Four Fundamental Ingredients for an Antiaging Diet

The following are just the basic elements of a healthy anti aging diet that will keep your bodies healthy and your skin younger-looking:

1. Water - Our bodies are made up of water anywhere between 55% to 80%. If the level of hydration falls below normal we may become dehydrated. This is why we are advised by physicians to drink at least 8 glasses of water (or equivalent fluids like juice or milk) daily: 3 in the morning at breakfast, 2 during lunch, 2 in the evening and one before going to bed.

Maintaining the normal level of hydration in your body will keep your skin moisturized, cleanse your system from toxins and encourage regeneration of cells.

2. Fruits and Vegetables - My great-grandmother reached the age of 99 years before dying in her sleep. She was a small, wiry woman whose mind remained alert and active, kept all of her teeth and didn't suffer from a bent back.

What made her live so long and kept her mind and body strong was her simple diet of vegetables, water and some exercise. She stopped eating meat in her later years and opted to drink water instead of juices and milk, which made her tummy ache either from the acid or the lactose.

3. Mental and Physical Exercise - There's a principle among health nuts that a healthy body keeps a healthy mind, and vice versa. My great-grandmother proved this to be true. She also liked to walk around the house or enjoy some fresh air outside on the terrace. This activity kept her in touch with her environment and the people who saw her and talked with her also made her happy.

Maintaining a positive outlook and keeping your spirits up will greatly help in making you look younger and your body function better. You will be able to adapt well to changes in your health and your appearance.

4. Antioxidants - These group of nutrients deserve a separate discussion. They may be found in the food we eat, especially in fruits. However, because of the advancements in science, we are able to extract these valuable nutrients and capsulize them.

Antioxidants have been found to fight aging well by cleansing our bodies from the toxins that we are exposed to everyday. They help us cope with stress well and encourage cellular growth more.

Rich sources of antioxidants include lemons, oranges, and grapes, and beverages such as green or white tea and green coffee beans. They are also found in tomatoes and cucumber. Also some use herbal extracts such as witch hazel and rosemary to provide supporting anti aging effects on skin.

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Four Basic Antiaging SKin Care Products To Keep

Organic means natural, untainted by chemicals and kept as much as nature would allow in its rawest form. However, when it comes to skin care products, organic ones may be rare.

First of all, they do not produce instantaneous results unlike their synthetic sisters. They take time because they have to be absorbed well in large amounts by the body, and they have to be used over a longer period of time.

The good news is they won't likely cause clogged pores or skin cancer. They will once in a while cause some allergy, but then many of us have developed reactions from foods and stuff we use even when they're made from organic ingredients.

Here are some tips on the basic anti aging skin care products a girl must have in her beauty kit:

1. Moisturizer - Our bodies are mostly made up of water. Our skin expends moisture more frequently and in greater amounts than any organ in our body. That is why we must rehydrate our skin by using moisturizers. Make sure you use a moisturizing lotion or, if your prefer, body oil to seal in some of that water inside.

2. Cleansers - There are many skin cleansers to choose from, but select wisely based on your skin type and the sensitivity of your skin. Oily skin needs astringents and oil-reducing facial scrub to get rid of extra sebum, and a follow up use of facial toners to decrease pore size. Sensitive skin must use mild cleansers with milk to avoid skin irritation and maintain the pH balance of skin.

3. Anti Aging Skin Care Products - Delaying time's effects on one's skin is next to improbable but not impossible. There are many highly advanced products in the market now such as Philosophy skin care products that promise younger looking skin in a matter of weeks of use. Be warned, however, that what these products offer is a small reprieve. Time and nature will have their way and we will still look old no matter what we do. Just be careful in choosing the brands you use. There are many untrustworthy brands out there that can hurt your skin more than help you.

4. Diet, vitamins, herbs and exercise - These last group are more reliable when it comes to maintaining a healthier and younger looking appearance. Taking care of our bodies and making sure we follow our doctor's advice will greatly help in preventing detoxifying our systems from the day-to-day stressors we are exposed to. Our environments, the foods we eat and our lifestyle can have negative effects on our health, which in turn will encourage faster aging.

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Missing cigs and alcohol binges

A friend of mine invited me to go out last night for some drinking and partying, but I said no. I'm still young at thirty but I'm concerned the alcohol and the lack of sleep will take a toll on my skin. Too much alcohol in one's system can dry up the skin and encourage early production of wrinkles.

