Category Archives: WELLNESS

The Top 5 Essential Daily Supplements to get your year started on the right track!

December 22, 2012

Balance Chiropractic and Wellness Practitioners, explains how 5 essential daily supplements can make a positive contribution to your overall health. This small, yet significant addition to daily life is something that anyone can commit to—and stick to—for the New Year. 

The Top 5 Essential Daily Supplements:

1) Probiotics- The truth about the Immune System is that over 80% of it is actually housed inside of our Digestive System, from the stomach all the way through the intestines, also known as the gut. Probiotics are the “good bacteria” to balance out the common abundance of bad bacteria in the gut. It can be good to look for a deal to try these out to begin with to see which one works best for you; some digging around and we found this PlanetOrganics Peptiva free trial offer as one example. This means you only need to pay for one Probiotic you know works for you.

Boosting the immune system isn’t the only benefit to Probiotics however. In addition to improving our Immunity, Probiotics are great for digestive symptoms (bloating, pain, constipation, diarrhea, etc.) and skin conditions (acne, rashes, psoriasis, eczema, dry skin).

2) Digestive Enzymes – When we cook/heat our food, we lose valuable enzymes that help the body break down our food and absorb the nutrients. Digestive Enzymes replace those lost enzymes, and assist the gut in functioning. Digestive Enzymes also help with symptoms such as: bloating, difficult digestion, heartburn, and constipation.

3) Fish Oil – Omega 3 oils (the “good” fats) provide great support to the brain, heart, and lower inflammation (think: arthritis and poor memory). The average American has too little Omega 3s and too many Omega 6s (which is the “bad” fat) due to poor food choices.

4) An Alkalizing Tablet, like “Alka Green” – The body’s pH basically describes what the chemical environment of our insides is like. It can be either acidic or alkaline, and this is determined by many factors (most notably the food we eat/drink and stress level). Americans are 70% acidic, but we need our body’s pH to be 70% alkaline to be healthy. How do we become more alkaline? Vegetables are alkaline, and most other foods (dairy, sugar, carbs, anything processed) are acidic. Alkalizing tablets bridge the gap. Why is alkalinity so important? Research as early as the 1930?s has shown conclusively that cancer CANNOT survive in an alkaline environment.

5) Goji Berries (dried and organic) – Chinese Medicine has been using foods as medicine for 5,000 years with success. What we put in our body can either work for us or against us. To make a long story short, many Americans have trouble with our Kidney Energetic Pathway in Chinese Medicine terms. This pathway has to do with our energy levels, low back pain, bags under the eyes, low immune system, and more. Snacking on a small amount of Goji Berry daily will strengthen and nourish our Kidney Pathway.

 

 

Sentara: Plump Effect Serum Bio Relaxing Serum

December 10, 2012

Sentara

Plump Effect Serum Bio Relaxing Serum


Woo-015_1z

I first learned about (and subsequently became a believer in)  Hyaluronic Acid  a few years back when my aesthetician gave me samples of Skinceuticals Phloretin CF.  Hyalogic.com descibes Hyaluronic Acid as "hyaluronan or hyaluronate, is a carbohydrate, more specifically a mucopolysaccharide occurring naturally throughout the human body. It can be several thousands of sugars (carbohydrates) long." 

I had no prior knowledge of the chemical structure, I just know it works.  And works well.  After a few months of using this my skin was smoother, cleared and actually seemed to glow (YES).   At $159 it was a high monthly expense. I categorized it under other "essentials" such as food, water and shelter and called it a day.  Funny how that works. 

Sentara has rejuvenated my love for Hyaluronic Acid and at nearly half the price.  If you have the extra money in your beauty bank try this product – its simple yet highly effective.  After 5 days of use I see my skin looking clearer, tone even, and yes even that glowy radiance effect is peeking out.  

Additional equally relevant ingredients:
Inca Inchi: hydrates and rejuvenates.
Acai: Antioxidant and vitamin concentrate.
Natural Silica: boosts the effectiveness of the cream's phyto active ingredients.
Thalassine: Bio-relaxing marine extract which helps to relax facial muscles and smooth out facial lines and wrinkles.
Aloe Vera: Moisturizes, repairs and protects the skin against ageing. 
**Angels sing  Hyaluronic Acid: hydrates & stimulates the natural protective properties of your skin's collagen. 

The Official site is below (however it is in french and I don't know if the serum can be bought here):http://www.sentaraskincare.com/ 

An uber hip apothecary in Brooklyn with an LA sells it: 

https://www.woodleyandbunny.com/content/sentara-plumping-effect-serum - retailing for $92 

xx Lacee

Miracle Skin Transformer – Heal Everything Balm

October 31, 2012

Good stuff.   Rich, hydrating, effective.  This isn't your normal sissy moisturizer or "balm"

Miracle Skin Transformer Heal Everything Balm

HEB

With the Santa Ana winds in high gear and wreaking havoc on my skin this week, I feel less like a bronzy Cali babe and more like an irritable East Coast gal.  The patch of skin under my nose is on the border of raw, I am equipped with Carmex and Kleenex at all times.  Bleh. 

Last night as exhausted as I was before bed I applied a teaspoon amount and felt relief. Moisture. As I was looking through my product bins this morning it dawned on me how many moisturizers I have, many of them falsely professing to be a miracle product.  After cleansing your face apply a small amount and presto your previously parched skin will perk right up.  Bonus: I didn't feel greasy, oily or bogged down by this product.  Nice, easy finish.

