Friday, January 21, 2011

HCG Dinner for tonight! Yummy!

Orange Beef and Broccoli

Ingredients
    3.5 oz very lean steak zest of 1/4-1/2 orange 3 tbsp rice vinegar 3 tbsp liquid aminos 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1 tbsp dehydrated chopped onion 1 tsp sambal oeleck chli paste 3.5 oz broccoli


Directions

Grill steak to slightly less done than desired. Steam broccoli. Mix all other ingredients (except for orange zest) in small bowl. Pre-heat stir fry pan to a medium setting. Add liquid mixture to pan then add zest. Stir over medium heat for 1-2 minutes. Add beef and broccoli, increase heat and stir fry to desired doneness.

Number of Servings: 1

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

HCG phases, tips and recipes!


Brilliant Bodywork
(507) 450-7429

The HCG Weight Loss System

Phase 1- Day One and Day Two
  • Take the hcg according to the bottle.
  • Drink ½ to one gallon of water a day.
  • Eat as much as you want of anything and everything. This is important!

Phase 2- Day Three Onward- This begins the VLCD (very low calorie diet) for the next 3 to 6 weeks.
  • Every morning, after using the toilet, weigh yourself without clothes. Keep a daily record.
  • Take your hcg as directed on the bottle.
  • Make sure to come in for your weekly measurements! Also, before and after pictures of yourself can be quite dramatic.
  • Eat the following:
Breakfast
Tea or coffee in any quantity without sugar. A small amount of dairy is allowed for coffee. Stevia may be used.
Lunch

1.    100 grams (4 oz.) of veal, beef, turkey breast, chicken breast, fresh white fish, seafood (lobster, shrimp,) 2 egg whites, soy “meat” (i.e. crumbles, burgers), tofu. All visible fat removed before cooking. It must be boiled or grilled without additional fat. Salmon, eel, tuna, herring, dried or pickled fish are not allowed.
2.    2 cups of vegetables: Vegetables include leafy greens- spinach, chard, lettuce, kale- tomatoes, celery, fennel, onions, radishes, cucumbers, asparagus, cabbage, sprouts, green beans, zucchini, squash, peppers, peas, broccoli, cauliflower, eggplant, mushrooms, etc... No corn, potatoes or avocados.
3.    One breadstick (grissino) or one Melba toast.
4.    One serving of fruit or berries, approximately 1 cup.
5. Broths, spices, lemon/lime juice, stevia, herbs, apple cider vinegar, Braggs Liquid Aminos, Soy Sauce, Balsamic Vinegar may all be used.
6. No oils, butter, fat, bread (except for above mentioned), pasta, rice, or other grains.
Dinner
The same four choices as lunch (above.)


Before beginning the oral hCG diet, it is recommended that you consult your
physician to be certain you are healthy and ready for this weight loss plan.


Phase 3- Ending the hcg Diet
  • When you finish the hcg drops, either after 3 weeks or 6 weeks, stay on the diet another 2 days, as you will still have hcg in your system
  • After those last 2 days, you can go back to eating a normal amount of calories with the exception of no refined sugars and starches for 6 more weeks- You may add complex carbs for the last 3 weeks.
  • Do NOT lose or gain more than 2 lbs during Phase 3
  • For a gain of 2lbs or more since your lowest weight, do a steak day


Program Duration
You should be on the program a minimum of 23 days (3 weeks) in order to reset the hypothalamus and no longer than 42 days (6 weeks). If you have more weight to lose after being on the program, take the same amount of time you were on the diet, off (3 weeks on/ 3 weeks off OR 6 weeks on/ 6 weeks off). Once you have reached your goal weight, adopt a healthy lifestyle to keep the weight off. We recommend a South Beach style diet (lean meats, variety of vegetables/fruits, healthy fats, nuts, dairy, oils in moderation). Light to moderate exercise is recommended for a healthy lifestyle. This includes strength training, cardio, and stretching. Walking and yoga are examples of good exercise. Please consult with your physician to decide what would be best for you.

Do’s and Don’ts
  • Drink as much tea/water you want. Stevia may be used
  • Absolutely NO oil, butter, dressings of any kind
  • You may use apple cider vinegar, lemon/lime juice and balsamic vinegar for salad dressing.
  • You can eat your 2 servings of fruit anytime throughout the day.
  • Do NOT skip meals
  • Exercise isn’t necessary for the diet to work, but going for a daily 30 minute brisk walk will add to your success

Hunger Pangs
  • Mild hunger will vary from time to time from person to person and will usually last only a few days initially. Most will have no problem at all
  • The hcg promotes the mobilization of fat into body fuel (2000-3000 calories of stored body fat per day) which keeps your blood sugar stable throughout the day
  • If you find yourself getting hungry at the same time each day, eat one of your fruits about 30 minutes before the time you find yourself getting hungry each day
  • Drink more water/tea

Feeling Sluggish, Tired, Headache
This is a sign of detoxing and is common at the beginning of the diet. Most people have found that drinking more water helps and these symptoms go away by day 3 of the VLCD. If you experience these symptoms for more than 3 days, please call.

