Women articles online

By: Linda Geyer

We all exercise for the results. Different people are looking for different results or outcomes. Goals vary from weight loss, athletic performance, endurance, strength, toning, body building to more flexibility, etc. Here are 10 tips for motivation and consistency to get results and achieve your goals.

Exercise with a Buddy. Try working out with a friend, spouse, or co-worker. It’s harder to skip a workout if you know someone is counting on you. The buddy system brings a social element to exercise which makes it more fun.

Set a New Goal. An initial goal sets a foundation in which future training goals are based. Setting a goal, such as entering a 5K race or rock climbing, may never have entered your mind. But after your initial goal is met, you will see new, interesting, and fun adventures in fitness you never thought possible.

Change Your Routine. Just a slight variation can take you to a new level in your workout. We use periodized training, a systemized approach involving progressive cycling of various aspects of training protocol, in 6 week intervals to avoid plateaus, boredom and for maximum effect. If you feel you are at a stand still, train three times a week for 3-4 weeks and experience the difference.

Treat Yourself to Variety. A heart-rate monitor, jump rope, Physioball, medicine ball, and other exercise equipment can help you work out more effectively and make your workouts more fun and challenging. Try adding a sport to your activities instead of always working out in the gym.

Try Something New. Personal trainers will challenge you with exercises you’ve never tried before. Training with different trainers also provides variety plus you learn from the experience of a team of trainers. If you always walk on a treadmill, try riding an exercise bike or an elliptical trainer. If you always lift with machines, try free weights instead.

Track Your Progress. Keep an exercise log. This will help you track your goals, monitor your progress and adjust your routine as necessary. Occasionally, test your maximum strength to determine your progress in total strength. By using a ten rep strength test, see how much weight you can bench press and leg press in ten reps. Use your first measurement of weight and reps as a benchmark and every three to four months, retest your strength.

Reward Yourself. When you reach a goal or milestone, treat yourself to something special – a massage, an evening out, new clothes or some other indulgence. Studies show rewards are a key to staying motivated.

Remember the Benefits. You know how good and healthy you feel after a workout? Make a mental note of that feeling. Use that memory to motivate yourself the next time you’re thinking of blowing off your workout.

Go Easy on Yourself. Stuff happens – doctor’s appointments, sick kids, illnesses. Don’t let a few missed workouts turn into a month of unfulfilled resolutions and move you further away from your goals.
Plan and be Ready to Exercise. Schedule your workouts like you schedule meetings and doctor appointments. Write your exercise time in your palm pilot or day planner. Pack you duffle bag with your gym clothes the night before you go to work or school. Or have an extra duffle bag in the car ready to go just in case you forget your gym clothes. For more information on staying motivated and tips on exercise, go to http://www.easyexercisetips.com

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By: Dave Carter

Full lush lips are becoming increasingly popular, thanks to Hollywood movie stars. The Angelina Jolie look is in, and more women are seeking lip augmentation. Collagen has, for the longest time, taken claim as the leading agent used for lip enhancement. However, results are temporary, and so permanent lip augmentations have been developed.

The implant is made of material designed specifically for the safe and effective augmentation of soft tissue, such as lips. The product comes in different sizes and shapes to fit each patient’s particular needs, as well as desires, in a perfectly sterile package designed for only one single use. The surgical technique is performed in a sterile fashion. Like many cosmetic surgeries nowadays, lip augmentation is done by using very precise methods to increase the effective appearance of the insert, as well as minimize recovery time. This combination is the ideal for anyone looking at cosmetic surgery.

There are literally hundreds of implants for different lip shapes, size, and thickness. Since every person has a different mouth, and a different desired look, there need to be just as many options to meet all the demands. The best way to figure out which implant is right for you is to meet with the doctor, describe what look you’re going after (be as specific as possible, every detail can only help the decision making process), and then see what he/she suggests. Unlike collagen, these implants are permanent, but if you have the surgery and for some reason are unsatisfied with how it looks, lip implants are generally fairly easy to remove without any threat of problems. As for any fear of scarring: remember that the incisions are made as small as possible in the lips, and so there may be very tiny marks, but these are on your lips, which make them even more undetectable.

