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Everyone knows that “junk food” is bad for us. Many of us know that “processed food” is bad for us. But what really is the difference? Why do many health-conscious consumers shun potato chips but enjoy granola bars in abundance? Why do many health-conscious consumers refuse to buy soda for their child but purchase fortified “juice” beverages regularly?
Processed food is food that has been heavily manufactured in order to be shelf-stable. Processed food rarely resembles anything from nature. Processed food fills the inner aisles of the grocery store; things like cereal, crackers, breads, bottled beverages, granola bars, and other snack foods. There is no question that these foods are not part of a healthy diet. When a food undergoes so much manufacturing, it becomes nutritionally devoid. An enormous amount of preservatives and other artificial ingredients are added to these foods to keep them “fresh.” In addition, a great deal of sugar and salt is often added to make these “foods” taste better. The healthiest foods are the ones closest to their natural state. Our bodies are not designed to consume these man-made concoctions that America has come to accept as food. When we eat shrink-wrapped, boxed, bagged creations, we will not reach optimal health and weight. Calories are irrelevant here; the food you eat is a lot more complex than calories. [For more on this, read my post, Confessions of an Ex-Calorie Counter.]
There is rarely any dispute over junk food. The general consensus is that foods like twinkies, potato chips, and soda are not good for us. This is true, however, there are many foods just like these that the average family would consider a healthy addition to their pantry. Unfortunately, a great deal of marketing fools most consumers into believing items like granola bars or fortified cereals are a beacon of health, while in reality, they are much like twinkies in disguise. [See my posts The Truth About Granola Bars and The Truth About Vitamin Water for more specific info on this.]
While these healthy substitutes may be certified organic and may not contain harmful ingredients like high fructose corn syrup or trans fat, they are certainly not the foundation of a healthy diet. Nearly all these foods are very high in sugar and are heavily processed. While I recommend them over their more unnatural counterparts, I really don’t recommend them at all. A long ingredient list is always worth avoiding.
But perhaps the worst offender is functional or fortified foods. These are standard, processed foods that have certain vitamins or nutrients added to increase their marketability. There is always a new nutrient in the spotlight with incredible health claims and promises. Things like vitamin C, fiber, antioxidants, omega 3s, and probiotics are just some of the current health buzzwords. Food companies know that consumers are becoming increasingly interested in health, so they fortify their processed, cheap, junk food with these substances. These are healthy substances when found occurring naturally in whole foods. However, supplementing a nutrient-devoid, sugar-laden, chemically-ridden cracker with a certain nutrient won’t make it healthy.
Be a smart consumer. When considering your health, don’t be enticed by health claims and packaging. Stick to foods that resemble something that may be found in nature and the nutrition will take care of itself.
Eat your vegetables,
Emily
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Salon City, Inc. an emerging media company, lifestyle brand and publisher of its flagship publication Salon City magazine, announced that its new print publication, Beauty Entertainment magazine, will make the scheduled national debut of its premiere issue beginning next week on August 21st.
“The response to Beauty Entertainment magazine (called BE! for short), is as positive as we’ve ever seen,” said Steven Casciola, Salon City’s President and CEO. “We’re off to an positive start in terms of garnering broad industry interest among many new companies.”
Advertising space for the premiere issue sold out within two weeks, following the announcement of the publication’s launch plans at a recent Las Vegas trade conference. The companies buying ads actually did so “sight unseen” – due primarily to their excitement over management’s decision to have BE!’s design reflect other mega-fast-selling magazines like People, Us Weekly, OK!, Life&Style, etc. that use a colorful entertainment format, look and feel. BE! is now added to that list of magazines with a noticeable point of difference being that BE! is focused on salon people and beauty entertainment. Management says BE!’s already creating a buzz among beauty pros as the industry’s new “Salon People” magazine.
Casciola commented on the response for the magazine’s marketing support programs, “We’re seeing beauty distributors showing interest in our retail branding option which is designed to align independent salons to our own licensed national distribution and retail network. Salons are eligible to be rated and can remain in their cities HOT 100 Salons in America as they continue to generate news and participate in our media communications, retail program, network and goals.
The company’s 2009-10 media plan announces that it is again making a strategic move to focus on salon distribution channels as well as consumer retail newsstands and selling direct. Casciola says the multi-channel distribution strategy is being well received; “To date, our approach has met with unanimous approval.”
The company says with new professional/consumer publications, value-added incentives, crossover media campaigns and aggressive introductory pricing, it’s beginning to feel the traction of success. “We see signs that something good is taking shape and about to happen,” says Casciola. “Bottom line, we have the industry’s attention. They like what they see, and they’re coming on board.”