You Aren’t Losing Weight and/or You Are Constipated
  • Drink more water
  • Do an apple day


Meal Ideas

There are so many meal possibilities! Take your favorite recipes and make them hcg friendly. You will find there much more that you CAN eat than can’t. We were happy to discover we could have falafel, fajitas, a variety of soups, salads. Create your favorite tomato based Italian sauce, add meat and serve over spinach. Cooked ground beef w/ garlic, onions, beans, tomatoes, cilantro, cumin over salad makes a great Mexican Salad. Or substitute chicken breast for a grilled chicken Mexican salad. Grilled hamburgers with sautéed onions and mushrooms are another favorite. Beef, onions, mushrooms, broth, salt, pepper cooked all day in the crock pot makes a wonderful soup. Beef, veggie, spinach lentil (or black bean) soup is another favorite. Throw a bunch of veggies and cabbage strips in a wok with a handful or two of bean sprouts for a delicious stir fry. Flavored Stevia and Seltzer water makes a refreshing drink. Baked apples with cinnamon make a warm, filling dessert. The possibilities are endless!

Recipes

Here are a week’s worth of recipes, along with a shopping list and then some bonus ideas. You are receiving 1 soup, 1 vegetable, 2 fish/seafood, 2 beef , and 2 chickens recipes. These recipes come from the HCG Gourmet Cookbook available at www.milocarter.com/hcg. Each recipe is for 1 serving. These recipes are based on the original Dr. Simeon’s diet protocol and are limited to 1 protein, 1 vegetable, 1 fruit. It is easy to add extra veggies to each recipe. We recommend cooking extra for at least 2 meals. We cook extra for dinner and have leftovers for lunch the next day.

French Onion Soup
Ingredients
2 c. beef broth
1 t Worcestershire sauce
1 T Bragg’s liquid aminos
1T lemon juice
¼- ½ of an onion cut into thin strips
1 clove garlic, minced
Stevia to taste (optional)
Salt/pepper to taste
1 Melba toast crumbled (optional)

Directions
Brown the onions in a little water and emon juice. Add beef broth and spices and simmer for 20-30 minutes. Top with Melba toast crumbles.

Makes 1-2 servings (1vegetable, 1 Melba toast)

Phase 3 modifications: Top with mozzarella or provolone cheese.

*We added flank steak and mushrooms to this, substituted water for beef broth, and cooked it all day in the crock pot to make a Beef Mushroom French Onion Soup.






Roasted Tomato with Onion
Ingredients
4 thin whole slices of onion
4 thick cut tomato slices
1-2 garlic cloves, sliced
2 leaves of fresh basil, rolled and sliced
Sprinkle of dried or fresh oregano
Salt/pepper to taste
Stevia (optional)
Squeeze of lemon juice

Directions
Lay out slices of onion rings intact. Salt and pepper the onion and sprinkle with lemon juice. Lay a few slices of basil and garlic on top of the onion. Top onion slices with a slice of tomato. Top the tomato with remaining basil and garlic. Bake at 375 for 10-15 minutes or until desired level of doneness. Sprinkle with lemon juice and salt and pepper to taste.

Makes 4 servings (1 vegetable)

Baked White Fish with Asparagus

Ingredients
100 grams of white fish (we use Tilipia)
Asparagus
1 serving Melba toast crumbs per serving
½ c vegetable broth or water
2 T caper juice
4 T lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1T onion minced
½ t dried or fresh dill
Pinch of tarragon
Parsley
Salt/pepper to taste



Directions
In a small baking dish, layer the fish and asparagus. Mix vegetable broth with spices and pour over fish and asparagus. Top with Melba toast crumbs and bake at 350 for about 20 minutes. Or until fish and asparagus is cooked thoroughly and crumbs are slightly brown. Top with remaining sauce, fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Makes 1 serving (1 protein, 1 vegetable, 1 Melba toast)







Savory Onion Caramelized *Shrimp

Ingredients
100 grams shrimp
Sliced onion cut into rings
¼ cup water
3 T lemon juice
1 T Bragg’s liquid aminos
Vanilla flavored liquid stevia to taste
Salt/pepper to taste

DirectionsHeat up liquid ingredients on high heat in small frying pan. Add stevia, salt, pepper, onion, and shrimp. Deglaze with a little water several times to create a caramelized sauce.

Makes 1 serving (1 protein, 1 vegetable)

*you can substitute shrimp for beef burgers, or steak


Ground Beef Tacos

Ingredients
100 grams lean ground beef
1 T finely minced onion
1 clove garlic, minced
Dash of garlic powder
Dash of onion powder
Pinch of oregano
Fresh chopped cilantro to taste
Cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to taste (optional)
Salt/pepper to taste
Lettuce leaves

Directions
Brown ground beef. Add onion, garlic, and spices and a little water and simmer gently for 5-10 minutes. Add salt to taste. Serve taco style in butter lettuce or romaine leaf mock taco shells or with a side of tomatoes.

