What Is The Best Non-Prescription Eyelash Enhancer?

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Eyelash enhancers are the latest beauty trend these days, and cosmetic companies everywhere are launching products that promise to give women longer, fuller, and darker lashes without the fuss of mascara or false lashes.  But, with all these options, it’s hard to know what really works and what doesn’t.
Luckily, there are reputable beauty sites out there that have put many of these eyelash enhancers to the test.  The results for this year’s top-performing eyelash enhancers are in … with SmartLash coming in with a solid 5-star rating on DermStore.com, the #1 online destination for skin care and beauty.
What Is Eyelash Enhancement?
If you aren’t yet aware of this increasingly popular method of achieving longer lashes, eyelash enhancers are formulas that are topically applied to the base of your lower and upper lashes.  They can even be used on sparse, thin eyebrows.  
Is It Safe?
While prescription eyelash enhancers are often formulated with prostaglandin, a hormone that can cause side effects such as darkened irises (potentially irreversible) and blurred vision, more and more companies are developing safer, non-prescription alternatives that deliver impressive results.
Most non-prescription formulas are hormone and paraben-free.  Instead, they’re formulated with polypeptides, amino acids, and conditioning ingredients to help rejuvenate lashes and strengthen them against breakage.  So, you still get longer, fuller, darker-looking lashes and shapelier brows, without the negative side effects.
How Soon Can You See Results?
In some cases, users have reported seeing results in as little as twenty-eight days, while others may see results in about 56 days.
SmartLash, for instance, has published its clinical results, which show that 93 percent of participants saw an increase in the appearance of lash length and fullness after 28 days, while 83 percent stated their eyelashes appeared thicker after 28 days.

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Is binge drinking passé? Low alcohol wines now account for FIFTH of all bottles sold

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Britain appears to be turning its back on binge drinking after a report revealed that sales of low-alcohol red, white and rose are set to soar this summer.

Sales of minimal alcohol tipples are increasing by a whopping 250 per cent per month and now account for almost a fifth of all wine sold.

As a result, producers have responded to the trend by launching 'lifestyle' wines - which they claim are the ideal substitute for full-strength booze whatever the occasion.

Popular: Low-alcohol wines are becoming increasingly popular with sales up by a whopping 250 per cent

Lifestyle: Many leading producers are now offering low-alcohol alternatives to regular wine

Among them is Blossom Hill, currently the bestselling wine brand in the UK, First Cape, Black Tower and JP Chenet, all of whom are offering brews with, on average, half of the alcohol found in tradtional wines.

Particularly popular is Blossom Hill's Vie Rose, which is just 5.5 per cent alcohol - unlike the 11 per cent found in normal wine.

Better still, say the company, the reduced alcohol translates to reduced calories, with just 55 per 125ml in the low alcohol wine compared to 114 in the regular version.

Speaking about the trend, Ewan Lacey, General Manager of International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) said: 'We have seen a doubling of low alcohol entries at the IWSC, predominantly from wines coming from regions that traditionally make low alcohol wines such as Asti in Italy.

'All of the wines in the competition are of an extremely high standard so there are options at a more premium scale as well.'

Rosie Davenport, Editor of Off License News added: 'Demand for wines that are lower in alcohol and with fewer calories has grown from pretty much zero into a £36.9 million market in recent years.

'Like buying reduced-calorie foods, some wine drinkers want to watch the number that are in their glass, which is why retailers have been stocking a bigger range of bottles at 5.5 per cent ABV to meet this need.

'Aside from the health benefits, some shoppers also prefer the taste of these lighter style wines, especially during the summer when they want something more refreshing and less full-bodied to enjoy in the sunshine.'

The growing sales figures, which were unveiled in a report by price comparison site, bringabottle.co.uk, are also thought to be a result of the lower amount of tax incurred by 'lifestyle' wines.

'Lower alcohol wines are all cheaper than standard bottles due to the tax bracket,' explained a bringabottle.co.uk spokesperson.

'If a bottle of wine is less that 5.5 per cent ABV then it is taxed less by the government. Not many people know that if a traditional bottle of wine costs £5 in the supermarket, more than £2 of that is actually tax.
'The lower alcohol wines ares taxed less than £1 a bottle so they're all significantly cheaper.'

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The Botox time bomb?

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One in ten had Botox at home or a friend's home

More than five in six people who have had Botox admit to having no idea what exactly was injected into their face.

And new figures reveal that more people than ever are seeking help after botched procedures.

A shocking 84 per cent of youth-seekers admitted to having absolutely no idea what was going into their faces when under-going the procedure - or even if the injection given actually contained key ingredient Botulinum toxin.

The national research carried out by a leading cosmetic surgery company has found that almost a third (29 per cent) of respondents said they had their treatment done at a local beauty salon, one in ten had one at home or a friend's home, and 3 per cent were treated at a 'beauty treatment party'.

Many said they had no idea if the person administering the injection was appropriately trained to perform the procedure.

Almost two-thirds (62 per cent) of the 1,500 respondents who have had or considered having non-surgical treatments thought the industry is not regulated properly , or that enough is being done to protect people receiving treatment.

A third confessed to feeling nervous or frightened before, during and after the procedure they underwent.

The average age of Botox patients is 35-44, and 70 per cent opt for the procedure to look ‘a little fresher'.

The non-surgical treatments industry, which encompasses treatments such as Botox and dermal fillers, is currently worth more than £1.7 billion.

Transform Cosmetic Surgery have seen an alarming 15 per cent rise in the number of patients seeking help following ineffective treatments with non-registered 'faux-tox' salons. Worryingly, they say patients come to them after being treated in a non-clinical environment, despite being given a prescription-only medicine.