ABOUT SALON CITY, INC.
Salon City, Inc., is an emerging publicly traded media company, lifestyle brand and independent marketing network for products, distribution and services. Salon City was the first to brand the genre, ‘Beauty Entertainment.’ It publishes its flagship consumer publication, Salon City magazine, Beauty Entertainment magazine, Beautymaker Net News, and produces the award-winning web show, Hollywood CeleBeauty, online media, licensed events and awards shows.
ABOUT THE HOT 100 SALONS IN AMERICA
The Salon City HOT 100 Salons in America is an exclusive brand of Salon City and consists of the most popular and media-savvy independent salons in the USA. Selections are made from an overall group of nearly 250,000 salons in the USA.
Certain information contained in these materials is “forward-looking” information, such as projections, estimates, or statements of intentions, expectations or plans. Results may differ materially from the results contemplated in such forward-looking information. For more information visit Salon City.
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Natural doesn’t always mean safe when it comes to herbal supplements, according to the August issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter.
When used properly, many herbal supplements may be safe and possibly beneficial to health. However, a few supplements can cause life-threatening problems or dangerous interactions with medications.
Mayo Clinic Health Letter covers some of the known interactions between herbal supplements and medications:
St. John’s wort: This supplement can greatly increase or decrease the potency of many medications and cause serious side effects. Patients who take antidepressants, anti-blood-clotting drugs, certain asthma drugs, immune-suppressing medications or steroids should probably avoid St. John’s wort.
S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e): This can cause serious side effects when taken with antidepressant medications that affect serotonin.
Garlic, ginseng, ginger and feverfew: Patients who take anti-clotting medications such as aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin) and clopidogrel (Plavix) should avoid these supplements. They may increase the risk of bleeding. Supplements chondroitin and glucosamine also may interfere with warfarin.
Ginkgo: Ginkgo may increase the risk of bleeding in patients taking anti-clotting medications. Ginkgo can counteract the blood pressure-lowering benefits of thiazide diuretic drugs. It also can interfere with anti-seizure medications.
Kava: Kava is a sedative herb and is associated with serious liver problems, even when taken for a short time. Many medications, such as cholesterol-lowering drugs, pose a risk of liver damage. Taking kava may increase the risk of liver problems even more.
It’s always best to keep health care providers informed about supplement use, especially when starting a new medication or preparing for a medical procedure. Some supplements need to be discontinued two to three weeks before certain surgical procedures, because they affect blood clotting, response to sedation and blood pressure control.
Here’s the Rub: Relief Available for Groin Rashes
ROCHESTER, Minn. — Medical help can soothe irritating — and perhaps embarrassing — rashes in the groin area. Seeking advice or treatment from a care provider at the first sign of a groin rash or irritation can bring relief. The August issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter covers common groin rashes and treatment approaches.
Intertrigo (in-tur-TRI go): This is one of the more common rashes and occurs when two warm, moist surfaces rub against each other. The chafing traps moisture and results in red, itchy sore skin due to tiny breaks in the skin’s surface. This allows for bacterial and fungal growth, such as candida (yeast). Typically, intertrigo is reddish-brown and may ooze and crust over.
Most often intertrigo won’t clear up without treatment. A nonprescription zinc oxide or antifungal powder can help, along with keeping the skin dry. If that’s not effective, a doctor might recommend antifungal or antibacterial creams, oral antibiotics, or diluted vinegar soaks to help kill germs causing the infections. Mild hydrocortisone cream may reduce inflammation.
Erythrasma (er-uh-THRAZ-muh): This bacterial infection can occur along with intertrigo or independently. Affected areas have a reddish color and may be mildly itchy. The antibiotic erythromycin might be useful.
Eczema (dermatitis): Flare-ups of these red to brownish-gray patches are very uncomfortable. Tiny raised bumps may leak fluid and crust over when scratched. Home care includes avoiding harsh, irritating soaps and applying nonprescription anti-itch cream. When these measures aren’t effective, a care provider may prescribe corticosteroid creams or ointments. Oral antihistamines also may help.
Inverse psoriasis: This form of psoriasis shows up as smooth, red patches of skin. It’s aggravated by friction and sweating and is more common in people who are overweight. Typical treatments include topical corticosteroids or topical inflammatory medications called calcineurin inhibitors. Examples are tacrolimus (Protopic) or pimecrolimus (Elidel).
Jock itch (tinea cruris): This itchy, red and often ring-shaped rash causes a burning sensation. It typically appears in the warm, moist areas of the inner thighs, buttocks and genitals. The cause is dermatophytes (fungi) and, in many cases, the condition will respond to nonprescription antifungal ointments, lotions, powders or sprays. Severe outbreaks may require prescription antifungal topical or oral medications.
