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According to the American Cancer Society (ACS):
Obesity contributes 14-20% of all cancer related mortality. It’s associated with an increased risk of: breast (PM), colon, uterine, esophageal, renal, gall bladder, ovararian, thyroid cancer and more. So what are some ways to not only lose weight, but to potentially decrease your risk for cancer? Healthy changes to your diet can have a huge impact. The ACS recommends ≥ 5 servings of a variety of fruits and vegetables daily. 5 servings may sound like a lot; however, ½ cup of lettuce is considered one serving and half an apple is one serving. Increasing fiber in diets has also been associated with a lower risk of cancer. Foods high in fiber include whole grains like oatmeal, popcorn and brown rice, legumes, fruits like strawberries, raspberries, apples and pears (with skin), and many vegetables. High fiber decreases caloric intake and can aid in the prevention of obesity. One last dietary recommendation by the ACS is to decrease the amount of red meat in your diet. Red meat has been shown to increase your risk for colon, rectal and prostate cancers. Another great way to lose weight and aid in the prevention of cancer is through exercise. Research currently shows that exercise decreases the risk of breast, colon, uterine and prostate cancers. For some, this could be as simple as getting off the couch and going for a 20-30 minute walk. Supplements may also help. Vitamin D and mushroom extract have been shown to be beneficial in the prevention of cancer. Vitamin D is anti-proliferative and increases cellular differentiation. It is found that serum levels of Vitamin D (25-OH) of at least 55ng/mL may reduce the incidence of several cancers. In other studies, shitake, oyster and winter fungus mushrooms have been proven to decrease the risk of certain cancers. Lastly, green tea has also been studied in detail to aid in the prevention of cancer. Drinking ≥ 5 cups daily decreases the risk of breast cancer by 11% and the risk of breast cancer recurrence by 25%. One of the main constituents of green tea studied is catachin, not found in decaffeinated green tea. Celestial Seasonings green tea was found to have highest catachin content.  |
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The sun is back! Days are getting warmer, the sun is shining, and you’re probably starting to plan your summer vacations. So, no better time for Lucky Vitamin to present you with the latest top quality line of sun protection products: Coola Suncare. Coola Suncare offers sun protection for a range of skin types and lifestyles. All products are also uniquely formulated for different parts of the body, from the sensitive nature of face and lips, to the versatile body, as well as the demands of sports. The company was created in 2004 with the goal to provide sun protection products that were not harmful or used smelly ingredients found in traditional sunscreens. With a unique line using only ingredients that are organic, sustainable and locally sourced, Coola Suncare is the best choice for the most pure, eco-conscious products possible. Each product will protect and nourish your skin with vitamins, natural-protectors and age-defying antioxidants, without the use of paba, parabens, petroleum or phthalate. Coola Suncare offers three distinct lines of certified organic sun protection, including the latest Plant UV line, Environmental Repair Plus line (ER+) for pre+post sun skincare, and recently reformulated Mineral and Classic collections. Each line is formulated with different active ingredients and offers unique products, such as the award winning Mineral Baby or best-selling Classic Face Cucumber. All products are up to 97% certified organic and are manufactured using solar power. The company also ensures all ingredients are sourced locally and produces all products in limited quantity batches. Boost sun protection naturally with Coola Suncare high performance, delicate and luxurious products. |
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Knee pain can a very uncomfortable feeling but wearing a knee brace may help to prevent or minimize it. We all know exercising is excellent for your health but a few number of activities can be very harsh on your joints, particularly your knees. Running is the first one that comes to mind. Despite the fact that running is a great way to stay in shape, it may affect your knees and ankles. Basketball is even harder on your knees. Jumping constantly during a game can have a major impact on your knees. Other activities such as soccer, jump-roping, volleyball and weight-lifting can also cause knee injuries and that’s when wearing knee braces can be helpful. When used properly, a knee brace may help an individual to stay active by enhancing the position and movement of the knee or reducing pain. Knee braces can support or align the knee and can prevent issues from simple soreness to more serious joint problems. Wearing knee braces can prevent extension instability of the knee in the case of diseases causing neurological or muscular impairment of muscles surrounding the knee. In the case of conditions affecting the ligaments or cartilage of the knee, a knee brace product can provide stabilization to the knee by replacing the function of these injured or damaged parts. For instance, knee braces can be used to relieve pressure from the part of the knee joint affected by diseases such as arthritis or osteoarthritis by realigning the knee joint. It’s important to remember that knee braces are not meant to treat an injury or disease on its own, but they are products to be used as a component of treatment. |