Makes 1 serving (1 protein, 1 vegetable)

Phase 3 modifications; Serve with cheddar cheese, sour cream and guacamole/avocado









Corned Beef with Cabbage

Ingredients

Beef brisket weighted in 100 gram increments
Cabbage
½ cup apple cider vinegar
Onion chopped
1 t powdered mustard
½ t fresh thyme
1 bay leaf
Pinch of allspice
1 t whole black peppercorn
Liquid smoke to taste (optional)
Salt/pepper to taste

Directions
Salt and pepper the beef and lightly dust with mustard. Put meat onion and spices into a crock pot or large pot and cover with water. Add vinegar. Bring t a boil and then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour. Skim the fat from the water as it rises. Ad the cabbage to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 hours until the meat and cabbage are tender. Slice thinly across the grain and serve with horseradish (optional).

Makes multiple servings (1 protein, 1 vegetable)



Chicken Curry

Ingredients
100 grams of chicken, cubed
½ cup chicken broth or water
¼ t curry powder or to taste
Pinch of tumeric
Dash of garlic powder
Dash of onion powder
1 T minced onion
Salt/pepper to taste
Stevia to taste
Cayenne to taste

Directions
Dissolve spices in chicken broth in a small saucepan. Add chopped onion, garlic and chicken. Add Stevia to taste for a more sweet curry. Saute chicken in liquid until fully cooked and liquid is reduced by half. Additional water may be added to achieve desired consistency. Serve hot or cold.

Makes 1 serving (1 protein)




Stuffed Chicken Rolls

Ingredients
100 grams of chicken breast
Spinach
½ c chicken broth or water
1 T chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 T lemon juice
Dash of onion powder
Dash of garlic powder
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Salt/pepper to taste

Directions
Tenderize chicken manually by pounding until flat. Cook spinach lightly with garlic, onion and spices. Strain out excess liquid from the spinach and place mound of spinach in the center of pounded chicken. Roll up the spinach mixture inside the chicken breast. Place rolls in baking dish and add chicken broth to the pan. Bake the rolls in baking dish and add chicken broth to the pan. Bake the rolls at 350 for about 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked completely.

Makes 1 serving (1 protein, 1 vegetable)

Phase 3 modifications: Brush chicken with olive oil, add marinara sauce, and top with mozzarella cheese if desired. Bake until brown and bubbly. Another modification is to mix the spinach mixture with ricotta cheese and/or sliced mushrooms.
























HCG Day 5 Baby!

I feel great! Re-energized if you will and down 5lbs as of today! I have been fairly busy with work and well distracted which is a good thing doing only 500 calories a day. Last night I made turkey burgers and grilled eggplant for dinner and it was wonderful! Never have tried eggplant before but it was a nummy change to the spinach I typically have. Can't wait to see what I weight in at tomorrow!

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Acne Doubles Suicide Risk in Teens

Acne Doubles Suicide Risk in Teens - January 2011

Acne Doubles Suicide Risk in Teens

Arecent study funded by the Norwegian Institute for Public Health found that teens, who have severe acne, are twice as likely to commit suicide as their peers who do not have acne. There is still some question as to whether or not certain acne medications may play a role in the alarming statistic.
Nearly 25 percent of the teens with "very much" acne said they have had thoughts of suicide, compared with 11 percent of the study participants overall.
Copyright© HOLMES WORLD MEDIA, INC. `

Monday, January 17, 2011

HCG Day 3-Bring on the 500 Calories

Today was day three so all gorging aside it was time to get down to business. I had a pretty busy day working at home and at the spa and can honestly say that hunger was not a worry that was on my mind today. I was able to make some tasty white fish with salsa for dinner and enjoyed every last bite but, I never actually felt hungry throughout the day. Tomorrow will be my big weight in. I typically ask my clients to weight in each and everyday and record their weight in their food journal...I guess I want to be pleasantly surprised! I am very pleased with the HCG Fusion drops and the way that they work as a appetite suppressant and how much extra energy I seems to have. Tomorrow I will note my weight loss...Promise!

Treat yourself to affordable monthly pampering with Brilliant Bodywork


Brilliant Bodywork Membership $49.00/Month
You will receive:
One 60 minute Custom Massage or One Bioelements Signature Facial per month
Each additional 60 minute Custom Massage or Bioelements Signature Facial per month for only $40.00
10% discount on all Retail Products
10% discount on all other Spa Services
Free upgrades like aromatherapy and specialty masks
One free ionic foot treatment
 The membership fee will be charged to your credit card on the 1st day of each month.   We are only offering a limited number of memberships….don’t miss out!!