Folliculitis: This is an itchy rash made of small, white-headed pimples around hair follicles. It’s caused when hair follicles are damaged due to excess sweating or friction with clothes. Sometimes, folliculitis clears up in two to three days. If it spreads or recurs, prescription antibiotic or antifungal medications may be needed.
Ways to Stop Pain, Limitations from Hand Arthritis
ROCHESTER, Minn. — When arthritis affects the hands, a range of treatments may reduce pain and preserve joint mobility. The August issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter provides an overview.
Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative arthritis, is related to aging. In the hands, it occurs when the stress of everyday motions or an injury wears down the smooth cartilage surfaces required for pain-free movement. The result can be swollen, tender finger joints and pain, which limit activity. Treatment options include:
Topical anti-inflammatory drugs: Of particular value for relief is the prescription gel diclofenac (Voltaren). It’s rubbed on the skin around the affected joints. Because the medication is applied directly to the affected location, side-effects are of less concern than with oral medications.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS): Nonprescription aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), naproxen (Aleve, others) or prescription-strength medications may help reduce inflammation, swelling and pain. Ongoing use can cause ulcers, stomach bleeding and other side-effects.
Splints: Splints reduce pain two ways — by supporting the joint in an optimal position for function or by providing a stable resting position, which allows for better function when the splint is removed.
Corticosteroid injections: These injections provide short-term pain relief but generally aren’t given in the same spot more than once or twice a year.
When conservative measures don’t control pain, surgery can be performed to fuse or replace joints.
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Health is the new wealth this November as top beauty and lifestyle experts stage a nationwide event to put their professional expertise in the hands of eager women everywhere! For less than $50 and two hours of your time, The Beauty Workout Holiday Boot Camp will teach you the skills to go from drab to glam in 30 days.
“Throughout November, licensed experts from leading spas and resorts will give you the tools to reach your full outer beauty potential while nurturing your inner beauty,” said healthy skin lifestyle expert Celeste Hilling. Hilling is also the CEO of Skin Authority, the organizer of the Boot Camp. “Best of all, the Boot Camp is not a one-shot deal. After our team of professionals runs you through the circuits; we’ll send you home with not only a personalized healthy lifestyle plan, but also the ongoing support you need at home to continue to receive results.”
“What could be better than preparing for the holidays and 2010 with one-on-one coaching from the nation’s leading beauty professionals?” said Spa Magazine Publisher Michelle Gamble. Spa is an official sponsor of the Boot Camp. “The Beauty Workout Holiday Boot Camp events are being held simultaneously across the country at top spa and resort locations with a focus on your health and well-being. The Boot Camp is a gift that you will absolutely want to give to yourself this holiday season!”
Held from Nov. 1-30 in leading spas from Key West to San Diego, the Beauty Workout Holiday Boot Camp includes education, treatments, products and healthy cuisine that will have you holiday ready in 30 days. The Boot Camp “circuits” include:
- Beauty Regimen - interactive treatment demonstrations, tips and professional secrets
- Skin Health - take home a skin care product prescribed for your needs
- Well-Being - spa cuisine and healthy drinks with recipe cards to try at home
- Lifestyle - interactive demonstrations and techniques for stress reduction and relaxation
In addition to the one-on-one training and education offered during the Boot Camp, for an econo-chic $45, guests will also leave with a one-year subscription and current issue of Spa, a $25 retail certificate redeemable at the event for Skin Authority products, entry into a drawing to win a spa trip for two, take-home Beauty Workout package and a personal skin care coach.
Ready to take the challenge? The list of spas may be found on www.skinauthority.com/holiday-boot-camp. To make a reservation, please call 1.866.325.SKIN, option 4. Even if you can’t attend, you may still enter to win a spa trip by calling Skin Authority or going online.
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Stops hair loss. Makes hair more beautiful than ever before. Smart Organic Products utitlize the amazing power of Apple Polyphenols combined with the extremely rare Rooibos, to bring you a hair loss miracle.
Smart is an organic product that is proven to stop hair loss and re-grow hair. Independent, blind, double blind and placebo controlled studies have proven that Smart stops hair loss and re grows hair in over 91.2% of its users.
Apple Polyphenols
An apple a day, keeps the doctor away. But an apple a day also keeps DHT and Hair loss away and helps nourish the scalps and hair follicles to grow strong healthy new hair.
Independent scientific studies conducted in Japan have found concrete medical evidence that Apple Polyphenols (extracted from the apple fruit) increase hair growth by over 300%.