I do feel thirsty for some beer now and then. I don't think it's addiction yet. I mean I don't party hard like La Lohan or Britney who have to place themselves under addiction treatment in some high class private drug treatment center or a drug rehab hidden somewhere in Malibu.

I'm still in control of my wits. Unlike so many young stars who are into that kind of lifestyle, including the iconic Paris Hilton, who have to be treated in a private drug rehab facility for some addiction or another.

These celebrities wouldn't have bothered entering a drug treatment center if they weren't caught Driving Under Influence by the cops. The bad publicity alone got them where they needed to be: in drug rehab.

Crashing a million dollar car is nothing compared to becoming a negative role model for teens today. Using drugs and alcohol is never a great way to live. Smoking and liquor are alright as long as they are moderately inhaled and imbibed. I'm not a prude, you know.

I have to be a hypocrite if I say I don't miss a nicotine boost, caffeine kick, or some booze now and then. These substances keep me sane in an insanely crowded world. But when you get to the mature age of thirty you start thinking of your health and what you'd look like ten years from today. I wanna look good even when I'm pushing fifty or so. Hey, I'm vain. So sue me.

And if I do get treated for an addiction, I wanna be in a private drug rehab facility like this one in Malibu. I found some cool pics on their "accommodations". Would you look at that? Really cool, huh?

I'd like to be served this much food in this kind of style. Hmmm! Scrumptious! I love good food. I'm far from fat but I love to eat. And I'm a bit picky in my choice of mouth-watering dishes.

But I don't think the bulimics and anorexics would have the same sentiments as I do. I used to have the suspicion I was bordering on bulimia a while ago. I experienced decrease of appetite and lack of will to eat even when I do feel hunger pangs. It's just I don't want to eat. That's all. But I'm glad my appetite got back. I think it was just a period of emotional eating that got me. I was depressed that time.

And here are the beds! My oh my! The rooms are totally five-star! I'd feel like I'm a princess in these. Who would feel they're undergoing addiction treatment for being wasted? I'd be sleeping deeply and smoothly like a babe in those soft pillows. The only problem I'd encounter will probably be what dress I'm going to wear for the day. Or whether I can go swimming down the beach or at the pool. Nice, eh?

All photos are from Cliffside Malibu. Copyright 2008

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Why use mineral makeup?

Mineral makeup is all the rage since late last year. It's only gaining momentum early this year. And now it doesn't seem to end its run. Mineral makeup has proven itself very beneficial and the best natural skin care product you'll ever use.

Mineral make-up is non-comedogenic, which means it does not block the pores of the skin but instead allows the skin to breathe. This makes it the perfect cosmetics to use for sensitive skin, or for people who suffer from skin problems. Applying makeup on acne can aggravate the condition instead of helping it, but with mineral makeup, using cosmetics for acne-prone skin is easy and comfortable.

Mineral makeup has a much lighter, almost weightless quality. Many users have reported that wearing mineral makeup felt like wearing no makeup at all. Mineral makeup also leaves the skin with a very natural radiant glow.

For those suffering from oily skin, mineral makeup can provide an excellent solution. The usual chemical-based cosmetics contain oils or oil-producing ingredients. These oils can cause skin problems, especially in those with oily skin. These can be avoided by using mineral-based makeup, since no oils or oil-inducing ingredients are used in manufacturing them.

For older users with mature skin, mineral makeup is well-suited for hiding the skin’s wrinkles, crow's feet and fine lines because it reflects sunlight, resulting in a very healthy and glowing appearance. The top brands of mineral makeup need only be applied once a day and are found to be water resistant. Also, unlike traditional cosmetics, you can even go to sleep with mineral makeup on, so you can apply it before going to bed if you know you will be rushed for time the following day.

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Using Natural Mineral Makeup to Enhance Natural Beauty

As is implied by the name, natural mineral makeup is made up of mineral elements. Natural minerals are finely milled, powdered and made pure in form before they are used in mineral makeup products. Each product is created by mixing minerals with other inorganic pigments to create a wider color palette. These products are made up of microscopic flat crystals that overlap each other on the skin to offer a layer that protects the skin from pollutants and allows it to breathe. Mineral makeup is ideal for people with problematic skin and fines lines as it offers a long lasting effect and lightweight feel. A word of caution, use mineral makeup in small quantities only, too much will only make you look overdone.