A third confessed to feeling nervous or frightened before, during and after the procedure

The company is concerned about the increase in patients undergoing treatment in less than sterile environments, delivered by unqualified practitioners.

A spokesperson for non-surgical treatments at Transform stresses the importance of knowing what's going into your face.

They said: 'There are subtle differences in the chemical formulations of the main brands of Botulinum toxin available in the UK.

'This has many implications. For example storage. 'Botox' should always be refrigerated - and if it's not, you should quiz your practitioner.

'It is essential that patients understands whether the brand of Botulinum toxin used meets stringent standards of quality efficacy and safety'

'Similarly, there are usually differences in pricing and the efficacy of each i.e. the effects of one may last longer than another.'
Botulinum toxin is available under four product formulations: Botox, Vistabel, Azzalure, and Bocouture.
While all four are generated from same bacteria, the Botox brand has most Botulinum toxin in it and lasts longest.
Botox comes with a red or purple top, while for example Azzalure and Bocouture have blue tops. You can also tell them apart as Botox has a hologram and is kept in a fridge.
Another spokesperson added: 'It's alarming to see the number of Brits being treated by unqualified practitioners and in less than sterile environments.
'As part of our CLEAR Patient Charter and in support of current reviews into the regulation of cosmetic surgery, Transform is keen to raise awareness of misconceptions around line and wrinkle treatments. We have long suspected a lack of understanding and knowledge; perhaps exacerbated by less than forthcoming information from some practitioners.

Transform see a 15 per cent rise in the number of patients seeking help following ineffective treatments

'We hope that in highlighting this, consumers who wish to undergo non-surgical treatment for lines and wrinkles will ask better questions of their practitioner, and themselves if they are seeing a great 'deal', or a lower than usual price. At Transform, treatments are always conducted in a clinical environment, and more importantly by fully trained clinical staff.'

Dr Hilary Jones, an independent member of Transform's Clear Panel said: 'Informed consent is vital for any medical procedure and cosmetic interventions such as anti-wrinkle injections are no exception.

'It is essential that each patient understands exactly which product is being injected into their body and whether the brand of Botulinum toxin used meets stringent standards of quality efficacy and above all safety, and has an enduring and proven track record. If someone is offered Botox specifically for example, that is exactly what they should be given and nothing else.

'We want patients to be in a better position to make an informed decision about their chosen practitioner and the wrinkle treatment being administered. 

'Botox is one of four licensed toxin products used for the treatment of lines and wrinkles. However, there are nuances between each and patients should be looking to their practitioner to explain what product is being used and why.
According to consultant plastic surgeon and member of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, Mr Nilesh Sojitra:
'Botox, Vistabel are the same product where former is 100units and latter 50units per vial.
Azzalure formerly know as dysport is a cheaper alternative as is Bocouture. The cost of the the alternative products is cheaper and not always passed on to the patient.
In my personal experience, I prefer Botox and Vistabel as the molecules are larger and therefore I feel more accurate to position in areas especially near they eye.
'Smaller molecules from other products may diffuse and move to areas where you don't want the product.
'Patients who have had the alternatives feel the effects may not last as long as Botox/Vistabel.'

Botox fact box

The scientific name for Botox is Botulinum toxin
One gram of Botulinum toxin is all that's required to make a whole year's supply of Botox
Botulinum toxin is available under four product formulations: Botox, Vistabel, Azzalure, and Bocouture
Botox brand has most Botulinum toxin in it and lasts longer than Vistabel, Azzalure, and Bocouture
All generated from same bacteria but Botox is strongest and most effective on the market
Botox comes with a red or purple top. Azzalure and Bocouture have blue tops. You can also tell them apart as Botox has a hologram and is kept in a fridge
Botox has been used more than 2 million times in the EU
Botox results typically last for 12-16 weeks
Botox is also used to treat excessive sweating, chronic migraine, cerebral palsy, incontinence, squinting, rapid blinking and muscle spasms

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Is the Greek MONK diet the key to staying slim and youthful?

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While it doesn’t require you to spend your days in reflective prayer, the latest diet regime to hit the spotlight does recommend that followers mirror the eating habits of the Greek Orthodox monks of Mount Athos.
The religious men eat a Mediterranean diet made up almost exclusively of unprocessed, fresh, low-fat foods, and also engage in days of fasting where they drastically reduce their calorie intake to clear their minds.
The monks are obviously doing something right as they have been found to live an astonishing 10 years longer than the average Greek person and also tend to be slim and youthful.

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The monasteries of Athos are among the world's healthiest communities. The monks live very long lives, largely free of cancers, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and Alzheimer's

Outlined in a new book, The Mount Athos Diet by Richard Storey, Sue Todd and Lottie Storey, the plan aims to eliminate the concept of ‘dieting’ and instead splits the week into three types of  day; three moderation days, three fasting days and one feasting, which can be moved around each week to adapt to lifestyle.

During the three fasting days you cut out all dairy, fish, meat, alcohol, eggs and oil, sticking to small portions of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and beans.

As well as promising a host of health benefits the Monk Diet claims to produce weight loss without a feeling of deprivation

The moderation days allow you a healthy, fresh, low-fat, Mediterranean diet.
Dairy, olive oil, fish, chicken and eggs can all be included, although sugar, processed foods and red meat are still off the menu.
Alcohol is even allowed on these three days - though only red wine in moderation (2 units a day) is allowed.

The feast day is, as it sounds, a free-for-all, where anything from red meat to cake, mojitos and chocolate is allowed - though the diet does recommend a modicum of restraint in terms of portion size.