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First, let’s take a look at homeopathic remedies. Homeopathy is a medicine that was founded by Samuel Hahnemann and focuses on the principle that likes cures like. The most common homeopathic remedy for first degree burns is urtica urens. Urtica urens is used when the pain is stinging, burning and worse from warmth. If you think about it, this is very common in your typical cooking burn. Now let’s say the burn is a little worse – you grab a burning hot pot right out of the oven without an oven holder. Don’t worry! Causticum is what you may need. It’s very commonly used to treat more extensive second degree burns, the keynote symptoms for which are slow healing and blistering. Another homeopathic product to consider when suffering from a burn is calendula gel. However, homeopathy is not the only alternative treatment for burns. Lavender Essential Oil is excellent for healing and disinfecting wounds and tissues. In fact, one of the most recognized benefits of pure lavender oil is its ability to soothe and heal burns. To apply it, dab the oil gently to the burn using your fingers or a cotton ball. One last interesting treatment for burns includes honey. Honey has been used as a folk remedy of burns for years. It has known antibacterial activity helping to keep the wound clean and also promotes healing of the epithelium. In fact, in a randomized controlled trial, topically applied honey was found to be superior to conventional burn dressings. So the next time you find yourself suffering from a burn, instead of reaching for the ice cubes, consider reaching for one of these alternative treatments for burns found here at LuckyVitamin.com.
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The study showed a negative association between screen time and the heart health of kids. Participants who had more than two hours of screen time daily consumed more calories than kids who met the recommended guidelines of at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity daily. Walking quickly, skating and bike riding are examples of moderate aerobic activities, while running, basketball and soccer are examples of vigorous-intensity activities. The study found that screen time was linked to lower levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, the good cholesterol, which seems to help protect against heart disease. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, American children and adolescents spend 22 to 28 hours per week viewing television, more than any other activity except sleeping. By the age of 70 they will have spent 7 to 10 years of their lives watching TV. So, parents should encourage healthier habits for kids, including limited TV and screen time.
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Directions:
Recipe by Chocolate-Covered Katie and posted by Barney Butter.
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Otitis Externa, also known as Swimmer’s Ear, is the inflammation or infection of the external ear canal. Repeated exposure to water can result in the removal of cerumen (earwax) and drying of the external auditory canal, which increases risk for infection. According to eMedicine, “Otitis externa is one of the most common medical conditions that affect aquatic athletes and pool going individuals. Individuals with allergic conditions, such as eczema, allergic rhinitis, or asthma, also have a significantly higher risk of developing this condition.” Mild cases of otitis externa may respond well to acidifying the ear. Acidify ears with a 50% vinegar and 50% isopropyl alcohol mixture. To treat, add 5 drops, 3 times per day for 7 days into the ear canal. If you’re prone to otitis externa, 4-5 drops can be used as a preventative method post swimming and bathing. Garlic mullein oil is a combination of herbal extractions from the plants Verbascum Thapsus (Mullein) and Allium Sativa (Garlic). Mullein flowers are sedating and reduce inflammation. Mullein oil is often used to treat earaches and is indicated for treatment of otitis externa, otitis media, and serous otitis media. Garlic is a known anti-microbial plant and is also anti-inflammatory. It is one the main antibiotic plants used by alternative doctors. Best benefits are obtained by gently heating the garlic mullein oil, or applying heat after the oil is applied inside the ear. Allium Cepa, also known as onion, is also very anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial. A very gentle, easy and effective treatment involves boiling an onion until it is soft. Take the onion and squeeze out the juice. Allow the juice to cool until it is luke-warm and place 2 drops into the ear. You can also make your own onion poultice to the infected ear. A poultice is a soft moist mass, often heated and medicated, spread on cloth over the skin to treat an aching, inflamed or painful part of the body. To make an onion poultice, gently simmer 1/2 of a chopped onion in 1/4 cup of water for a few minutes, stirring so it won’t burn. Wrap the simmered onion in several layers of cheesecloth or a thin, soft cloth. Allow the mixture to cool just enough so it doesn’t burn the skin. Then, place over the ear for at least five minutes. Other alternative means to treatment of otitis externa involve increasing overall immune system functions. This may include using products like Vitamin C, Zinc and Vitamin A. As always, please consult your doctor first regarding any dietary or herbal supplements or treatments you would like to try. |