An obvious question comes up: is there any change in feeling? The answer is yes, but only early on during the recovery time. It is not unusual for a patient to feel some numbness, maybe mild tingling, but over time your lips will return to normal. And no, the implant is not detectable when kissing. If you press your fingers hard on your lips you might feel the implant, might being the key word.

Complications are rare for this procedure, though they do exist. Your specialist will be able to give you the full list. If the Angelina Jolie look is the one you’re looking for, and you’re tired of repeat treatments, this could very well be the solution you’re looking for.

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By: Dave Carter

Breast enlargement, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery that enhances the upper body contour of a woman who is unhappy with her small breast size. This is perhaps the cosmetic procedure that the public is most familiar with.
Breast enlargement is done by having an implant placed through an incision, under the breast tissue or under the muscle. The incision can be made under the breast, around the nipple or under the arm. A breast implant is composed of an outer silicone shell filled with saline (the use of silicone gel implants are now restricted). The outer surface may be smooth or textured, and implants come in various shapes to meet the individual woman’s needs.

When the implant is placed under the actual muscle of the breast, there is a lower chance of contracture (contraction of the tissue surrounding the implant), and mammography is more reliable. There is also less risk of visible or palpable implant edges. The down side is that there are some people who believe the implant has a more natural appearance when placed above the muscle, under the breast tissue.

The shape of augmented breasts depends on the implant. Implants can be round or teardrop-shaped (anatomical). The choice depends on the look the female wants to achieve. Anatomical implants produce a gentle slope, resulting in a fuller upper area, whereas round implants create a round curve in the upper part of the breast. Another factor to consider prior to surgery is breast width, which determines the amount of “cleavage” between breasts and the outer curves.

Realistic expectations are important. Some women often think of breast size in terms of bra cup size. If a size “A” wanted to be a size “C”, there still has to be adequate existing breast tissue coverage: otherwise there could be visible or palpable implant edges and other possible risks.

This is a major procedure, and someone undergoing breast augmentation absolutely needs someone to drive her home and stay with you for 24 hours after surgery. There will be pain the first few days, but normal pain pills should take care of this as the body adjusts to the new implants. Wear a bra at all times (except when showering) during the first 2 weeks after surgery. Avoid heavy lifting and avoid even moderate exercise for at least the first week, and then only moderate exercise. During recovery, the breasts will be somewhat swollen. Within a few weeks, the actual shape and size will be evident, and the full success of the procedure will come abundantly clear.

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By: Dave Carter

Breast lift surgery, clinically referred to as a mastopexy, restores a youthful appearance to a woman’s breasts. Over the years breasts lose their shape and firmness due to pregnancy, nursing, and loss of skin elasticity, which basically means they end up sagging. A Mastopexy will raise and reshape breasts—slowing the effects of aging and gravity. This procedure can reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple.

Mastopexy is often performed in conjunction with breast augmentation to increase breast firmness and size. This may appeal to women who have lost breast volume after pregnancy. Pregnancy and nursing often result in stretched skin and therefore decreased volume. As with all cosmetic surgery, realistic expectations are important. Though breasts of any size can be lifted, women with smaller breasts enjoy longer lasting results.

A mastopexy is not a simple operation, though it is still normally safe when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. Mastopexy is occasionally performed in a hospital, but more often is done in an outpatient facility. Breast lifts are usually performed under general anesthesia. The surgery may take anywhere between 1 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours, and there is some recovery time. As with any surgery, there are possible complications. A patient may suffer an adverse reaction to the anesthesia (very rare), or experience bleeding and infection following a breast lift, causing scars to widen. Poor healing and wider scars are more common with patients who smoke.

After surgery, stitches will be covered with gauze and an elastic bandage, or a surgical bra will hold the breasts in place. Breasts will be bruised, swollen, and there will be some mild discomfort for a couple of days. A soft support bra replaces the bandages or surgical bra after a few days. While recovering, a bra should be worn at all times. To ensure proper healing, plan to stay at home for at least a week before returning to work. The patient should avoid lifting anything over your head for 3-4 weeks and avoid strenuous exertion of any kind for a month

If an individual follows this advice, then with minimum pain and quick recovery she will be able to enjoy the benefits of a successfully finished procedure, and enjoy the added attention she will undoubtedly receive.