The Mount Athos Diet: Example Menus

Moderation day

Breakfast: Bircher muesli breakfast pot
Lunch: Chicken soup with toasted wholemeal pitta
Dinner: Baked sweet potato with olives and feta and green salad
Snacks: An apple, a handful of nuts or seeds

Fast day

Breakfast: Grilled grapefruit
Lunch: Vegetable soup with a small piece of wholemeal bread
Dinner: Baked butter beans with fresh tomatoes and lettuce
Snacks: Unlimited vegetable sticks

Moderation day

Breakfast: Grilled peaches with Greek yogurt
Lunch: Carrot and coriander soup
Dinner: Chicken salad with Greek yogurt dressing and a glass of red wine
Snacks: Square of dark chocolate, fruit and vegetable sticks

Fast day

Breakfast: Muesli
Lunch: Lentil soup
Dinner: Jacket potato with kale and carrots
Snacks: Small bowl of berries, nuts and seeds

Feast day

Whatever you want – within reason!

The three days can be placed in any order to make your life easier.

The book explains: ‘Studies have shown that the monasteries of Athos are among the world’s healthiest communities. The monks live very long lives, largely free of cancers, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s. Their way of eating also carries with it an enticing by-product: natural weight loss.

‘The monks don’t count calories, nor do they suffer any of the deprivation commonly associated with the ‘fad’ diets of the Western world. Theirs is not really a ‘diet’, more a way of life.

'They eat good food and drink good wine, and by following age-old principles of using wholesome ingredients, eating in moderation and exercising regularly, they are among the fittest and healthiest people on earth.

‘Each monastery is largely self-sufficient and very little produce is bought in from the mainland. The monasteries are surrounded by kitchen gardens, orchards, vineyards, beehives and olive groves, and everything produced is organic and seasonal; much time-consuming effort is required to nurture  crops and maintain the maximum possible output from the land.

'Monastery meals are an extension of the daily religious observance, occurring twice a day – morning and evening.

'Meals are consumed in silence, as the monks listen to the daily readings from the scriptures (with occasional interruptions from the Abbot).’

Richard Storey, one of the authors of The Mount Athos Diet, who has visited the monks every year for 15 years, spoke to MailOnline about how he came to the conclusion that their eating regime would be beneficial for everyone.

'The monks are deemed to be amongst the healthiest group of people in the world, with very low cancer rates and almost no Alzheimer’s and after years of living among them I recognised their diet had a large part to play in this,' Storey told MailOnline.

'I always came back feeling fitter, healthier and having lost weight, but I never felt like I had been deprived.

'We recruit numerous people to test out the monk’s diet to see if it was applicable in a normal Western life. I lost 22lb everybody lost weight

'A key thing we found was that the lack of calorie counting was a large relief.

'We also found that somewhere along the way, usually at the three or four week mark, you realise that, without any pressure being placed on exactly calories, you are eating differently and what you crave on the feast day changes.

‘Most people no longer even want the highly-processed, high-sugar foods they did at the beginning.’

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How to Protect Yourself From Bacteria in Public Places

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We spend more time in the open every day thanks to the hot weather and we don’t think about what kind of dangers lurk in the environment. By dangers we mean dangers from bacteria, the bad ones that are not part of our organism and that can make a “mess” if they proliferate in one of our organs.
We bring you a list of places with the largest number of bacteria and how to protect yourself from them:

1. Parks

Even though in fresh air, some parts of parks can be crowded with bacteria, so be alert, especially if you bring a small child with you. A lot of dog owners still don’t collect the feces after their dogs; and if they do, a lot of places where dogs urinate are still there. Besides larvae of various parasites that can be found in such places, bacteria can amass.
Always look out for what your child touches, carry with you antibacterial or wet tissues with alcohol with which you can wipe your hands at any time. You can get a disinfectant spray for your hands which are convenient in these situations.
Teach your kids since they are young that they shouldn’t put their hands in their mouths before they wash them at home. Especially look after the little children because of the teeth growth they have a habit to put their fingers in their mouths – in this case disinfectant spray is highly pays out.

2. Restaurants

Restaurants are a possible source of infections because a lot of people go through them that use the toilets and eat, and we must agree, however disgusting it sounds, that not everyone has the same hygienic habits. Some people won’t wash their hands after using the toilet, and with the same hands they will open the door, which you will open afterwards, after you washed your hands, before you sit at your table and eat. Another serious problem is the way of food preparation. The food should be heat-treated enough so the microbes and bacteria could be destroyed. Some meals, like steak tartar or salads, don’t go through heat-treatment, but a lot of spices are added to destroy the bacteria. Be sure to spice the salad with enough vinegar.

3. Patisseries

Another problem with not enough heat-treatment have some patisseries, which becomes a specific problem when it’s warmer and when the food goes bad faster, especially delicate creams in cakes. A lot of cakes (even though you don’t eat them because you are on a healthy diet;) are prepared out of cream with eggs that are not cooked. These kinds of creams are the most risky ones. We advise you to eat dry cakes in the summer, and the best would be to turn completely too fresh, juicy fruit!

4. Fruits

Ah, yes, you turned to the fresh juicy fruit, but you need to wash it first. A lot of people just lightly wipe the apple peel to the sleeve of their shirt and take a bite… In that way they only pick up the bacteria that are on your shirt, and they don’t get to remove the pesticides that have been sprayed on the apple. If you eat pretty, red apples with not a single spot on them wash them good first and then peel them. Of course, washing goes for all kinds of fruits, not just for apples.

5. Handles and door knobs

Handles are touched by everyone – the ones that are a bit smarter avoid them. Sometimes you can’t avoid them because you are in a bus or a tram. The only thing that you can do is wash your hands when you get home. The same goes for carts and baskets in the stores, even the antibacterial ones, which can only reduce the number of bacteriae which doesn’t mean that they are clean.