Additional Spa Membership Details
Your contract is a 12 month agreement.
Membership dues of $49 will be charged to your credit card at the beginning of each month.
If you receive any additional services throughout the month, your credit card will be charged $40 per service upon check out.
Schedule your services in advance to ensure that you receive the date, time & service provider you prefer.
Please provide 24 hours notice of cancellation to avoid being charged for your service.
Spa Membership dues do not include gratuities.
Gift memberships may be purchased at anytime. Please ask a front desk associate for details.
Spa membership pricing may not be used in combination with any other promotional offers and are non refundable. Missed appointments cannot be recovered.

Sunday, January 16, 2011

My Journey Through HCG Weight Loss day 2

Many of you who have researched HCG know that days 1 and 2 are by far the easiest. So far today, which is a gorging day I have have McDonald's (gulp), Buzzard Billy's and a great assortment of snacky foods and a couple alcoholic beverages. I am stuffed like a Thanksgiving day turkey and can't wait for tomorrow which will start my VLC (very low calorie) days. I love the HCG Fusion because it gives me an added vitamin boost which I know I am going to need this week with all of the other life changes going on as well. I will keep you posted as I lose my last ten pounds! :D

Saturday, January 15, 2011

Lash Resolutions For 2011

Did you make any New Year’s Resolutions for 2011? How about resolving to take better care of your lashes this year? Check out our top 5 Resolutions for healthier, lovelier lashes and make a commitment today to bat more beautiful lashes from now on!
Image Copyright 2011 Xtreme Lashes Poland. All Rights Reserved.
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1. Resolve to eliminate or seriously limit the use of false strip lashes and lash clusters!
When attached to the skin, the temporary adhesives for these adornments can clog and damage the lash follicles. You’re also likely to pull out some of your natural lashes each time you remove these temporary ones! If adhered to the natural lashes,clustered lashes need to be attached to multiple natural lashes to support their weight which can cause breakage, root damage and pain! If used at all, limit them to rare special occasions!
2. Resolve to toss that metal crimp curler!
Metal lash curlers crimp the lashes by sheer force. This action can break lashes that are weak, dry or coated with mascara. (If you’ve ever seen it happen, you know it’s not pretty – huge sections of lashes gone!) Repeated breakage near the roots can actually cause permanent damage that will stunt future lash growth. Heated curlers or pre-curled eyelash extensions are a healthier route to get your curl on.
3. Resolve to avoid or seriously limit the use of Waterproof Mascaras!
Waterproof mascaras are oil-based, unlike their traditional water-based counterparts. If you wear eyelash extensions, this is an obvious no-no for that fact alone. If you don’t wear eyelash extensions, you should note that oil-based mascara is harder to remove than traditional mascara, bringing the potential for lash damage, skin tugging and leftover product build-up when trying to get rid of it. In addition, frequent use of many waterproof mascaras tends to dry out the natural lashes, making them more brittle and prone to breakage. 
4. Resolve to keep your lashes clean!
Eyelash extension stylists see a ton of lashes up close & personal and they’ll all tell you that many people (especially mascara fans) don’t really get their lashes clean when removing makeup. Leftover makeup and mascara can build up at the base of the lashes and cause bacterial infections and clogged follicles. When cleansing your face be sure to pay extra attention to the lash line and use applicators with tips that can clean around the base of your lashes, not just across your lids. When applying mascaras, avoid the base of the lashes and concentrate on the tips for less build up.
5. Resolve to do your research!
Beautiful, bold lashes are a beauty staple and there are numerous options for enhancing what nature gave you. As industry insiders, we’ve seen the good and the bad. So whether you’re thinking about eyelash extensions, eyelash serums or just looking for a new mascara, our advice is to do your due diligence. Research your options, ask questions and make informed decisions to avoid having your next beauty boost become a beauty blunder!
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Looking to lavish your lashes with some extra love? Ask your Xtreme Lashes Stylist about the new AMPLIF·eye Lash & Brow Fortifier from Xtreme Lashes by Jo Mousselli. Enriched with botanical extracts, AMPLIF·eye nourishes and restores lashes and brows for healthier growth and appearance!

My journey through HCG Weight Loss

They never said it was going to be easy....

But I did it! Two full 43 day rounds of HCG weight loss. Today I started my third round to get the last few pounds off for good. I will be sharing my mini journey through the process of the last 10-15 pounds but to fully understand why I am doing this, you have to understand where I came from. 175lbs on my small 5'3" frame. (See the pictures below.) I was depressed, overweight and unhealthy. I had tried every diet out there only to fail terribly. HCG was my last chance to lose the weight that plagued me and reset my metabolism for good.

