January 23rd, 2012 • Posted by Altaf Amlani • Permalink
Tumeric has been used in India for over 2500 years with new medicinal properties slowly revealing themselves over centuries. Scientists in India have recently tested Turmeric on the skin and have found that it is more than just a great source of flavor in food dishes. It can also aid in the recuperation of skin damaged by ultra violet radiation and when applied topically it has hydrating properties on the skin as well. It treats Psoriasis and other inflammatory conditions, speeds up wound healing and is a natural anti bacterial agent useful in disinfecting cuts and burns as well as a natural pain killer. Turmeric has also proved beneficial in treating many different health conditions and illnesses including Alzheimers, Prostate Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, Childhood Leukemia, Arthritis, Melanoma, Depression and Weight Management. The active ingredient in Turmeric is Curcumin so adding Turmeric to your diet tastes good too though it should not be used by people with gallstones or bile obstruction and pregnant women should consult with a doctor first because it can be a uterine stimulant.
Leave a comment
January 14th, 2012 • Posted by Altaf Amlani • Permalink
The first annual Loyola Marymount University Spa Fundraiser at Blue Diamond Spa was a huge success!! Much gratitude to the our campus liaison, Zoe Oderberg and the Creare Service Organization for putting the launch party together with our Co-Organizer and to every one who enjoyed relaxing services at the spa between November 20th and December 24th to support the cause. Blue Diamond Spa will donate over Two-Hundred Dollars to the Mar Vista Family Center to benefit their after school and lunch programs for local children in need.
Leave a comment
January 10th, 2012 • Posted by Altaf Amlani • Permalink
Celiac Disease is a condition that damages the lining of the small intestine and prevents it from absorbing parts of food that are important for staying healthy. The damage is due to a reaction to eating gluten found in wheat, barley, rye and some oats. This disease may cause an itchy, blistering skin rash known as Dermatitis Herpetiformis which commonly appears on the elbows, knees and buttocks and can be intensely uncomfortable however eating a Gluten Free diet can quickly resolve many symptoms associated with this disorder. Eating grains that contain gluten cause the immune system to attack the lining of your small intestine and can lead to malnutrition and gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and constipation. Lactose Intolerance is another symptom among people with Celiac Disease so avoiding dairy can be beneficial as well. If you remove dairy foods and gluten from your diet it is favorable to work with a dietitian to ensure that the body is receiving balanced levels of iron, vitamin B12, folate, calcium and protein.
Leave a comment
December 27th, 2011 • Posted by Altaf Amlani • Permalink
Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body. It benefits cell renewal, lipid barrier function and antioxidant protection from DNA damage. A deficiency in Calcium can manifest in dryness, itching, premature wrinkling and an increased tendency to develop skin cancers. When there is a deficiency in Calcium the body steals it from bones and teeth to calm the Nervous System. Those who suffer from dry skin can try increasing their Calcium intake during cold winter months to alleviate itching and other symptoms including stress. A stressed Nervous System shows directly on the skin and staying calm can actually prevent signs of early aging on the skin. Yogurt is a natural source of Calcium along with salmon, broccoli and cheeses. Try adding these ingredients to salads or pick up some supplements at your favorite health food store to increase your Calcium intake this winter.
Leave a comment
December 25th, 2011 • Posted by Altaf Amlani • Permalink
The beginning of a new year is always a great time to make resolutions and set personal goals. Quitting smoking is a really challenging one that people always seem to give up on it only weeks after the new year has started year after year. So if you need another reason to motivate you to quit smoking aside from high expenses and the air in your lungs then add vanity to the list because smoking cigarettes can cause premature wrinkles!! The nicotine in cigarettes causes narrowing of the blood vessels in the outermost layers of the skin and impairs blood flow. With less blood flow the skin doesn't get as much oxygen and important nutrients like Vitamin A. Plus there are over four thousand chemicals in tobacco smoke that damage collagen and elastin fibers causing sagging and premature wrinkles. If you are thinking about quitting cigs you can get started by downloading a mobile phone app like MyQuit Coach which allows you to design a personalized plan to support you through the process. Gradually decreasing your nicotine intake by cutting your cigs in half and using nicotine patches can make this transition easier too and diminish mood swings. So set your self up for success early this year and stock up on calorie free smoking aids like bottled water and nicotine free sugarless chewing gum, and you will surely meet the new year with happiness and peace of mind.
Leave a comment