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By: chester

Most raw food, like our bodies, is very perishable. When raw foods are exposed to temperatures above 116 degrees, they start to rapidly break down, just as our bodies would if we had a fever that high. One of the constituents of foods which can break down are enzymes. Enzymes help us digest our food. Enzymes are proteins though, and they have a very specific 3-dimensional structure in space. Once they are heated much above 118 degrees, this structure can change.

Once enzymes are exposed to heat, they are no longer able to provide the function for which they were designed. Cooked foods contribute to chronic illness, because their enzyme content is damaged and thus requires us to make our own enzymes to process the food. The digestion of cooked food uses valuable metabolic enzymes in order to help digest your food. Digestion of cooked food demands much more energy than the digestion of raw food. In general, raw food is much more easily digested that it passes through the digestive tract in 1/2 to 1/3 of the time it takes for cooked food.

Eating enzyme-dead foods places a burden on your pancreas and other organs and overworks them, which eventually exhausts these organs. Many people gradually impair their pancreas and progressively lose the ability to digest their food after a lifetime of ingesting processed foods.

Lack of digestive enzymes can be a factor in food allergies. Symptoms of digestive enzymes depletion are bloating, belching, gas, bowel disorders, abdominal cramping, heartburn and food allergies.

Digestive enzymes are proteins specially tailored to break down foods into nutrients that your body can then readily digest. The human body produces some 22 different digestive enzymes. Many more are found in the fruits, vegetables, meats, grains, and other foods.

When you eat a meal, digestive enzymes that are released from your salivary glands, stomach, and small intestine immediately get to work to speed up the digestive process. Each enzyme acts on a specific type of food.

Bromelain
Derived from the stems of pineapple, it is known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties. This natural digestive enzyme may also be helpful as a diet aid. Pineapples have had a long tradition as a medicinal plant among the natives of South and Central America.

DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice Root)
A natural antacid, where the glycirrhizinic acid component of the root has been removed. DGL may stimulate our bodies defense mechanisms resulting in improved quality of mucous, lengthening of intestinal cell life and enhanced microcirculation in the gastrointestinal lining.

Papaya
A tropical fruit containing active enzymes that help improve digestive and metabolic functions. Derived from the fruit, inner bark and stems, Papaya Enzymes contain a high concentration of papain, a protein-digesting enzyme that quickly metabolizes the protein in foods.

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By: Dave Carter

The rhytidectomy, or much more commonly known as a facelift, is a cosmetic surgery specifically designed to restore a more youthful appearance by removing major obvious wrinkles and sagging skin from the facial area. The procedure involves tightening of the facial and neck muscles, as well as actual removal of any excess skin. In doing so the patient should find his or her appearance to be several years more youthful than before. In some good cases, a patient may look as many as ten years younger!

The skin naturally begins to wrinkle and sag as a result of age, sun exposure, and genetics. Children and young adults have smooth, round faces due to evenly distributed tissues in facial contours. Over time, the skin sags and folds. This is particularly occurs around the chin, jaw line, and neck. Not only does a facelift improve facial appearance but also has a dramatic effect on the chin and neck, enhancing the patient’s profile. Though as dramatic as the end results are, unlike several other types of cosmetic surgery, a facelift is not a simple procedure, and requires anywhere from one to two weeks of rest to make a full recovery.

This is a procedure that does actually demand some work from the patient beforehand. Before going in, avoid drugs that contain aspirin for several weeks prior to surgery to minimize excess bleeding. You may be required to take antibiotics to prevent infection. Depending on the doctor, you may be instructed to shampoo your hair the night before surgery.

For the procedure the surgeon will make incisions inside the hairline at the temple, then around the earlobe and behind the ear, ending at the scalp area. Excess skin is removed and sagging muscles and connective tissues are tightened. In some cases, fatty deposits may be removed from beneath the chin and neck. Incisions are closed with small sutures. The surgery may take up to 5 hours, depending on how many other facial procedures are being done in conjunction with the facelift.

There will be a lot of swelling afterwards, but after about two weeks the patient should notice a steady recovery beginning. Scarring fades quickly. In the time following surgery the patient should avoid the sun for several weeks after surgery. The main thing to remember is that the healing process takes time. It is gradual, and so the final results may not be noticeable for even half a year. Keep patient, and soon enough the positive results will become clear.