Rooibos (Red tea)
Rooibos is a Rare and Exotic African red tea which contains 37 unique antioxidant substances and is rich in minerals, calcium and potassium.
Green Tea
According to a leading American research firm, Green Tea’s amazing antioxidant properties are tested and proven to stops hair loss. The tests conclude when Green Tea is applied directly to the scalp, it acts as an Anti-inflammatory agent that stops hair loss in both men and women at an overwhelming rate of 97%.
Scientifically tested and proven to work in just 2 Weeks. Is it true, can it really be this easy to have a shiny, beautiful, full head of hair? Find out for yourself how Ordinary People across the country have noticed a dramatic change in their appearance! For more information please visit Smart Organic.
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Just in time for returning collegians a researcher has discovered a new cure for their acne … Botox.
“We found (Botox) cleared up the complexions of college-aged students,” says Dr. Anil Shah M.D http://www.shahfacialplastics.com/. The Chicago plastic surgeon has just published the only study ever done showing injecting Botox into the skin lowers its oil production.
Dr. Shah says, “Treated patients had less oily skin, smaller pores, and a dramatic reduction in (pimples) and blackheads. Our subjects reported far fewer breakouts.” The plastic surgeon is one of the only doctors in the world injecting Botox directly into the skin (as opposed to the muscles).
The medication eliminated the main cause of acne: the production of too much oil, or sebum, into the skin’s pores. That sebum is produced by a patient’s overactive sebaceous glands. Pimples occur when bacteria seeking sebum for food, invade the pore and cause it to become inflamed. The plastic surgeon says Botox decreases sebum keeping those bacteria at bay.
Dr. Shah has successfully treated over 100 patients. Many patients once devastated by their acne have gone a year or more without a breakout. But the plastic surgeon cautions the treatment isn’t for everyone. “In teen-agers acne breakouts will usually subside on their own anyway. That’s why I only treat patients of college age or older,” he says. “Their hormonal changes are likely permanent. Most patients should opt for conventional therapies first like topical antibiotics, proper skin cleansers, etc. But when those measures don’t work, Botox for their acne is often the treatment they need.”
The most common previous treatment for refractory acne, Accutane, decreased oil production but produced side effects like liver damage, bleeding in the mouth, birth defects, and even suicide. Laser treatments never reach the skin’s deep sebaceous glands and, thus, don’t decrease their oil production.
While injecting Botox in the face is safe, it’s rare largely because it’s technically difficult. The muscle paralyzer has to be injected directly into a layer of skin just 1/25th of an inch thick. Go too deep and the physician can weaken the facial muscles and alter a patient’s expressions. “I’ve never seen that,” says Dr. Shah, “but the margin of error is small. Experience counts.”
“Our study shows the thousands of college students dreading school because of their large pores, shiny faces and acne breakouts can finally get some help. And best of all Botox works within weeks, just in time for the first day of class.”
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I used to spend $1.99 for each package of Nori rolls, containing two, thin rolls. Delicious–but I figured I could make them myself.
Oh, yes.
Easy, delicious snack food….I’ve “used” them in the face of extreme sweet tooth moments and they deliver the chewy, filling satisfaction that I ultimately crave.
I don’t love seaweed. I would never eat it by itself. However, as a wrap with hidden flavors bursting from inside, it’s more than tolerable. It’s really good. The lemon is everything in this salty, sour snack.
To make these, I looked at the ingredients on the wrapper and ascertained how much of each to use. Feel free to toy with it yourself, but here is how I did it:
Healthy Nori Rolls
several sheets of Nori
2-4 sun dried tomatoes (I used the dry kind, so I don’t know how the sun dried tomatoes soaking in oil would work…probably fine…)
1/2 C. sunflower seeds
1/4 C. sesame seeds
1/2 lemon
1 Tablespoon nutritional yeast
sea salt
I chopped up the sun dried tomatoes after leaving them out all day. (If you use them directly out of the package, they are extremely hard and difficult to cut) I cut them into tiny pieces and set aside. In a food processor I ground up both seeds and added them to the bowl of sun dried tomatoes. Then I added the nutritional yeast and squeezed fresh lemon juice to make the mixture stick together somewhat. Sprinkle a little sea salt to your liking.
I then used the lemon juice to wet the Nori sheets (or lightly dampen with water…but don’t soak the Nori sheets or it will all curl up) and I put the seed mixture at one end of the damp sheet and rolled it up tightly.
Seal the end of the sheet with a damp finger to stick the Nori together.
I refrigerated these and ate them for the next few days. They are good and filling. There’s nothing I love more than a super healthy, delicious snack.
Enjoy!
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