Bare Mineral Makeup
Loose mineral cosmetics are bare cosmetics. Such products do not have preservatives, oils or waxes in them. Bare mineral makeup powders can be used to cover up imperfections and accentuate your good features.

Mineral Makeup Advantages
The skin is exposed to pollutants everyday, we need to look after our skin and nothing is better than using natural makeup. Mineral makeup is preferred the world over because of the following reasons:

• It allows the pores to breathe.


• It provides comfort from irritated skin.


• UVB (Ultra Violet Type B) and UVA (Ultra Violet Type A) protection up to SPF 20 available.


• Is water resistant.


• Does not contain talc or fillers.


• Is composed of materials that do not support bacteria.


• Is sensitivity tested.


• Is environment friendly, and not tested on animals.


• Are available in shades to match every skin tone.


• Provides maximum coverage that looks and feels natural.

Natural Mineral Products
There are many mineral products available in the market which cover every aspect of makeup. A few of them are listed below, with tips for application.

1. Blush/Bronzers
Used to add a natural glow to your complexion, these products are hypoallergenic and long lasting. As they are in a concentrated form they should be applied in small amounts only. This product can be used on the lips and nails as well to give you a perfectly matched look!

How to apply
Blushers and bronzers can be applied using soft cotton, powder brushes with natural bristles or a fan brush.

2. Eye shadow
Made without additives, dyes, waxes or fillers, these products are each handcrafted. They go with each other perfectly creating natural, bright and beautiful effects. Mix them to create a color of your choice!This product can be applied dry or wet, so go ahead and use it the way you like.

How to apply
You can use an eye shadow brush made of natural bristles.

3. Foundation
The foundation is made of pure minerals and pigments. It does not clog pores and is non drying. This mineral product provides full coverage and sunscreen too. Skin imperfections like under eye circles are perfectly covered using the foundation.

How to apply
Use a soft powder brush to apply foundation.

4. Body Shimmers
Use this product while going out for dinner, on your wedding, a formal occasion or a summer evening. With this product you are sure to receive a lot of compliments and of course you are sure to shine!

How to apply
Body shimmers can be applied using a flat top brush or cotton ball. Lightly dust this powder onto your shoulders, chest and back.

By Rachna Gupta
Published: 9/1/2007
Article Source: Buzzle.com

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Use Glycerin Products for Anti Aging Skin Care

{Some Rights Reserved CC Photo By Thom Watson, Arlington, VA, Nov. 6, 2004}

For those who are exposed to the skin drying effects of airconditioning systems each day (malling, working in an office or having aircons in the house), it's advisable to use glycerin-based skin care products to keep moisture on your skin and keep it from drying. I am writing about glycerin because I heavily support its use for many reasons.

Glycerin is organic and has proven itself to be truly beneficial. This is not just claims and hype, but facts. The following outlines the benefits of glycerin use for skin care products:

• Glycerin is one of the components in fats and oils or, as they are also called, triglycerides.


• Glycerin enters the bloodstream when the body needs energy and uses stored fats.


• Glycerin is contributor to cell metabolism.


• Glycerin is hygroscopic. It absorbs water from the air.

Glycerin products are gentle and do not cause irritation which make them safe to use on children's skin.

In relation to anti aging skin care, Glycerin acts as a humectant, attracting water to the skin to restore suppleness. One of the primary causes of wrinkling is the loss of elasticity and moisture in the skin. Aging depletes skin resources and many are not restored by the body. Glycerin is water retaining and application on the skin forms a barrier against moisture loss and an attractant for new moisture.

And what's great is that Glycerin is not that expensive.

Read more on Glycerin.

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What's Your Anime Character Name? Mine is Michiko Mori...

Bleach The Movie: Memories of Nobody

I was in high school when I began my love affair with anime. I fell in love first with Zenki, the mischievous alien being who changes from a child creature to a handsome hunk, who was intriguingly controlled by a pretty high school girl through a powerful bracelet. I must admit I got hooked on Zenki. I just had to go home early just to catch the show after class everyday.