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Muscle Warfare is a cutting edge sports nutrition manufacturer that is passionately driven to create and distribute the absolute highest quality products in the marketplace. Every product is developed with great experience and focus on maximizing product efficacy for real world results. Furthermore, Muscle Warfare products are rigorously tested by top testing labs to help insure them free of banned substances, and GMP, Good Manufacturing Practice, approved. The company is truly committed to helping all athletes achieve and surpass their highest goals and potential. Muscle Warfare was the first supplement company to ever offer scientifically developed, creatine-free, NMDA enhanced, muscle specific munitions to help turn you into a muscular bodybuilding warrior. The new Precision Series is a masterly formulated line utilizing the finest selection of raw materials. Through advanced quality control procedures, Muscle Warfare insures the absolute highest level of finished products ever available. The level of performance from this elite brand is guaranteed to provide incomparable benefit for all professional and Olympic athletes, bodybuilders and every day athletes everywhere. All products are designed with one purpose: to provide plateau destroying, competition dominating results. No matter which category of product you choose, or even when combining them all, you will unquestionably discover how Muscle Warfare has redefined the standard of excellence. |
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Centella asiatica, also known as gotu kola, has a primary action as a nootropic agent (meaning, it helps improve memory and cognition). Centella asiatica can calm the mental chatter and promote calmness and clarity. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, it’s used as a “brain tonic.” However, gotu kola is also a neuroprotective. According to one study published in 2012, gotu kola offers comprehensive neuroprotection through different modes of action. Such actions include enzyme inhibition, the prevention of amyloid plaque formation in Alzheimer’s disease, dopamine neurotoxicity in Parkinson’s disease, and a decrease in oxidative stress. Another great herb for improving memory and concentration is shisandra chinensis. Shisandra chinensis has been used to help improve attention and alleviate forgetfulness due to excessive stress. Numerous studies show shisandra’s ability to quicken reflexes and increase work efficiency. Other studies have documented its ability to increase cognitive function and boost memory. Schisandra has also been shown to improve and reverse memory impairment in rats! One last herb to consider for improving memory and focus is ginkgo biloba. One of the ways it aids the brain is by improving blood flow through the vessels. Many disorders of cerebral function may be treated with it, as the disorders may be caused by inflammation or decreased cerebral blood flow. Symptoms include memory loss, mild cognitive impairment and fatigue. Ginkgo biloba may also delay mental deterioration in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease and slow senile dementia. Not only that, but it has been found to be a potent antioxidant. The antioxidant activity in the brain and central nervous system from ginkgo biloba may help prevent age-related declines in brain function. So if you are having problems remembering everything we talked about here, or couldn’t quite focus on it from start to finish, go to LuckyVitamin.com and check out all the individual herbs that can help improve memory and focus (centell asiatica/gotu kola, shisandra chinensis and ginkgo biloba). We also have specific memory, focus and attention deficit formulas that can help you out. And as always, please consult your doctor regarding any dietary or herbal supplements you are interested in taking. |
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A new study published by the American Journal of Epidemiology found that women with a higher iron intake had about a 35% lower risk of being diagnosed with premenstrual syndrome PMS than women who had a lowest iron intake. Researchers at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst compared the mineral intakes from food as well as supplements for nearly 1,060 women, ages 25 to 42, who had been diagnosed with PMS against those of 1,970 women who had few PMS symptoms. After evaluating data, researchers concluded that iron supplements may ease the severity of PMS symptoms. PMS affects anywhere from 8 to 15 percent of women during their childbearing years and is characterized by physical and emotional symptoms ranging from breast tenderness and food cravings to fatigue and moodiness. However, not all forms of dietary iron are the same. It was primarily the iron found in plant foods and in supplements that reduced a woman’s chances of developing PMS, while iron coming from animal sources did not have the same effect. Additionally the same study found that an intake of more than 15 milligrams a day from zinc supplements, not from food sources, was associated with a lower risk of PMS. Recommend daily intake for women experiencing PMS symptoms are 18 mg a day of iron and 8 mg a day of zinc.