6. Public toilets

It is little to say that they are crowded, despite the maintenance and cleaning. Besides, bacteria that exist in a community are very similar to each other and the ones that are left on our toilet at home won’t bother us as much as the ones from unknown people and exactly those kinds can be found in large numbers in public toilets.

7. Gyms and halls for exercise

Your own towel at a fitness center. The best way to protect yourself from bacteria in fitness centers is to always carry your own towel or two that you will use. Also, clean the devices after you with disinfectant means. Wipe them before using so you could protect yourself from negligent users that are always there.
The first and main rule for fighting bacteria is frequent hand wash. Not obsessively or frantically, but ordinarily after entering the house, before eating, after going to the toilet. Also, never touch your face if you haven’t washed your hands first, and especially not your mouth or your nose.
Bacteria are inevitable; both good and bad, strengthen your immunity with healthy habits before all.

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How To Achieve The Flat Stomach You Want

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Are you unhappy with your stomach? Do you look at yourself in the mirror and think, “my stomach looks big and bloated”? Everyone wants to achieve the look of a flat stomach. That flat stomach appearance is what the majority of the population seeks to obtain. Let’s face the facts though, it’s not easy. Achieving that flat stomach is much harder for most people than some may think, especially if you have a descent amount of weight to lose before being able to flatten those abdominal muscles the way you want them. For a small portion of lucky people this is a very easy task and they don’t have to put in much effort. That’s unfortunately not the case for the rest of us average people. For most of us it is going to take and hard work but it is possible to accomplish it. There are some helpful tips that you may want to keep in mind on your road to achieve that flat stomach of your dreams.

1. Diet

Most importantly you need to avoid junk foods such as sweets, chips and fried foods. Anything high in fat and sugar should be avoided or significantly restricted. Replace fatty foods with anything containing higher fiber, such as fruits and vegetables. Consuming lean proteins is very necessary. Lean proteins are like nuts, beans and low fat meats, such as fish or chicken. Focus on raw foods. I don’t mean go out and eat raw eggs or anything. Raw fruits and vegetables gives your body the chance to absorb the vitamins and nutrients the foods offer during digestion and it helps to reduce the feeling of being hungry. There are great foods that are very beneficial to eat raw are foods like, broccoli, apples, zucchini, berries, pears, bananas, cucumbers, tomatoes, cabbage and carrots. Dairy products are a great source of protein for energy but it’s important to watch closely on the fat content so you don’t set yourself up for failure. Avoid drinks that contain sugar and calories. Such as juices, soda pop, fruit drinks or high calorie coffee drinks. Drink as much water as possible.

2. Eating Habits

Eating habits are very important. Starving yourself from food intake is counterproductive. You should only eat when you’re actually hungry. That’s not to be confused with snacking. Only eat when you’re hungry enough to consume a real, balanced meal. Limit the amount of food you eat and only eat until you are just about starting to feel full. Slowly chewing food gives your body time to realize when it’s actually starting to feel full and it gives your stomach the time to tell your brain to stop eating. If you want some added help on controlling appetite a great thing to use is Moringa. It is a natural appetite suppressant, it’s non-addicting and it’s packed full of vitamins that your body needs.

3. Exercise

Exercising will help to burn calories and fat, as well as help to start flattening your stomach. A great beginner exercise is walking. Sounds simple and it is effective too. Doing some sit-ups and crunches are great for the abdominal area. One of the most productive and effective kinds are planking exercises. They help to elongate and flatten the abdominal muscles while strengthening and tightening the muscles too.

I’m Andrea Jensen, nutritionist and fitness trainer. It’s my job to help people get into shape and achieve their goals of fitness. Also she recommends Moringa to control appetite.

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4 Best Weight Loss Exercises from Home

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Exercising and proper diet are the primary key to have the weight that you desire. This article will list the best weight loss workout plans that will work whatever your body type is. These weight loss workout plans are designed to target certain areas of the body where fat deposits are and these exercises are designed to take less than 30 minutes each day.
Before performing any of these routines, please consult a physician if you suffer from any known cardiac, muscular or skeletal illnesses or diseases.
1. Abdominal crunch
This routine targets the muscle in the stomach, and upper hips. Proceed by bending your legs and lying down on a flat surface (a floor covered with cloth works great). Bend your legs 90 degrees and place your hands in your chest crossing them. Start lifting your shoulder blades (not your whole back) lifting it off the ground. Slowly touch your knees with your elbow, you can start with the repetitions and add five more everyday.
2. Squats
This routine targets the muscles in the thighs, hips and the butt. You will start by standing up straight, there should be a distance of one foot between your feet. Contract your abdominal muscles while doing this, slowly lower down the upper part of the body by bending your knees. Do this until your butt is in the same line with your knees. Slowly go back to the starting position repeating the whole thing for ten to fifteen minutes.
3. Dips
This exercise focus on the muscles in the arms. You will need a chair or a bench for this routine. Start by sitting on a chair with both your hands slightly under your hips. Lift your upper body putting weight on both hands, slowly bring the body away from the chair maintaining the hands in the same position. Bend your elbows, and your lower hips with your shoulders down. Slowly go back to the original position reversing the steps provided. You should repeat this exercise at least 10 to 15 times.
4. Push ups
This exercise is still the best for the muscles in the upper body if done correctly; a person can perform at the convenience of their home. You will start by lying facing the floor, your hands should be placed aligning to your shoulders. Look forward, straighten your arms slowly, using your hands to push your body above the floor. Stay on the same position for 10 seconds, then go back slowly to the beginning position. You should start with 10 sets of this each day adding five more per week depending on your progress.
These work out routines have been incorporated to most extensive muscle building exercises. If you plan to really lose those unwanted fats, these weight loss workout plans should be incorporated with proper diet.

