Nuala Woulfe's Articles

Healthy Herbs

Nuala Woulfe — Tue, 08 May 2012 11:15:40 +0000

Herbs help us to digest foods – over the weekend we hear that turmeric may actually help cure Bowel cancer – Turmeric (Curcuma longa) has been used for 4,000 years to treat a variety of conditions. Studies show that turmeric may help fight infections and some cancers, reduce inflammation, and treat digestive problems; - further research is required to confirm if this is true

According to Raju our resident Dr of Naturopathic medicine” In his native India where spices tend to be used by the handful, incidence of diet-related diseases like heart disease and cancer have long been low. But when Indians move away and adopt more Westernised eating patterns, their rates of those diseases rise. While researchers usually blame the meatier, fattier nature of Western diets, Raju and other experts believe that herbs and spices—or more precisely, the lack of them- are also an important piece of the dietary puzzle. “When Indians eat more Westernised foods, they’re getting much fewer spices than their traditional diet contains,” he explains. “They lose the protection those spices are offering.”

These are a few examples of herbs you should include in your diet;-

Turmeric

Pairs well with: Garlic; citrus; ingredients in curry powder, such as coriander & cumin.

May help: Quell inflammation, inhibit tumours.

In India, turmeric paste is applied to wounds to speed healing; people sip turmeric tea to relieve colds and respiratory problems. Modern medicine confirms some solid-gold health benefits as well; most are associated with curcumin, a compound in turmeric that has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin has been shown to help relieve pain of arthritis, injuries and dental procedures; it’s also being studied for its potential in managing heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. Researcher Bharat Aggarwal is adamant of curcumin’s potential as a cancer treatment, particularly in colon, prostate and breast cancers; preliminary studies have found that curcumin can inhibit tumour cell growth and suppress enzymes that activate carcinogens.

Sage

Pairs well with: Squashes; parsley; rosemary; thyme; walnuts

May help: Preserve memory, soothe sore throats.

Today’s herbalists recommend sipping sage tea for upset stomachs and sore throats; one study found that spraying sore throats with a sage solution gave effective pain relief. And whoever gave the herb the wisdom-connoting “sage” may have been onto something: preliminary research suggests the herb may improve some symptoms of early Alzheimer’s disease by preventing a key enzyme from destroying acetylcholine, a brain chemical involved in memory and learning. In another study, college students who took sage extract in capsule form performed significantly better on memory tests, and their moods improved.

Rosemary

Pairs well with: Potatoes; citrus; honey; garlic; onions; chile peppers

May help: Enhance mental focus, fight food born bacteria.

In ancient Greece, scholars wore rosemary garlands to help them study—and one recent study found that people performed better on memory and alertness tests when mists of aromatic rosemary oil were piped into their study cubicles. Rosemary is often used in marinades for meats and poultry, and there’s scientific wisdom behind that tradition: rosmarinic acid and other antioxidant compounds in the herb fight bacteria and prevent meat from spoiling, and may even make cooked meats healthier. In March, Kansas State University researchers reported that adding rosemary extracts to ground beef helped prevent the formation of heterocyclic amines (HCAs)—cancer-causing compounds produced when meats are grilled, broiled or fried.

Chile Pepper

Pairs well with: Ginger; chocolate; beans; beef

May help: Boost metabolism.

Chiles, which create sensations of heat, from mild to fiery, are especially prized in hot climates since, ironically, the spice helps trigger the body’s natural cooling systems. Studies show that capsaicin—a pungent compound in hot chiles—revs up the body’s metabolism and may boost fat burning, but the jury is still out on whether that translates to long-term weight loss. Recent research found that capsinoids, similar but gentler chemicals found in milder chile hybrids, have the same effects—so even tamer sweet paprika packs a healthy punch. Capsaicin may also lower risk of ulcers by boosting the ability of stomach cells to resist infection by ulcer-causing bacteria and help the heart by keeping “bad” LDL cholesterol from turning into a more lethal, artery-clogging form.

Ginger

Pairs well with: Soy sauce; citrus; chile peppers; garlic

May help: Soothe an upset stomach, fight arthritis pain.