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By: Dave Carter

Abdominoplasty, or a “tummy tuck,” is a cosmetic surgery designed to correct a protruding abdomen that may result from weak abdominal muscles, weight gain, or pregnancy. These conditions may not respond well to diet or exercise if the skin and underlying muscles have been stretched, which makes this surgery possibly a necessity for someone who wants a decent shape back.

With a tummy tuck, the abdominal wall muscles are tightened and excess fatty tissue and skin are removed to improve the body’s shape and appearance. The goal is a narrower, flatter abdomen. Realistic expectations are important, and contrary to some beliefs, a tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss. Dieters should hit their ideal weight before going in for this procedure, and a woman who plans to become pregnant again in the future should wait until she’s finished having new children, otherwise this surgery may just be a waste of money.

Antibiotics will be prescribed prior to surgery to prevent infection. To minimize the possibility of excess bleeding, you will need to avoid taking drugs containing aspirin. You will also be advised to bathe with an antiseptic soap for several days prior to surgery. Abdominoplasty is performed using general anesthesia. Some doctors may give you medication beforehand to help you feel relaxed. Surgeries generally take anywhere from 2-5 hours, depending on the patient’s health and condition. Recovery time also varies greatly.

Some swelling and discomfort is normal after surgery, and general pain pills will help to get through this more comfortable. The doctor will provide the instructions you need for changing bandages, showering, and general care. As with any other medical surgery, it is always important to follow the doctor’s orders. The scars take time to fade, but they will fade over time. This is the cosmetic surgery that may take the most recovery time, but to someone who has been plagued by a “fat gut” despite doing everything right know how rewarding this procedure can be for them. A good diet and normal exercise routine after the surgery (and recovery time) will be of great benefit.

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By: Dave Carter

Reduction mammoplasty, or breast reduction, is a good cosmetic surgical procedure for a woman experiencing health problems and/or extreme self-consciousness associated with very large, heavy breasts. The goal is to give the woman a more attractive look with smaller, better-shaped breasts in proportion with the rest of her body. She will then benefit from freedom of health problems associated with large breasts and an improved self-image.

Medical problems associated with very large breasts include back and neck pain caused from excessive weight, skin irritation, skeletal deformities and breathing problems. Bra straps may leave shoulder indentations. Large, heavy breasts also contribute to poor posture, and can interfere with normal daily activities such as exercise. Excessive breast size may also lead to a decreased sense of attractiveness and self-confidence.

Breast reduction is done under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis or in the hospital. The surgery removes fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breasts, making them smaller, lighter, and firmer. It can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. After the surgery, the breasts are placed in a surgical bra that will hold them symmetrically during initial healing. The initial discomfort subsides daily and can be controlled with painkillers. Scars will fade in 6-18 months.

When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, breast reduction is a safe procedure. Nevertheless, as with any surgery, there is always a possibility of complications. Discuss this with a doctor before making your decision. If you do have this surgery, you can reduce your risks of side effects by closely following your physician’s advice both before and after surgery.

Although your surgeon will make your scars as inconspicuous as possible, some permanent scarring is inevitable. Smokers are more likely to experience poor healing and wider scars. The good news is, your bra or bathing suit will cover whatever scars remain, and most likely, the scars will not prevent you from wearing low-cut tops. After recovery, life will go on as before.

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By: chester

Why should I increase my Omega fatty acid intake?
Our intake of essential fatty acids has changed radically in the last century. Our ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 should be close to 1:1, but it is now over 10:1 and up to 20:1. This is due to the addition of corn, sunflower, safflower, sesame and other Omega-6 oils to our food supply. Such excesses are thought by many scientists to be a factor in a number of chronic medical conditions including arthritis, cardiovascular disease, asthma, acne, obesity and depression. It is clear that we need to increase our intake of Omega-3 fatty acids and decrease our intake of Omega-6 (linoleic acid) oils. By doing so we will be, look and feel healthier.

What are good fats and bad fats?
Fat is a concentrated source of energy. This source of energy is very useful during aerobic exercise. The longer the exercise, the higher the fat contribution for providing energy. Fat is particularly used in large quantities in the brain and nervous system. There are two types of fat: saturated and unsaturated. Unsaturated fats are commonly referred to as “good” fats, and should make up the greatest percentage of your fat intake.

UNSATURATED
• Unsaturated fats, “good fats” are liquid at room temperature, and remain in liquid form even when refrigerated or frozen.
• Good fats are part of the essential fats: omega 3 and omega 6, both of which are unsaturated fats.