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Spring Fatigue is Nothing to Worry About

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The long-awaited warm rays of Sun and spring, many individuals, especially the ones that are more susceptible to the effect of meteorological circumstances to their health and mood, meet them under the auspices of more or less expressed unpleasant difficulties, such as constant fatigue, decreased concentration and energy and increased need for sleep. It is the spring fatigue syndrome, a health disorder which, together with irritability and apathy, sometimes depression even, significantly decreases the individual’s ability to work. Spring fatigue doesn’t nail you to the bed, but it affects the quality of life and by weakening the defense strength of the organism it prepares the ground for other disease development, especially respiratory infections.
The cause of spring fatigue is good to look up before all in monotonous winter nutrition, deprived of necessary vitamins – first of all vitamin C and then minerals. This lack of vitamin C is exactly why the utilization of oxygen in cells and tissues is lowered, and at the same time it comes to weakening of the immune system. The good news is that we can successfully fight spring fatigue with a combination of right nutrition, by taking in enough fluids, physical activity and being in fresh air.

Energizing vitamins and minerals

The first step when fighting spring fatigue is increased intake of vitamin C into the organism through carefully picked out locally grown fruits and vegetables. In early spring it is not an easy task, especially when it comes to fruit, because the best representatives of fruits that are rich with vitamin C, like strawberries don’t get to the markets before May. Luckily, citrus fruits are available, which is very effective to fulfill increased needs for this vitamin.
Adequate intake of vitamins from group B that are contained in meat, fish, integral cereal, pulses, wheat germs can be useful for overcoming the lack of motivation and melancholic moods that are related to spring fatigue. Besides having a positive effect on the mood, vitamins from group B have an important role in releasing energy from food, and they also contribute to normal function of the nervous system.
Of minerals that have a special importance with the adequate intake in the conditions of exhaustion, fatigue and stress, magnesium is worth mentioning. By taking in pulses such as beans, peas or soya, then integral cereal, nuts and chocolate with high content of cocoa, you will provide your organism with enough magnesium to tackle the symptoms of spring fatigue.
In fighting spring fatigue and stimulating the stumbling immunity an important role goes to iron. It is well known that iron deficit and anemia caused by iron deficit violate physical activities, causing fatigue and lethargy, decrease ability for work, slow down thought processes and lower the resistance to various infections, so it is important to include food rich with iron like meat, fish, pulses, and green leafy vegetables into the nutrition. Having in mind that kale and spinach, the representatives of dark green leafy vegetables in early spring, also contain vitamin C needed to absorb the iron, they can really be considered true allies in fighting the spring fatigue.

Carbohydrates are needed for energy

To chase away the fatigue and apathy, you need to base your nutrition on carbohydrates. The advantage goes to complex carbohydrates like whole grain cereals and products made of whole grain wheat, potato because they cause long-term increase in blood sugar, which means more energy. Nutrition that abounds in carbohydrates also increases the level of serotonin hormone in the organism. That is a guarantee for good mood and abundance of energy, and spring fatigue becomes the thing of the past.
Additionally, nutrition which is based on whole grain cereals, fruits and vegetables ensure the organism with very much needed nutritious fibers that are necessary for the good function of digestive system and the growth of so called good intestinal bacteria.

Food supplements against spring fatigue

Sometimes even with the strongest will, it is not possible to ensure enough vitamins and minerals only with nutrition for adjusting the organism to the change of season, from winter to spring. This has a special value for the individuals that are exposed more often to nutritional omissions like older people or chronic patients, and then some individuals that because of constant exposure to stress like businessmen and students just have increased needs. Spring is also the time when our immune system needs additional support, so reaching for quality vitamin – mineral products arise as a practical and effective way of fighting the spring fatigue. These products, also, can serve as a first aid kit when the fatigue symptoms already appear.

Which product to choose?

The product that contains the whole palette of vitamins and minerals, in general, it will be good in the conditions of fatigue, emotional tension and stress. And it is recommended to choose products that contain vitamin C above all, but also vitamins from group B and magnesium and iron to get the best results. It is useful if the chosen product also ensures adequate amounts of vitamins A and E, and minerals like selenium and zinc, being that these nutrients work in favor of strengthening the immune system.

Here is a few more advice that can help you with fighting spring fatigue:

• The color of spring is colorful – so enrich your menu with all the colors from the market

• Don’t forget the cereal such as barley and pulses like lentils which are great for cleansing the organism

• Look for onions and horseradish, and also garlic – strong enemies of the viruses and colds

• Eat breakfast everyday because quality breakfast will give you energy that you need for doing daily chores

• Eat light and little, but often

• Drink enough fluids, especially water and non-sugared herbal teas

• Prepare the vegetables as quick as possible to preserve their valuable substances

• Hot vegetable soups are a great way to energize, and juices made out of fresh fruits and vegetables will also help

• Be active as much as you can and breathe deeply

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Sleeping with too much light in the room increases the risk of obesity.

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A poor set of curtains may not just mean you wake up too early - they could also make you fat. 

A study has found that sleeping with too much light in the room increases the risk of obesity in women.

Greater exposure to light at night raised both Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist size in more than 113,000 women taking part in the British study.

Danger: Being exposed to light at night may increase the risk of obesity by disrupting the body clock

The Breakthrough Generations Study followed the women for 40 years in an attempt to identify root causes of breast cancer. Obesity is a known risk factor for the disease.