Traditionally used to relieve colds and stomach troubles, ginger is rich in inflammation-fighting compounds, such as gingerols, which some experts believe may hold promise in fighting some cancers and reducing arthritis pain. In a recent study, people who took ginger capsules daily for 11 days reported 25 % less muscle pain when they performed exercises designed to strain their muscles (compared with a similar group taking placebo capsules). Another study found that ginger extract injections helped relieve osteoarthritis pain of the knee. And ginger’s reputation as a stomach soother seems deserved: studies show ginger extracts can help reduce nausea caused by morning sickness or following surgery or chemotherapy, though it’s less effective for motion sickness.

Cinnamon

Pairs well with: Cloves; nutmeg; allspice; chocolate; fruit; nuts

May help: Stabilise blood sugar.

Cinnamon was prized by King Solomon and used by the ancient Greeks and Romans to boost appetite and relieve indigestion. A few studies suggest that adding cinnamon to food—up to a teaspoon a day, usually given in capsule form—might help people with type 2 diabetes better control their blood sugar, by lowering post-meal blood-sugar spikes. Other studies suggest the effects are limited at best.

Saffron

Pairs well with: Shellfish, rice, tomatoes, garlic, onion

May help: Boost your mood, relieve symptoms of PMS

Saffron has long been used in traditional Persian medicine as a mood lifter, usually steeped into a medicinal tea or used to prepare rice. Research from Iran’s Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital at Tehran University of Medical Sciences has found that saffron may help to relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and depression. In one study, 75% of women with PMS who were given saffron capsules daily reported that their PMS symptoms (such as mood swings and depression) declined by at least half, compared with only 8 % of women who didn’t take saffron.

Parsley

Pairs well with: lemon zest, mint, garlic, capers, fish, beef

May help: Prevent cancer

University of Missouri scientists found that this herb can actually inhibit breast cancer-cell growth. In the study, animals that were given apigenin, a naturally occurring plant flavone / compound abundant in parsley (and in celery), boosted their resistance to developing cancerous tumours. Experts recommend adding a couple pinches of minced fresh parsley to your dishes daily.

Allergies are Nothing to Sneeze At!

Nuala Woulfe — Tue, 08 May 2012 11:10:39 +0000

It's no coincidence that with the introduction of modern agriculture along came allergies. Not only are many people allergic to the synthetic chemicals used in farming today, but many believe that these are the root to the shocking number of food aversions found in western society. Today people suffer unpleasant reactions when exposed to certain foods ranging from hives and eczema to serious illness-but it doesn't have to be that way.

Allergies are a hypersensitive reaction in a person to an exposure that does not affect most people. While some might be born with a genetic predisposition to specific allergies, most will develop them in childhood after exposure to certain irritants. When it comes to food items, there are a number that consistently become toxic to allergy suffers, and Mátyás, the organic farmer behind the Éminence farms and other experts around the world, believe that pesticides are the reason why. Studies have shown that applying pesticides to plants forces them to produce enzymes and antibodies to survive. These antibodies are produced in abundance to fight the toxins found in chemicals, and are then absorbed by your body when you eat the produce or apply it to your skin, causing a physical reaction.

Some people develop a reaction after being exposed to a certain pesticide, a process known as sensitisation, which can result in side effects that can include asthma, or skin, eye and nose irritation. Quite often, what one might think is an allergy to a specific fruit is actually a reaction to the pesticide sprayed on the skin or rind. They can also exacerbate already existing allergies, causing an increase in the severity of the reaction.

By choosing organic food and skin care, we avoid the interference of these hasardous pesticides. Additionally, ingredients grown in their natural state offer more nutrients, vitamins and health benefits than their sprayed counterparts. If people knew then what they now know about second hand smoke, would they smoke around their children? By choosing organics, we chose health-and isn't that what matters most?

Nasal Dryness

Nasal dryness can develop due to dry weather and dry conditions in buildings. It occurs during winter, for instance, when the outside air is low in humidity and the inside air is made even drier by heat from furnaces and wood stoves. Nasal dryness also can occur with a broader group of symptoms defined as rhinitis, or inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Other symptoms of this condition include congestion, runny nose, and postnasal drip, coughing and sneezing.