Today is day 1 of round three and this round will be a short 14 days. Day one and day two are called loading days. Meaning you can eat and drink whatever you please. This helps to load the fat cells that are to be eliminated by the HCG. So far today it has been a nummy pizza, (which we haven't had since June!) and some wine. So far so good : D I will plan to keep you updated through this last round process and my hope is that I can inspire someone to make the necessary changes needed to change your body, your health and your life. I hope this can be used as a resource and that I can help others on their journey to be happy in their own skin. The pictures below are my post round two pictures where I am down a total of 55 pounds. Just a couple more to go! :D


Friday, January 14, 2011

Glycolic Peel Benefits

There are several glycolic peel benefits for various forms of facial skin imperfections. Read on to know more...
Glycolic Peel Benefits
Glycolic acid peel is a form of chemical peel which is used for skin treatments. Basically, it consists of glycolic acid which is a type of naturally occurring alpha hydroxy acid found in fruits. Glycolic acid is mostly derived from different fruits like sugarcane, sugar beets, unripe grapes, pineapple, etc. The best part of glycolic peel is that it is suitable for all types of skin.

Benefits of Glycolic Peels

Glycolic acid and skin care goes hand in hand. Usually, the old skin cells of your body get replaced with new ones after every 30 - 35 days. However, these dead skin cells tend to get accumulated on the surface of the skin and makes it rough and patchy. When glycolic peel is applied on the skin, it loosens up the bond between the dead cells on the upper layer and the underlying skin. Thus the outer layer is peeled off and a fresh and new underlying skin is revealed. It also promotes collagen production which is a protein component that makes the skin look young and healthy. Some of the key glycolic peel benefits are as follows:
  • You can use glycolic acid for acne control. When you apply glycolic facial peel regularly on your acne prone skin, it exfoliates the dead skin cells. So, the dead skin cells do not get the scope to clog up the skin pores. As a result, you will get fewer acne outbreaks.
  • Glycolic acid peel for acne scars is an equally effective treatment. It covers up the pits and dents on the face caused by old acne outbreaks by promoting growth of new cells. This way the ugly acne scars are faded out.
  • It has a healing effect on sun damaged skin. It strips off the dry and damaged upper layer of the skin. Thus the smooth underlying healthy skin is exposed.
  • It reduces the appearances of skin wrinkles. It promotes regeneration of cells which makes the fine lines of wrinkles less visible.
  • You can include glycolic peel in your regular skin care regime in order to get a glowing healthy looking skin. It strips off dull and rough dead skin cells and leaves behind a soft and smooth skin texture.
  • It can be safely used on various common skin problems like skin pigmentation, age spots, etc. After glycolic acid peeling, you will find that the appearance of these kind of marks have lightened to a great extent and even normal complexion of your skin has been restored.
Each session of this glycolic acid peeling requires 60 minutes. It has to be repeated after a gap of two weeks. To yield maximum glycolic acid peel benefits, you must provide your skin adequate amount of rest and protect it from sun. After treating skin with glycolic peel, you must use a good quality sunscreen of SPF value 25 or more generously on the skin to prevent your skin from sunburn. Moreover, do not scrub your skin with sponge or such abrasive exfoliants after the treatment as it can badly damage the sensitive skin cells.

These are the main glycolic peel benefits. There are no major glycolic acid side effects as it is a mild form of chemical peel. However, if highly concentrated form of this acid is applied on the skin or it is allowed to stay on the skin surface for a long time, then it can have a damaging effect on the skin. In general, chemical peel side effects are mostly found in those people who have past medical history of fever blisters, cold sores or keloid. In such cases, you must consult a dermatologist before using the peel. It is not suitable for pregnant women or lactating mothers. Call Brilliant Bodywork today for a free consultation or to schedule your glycolic treatment.

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Keep your skin younger looking with Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion

spa services blue water spa Long IslandYounger looking skin іѕ аn asset wһісһ everybody wаntѕ tο һаνе. Tһеrе аrе plenty οf treatments аחԁ techniques being market today. AƖƖ offering tһе best solution tο уουr skin problems. Hοwеνеr, wһісһ οf tһеѕе treatments ѕһουƖԁ wе ɡеt? Now, tһеrе іѕ one solution wһісһ offers аח easier way tο achieve a younger looking аחԁ healthier skin. Tһіѕ treatment іѕ called tһе Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion. Tһіѕ treatment саח аחԁ wіƖƖ resolve many skin challenges  wһісһ mοѕt οf υѕ аrе experiencing. Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion іѕ tһе mοѕt recent advancement іח crystal-free skin resurfacing.