Miracle Skin Transformer Heal Everything Balm also:

– helps skin recover from sun-induced irritation, cold climates and wind burn.
– helps protect, soothe and moisturize dry skin.
– helps reduce redness and irritation after waxing or shaving.
– helps reduce stinging, irritation and redness due to chaffing, stinging and bug bites. 
– helps the skin maintain its own natural defenses against environment assaults. 
– helps reduce skin redness caused by weather burns, abrasions, and minor irritations.

Proven effective ingredients

  • Tamanu Oil: eco-certified ingredient found in the French Polynesian Islands, with anti-inflammatory properties
  • Blue Mountain Sage Oil: aids dry, irritated skin
  • Organic Palm, Monoi and Moringa butters: help soothe dry skin after exposure to sun, and harsh elements.
  • Japanese Licorice root extract – natural hydro cortisone alternative, reduces irritation and soothes skin.
  • Manuka homey – can fight infection and speed the healing process.

link to buy : 
http://www.miracleskintransformer.com/
http://shop.miracleskintransformer.com/products/Miracle-Skin-Transformer-Heal-Everything-Balm.html

Cost: 26.00 / 25 ml

 

xo Lacee

Murad’s double punch

October 15, 2012

AR-AHA_BHA_Cleanser_1.1344443908

I generally chalk up being told my skin is "good" to genetics.  My grandmother turned 100 a week ago this Sunday (yes 100!) and her skin is still porcelain white.  I would be lying if I said I totally abandoned a skincare regimen however.  I have tried and tried it all!  As a result of my research: the basics work best for me: cleanse, protect (spf), treat (as needed), and moisturize. 
Upon receiving my Murad samples I had some initial anxiety related to the cleanser – anything with the label AHA/BHA screams "ABRASIVE!!" and tends to leave my skin irritated and closer to rose than peaches and cream.  But, after using these products that fear slipped away. 
My recipe consited of:
Cleanser: AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser – $35

http://www.murad.com/aha-bha-exfoliating-cleanser

SPF Day Cream: Perfecting Day Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30  – $47 

http://www.murad.com/perfecting-day-cream

Infused with Salicylic, Lactic and Glycolic Acids the Cleanser: AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser helps to brighten, clarify and improve cell-turnover by dissolving dead skin cell buildup. The package recommended I use this bad boy 2-3 times a week.  I want to cheat and use it daily!  Alas, I will maintain some shred of self control :) 

Next up:  Murad's Perfecting Day Cream Spf 30.  This moisturizer provides hydration and an spf of 30 to fight against free radical damage.  Additionally, essentially fatty acids in the cream provide hydration and soy flour increases skin's elasticity.  This cream went on like butter!  Usually moisturizers sink in leaving a bit of a residue (ie. oil slick) afterwards.  After using this cream my skin felt supple, clean and smooth and a great base to apply before my sheer foundation.
xo Lacee

Breath obsessed? Dr. Singh gives us a few pointers.

August 20, 2012

As an ex-smoker, I’m still thinking I always have smoker’s breath. I’m so busy with the gum and mints and forget that I don’t smell like an ash tray. Never the less, who doesn’t want to be totally kissable at all times???

NYC’s Dr. Singh is Clinical Director of Arch Dental Associates and has a few surprising and easy tips below on preventing bad breath. 

Bad breath can leave a terrible first impression. Contrary to what you might think, popping a breath mint or swishing mouthwash may not always be the best answer. You may actually want to go and see your Dentist Georgetown if your bad breath continues to be a problem in your life that you want rid of; they have the means to treat their patients for this. Mints may temporarily mask the problem but they wear off quickly. Check out these in-the-moment fixes and long-term solutions from Dr Singh!

 

INSTANTLY CORRECT BAD BREATH:

 

  • Eliminate bad breath immediately by eating an ORANGE. The citric acid stimulates the salivary glands and encourages the flow of breath-freshening saliva

 

  • Fearing after-dinner stale breath?: Order the CHEESE plate instead of dessert: Not only does the bacteria in cheese combat bad breath, you get a giant boost of calcium

 

  • Don’t have a toothbrush handy? CELERY, CARROTS, and APPLES contain fibers that get into the crevices between teeth and clean them by acting like miniature toothbrushes

 

  • Best meal for your teeth: A SALAD with Greek yogurt dressing . . . salads require plenty of chewing, which promotes saliva production, and the fibers in the salad leaves sweep the teeth clean.  The yogurt dressing fights bad breath.

 

LONGER-TERM BREATH MANAGEMENT

 

  • EAT YOGURT. – Studies have shown that the active bacteria in yogurt, specifically Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus, may have a beneficial effect on odor-causing bacteria in the mouth

 

  • BRUSH AND FLOSS DAILY. You may be feeling lazy but this is an absolute must!  Plaque and bacteria that accumulates on your teeth and under your gumline may be the underlying cause of odor. Also be sure to visit your dentist twice a year for a checkup and professional cleaning.

 

  • STOP SMOKING or chewing tobacco-based products. Need I say more?

 

  • AVOID BAD BREATH FOODS- Coffee, onions and garlic all affect your breath. Not the ideal choices for date night.

 

ABOUT DR. SINGH: The founder and CEO of Arch Dental Associates, Dr. Singh specializes in implant, sedation and restorative dentistry, dental sleep medicine and facial aesthetics. In addition to overseeing his three premier New York dental practices in Manhattan, Huntington and Garden City, Dr. Singh is an attending doctor and serves as faculty at LIJ/NS University Hospital in the Department of Dental Medicine and Oral Surgery. He is the author of the bestselling book on Implant Dentistry “Atlas of Oral Implantology” and an editor of the prestigious “Journal of Oral Implantology”.  He is a board examiner for the American Board of Oral Implantology and one of less than 100 dentists worldwide that are dual diplomate in Implant Dentistry. He has also served as associate professor in the International Dental Program at NYU College of Dentistry.