Saline Solution vs. Sesame Oil

The authors of the 2001 study, which was published in the "Archives of Otolaryngology," compared the effectiveness of saline and pure sesame oil for relieving nasal dryness. The saline solution was an isotonic sodium chloride solution, which has the same salt concentration as normal body cells do. The outdoor environment was a low-humidity winter climate in Sweden. Pure sesame oil proved significantly better at relieving nasal dryness than the saline solution. Sesame oil also had better results at improving nasal congestion.

Tip from Dr Rajvinder our resident Ayurveda Doctor;” Before leaving your home every day apply a little organic sesame oil around the inside of each nostril”

The Path to Wellness Involves Ayurveda

Nuala Woulfe — Tue, 08 May 2012 11:06:46 +0000

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian holistic medical system which originated 51,000 years ago for de-stressing and rejuvenating your mind and body, balancing your energies and generally enhancing your health and beauty. It is also used successfully for pain relief example, lower back pain, muscular aches, etc., also weight loss through the healing properties of massage.

Naturopathy, or naturopathic medicine, is a system of medicine based on the healing power of nature. Naturopathy is a holistic system, meaning that of these doctors (N.D.s) or naturopathic medical doctors (N.M.D.s) strive to find the cause of disease by understanding the body, mind, and spirit of the person. Most naturopathic doctors use a variety of therapies and techniques (such as nutrition, behaviour change, herbal medicine, homeopathy, and acupuncture).There are 2 areas of focus; one is supporting the body's own healing abilities, and the other is empowering people to make lifestyle changes necessary for the best possible health. While treating both short bouts of illness and chronic conditions, emphasis is on preventing disease and educating patients.

At Serenity Day Spa we have a fully qualified ayurvedic doctor Rajvinder and fully qualified naturopathetic doctor Raju, both are from India.

Raju is multi-skilled practitioner of natural medicine. His qualifications include a Bachelor of Health science, and Diploma in Ayurveda.

At Serenity Day Spa we have a fully-qualified Ayurveda doctor (Rajvinder) and a fully qualified Naturopathic Doctor (Raju) both from India, where Ayurveda originated some five thousand years ago.Dr Rajvinder Kaur has a six year degree in Ayurveda from the “Kurukshetra” Ayurvedic College and also has a diploma in Naturopathy.Rajvender is an experienced massage therapist and wellness adviser.She is a skilled Ayurvedic Doctor who offers a variety of Ayurveda health therapies.

Dr Raju is an experienced Naturopathic Doctor and Yoga Therapist who also holds a diploma in Ayurveda therapies. He has completed 4 ½ years of University education in Naturopathy and Yogic sciences from University of Health Sciences in Hyderabad, India plus 1yr internship in The Nature Hospital, Begumpet, Hyderabad. Naturopathy medicine is complimentary to Western medicine.

During his time at Serenity Spa Dr Raju has proven his ability as an expert wellness advisor.

The goal of the Ayurveda Detox is to assess the body’s toxin, enzyme and free radical levels, thoroughly cleansing the circulatory and digestive systems, and develop a long-term plan for maximum health of mind, body and soul. Using some of the following therapies;

Lymphatic drainage massage: An extremely pleasant therapeutic massage that stimulates the circulatory system

Abhyanga Massage with an emphasis on pressure points (marma) to invigorate the body, to tone and relieve general muscular aches and to stimulate the circulation. An energising yet relaxing all-round treatment which creates a feeling of greater relaxation and well-being.

Detoxifying balneotherapy: A versatile hydrotherapy treatment applied using a computerized hydro-massage tub with the added benefits of an ambient temperature, and micro-blasted seaweed and/or customised aromatic oils or toning salts.

Udvartana- A short oil massage, followed by a de-toxing and exfoliating herbal powder massage for weight loss and associated issues, such as cellulite, lymphatic drainage and breaking up the fatty tissues under the skin.