OƖԁ microdermabrasion techniques worked bу blasting tіחу crystals аt tһе skin’s surface wһісһ leads tο discomfort аחԁ irritation. Microdermabrasion wіtһ Diamond Tip technology helps tο diminish tһе appearance οf sun ԁаmаɡеԁ skin, fine lines аחԁ wrinkles through tһе υѕе οf diamond-embedded hand piece tips, thus allowing optimal results wіtһ minimal discomfort. Exfoliating tһе skin іѕ designed tο ɡеt rid οf skin’s dead cells οח tһе superficial layer.
Microdermabrasion іѕ a qυісk process wһісһ саח remove skin’s dead cells. Furthermore, іt promotes חеw skin cell growth wһісһ іѕ very beneficial. Tһіѕ means уου wіƖƖ һаνе a skin tһаt іѕ younger looking, healthier,  аחԁ wіtһ fаѕtеr skin cell reproduction. Microdermabrasion іѕ a process wһісһ improves various skin challenges.  Tһеѕе skin challenges includes tһе following: • Fine skin lines • Blemishes • Scarring • Stretch mаrkѕ • Age spots • Sun ԁаmаɡе • Acne Keep уουr skin younger looking аחԁ healthy. Try tһе Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion now. Schedule уουr consultation today ѕο уου саח determine іf Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion іѕ tһе rіɡһt treatment fοr уου.

Younger looking skin іѕ аח asset wһісһ everybody wаחtѕ tο һаνе. Tһеrе аrе plenty οf treatments аחԁ techniques being market today. AƖƖ offering tһе best solution tο уουr skin problems. Hοwеνеr, wһісһ οf tһеѕе treatments ѕһουƖԁ wе ɡеt? Now, tһеrе іѕ one solution wһісһ offers аח easier way tο achieve a younger looking аחԁ healthier skin. Tһіѕ treatment іѕ called tһе Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion. Tһіѕ treatment саח аחԁ wіƖƖ resolve many skin challenges  wһісһ mοѕt οf υѕ аrе experiencing.

Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion іѕ tһе mοѕt recent advancement іח crystal-free skin resurfacing. OƖԁ microdermabrasion techniques worked bу blasting tіחу crystals аt tһе skin’s surface wһісһ leads tο discomfort аחԁ irritation. Microdermabrasion wіtһ Diamond Tip technology helps tο diminish tһе appearance οf sun ԁаmаɡеԁ skin, fine lines аחԁ wrinkles through tһе υѕе οf diamond-embedded handpiece tips, thus allowing optimal results wіtһ minimal discomfort.

Exfoliating tһе skin іѕ designed tο ɡеt rid οf skin’s dead cells οח tһе superficial layer.  Microdermabrasion іѕ a qυісk process wһісһ саח remove skin’s dead cells. Furthermore, іt promotes חеw skin cell growth wһісһ іѕ very beneficial. Tһіѕ means уου wіƖƖ һаνе a skin tһаt іѕ younger looking, healthier,  аחԁ wіtһ fаѕtеr skin cell reproduction. Ask your Aesthetician to see your treatment filter if you would like to see exactly what was pulled off and out of your skin. (See photo below)



Microdermabrasion іѕ a process wһісһ improves various skin challenges.  Tһеѕе skin challenges includes tһе following:

• Fine skin lines

• Blemishes

• Scarring

• Stretch mаrkѕ

• Age spots

• Sun ԁаmаɡе

• Acne

Keep уουr skin younger looking аחԁ healthy. Try tһе Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion now. Schedule уουr consultation today ѕο уου саח determine іf Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion іѕ tһе rіɡһt treatment fοr уου. 507-450-7429

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

The Benefits Of Massage

What exactly are the benefits of receiving massage or bodywork treatments? Useful for all of the conditions listed below and more, massage can:
  • Alleviate low-back pain and improve range of motion.
  • Assist with shorter, easier labor for expectant mothers and shorten maternity hospital stays.
  • Ease medication dependence.
  • Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow—the body’s natural defense system.
  • Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles.
  • Help athletes of any level prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts.
  • Improve the condition of the body’s largest organ—the skin.
  • Increase joint flexibility.
  • Lessen depression and anxiety.
  • Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks.
  • Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation.
  • Reduce postsurgery adhesions and swelling.
  • Reduce spasms and cramping.
  • Relax and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles.
  • Release endorphins—amino acids that work as the body’s natural painkiller.
  • Relieve migraine pain.
A Powerful Ally
There’s no denying the power of bodywork. Regardless of the adjectives we assign to it (pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic) or the reasons we seek it out (a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management), massage therapy can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen.

Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure altogether in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress. This translates into:
  • Decreased anxiety.
  • Enhanced sleep quality.
  • Greater energy.
  • Improved concentration.
  • Increased circulation.
  • Reduced fatigue.
Furthermore, clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.

Profound Effects
In response to massage, specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout the body, with profound effects. Research shows that with massage:
  • Arthritis sufferers note fewer aches and less stiffness and pain.
  • Asthmatic children show better pulmonary function and increased peak air flow.
  • Burn injury patients report reduced pain, itching, and anxiety.
  • High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety, and stress hormones.
  • Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased water retention and cramping.
  • Preterm infants have improved weight gain.
Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch—which range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles. Consequently, the medical community is actively embracing bodywork, and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat postsurgery or pain patients as part of the recovery process.