Professor Anthony Swerdlow, from The Institute of Cancer Research in London, said: 'Metabolism is affected by cyclical rhythms within the body that relate to sleeping, waking and light exposure.

 

'The associations we saw in our study between light exposure at night and obesity are very intriguing.

'We cannot yet tell at this stage what the reason for the associations is, but the results open up an interesting direction for research.'

Co-author Dr Emily McFadden, a visiting researcher at the the institute, said: 'Because all the information was collected at the same time, we cannot tell the sequence of events.

Negative: Other research has found the disruptive effect of nighttime lighting on the body may contribute to depression and mood disorders

'But the associations we found are consistent with previous research examining light exposure and metabolism, and further investigation is needed.'

The study was funded by the charity Breakthrough Breast Cancer, whose senior research officer Dr Matthew Lam said: 'These findings add weight to previous results from animal studies that looked into how light exposure, circadian rhythms and metabolism could all be connected in some way.

'It's too early to suggest that sleeping in the dark will help prevent obesity, a known risk factor for breast cancer, but the association is certainly interesting.'

The findings are reported in the American Journal Of Epidemiology.

Previous research has drawn similar conclusions. A team at Ohio State University examined how nocturnal light affects weight, body fat and glucose intolerance (the underlying cause of late-onset diabetes) in mice.

They found that persistent exposure to even a little night-time light caused increases in all three.

Another report from the American Medical Association found the disruptive effect of nighttime lighting on our bodies' circadian rhythms may contribute to 'obesity, diabetes, depression and mood disorders, and reproductive problems'.

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Top 5 Drinks That Help You Lose Weight

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If you have decided to lose the extra pounds, then you surely know that the only way to do that is by combining workouts with a healthy, balanced and nutritious diet. However, there are some types of drinks that will speed up the fat burning and help you lose weight quicker than you normally would, and here you will find 5 of the most efficient ones:

1. Detox Juices

Detox juices are certainly your most trustworthy allies in your battle against the extra pounds – you can easily make them in your kitchen, either entirely out of fruits or vegetables or by combining these two. Citrus fruits are known to have a powerful detox capability, therefore if you are looking for foods to help you purge all the toxins that have gathered inside you over the months then you must certainly include them in your detox juice. High-fiber root foods such as ginger, carrots or apples are also highly recommended for these juices, as they are known to also support the correct functioning of your digestive tract, not to mention the wealth of antioxidants that they deliver to your body.

As you may know already, antioxidants are essential as they protect your body from the negative effects of the free radicals that can wreak havoc on your health if you allow them two. One eight ounce glass of detox juice per week will certainly keep all these problems far away from you! These juices have a double benefit – while they help your body get rid of the toxins, chemicals and all the dangerous substances that have accumulated inside your intestines, they also help you lose weight in the fastest and most natural way. One thing is for sure, though: all those who want to shed pounds yet stay healthy at the same time must go through at least one or two detox sessions throughout the course of a year.

2. Vegetable Juices

Vegetable juices, on the other hand, can also benefit your weight loss efforts in the long run and it is a known fact that the most suitable type of veggies for weight loss are the cruciferous ones. No matter if you juice them alone or you use them in conjunction with other fruits, these veggies (cabbage, kale, broccoli or cauliflower) will be your most efficient fat fighting weapon, and there is no better way to keep all the toxins away.  Another notable benefit of the vegetable juices is that in addition to helping your body fight free radicals and keeping you healthy, they will also balance the hormone levels in your body and prevent the hormone disruptors from interfering with the normal hormone levels. Cruciferous veggies are very rich in natural phytonutrients that are perfect for reducing the overall amount of body fat, for reducing inflammation and controlling the blood sugar levels, for balancing the hormone levels, boosting your metabolism as well as providing a thorough general detoxification.

3. Green Tea

Green tea has been used for hundreds of years due to its numerous benefits, and weight loss is just one of them – although green tea alone will only help you lose a few pounds, it will certainly serve as a great addition to your diet in the long haul. No matter if you do not have the time or you do not like to workout on a regular basis, drinking one cup of tea per day will deliver all the antioxidants you need and it will also help you burn fat at a faster pace, by boosting the metabolism. These teas are perfect for burning more calories as well as for increasing your overall energy levels and for suppressing your appetite. As a matter of fact, this is exactly the main mechanism of action of these teas as they help y

4. Fruit Juice – Cranberry And Pear

Fruit juices are delicious, easy to prepare and very rich in nutrients, vitamins and minerals – besides this, there are literally hundreds of different fruits you can choose from and pear and cranberries are only two of the most delicious, most efficient and most sought-after ones given the fact that they contain high amounts of vitamin C. Not only will the cranberry and pear juice help you lose weight by boosting your metabolism (your body’s natural fat burning machine), but it will also increase your overall energy levels and deliver your body all the essential vitamins and proteins that it so much needs. At the same time, it is a known fact that the cranberry juice is essential for preventing various infection of the bladder, such as the infection with the E-coli bacteria. Pears, on the other hand, add magnesium, potassium as well as phosphorus to your fruit juice and they are essential for a healthy lifestyle, not to mention that they are very rich in Vitamin C and Calcium, the latter being particularly important for keeping your bones healthy and strong.

5. Black Coffee

Last, but not least, it is a known fact that if consumed with moderation, black coffee can have a plethora of health benefits – not only does it contain antioxidants that fight off free radicals and lower the risk for certain types of cancer, but it can also reduce the risk for diabetes as well as heart disease. At the same time, caffeine is perfect for boosting your metabolism and for increasing the number of calories you have burned. Be careful, though, because if you want to lose weight by relying on black coffee you will have to consume it without any milk or sugar, as any sweetener can increase its calorie count!