Sukha Abhyanga- full body massage with a lighter touch, especially suitable for the elderly, for pre and post natal and those with body/skin sensitivity, to de-stress the mind, aid restful sleep, nourish the skin and enhance complete relaxation.

Well-being Consultation - With the Ayurvedic Doctor, which involves Ayurvedic pulse and tongue assessments, to evaluate your state of health and understand your unique body constitution. She will then design a tailor made treatment program aimed at maintaining or restoring health. Recommendations will include advice on diet, lifestyle, Yoga, herbal remedies and massage therapies according to your body type and health objective.

Recipe for May: Roasted Cod, Tomatoes, Orange and Onions

Nuala Woulfe — Tue, 08 May 2012 10:56:27 +0000

Serves 4.

Active Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 1/2 hours

Ingredients

1 pound ripe but firm small round or plum tomatoes, cut into 1/2-inch-thick wedges

2 medium yellow onions, cut into 1/4-inch-thick wedges

1 tablespoon finely slivered orange zest . See below for tips

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves, plus sprigs for garnish

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided

Freshly ground pepper, to taste

1 pound boneless, skinless cod (see Tips) or other thick-cut, firm-fleshed fish, cut into 4 equal portions

Preparation

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Combine tomatoes, onions, orange zest, oil and chopped thyme in a 3-quart glass or ceramic baking dish. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper; stir to combine.

Roast, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden and brown on the edges, about 45 minutes. Remove from the oven. Increase oven temperature to 450°F.

Push the vegetables aside, add fish and season with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper; spoon the vegetables over the fish.

Return the baking dish to the oven and bake until the fish is opaque in the center, about 10 to 12 minutes. To serve, divide the fish and vegetables among 4 plates and garnish with thyme sprigs.

Tips & Notes

Tip: Using a vegetable peeler, remove 3 or 4 pieces of zest from a large orange. Stack the pieces on top of each other and slice into 1/8-inch-wide strips.

Nutrition

Per serving: 160 calories; 5 g fat ( 1 g fat , 3 g mono ); 43 mg cholesterol; 11 g carbohydrates; 0 g added sugars; 20 g protein; 2 g fiber; 308 mg sodium; 528 mg potassium.

Nutrition Bonus: Vitamin C (60% daily value), Vitamin A (16% dv), Potassium (15% dv).

Endermology and Cleansing

Nuala Woulfe — Tue, 08 May 2012 10:52:41 +0000

Endermology is an FDA approved treatment for cellulite. Using a machine, this treatment gives your body a deep tissue massage using rollers to stimulate circulation and remove toxins.

Cleansing your body using a colon cleanse program or bodywork has the same goal – to rid the body of toxins or waste. If you have excess weight or cellulite, you have excess waste.

Endermology or Cellulite massage is a natural addition to your colon and body cleansing regimen.

Cellulite is the clumping together of fat cells which block circulation, promoting the storage of toxins in these areas. This storage causes more circulation problems and larger fat cells as they accumulate more toxins. It is a vicious cycle caused by poor diet, hormone imbalances, weight gain and heredity.

Endermology manipulates the underlying tissues to break up these accumulations. The deep massage action brings fresh blood to the areas, which in turn bring more oxygen and nutrients to the affected areas.

This massage also aids the cleansing process by increasing blood and lymph flow. This in turn drains your body of excess water, fats and toxins. This is also the goal during a colon or total body cleanse. However, this type of treatment will be more localised so you can manipulate your cleanse to focus on your problem areas.

Endermology is similar to deep massage treatments, the blood is forced to come to the problem area and circulate as the fat cells were forcing out toxins. The colour of the skin is improved as a result of healthy circulation plus more blood to an area means more nutrients are being brought in as more toxins are able to leave. The extra nutrition helps the skin layers heal themselves over time. A toxin leaving means the fat cells are able to shrink back to a healthier size.

Regular treatments of this type of massage create a wonderful cycle of nutrients in, toxins out, and health.