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Research has been clear that adding omega-3 fatty acids into our diets has robust benefits. Our bodies incorporate them into the membranes of every cell in our body. Increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids has been associated with reducing symptoms of hypertension, ADHD, depression, joint pain and even some skin ailments. However, the quest for choosing the “right” omega-3 supplement – specifically when considering fish oils – is convoluted by the realities of mercury and other heavy metal poisoning, PCBs and fillers that can dilute beneficial ingredients. Overfishing is also a concern by many environmentalists. Did you know that in 2006 the journal Science predicted that by 2048, if fishing rates continue apace, all the world’s fisheries will have collapsed? The solution I’ve found, is 7 Sources by Flora. It’s a complete, all-in-one essential fatty acid product derived from seven different land and sea plants: sunflower, flax, sesame, pumpkin, evening primrose, algae and coconut. 1 Tablespoon of 7 Sources contains 5,698 mg of Omega-3 per serving. That’s 4,075 mg more that the leading plant-based Omega-3 product! Even better is their balancing the correct ratios of omega 3/6/9. It’s a sustainable, flavorful alternative to boosting overall health, brain functions, cognitive ability and healthy pregnancy and nursing. I’ve added 7 Sources’ as a natural enhancement to many of my favorite foods (unheated) such as salads, pasta, smoothies – even dipping breads! Flora is a company that’s passionate about nature and using synergistic plant sources to promote health. They create 7 Sources in a state-of-the-art, low heat, light- and oxygen-free environment to maximize its stability, nutritional value and freshness. In fact, Flora’s dedication has always been to provide herbal remedies with maximum purity, quality and potency. Learn more about 7 Sources here and by watching this short video.
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Earth Day is an annual day on which events are held worldwide to demonstrate support for environmental protection. It is now coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network and is celebrated in more than 192 countries every year. Founded by United States Senator Gaylord Nelson, the celebration of a special day for our planet was first held on April 22, 1970 with hopes to create a national teach-in on the environment. Nelson chose the April 22 date in order to maximize participation on college campuses. Today, the annual holiday celebrates 43 years and its impact on our society has been very significant. Along with many movements to protest pollution and environmental degradation, Earth Day has influenced several important environmental issues and has led the government into creating the Environmental Protection Agency and passing the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species acts, according to EarthDay.org. You can also celebrate Earth Day by shopping green, eco-friendly products at LuckyVitamin.com and getting free shipping with your $48+ order. Choose from our extensive selection of green living categories and save an extra 10% off with promo code EARTHDAY10. Green Living categories on sale include: Cleaning Formulas, Cleaning Supplies, Dishwashing Products, Eco-Friendly Dishware, Baking Products & Supplies, Food & Storage Bags, Hand Sanitizers & Liquid Soaps, Kitchen Utensils & Gadgets, Laundry Products, Paper Products, Shopping & Tote Bags, and Storage Containers. Happy Earth Day from LuckyVitamin.com! |
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Did you know 40 to 50 percent of pregnancies are unintended? Many women have their first visit for prenatal care at eight weeks of pregnancy or later, yet the period of time before the first prenatal visit carries the most risk to fetal development. This is why it is recommended that you start your preconception health before you even start trying to become pregnant. It is recommended that women and men should prepare for pregnancy at least three months before getting pregnant. One of the most highly recommended products for women to do for their preconception health is a prenatal vitamin. Make sure that your prenatal supplement contains at least 400 -800mcg of folic acid; this is to help prevent against neural tube defects like spina bifida. Other vitamins and minerals such as iron and calcium are also vital for fetal growth and development. Also remember to be sure your health care provider is aware of the supplements that you are taking. A study on prenatal Omega-3 fatty acids reveled that adequate