To conclude, these are the top 5 most efficient drinks that you should embed in your diet if you want to lose weight quickly and naturally, without resorting to any pills or supplements that may have side-out shed the extra pounds by suppressing your appetite, thus decreasing the amount of food you would normally consume on a daily basis. Green tea is very popular amongst the Japanese people, and it is said to also help you reduce stress and relax better.

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Losing Weight A Better Way

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We Can Get More Fit!
It can be really frustrating for an overweight person to go to a gym and workout with a positive attitude. All one has to do is walk by almost any nice gym and notice all the healthy, sweating, “skinny” members. Sometimes they stare at those of us who are, well, zaftig. It is easy to see the judgment behind their eyes. Who wants to put up with that?
Many people are self-conscious of their bodies and feel alienated when joining workout classes or while exercising, especially if they are larger than most of the others in the group. Now the fitness industry is finally paying attention.  Popular gym franchises are catering to obese and weight conscious clients by dedicating areas where the “skinny” people are not allowed.
The Planet Fitness chain touts its “Judgment Free Zones.” In Omaha, Neb., Square One promises you won’t find “size 2′s in sports bras sprinting on treadmills.”
There are even gyms/programs that require members to be a minimum of 50 pounds over weight to participate.
Trainers recommend functional fitness as a practical goal, rather than six-pack abs. They often use text messages to stay in touch with clients.
It’s not a bad business strategy, considering that 69 percent of American adults fit in [the overweight or obese] category, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Often at these specialized gyms, the trainers are obese themselves, or working on their own weight goals, and this can help those people with anxiety caused by poor body image. The equipment has been designed for use by larger people.  Wider seats, more cushioning, no mirrors, and tinted windows for privacy, are all important innovations.
Hopefully these types of gyms will successfully grow in numbers in the future.  The idea is a very simple and potentially popular one. …and if it will help those of us who are bigger exercise more and improve our fitness level, it’s a step in the right direction.

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LOVELY SPIRIT;TOWIE star Jess Wright: 'I have psoriasis but I won't let it get me down'.

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She is known for her stunning looks, making a living from her glamorous appearance.
Reality TV star and model Jess Wright's flawless complexion and sun-kissed skin are the envy of women the length and breadth of the country.
But for years the 28-year-old TOWIE star has hidden a debilitating skin condition, dealing with it behind closed doors.
Psoriasis is an incurable condition affecting around 1.8million people in the UK. The inherited illness develops when the body's immune system attacks healthy skin cells.

Model Jess Wright, star of The Only Way Is Essex, was diagnosed with psoriasis in her early 20s

Speaking for the first time about her condition, the 28-year-old model and reality TV star, said it was so severe when she was first diagnosed that she couldn't wear black tops and dresses for fear of people thinking she had dandruff. She said it can 'wreck havoc' with her fake tan, leaving white patches where the psoriasis has flared up

Watching her father live with psoriasis left Jess consumed by a fear she would develop the red, flakey patches that characterise the condition.
When she was in her early 20s her fears were realised when the tell tale flaky patches appeared on her head.
She told MailOnline: 'It was five to six years ago, I was in a really stressful marketing job and all of a sudden I noticed flakiness on my head.

'It got worse, to the point where I stopped wearing black tops because I was so embarrassed people would think I had dandruff.'
'I remember feeling devastated because I had seen him struggle with it for so many years,' Jess added.
'My dad had it pretty much on most areas of his body, my fear growing up was always that I never wanted to inherit it. No one else in the family has it, dad was the first one and I followed.
The model said she was compelled to speak out about her condition as part of a new campaign 'Everyday Psoriasis', which aims to raise awareness of the illness.

'Looking back... I was so upset and worried about having psoriasis. But now it is just a part of everyday life, and I want other people to know that is the best way to be'

An e-book published by Exorex as part of the campaign, tells eight personal accounts of living with psoriasis, including Jess's.
'The book offers beauty tips and advice, as well as giving different people's perspectives,' she told MailOnline.
'I think it is just really good for people suffering the condition to see other people, including people in the public eye, live with psoriasis too, it can help knowing others are going through it.
'Psoriasis doesn’t just affect the way you look physically; it also has a huge emotional impact, at times making you feel lonely and isolated.
'I think it’s great that more and more celebrities are now coming forward about having psoriasis – it’s only by sharing stories and advice that we will realise that we’re not alone.
'Looking back when it first started, I was so upset and worried about having psoriasis.
'But now it is just a part of everyday life, and I want other people to know that is the best way to be.
'When you first discover you have it, it is stressful but it is not the end of the world and living with psoriasis doesn’t have to hold anyone back.'

Jess has shared her experience of living with psoriasis in a new e-book published by Exorex, 'Everyday Psoriasis', which aims to raise awareness of the condition, which affects around 1.8million people in the UK

Having watched her father cope with the condition, Jess told MailOnline she lived in fear of developing it as a child. She said behind her confident smile on the red carpet, her psoriasis can leave her feeling 'vulnerable and exposed'. But she said she has learned to live with it and refuses to let the condition control her life

When Jess was first diagnosed with psoriasis the flaky patches only affected her head. She said although it was isolated to her scalp, it was hard not to feel sorry for herself.
She said: 'Since then it has spread to my ears and arms, and I’ve asked “why me?” countless times; from when it first appeared, to every time I wore a short sleeved top or got too close to someone, or even when I’ve been pictured on a red carpet showing my arms.
'I’m sure nobody else has been able to spot it on those photos, but sometimes it’s all I can focus on.
'Everybody knows that my face and body are my job, but I think a lot of the fashion and beauty problems I encounter are relevant to many women.
'For instance, trying to make your hair look nice is incredibly difficult when some psoriasis scalp treatments make it smell so strong and look ‘wet’. And, as a lot of girls probably know, it can also wreak havoc on your fake tan when you’re going through a flaky stage!'