Client Review

Deirdre D. 06/03/2012

Diet and exercise alone has never worked for my thighs besides some toning. I never got the smoothness and the colour I did with Endermologie The cellulite on my thighs had diminished, which was incredible since I have had it since I was 16 years old and not even overweight at that time. And a side-effect that I did not know was possible.... My legs went from pasty white to a nice, light golden colour. I am a believer that we have to be persistent with our health, so going for regular treatment is now part of my routine. To begin I was advised to do 3 sessions per week now I do one session every 3 weeks and I am very pleased with the results. So yes I would recommend Endermology.

Health Through Ayurveda

Nuala Woulfe — Tue, 08 May 2012 08:50:52 +0000

One of the greatest ways to become healthier and more successful is to use the Ayurvedic Diet to become aware of how to eat your meals.

Eating shouldn’t just be regarded as a meaningless act, but rather as a way in which you enrich your mind, body and spirit.

Think about it for a moment; what is the greatest source of nutrition and energy and life you give yourself besides breathing.

How and what you eat plays a vital role in the development of your body and mind on an ongoing basis.

Here are some of the most important tips on how to eat your meals.

Drink a little warm water before or during meals to aid digestion. Avoid icy or cold drinks before or with meals because it will cool the digestive fire (Agni) and inhibit proper digestion of food. If you are drinking a full glass of water give yourself ½ hour before and after meals. Too much water during your meals dilutes your digestive enzymes.

Cook your meals and eat them warm or hot. Although some raw foods can be taken such as fruit for breakfast and some raw vegetables such as cucumber or avocado with lunch & dinner, the Ayurveda diet promotes cooked foods for better digestion & absorption.

Eat the right amount of food portions. Most people have the habit of eating more food than they really need. Try enough a serving food in a bowl the size of your hands.

The important thing is to eat only until you are two thirds full. Keep your stomach one third empty to allows energy and space for proper digestion. Note: If you are not feeling full after this strategy wait 5 to 15 minutes to allow your brain to process the food you have eaten.

Eat your main and heaviest meal at lunch time. This is when your digestive fire is the greatest. Eat a light breakfast and even a lighter dinner for optimal digestion and health.

Chew your food well. It seems easy and simple but this can be challenging for a lot of people. Eat consciously with full awareness. Pay attention to every bite and mouthful.

Don’t try to stuff too much food in your mouth and chew your food 15-20 times for pre-digestion before it enters the stomach. Both the large and small intestines have difficulty digesting large chunks of food.

Eat slowly. Start by taking a minute or so to observe and smell your food.

Eat without distractions. Refrain from eating while on the computer, watching TV or reading. Don’t eat while you are standing, driving or having an excited conversation.

These prevent from as eating less slower, chewing your food well and eating less. Focusing on your food while you are eating, without distractions also helps your mind & body assimilate the nutrients.

Eat your meals at about the same time every day. In Ayurveda regularity is important for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It is extremely important to eat on an empty stomach, so give yourself a few hours eating meals and wait until your last meal has been digested regardless of your next scheduled meal.

Prepare, cook and eat your food with the right Ayurveda herbs & spices. There are a wide variety of herbs and spices which you can incorporate to make your food not only tasty but healthier. Use good quality herbs.

Experiment with these make sure to use the right ones for your dosha type

Try some of these as an experiment to see what kind of results you are getting and how you feel before, during and after your meals.

For further advice I recommend that you either book a consultation or a treatment with Dr Rajvinder or Indian trained Ayurvedic Doctor in Serenity Day Spa 012300255.

Hair Mask for Hair Loss and Hair Growth

Nuala Woulfe — Tue, 08 May 2012 08:44:40 +0000

It is now widely accepted that the main culprit in the hair loss of 95% of the time is a hormone called DTH which causes the hair follicle shaft to decrease. Applying olive oil to hair prevents the production of DTH hormones on the scalp, thus getting rid of the problem of hair loss.

Olive oil nourishes, conditions, and improves the strength and elasticity of your hair. Honey smooths the cuticle so the hair feels soft and looks shiny. Eggs promote healthy hair because of their high sulphur content and wide array of vitamins and minerals. The properties of egg create a needed impact on your dull and dry hair. It helps the hair to recreate itself.

Try this Olive Oil hair mask for soft and shiny hair.