Later after Zenki left I moved on to other animes: Ghost Fighter, Dragonball Z, Ranma 1/2, Card Captor Sakura, Hunter X Hunter, Naruto... the list seems endless. Of course, I don't just watch animes; I also watch other cartoons like The X-Men, Batman, and Justice League. But Japanese animes captivated me more than the American cartoons. So what's with Japanese anime that got me hooked?

For one thing, Japanese anime characters have interesting names. "Ichigo" actually means "First Guardian" or "He Who Protects". If I were asked what name I would adapt for myself if I were an anime character, I'd choose Michiko Mori, which roughly translates to "beauty and wisdom in the forest".

Another thing that I like is that Japanese animes have better artistic appeal. The appearance of the characters are more fantastic and imaginative than your usual superhero genre. Anime or manga characters have supernatural powers connected with some otherworldly dimension unseen by many but exists in parallel with our dimension. This what-if scenario and secretive nature of many anime plots make the stories more interesting to fans. Just like the plot for the coolest anime of this generation, Bleach.

Bleach is the story of a simple high school student named Ichigo Kurazaki who one day discovered the existence of Death Gods or Soul Reapers and the lost souls (Hollows) they hunted down and put to rest. Soon Ichigo found himself converted as a temporary Death God or Shinigami to aid the wounded Soul Reaper Rukia Kuchiki. By touching Rukia's sword and using it against a Hollow, Ichigo accidentally absorbed Death God status and powers, making him duty-bound to taking over Rukia's job as one of the Shinigami.

The story line is full of action and intrigue, especially when other Death Gods discovered Ichigo's existence. They vehemently opposed having a human serving as a Death God. This caused a lot of chaos among Soul Society denizens and its rulers, the Shinigami.

Now the anime series has been turned into a movie, Bleach the Movie: Memories of Nobody. This time the plot begins at the most recent point of the anime series' storyline. After unidentified beings known as "Blanks" start popping up, they are soon followed by a Soul Reaper named Senna who makes them disappear. Puzzled by these unknown beings and the even more mysterious girl, Ichigo and Rukia set out to learn more, but uncover an evil plot when a menacing clan tries to kidnap Senna. Banished from the Soul Society long ago, the clan's leader is sending the World of the Living and the Soul Society on a collision course, and Senna seems to be the key to his diabolical plot for revenge.

This short synopsis is taken from the movie's page at Fathom Events where moviegoers and fans of Bleach can find ticket prices, showtimes and the theaters that will be showing this Bleach the Movie on June 11th and 12th.

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Savor these beautifully crafted handmade soaps!

Ooohhh.... Aaaaahhh... Oh Em Gee!!!

I just can't stop gushing and lusting after these deliciously crafted handmade soaps from Savor, one of my favorite shops at Etsy.



I was surfing today through the bids showing up on my Project Wonderful page. I do this before I approve them just to see what kinds of products their ads will be promoting on my site. Let's just say I was curious. But my curiosity immediately turned to delight when I saw these glorious handmade soaps!

So beautifully crafted and yet with the right mix of organic ingredients that will surely leave your skin clean and healthy. The natural oils and fruit essences will not put your skin's pH balance out of whack and keep the moisture in instead of out. This will also keep the fine lines from developing sooner on your skin.

The more balanced the pH level and the better the mixture of oil and moisture on one's skin, the less likely you'll develop wrinkles in your late twenties or in your thirties. Looking young means using all natural products that will not harm your skin and keep it healthy.

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Sex and the City: Life, Loves and Lusts

Prada, Manolo Blahniks, and Jimmy Choos... just some of the beautiful footwear you'll see worn by four equally beautiful and gorgeous women on the hit TV series, "Sex and the City". This show took the majority of female tv viewing population by storm.

Each of the four girls - Carrie, Charlotte, Samantha and Miranda - symbolize different types of women in the modern world. Career driven, financially independent and sexually liberated, the big four served as role models for some of our single sisters everywhere.

I can relate to the girls' lives, loves and lusts. My life is somewhat similar. Men, shoes, love, sex, money and freedom... such concerns I have shared with my roommate, Myles. We talk about men, romance, love and sex casually. We talk about our families and our problems. We shared secrets and fantasies.

It's good to have a friend like that plus it feels good to have the sexual freedom and financial power that the Sex and the City girls have. I like it very much!

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