Increase the Benefits with Frequent Visits
Getting a massage can do you a world of good. And getting massage frequently can do even more. This is the beauty of bodywork. Taking part in this form of regularly scheduled self-care can play a huge part in how healthy you’ll be and how youthful you’ll remain with each passing year. Budgeting time and money for bodywork at consistent intervals is truly an investment in your health. And remember: just because massage feels like a pampering treat doesn’t mean it is any less therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and wellness plan, and work with your practitioner to establish a treatment schedule that best meets your needs.

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

The many benefits of Infrared saunas

(NaturalNews) Saunas have been used around the world since ancient times. The basic aim of a sauna is to heat the body several degrees. The body then attempts to lower its temperature by driving blood to the skin surface and sweating. Dry saunas like those used in Scandinavian countries heat the air and the body. Some ill people who could greatly benefit from the sauna cannot tolerate this level or form of heat. However, infra red saunas emit light which only heats the body and not the air. This is much more comfortable and anyone can enjoy the benefits of this sort of sauna.

Infra red is light energy emitted from the sun. It is the light which can warm you when you step out in the sun on a clear crisp winter`s day. Infra red frequencies are very long wavelengths and can penetrate deeper into the body than simple dry saunas or infrared lamps.

Far infra red saunas can be built in wooden shacks like normal dry saunas. They can also be bought or rented as home portable ones. It is also possible to rent "domes," which only heat specific parts of the body with far infra red light.

There are numerous well-performed scientific studies showing the benefit of far infra red sauna. Some of the ways it works and benefits are described below:

What are the benefits of Infra Red Sauna Therapy?

*Saunas dramatically improve circulation and improve internal congestion.
*Heating the body can also help destroy bacteria and viruses.
*Sweating promotes the elimination of heavy metals, radioactive particles and other toxins.
*The skins ability to eliminate poisons increases.
*Saunas offer many of the benefits of exercise without the exertion.
*They inhibit the sympathetic flight and fight nervous system activity as sweating is a parasympathetic "rest and digest" response.
*Sauna therapy improves body oxygenation through increasing blood flow to lungs and skin so blood picks up more oxygen. It also increases pulse and total stroke volume so more blood is pumped around the body which clears internal congestion that may be blocking oxygen uptake.
*Saunas relax muscles and enhance flexibility of tendons and ligaments.
*Helps balance body pH levels.
*The heat hastens the death of weaker cells of the body such as those damaged by radiation, fungi, parasites, toxins and viruses.
*May stimulate production of "heat shock proteins" which have an extra healing power on cells.
*Normalizes enzymatic activity if the body temperature is low. Enzymes have to work with a certain temperature range - low body temperature can inhibit these.
*Promotes deep tissue heating and healing.
*Activates water molecules in the body, making internal water reserves more healing.
*Can reduce pain of all kinds due to improved circulation, oxygenation, removal of toxins and inhibition of sympathetic nervous system activity.

What is it beneficial for?
*It is great for anyone with toxins due to PCBs, PBBs, pesticides, heavy metals such as mercury, lead, aluminum, cadmium, arsenic, nickel and most other foreign toxic chemical build up.
*Viral infections
*Multiple Chemical Sensitivity
*Low blood pressure
*High blood pressure
*Muscle, joint and nerve pain of any kind
*Low body temperature and cold hands and feet
*Over active sympathetic "flight and flight" nervous system
*Chronic fatigue syndrome

Monday, January 10, 2011

5 Ways Eyelash Extensions Ease Wedding Stress For Brides

Say Eye Do
Say Eye Do
If you’re getting ready to say “I do” to your man, we’ve got some news to share on why you might want to think about “Saying Eye Do™” to the addition of eyelash extensions. Eyelash extensions offer a bevy of benefits for any bride-to-be and it’s tough to narrow the list.
We asked Xtreme Lashes President Jo Mousselli to give us her perspective, as a professional woman with an always full schedule, on the top 5 reasons eyelash extensions are indispensible additions for busy brides:
 1 – Save Time (Pre-wedding):
Wedding preparation is hectic! There’s so much to accomplish and there never seems to be enough time for the bride to get to everything. Eyelash extensions are a great time saver! Brides can skip the morning makeup routine and make it to all their errands that much faster all while still looking fabulous!
2 – Save Face (Pre-wedding):
Stress and lack of sleep plague many a bride-to-be during the weeks leading up to the wedding. Eyelash extensions can create a well-rested, wide-eyed appearance and help disguise any signs of stress or sleep deprivation that often show on the face.
3 – Stay Fresh (Day of):
The actual wedding day is typically quite long for brides. Preparations begin early in the morning and celebrations last late into the night. With eyelash extensions, brides are photo-ready throughout the entire day with no need to stop for cosmetic touch-ups!
4 – Stay Flawless (Day of):
There’s nothing worse than a beautiful bride sporting raccoon circles of mascara around her eyes. Since just about every bride tears up at her wedding, eyelash extensions are the ideal solution to prevent any mascara mishaps!
5 – Set Sail (Post-wedding):
Starting out a wedding in eyelash extensions extends into the honeymoon. For brides planning any post-wedding trips, eyelash extensions are the perfect travel companion. New wives can enjoy all the extracurricular activities at their exotic destination of choice with no fuss & no muss and still look absolutely fabulous!