Ingredients you need to make this mask:

2 eggs

1 tbsp. Honey

2 tbsp. Virgin Olive Oil

Mix two whole eggs with two tablespoons of olive oil. Add the honey and mix further. Smooth through hair. Cover your hair with a plastic bag and leave for one hour. Rinse well with warm water and then shampoo as usual.

If you do not want to use eggs apply mixture of

1/2 cup honey and

1/4 cup olive oil

Apply this mask at least once a week and you will always have beautiful and healthy hair!

Monounsaturated fats and antioxidants in olive oil make it ideal for hair as these substances moisturise and nourish your hair.

Pumpkin Seed Oil has also been demonstrated to inhibit DHT formation through the inhibitory effect on 5-alpha-reductase activity. Inhibition of DHT formation is also known to be beneficial for hair growth if you are experiencing age-related hair loss. Pumpkin seed oil breaks down dht via the liver.

Detox Tips

Nuala Woulfe — Tue, 08 May 2012 08:32:20 +0000

At the start of each day drink a glass of warm water with a little freshly squeezed lemon juice. It’s a great way to start the day and this will help to make your system more alkaline as we are more acidic on waking in the morning.

Make a point of chewing your food thoroughly.

Sip hot water prior to meals and make a point of drinking 2- 3 litres of mineral water per day.

Be aware of portion sizes, it’s better to eat smaller meals more frequently.

Exercise gently every day.

Avoid sugar.

Eat lots of fresh coloured vegetables.

Soak in an Epsom salts bath daily

Go and have a good lymph drainage massage with a skilled massage Therapist.

Eat lightly one day per week. Drink lots on that day.

Try to be in bed – asleep before 10.30pm.

Include antioxidants in your diet

What are Antioxidants?

Antioxidants are substances that may protect cells from the damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals. Antioxidants help to neutralise these potentially harmful but naturally occurring by-products.

Unchecked free radicals can cause cell damage. Over time such damage can lead to disease. This is where antioxidants come in because they play a role of mopping up free radicals before they can cause harm. Antioxidants include vitamins A; C & E which can be taken in supplements but better still are found in a variety of fruit and vegetables .

Add raisins, sultanas, fresh dates, figs, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, garlic and ginger to your diet.

To get the maximum benefits you need to eat different types of fruit and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables all contain different combinations of fibre, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. So aim to include a variety of fruit and vegetables in your daily diet to get the most benefit. Also include herbs such as fennel, basil, celery, parsley.

Also you may need to include some of the following;

Psyllium seed is a lubricating mucilaginous fibre used as a gentle bulking and laxative agent. The mucilage in the seeds expands eight to fourteen times the size of the original seeds. This can also create a feeling of fullness, decreasing one's desire to overeat. Psyllium fibre works as a broom, sweeping the gastrointestinal tract of toxins. Be sure to drink lots of water when using psyllium as a cleansing agent!

Licorice root is known as "the great harmoniser" in Chinese medicine. It is mildly laxative, nutritive, and considered a rejuvenative. It soothes irritated mucus membranes and nourishes the adrenal glands. Using small amounts of licorice helps to instil a feeling of calmness.

Alfalfa is a natural diuretic and laxative. It is an excellent source of fibre and provides natural chlorophyll, which has deodorizing properties, helping to sweeten the breath and freshen body odours.

Oat straw is highly nutritive, rejuvenative, and calming to the nervous system, even helping in exhaustion and depression. Oat straw helps provide minerals to nourish bones, skin, hair, and nails.

Pumpkin seed helps the body expel parasites and is also highly nutritive, containing beneficial linolenic acid.

Passionflower leaf is best known for its calming effect on the nervous system. It helps to calm stress and slows the breakdown of neurotransmitters. It also helps to calm an irritable bowel.

Marshmallow root is an alternative, demulcent, diuretic, mild laxative, nutritive, and rejuvenative. Its high mucilaginous content soothes an irritated digestive tract and provides moisture to dry tissues.

Slippery elm bark is an excellent antiflammatory agent. It is a demulcent, laxative, and nutritive and promotes tissue healing, thus soothing irritated tissues of the gastrointestinal tract. It is one of the most digestible substances known.