intake of omega 3 fatty acids docasehexaenoic (DHA) acid and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) can increase gestation length and improve infant cognitive and visual performance. Adequate levels of Omega-3 fatty acids have also been shown to reduce the incidence of preterm birth in some populations. Another beneficial step in your preconception health may be starting a detox or cleanse. A preconception detox is a way to give some rest to your overworked organs; to ease the labor of removing toxins from the foods we eat, the xenoestrogens in the air we breathe, the water we drink and the denatured soil on our farms. You may also want include starting an exercise program into your preconception checklist. It is recommended that you only exercise during pregnancy as long as you had started a program before you became pregnant. Exercise increases your metabolism as well is a great way to aid in detoxification. Before you become pregnant, it is recommended you also stop drinking alcohol and smoking. If you have a medical condition, be sure it is under control. Some conditions that can affect pregnancy or be affected by it include asthma, diabetes, oral health, obesity and epilepsy. Also avoid contact with toxic substances or materials that could cause infections at work and at home. Also stay away from chemicals and cat or rodent feces before and during your pregnancy. You may also want to talk to your doctor about any over the counter medications that you are using. These include dietary and or herbal supplements.
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Lucky Vitamin is happy to introduce a top quality brand of fragrance products to our customers: Auric Blends. Auric Blends is a force in the gift and personal care industries, providing perfume, incense, candles, soaps, and specialty items to retailers across the country and throughout the world. The company manufacturers fine fragrance products including perfume oils and perfume solids which will provide an incomparable aromatic experience. Founded in 1993, Auric Blends believe that fragrance products can enrich our lives through enhancing our sensory experience. Fragrant candles create warmth on cool autumn or winter days, incense can bring a subtle or strong aroma to any environment and can aid in relaxation and meditation. However, the line of perfume products is the highlight of this brand. Using 100% natural ingredients and made with essential oils and other natural materials, these perfumes are developed and made using rare flowers, sweet fruits, clean citrus and natural refined woods. Auric Blends’ best-selling fragrance line is called Egyptian Goddess. These unique products combine soft florals, light powder, and musk to create a perfume that is seductive, feminine and enticing. This lovely perfume has been weaving tales of passion and infatuation for over 14 years and with a distinctive collection of select products, you can experience Egyptian Goddess while you bathe, during a candle-lit dinner and as a wonderful perfume. Lucky Vitamin is now offering all Auric Blends products at our discounted prices. |
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Amino acids supplements are one of the most popular products among bodybuilders, workout enthusiasts, and strength/endurance athletes. All types of physiological processes relating to sports such as energy, recovery, muscle and strength gains, and fat loss are linked to amino acids. People looking to increase their intake of amino acids generally use supplementation for the eight essential amino acids. Called the building blocks of proteins and muscle tissue, a total of twenty amino acids are needed by the human body to function properly. Twelve amino acids are produced by the body and the other eight must come from our diets or supplements. You must consume protein to obtain the eight essential amino acids your body doesn’t make on its own, and best sources are meat, poultry, fish, milk, and eggs. However, supplementation seems to be a great way to obtain essential amino acids. The majority of people may prefer supplements in tablet form but liquid amino acids can be an excellent alternative. Liquid amino can give you an edge over regular tablets due to its fast acting and easily digested properties. Liquid amino is basically protein in its most easily digested, absorbable and utilizable form, and it can improve output by increasing nitrogen retention and optimizing protein synthesis, consequently resulting in accelerating muscle growth, promoting muscle recovery and proper muscle development. |
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