Vegetarians and the HCG Diet

The HCG diet was developed by British Endocrinologist Dr. A.T.W. Simeon in the 1950s. Today the diet is enjoying a revival in popularity and despite the controversy of the effectiveness of HCG, dieters are continually having success and reporting steady loss of weight and re-sculpting of their bodies as a result of the abnormal fat loss.

The diet does, however, present some challenges for some, especially vegetarians when presented with the different protein foods approved in the diet. It’s hard to find alternatives to meat. The diet is not vegetarian-friendly but there ARE options, and the diet CAN be successfully done by vegetarians.
For those vegetarians that eat dairy products, Dr. Simeon recommends taking 500cc. of skim milk each day. Vegetarians who eat eggs may substitute 1 whole egg with the whites of three additional eggs served boiled or poached. They could also eat 1/2 cup of non-fat cottage cheese or non-fat plain yogurt as long as there is no added sugar.
Due to a high starch content, typical vegetable proteins such as beans, rice, nuts or wheat is not recommended. But if you are ok with soy products, soymilk might be an acceptable option to skim milk (cow milk), but again you would have to find a brand that is sugar-free.
Some vegetarians eat seafood, and things like shrimp, crab, lobster, prawns, crawfish or whitefish can be substituted for the chicken or beef called for in the traditional protocol. This will affect overall weight loss, however, and strict vegetarians should expect to lose about 1/2 the normal weight loss of non-vegetarians who are eating chicken and beef on the diet.
To keep your body healthy while on the diet, taking an additional vitamin/mineral supplement is recommended. You body’s supply of nutrients need to be replenished each day, and you shouldn’t rely solely on the foods you eat to give you the full spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals that build your blood and bones, and keep your body at peak performance, especially when your caloric intake is limited to 500 calories per day.
Whether you are vegetarian or not, drinking ample supply of fluids is critical. Dr. Simeons’ program calls for all the coffee or tea you want but with no added sugar. However, you can use Stevia or Truvia (available in most grocery stores) in place of sugar, but no other artificial sweeteners are recommended. You are allowed to have the juice of one full lemon or lime each day, so you might squeeze some of it into your tea in the morning and then some of it into your water for drinking throughout the rest of the day.
If you are a strict vegetarian, the HCG diet might be a little more challenging to navigate, but not impossible, and if you’re flexible about the proteins you eat, you will most likely find better results.

Get healthy now with Brilliant Bodywork and HCG Fusion!

Sunday, January 9, 2011

No fail Mascara

don't know about all of you but I have gone through my fair share of mascaras in my life and had all been given up hope in finding my lashes true love. I finally have found a brand that I will be loyal to for life!

With Blinc products you will never have to worry about finding the perfect brand of cosmetics again. I am in love with their mascara!!!! Just in love. As Lady Gaga might say, with my last mascara’s I have been in a “BAD ROMANCE” but say goodbye to hard, crusty, clumpy lashes and say hello to luxurious, long, curled lashes. I am sooo in love with their mascara, it really brings out the beauty in your eyes, even when you thought there was no hope. Their mascara is not only long lasting but it enriches your lashes to look beautiful and healthy by lengthening and curling them into a natural classy look. Their mascara’s are their more known products, but don't think the greatness stops there…Nope…They have a new amazing Phase 1 eye primer for your eyes. This primer will prime your eyes better than any ” too faced” or “urban decay” primer would. After applying the eye primer, just simply wait a couple of seconds for it to dry and then apply your eyeshadow and the colors will POP like if your standing under a ray of light. It is AMAZING!!! I never thought I would find such great products in one product line all combined. Aside from that I also tried their grey eyeliner and it is so classy and chic. I love the way it glides on and stays on for long lasting beautiful eyes. It enhances your natural eye color and really brings more life to your makeup. I am telling you, I have been on the hunt for a long time for the perfect mascara and eyeliner and I can honestly tell you I will be purchasing any and all eyeliner colors they have. Definitely worth the buy. Have you girls ever tried the regular eye lash curlers and just hated them? I know I have, I hate how they pull on my lid and never really curl my lashes, just kind of rip them off my eyelids. Well, I discovered something that will work for any eye shape of lashes, a heated lash curler and their is no pain involved. I love it, I tried it today for the first time and fell in love with the product. It is battery operated and it projects heat onto your lashes while curling them to a natural, sexy, sleek look. It really is worth the buy and I recommend all my beauty addicts to try it, you won’t regret the purchase and of course because they are my personal favorites, they are available at Brilliant Bodywork!