Capsicum also known as cayenne pepper is an alternative, antioxidant, antiseptic, and circulatory stimulant. It is rich in vitamin C and helps improve metabolism, thus contributing to weight loss.

Milk thistle seed is commonly used to improve liver function by stimulating protein synthesis. It also is a hepatoprotective (liver protector) agent. Milk thistle is considered a natural antioxidant, helping to detoxify a wide range of potentially damaging contaminants, including drugs, alcohol, and a wide variety of chemicals.

Remember fruit and vegetables are naturally not only high in fibre, vitamins and minerals (antioxidants) but the result in including them in daily diet means you not only look good on the outside but you can rest assured you'll be good on the inside too. These are all important for your health not only now, but for the future too.

Book a 30 min consultation with Dr Raju or Dr Rajvinder if you require further advice on detox.

Remember to seek medical advice before doing a detox if you have a medical condition that requires management.

Water is so Important to your Health

Nuala Woulfe — Thu, 03 May 2012 11:31:04 +0000

Water is the basis of all life and that includes your body. Your muscles that move your body are 75% water; your bloods that transport nutrients is 82% water; your lungs that provide your oxygen are 90% water; your brain that is the control centre of your body is 76% water; even your bones are 25% water.

Every day you lose water through your breath, perspiration, urine and bowel movements. For your body to function properly, you must replenish its water supply by consuming beverages and foods that contain water.

So how much fluid does the average, healthy adult living in a temperate climate need? The Institute of Medicine determined that an adequate intake (AI) for men is roughly 3 litres (about 13 cups) of total beverages a day. The AI for women is 2.2 litres (about 9 cups) of total beverages a day.

Lack of water can lead to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don't have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions. Even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired.

Skin is intricately tied to the overall health of your body. When your body is properly hydrated, you'll look better and feel better.

Adequate water rewards you with...

Enhanced health

Increased energy

Bright, clear eyes

A radiant complexion

In addition, bloating and puffiness often disappear. How does this liquid work its magic? Behind the scenes, water...

Carries nutrients to every cell in your body

Flushes out nasty toxins

Improves circulation and blood flow

Lubricates your joints

How do you know if you're consuming enough water?

Is your thirst quenched?

Is your urine clear or pale yellow?

Do you feel good?

Five Habits to Ensure Healthy Skin

Nuala Woulfe — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 11:58:07 +0000

Protection Protection & more Protection!

Use a Broad Spectrum Sunscreen and try to stay in the shade between the hours and 11 and 2 when the sun is at its strongest.

Don’t Worry, Be Happy!

People who believe they look good have a strong self of esteem are freed from anxiety and enjoy high energy levels. Stress and anxiety cause accelerated free radical activity, and restricted blood and oxygen flow to the cells. Try multi-beneficial activities like yoga and walking.

Where there is a smoker there will be wrinkles.

Around your mouth is a real tell-tale area of ageing. One of the biggest causes of these wrinkles is smoking. It robs the skin of oxygen and the precious Vitamin C which means that you are doubling the rate at which your skin ages.

Sleep Well!

Sleep is the foundation of wellbeing. When you sleep a human growth hormone is released which refreshes your body and regenerate cells. The positions you sleep in determine wrinkle patterns. If you favour one side then you may end up more pleated on that side. Special pillows can be purchased to help with this issue but a good Vitamin A moisturiser should also help to repair some of the damaged cells.

Eat Well!

Food really helps to wage war against skin ageing. A two pronged attack against wrinkles. Creams you use will do the surface work, but what good is surface work without the foundations. Your diet will tackle the task from within. Eating the correct foods helps to give the skin the nutrients it needs so try and eat lots of anti-oxidant rich foods such as broccoli, berries, brightly coloured foods and dark leaved greens! Did you know that the skin is the last place the benefit from the nutrients you take in through your diet? Your body naturally takes the nutrients to your vital organs, blood and other more important parts of your body. Taking an Omega 3 Supplement and a Multivitamin will help to boost your intake leaving enough left over to keep your skin looking fresh.