What are EPA and DHA?
These are two specific essential fatty acids found in fish oil. Both Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) have been well documented in regulating cellular functions and promoting good health. Diets deficient in EPA and DHA have been associated with a number of health problems, most notably cardiovascular disease.

What is GLA and how is it different from other Omega-6 sources?
GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid) is an Omega-6 fatty acid found in high amounts in borage oil, and to a lesser degree in black currant and evening primrose oils. In contrast to the sunflower, safflower and other Omega-6 oils, the presence of GLA in borage oil results in very different physiological effects. Linoleic acid in its current dietary excess promotes inflammation due to the production of arachidonic acid (AA). GLA on the other hand, actually interferes with the production of AA and decreases inflammation. GLA has been used with success in treating various medical conditions, most notably rheumatoid arthritis and eczema. Emerging science also indicates that GLA has synergistic activities with the Omega-3 marine-derived DHA and EPA, particularly in cardiovascular health and fat metabolism.

We all want to be healthy, happy and fit with enough energy for work and for play. A well-balanced diet, exercise, and enough rest go a long way in helping us get the most out of life. And essential fatty acids (EFAs) have been proven to help us achieve healthier and happier lives. These good fats’ truly are essential and the majority of us are not consuming enough of the well-researched Omega fats. Now getting the right amount of Omegas to suit your specific health needs is easier than ever.

Where do essential fats come from?
Sources of Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fats:
• Cold Water fish such as Salmon (coho, king and pink), sardines, cod, albacore tuna, trout, halibut , herring. (these fish are also a great source of Omega 6, but are predominantly richer in Omega 3)
• Flaxseeds and green leafy vegetables are great sources of Omega 3.
• Sesame and sunflower seeds and other seeds and nuts are great sources of Omega 6.
• Borage oil and evening primrose oil are rich sources of GLA which is part of the Omega 6 essential fats.

Where do saturated fats come from?
Saturated fats contain large amounts of saturated fatty acids. Saturated fatty acids are named so, because they are “saturated” with hydrogen, meaning they have only single bonds between carbon atoms, leaving no room in their chemical structure for additional hydrogen atoms. Saturated fats are typically solid at room temperature.

Varieties of Saturated fat include: Butter, coconut and palm oils and lard.

Benefits
• aid in balancing the autoimmune system
• treats skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis
• cardiovascular health

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By: Dave Carter

Liposculpture is a term that is growing among expert cosmetic surgeons to describe liposuction that is done with smaller instruments and specialized treatments to not only make the process more efficient, but to also speed the healing process. Think of liposculpture as the next evolution of basic liposuction.

Liposculpture is a way of improving body contour without noticeable scars. Large amounts of fat are removed through a very small skin, usually less than a quarter inch. This is a little rougher than non-invasive cosmetic surgeries, though recovery is still much faster than it used to be. When fat deposits are proving extremely resistant to diet or exercise, liposculpture can help re-shape your silhouette.

The fat cells removed by liposculpture do not come back. The benefits of liposculpture are long lasting, as long as a healthy lifestyle follows, which includes exercise and a proper diet. This is very important because although the removed fat cells don’t come back, an unhealthy life style can produce the old problems all over again. Virtually any part of the body can be treated, from thighs to legs to stomach to sides to back, and it is a very effective treatment, but you still need to take care of business afterwards.

Liposculpture is increasingly popular among men. Everyone wants the image that is imagined with a healthy life style, and liposculpture is especially successful for areas specific to men such as love handles, stomach, chin, and chest, which even exercise and healthy habits may not be able to fix to their satisfaction.

If you choose to have this surgery, there will most likely be soreness and bruising. How long and how heavy this is varies from person to person, but it should resolve itself out within 3 weeks, if not before. There are a few things you can do to help expediate the process, including warm baths and gentle massages. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see results the next day, it actually takes several weeks before you can clearly see the end results of the cosmetic procedure.

This brings the question of is Liposculpture For You? Cosmetic surgery, like any surgery, has its risks. You should always ask a doctor about these before undergoing the procedure. If satisfied with the answers, then maybe this is the right treatment for you. This is especially true if you have good skin tone, but a moderate amount of excess fat. If that’s the case, this way be the way for you.

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