I spent 20 minutes in Whole Foods last week looking for a breakfast cereal that had enough fiber, no refined sugar, and a healthy amount of good fats... and found only one that passed the test: Udi's Au Naturel Granola, made with oats, honey and oil.

Most packaged breakfast cereals are not the best way to start your day. However, I do admit to keeping a box in our pantry cabinet for when we need it. Here's how to up the nutritional value: Choose a cereal with a minimum of 4 grams of fiber and no more than 6 grams of sugar. Increase the nutritional value by sprinkling with chia or flax seeds.

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10 Simple Tips To Help You Get Rid Of Stomach Fat Fast

1. Keep Yourself Hydrated With Plenty Of Fresh Water

It is essential that you give your body enough water to efficiently flush the bloat and toxins from your system, especially in the high summer heat. Drinking water equates to weight loss.

2. Eliminate Carbonated Soft Drinks From Your Diet

Whether you're drinking a regular soda or diet-soda, both are detrimental to your health. Not only do they dehydrate the body and add nutrition-less calories (regular soda), the carbonated bubbles will bloat your tummy. Try drinking Sassy Water instead of diet soda, regular soda or seltzer. It's a much better alternative.

3. Walk And Talk With A Friend

If you're going for a walk, why not ask a friend to join you? Studies show that an exercise buddy will prompt you to exercise much harder than if you were alone.

Plan a time when the two of you can get together for a weekly walking session, join a gym together, or start a neighborhood fitness group. Get as many people involved as you can. The more the merrier!

4. Reduce Salty Foods Like Pretzels Or Chips

Watch your intake of snacks/foods that contain a significant amount of salt such as pretzels or chips. Because these types of foods contain so much salt, your body will retain extra fluid. Salt is a contributing factor to water weight gain and a puffy, bloated appearance.

So, in order to get a slim, trim tummy - put down the pretzels and pick something less salty to eat instead.

5. Add More Foods Rich In Fiber To Your Diet

Amazingly, your tummy will carry nearly 4% less fat for every 10 grams of fiber you consume on a daily basis. Fortunately, there are easier ways to incorporate fiber into your diet than eating an entire box of Raisin Bran. For example:

6. Boxing Is A Great Way To Get A Flat Stomach

Try aerobic kickboxing or traditional boxing to tighten your tummy. They're not only beneficial for trimming your waistline, but also a terrific cardio workout as well. All those high kicks and forceful punches will impact your abdomen and get those muscles tighter than ever.

7. Work Your Abs By Cleaning Your House

Cleaning your house can be a drag. However, the good news is while you vacuum, you can work out your abs too. As you vacuum, concentrate on contracting your abs while pushing the vacuum back and forth.

8. Canoeing And Kayaking: Two Great Abdomen Workouts

Canoeing and kayaking both provide an invigorating abs workout. Both your upper and lower torso get quite a workout since both of these sports require continuous paddling. The muscles in your lower torso including your abs are constantly stretching, twisting, reaching and pulling for an extended period of time.

9. Avocado Is Beneficial In Stopping Belly Fat

Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs). Just half an avocado has 10 grams of valuable MUFAs, which stop blood sugar spikes that signal your body to store fat all around your tummy.

To prevent stomach fat, eat a quarter cup of avocado serving at a time.

10. How Alcohol Affects Belly Fat

Alcoholic beverages are notorious for raising cortisol levels, which send fat straight to the belly. In fact, it's widely known that alcohol will put belly fat on you quicker than anything else you can consume. In order to get rid of your stomach fat, you must drastically decrease your alcohol consumption.

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Important Tips in Keeping Hair Healthy While Wearing a Wig or Hairpiece

Always go for wigs with nylon netting or anything similar.

This allows hair to breathe. Remember nylon stocking caps as well as cotton damages the hairline and dries out hair. If a hairpiece is worn constantly, seek out the help of a professional to ensure there's a proper fit. Getting a custom piece is a good investment, especially if it means keeping the hair and scalp healthy.

Massage that scalp!

During wig wear, the scalp receives less blood flow because these are often tightly attached to the head. Always take the time to promote blood circulation by massaging the scalp. This is especially true for people who wear hairpieces while waiting for hair regrowth. Hair items like these carry amazing benefits particularly those suffering from alopecia, premature baldness or those undergoing serious treatments. However, care should be given that they don't impede healthy hair growth as well.

Never place a headpiece on damp hair.

Not only is this gross, but it also endorses proliferation of germs and fungi. Mildew might also develop because of the amount of heat and moisture sandwiched between.

Always use especially formulated wig hair care products. Regular shampoo or conditioner can contain a higher percentage of alcohol, which damages fragile hair placed under the wig. Meanwhile, using fibre wigs means there's no moisture inside so having a good shampoo with matching conditioner is advisable. Individuals using hair loss treatments only need to make sure that these can be used together with wigs so they won't cause extra damage to the hair.

A hairpiece should be treated like skin.

Not that many people think about it, but a wig or hairpiece should be treated with attention like people take care of the skin. Extreme exposure to the sun or constant rainy, windy conditions can damage it. There's also the constant friction for long wigs against clothing, which causes it to fray.

Take off the wig or hairpiece before hitting the sack.

This is very important! A lot of users think they can keep wearing their falsies even when they sleep. Some items are made with high quality so they can withstand a bit of rough use, but chances are sleeping in with a wig will harm the product in the long run. Constant friction when sleeping can tear the base of the piece. Apart from that, if wearing the wig the wrong way, or too tightly, when movement happens it can damage the existing hair resulting in hair loss and damage.

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