&Fitness
Health
Flaxseeds for Skin Protection By Kelly Pennick
F
laxseeds are known to have many benefits, but few women may realize their value related to skin protection. The multifaceted flaxseeds grow from a flax plant with narrow leaves and blue flowers that are useful also in producing linen. These seeds are known to be rich in omega-3 fatty acids, thought to help in lowering high cholesterol, as well as serving as a source of other vitamins, minerals and potassium. It is the omega-3 fatty acid, contained in flaxseeds, that helps skin protect itself – the natural oils of the body are increased, and therefore the skin is left softer and has less chance of drying out. How can we make the most of these added benefits? We can use the flaxseeds in cooking; the seeds can be eaten ground, whole or in the form of oil.Their taste is earthy and nutty.Today many resorts in the U.S. and beyond are creating spa cuisine incorporating flaxseeds, or flaxseed oil, for the benefit of their guests. Flaxseeds have also proven to be anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce irritation and redness of the skin. Flaxseed oil can be incorporated into a person’s diet, as well as applied directly to the skin to prevent dryness. It serves well as a moisturizer and often applied through various facials, body wraps, massages, pedicures and manicures. For a healthy body – inside and out – it’s worth your investment of time and money for treatments that contain flaxseeds or for products that contain the very important little ingredient. Kelly Penick is a local licensed esthetician who may be reached at (828) 7733587.
AGEs-less Living Continued From Page 53 Do you get the point? AGEs are killers! You are not going to be able to totally eliminate AGEs from your life, but there are steps you can take to reduce the damage. [Discuss with a knowledgeable health-care provider, before making any changes in your diet or lifestyle.] Anti-AGEs Action Plan · Control blood glucose levels through limiting high glycemic carbs and sugar in the diet.These are carbohydrates that break down rapidly into blood sugar, elevating blood glucose levels suddenly. For information on low glycemic eating go to www.glycemicindex.com · Regularly exercise at least 30 minutes a day. · Limit saturated fat.Totally eliminate trans-fats and · hydrogenated fats. [Read the label. If it says hydrogenated or trans-fat, run.] · Avoid overcooking and browning meats. Use low heat, slow cook methods instead. · Limit processed foods and foods in a box. Especially avoid high fructose corn syrup. [Read labels.You will be amazed at how many times it shows up.] · Add spice to your food: Cinnamon, ginger, cumin and black pepper have all been shown to have AGEs-inhibiting properties. · Drink green tea. It supports blood glucose control and AGE’s-inhibition. · Consider supplementation. Clinical studies have identified a thiamine-derived supplement, benfotiamine, as a powerful AGEs fighter. Benfotiamine was developed in Japan, 30 years ago.There, it is prescribed for the treatment of various neuropathies. These simple measures will not keep you young forever, but might help you feel younger, years longer. Source:WebMD 54 SEPTEMBER 2010
Act F.A.S.T.
you could save a life
Know the warning signs of stroke
Every minute counts Face: Does one side of the face droop?
Ask the person to smile
Arms:
Is one arm weak or numb?
Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
Speech:
Time:
Is speech slurred? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Is the sentence repeated correctly?
If the person shows any of these symptoms, Call 911 or get to the hospital immediately. www.aawmag.com