Jess said her boyfriend Ricky Rayment (right) has been really supportive since finding out about her condition

Living life in the spotlight, Jess said her confident smile can often hide how vulnerable and exposed she feels.
But she said away from the glare of the public, psoriasis affects her life away from the cameras.
'I've had a number of days where I haven't wanted to wear a new strappy top as I'm conscious of the patches on my arms, or I've pushed that little black dress to the back of the wardrobe because I'm worried about flakes,' she said.
'These might sound like very trivial issues to some, but when you’re living with them every day it’s really hard to not let them get you down.
'But, for any ladies reading this, let me tell you what I’ve learned, nobody is picking up on these niggles as much as you are.
'Do not get stressed out about it, just be open with people. The more you try to hide the condition, the more you worry people will notice, and stress is not good for psoriasis.'

PSORIASIS: AN EXPERT'S VIEW...

Dr Martin Godfrey, a GP from South London, said: 'Like so many psoriasis sufferers, Jessica has inherited her condition.
'A child with one parent with psoriasis has roughly a one in four chance of developing psoriasis too. 
'The way it is inherited is complex and not yet fully understood. 
'Many genes are involved, and even if the right combination of genes has been inherited psoriasis still may not appear
'However, the trigger for psoriasis to first appear is often an outside event, such as an infection, severe stress or an injury to the skin.
'In practise, for most patients who develop psoriasis, or for whom it clears and then comes back, no obvious cause can be detected.
'Jessica’s comment about stress is spot on. Stress is a major trigger for psoriasis.
'Scientists don't know exactly why stress triggers psoriasis but believe it has to do with the immune system.
'Dr. John Koo, professor of clinical dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco, says inflammation is the body's way to cope with stress.
'Just as your immune system responds to injury and infection by sending out chemicals that cause inflammation, Koo suspects the immune system responds the same way to mental stress.
'In people with overactive immune systems, like in psoriasis, this can cause problems.
'Meditation, tai chi, exercise and in severe cases medication can reduce stress and in the process help bring the psoriasis back to more manageable levels.'

When she was first diagnosed, Jess chose not to tell her boyfriend of the time, fearing how he would react.
'One day my psoriasis was really bad, thankfully it's not anymore. But my boyfriend was like, "what is that"?
'I started crying and got really embarrassed but I explained what it was and he just asked me why I hadn't told him.
'When you have got a boyfriend it is hard having to explain the condition, it's not the most attractive thing for a girl.
'Ricky is really understanding, he is great. He took it in his stride.'
Jess said she counts herself lucky, in the time since her diagnosis her psoriasis has improved and though it now also affects patches on her arms and ears, it is not as severe as when she first developed the condition.
She said: 'It is one of those things, you have to try not to get stressed about it.
'The person standing next to you probably can’t see the little white specks on your top, and has probably not noticed your sore elbows or red patches, so as hard as it is; I’ve tried not to spend my time constantly worrying about it.'
As with many sufferers, Jess has found ways to cope with her condition.
Regular medication in the form of ointments, lotions and potions as well as prescription medicines, Chinese herbal remedies and exercise have all helped her bring her psoriasis under control.
But she said relaxing is the key, making time for the things she loves, from walking in the park to taking a bath or trying a new recipe in the kitchen and reading a good book all work wonders.
'I also find it really important not to burn the candle at both ends, and if I was going to offer one piece of advice for others with psoriasis this would be it. don’t be afraid to say “no” to that night out or work event if you’re tired and run down - it’s not worth putting your body under extra strain and your skin will thank you for looking after yourself,' she warned.
'I’m aware that mine is a relatively mild case compared to thousands of other people with the condition – so I also spend a lot of time feeling guilty for feeling sorry for myself which can be  confusing.
'I think a lot of people with less-severe cases will relate to this – when you’re itching and flaking and feeling miserable it’s really hard to keep any level of perspective but the adult in you knows you have to.
'Everybody’s lives are full of stresses, and I try my hardest to not let psoriasis be one of them – because we all know that stress can be an enemy when it comes to this condition.
'I have psoriasis, but it doesn’t have me.'

PSORIASIS - THE INCURABLE SKIN CONDITION WHICH WRECKS CONFIDENCE

Psoriasis causes red, flaky patches of skin covered in silvery scales

Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes red, flaky, crusty patches of skin covered with silvery scales.
The patches normally appear on your elbows, knees, scalp and lower back but can appear anywhere on the body.
Around two per cent of the UK population, 1.8million people, are affected by the condition, which can start at any age.
For most, psoriasis develops before the age of 35 and the condition affects men and women equally.
The severity of the condition varies from person to person, for some causing a minor irritation, while for others it has a major impact on their quality of life.
Psoriasis is a long-lasting, or chronic, condition that involves periods when a sufferer will have no symptoms or mild symptoms, followed by more severe outbreaks.
The condition occurs when the process by which the body produces skin cells is accelerated.
Normally the cells are replaced by the body every three to four months, but in psoriasis the process only lasts about three to seven days.
The resulting build-up of skin cells creates the patches associated with psoriasis.
While the condition is not fully understood, it is thought the increased production of skin cells is related to a problem with a person's immune system.
For those suffering with the condition, their immune system attacks healthy skin cells by mistake.
Psoriasis can run in families and there is thought to be a genetic element to the condition.
Many sufferers will experience symptoms following a certain event, a trigger.
A trigger can include injury to a person's skin, throat infections and using certain medications.

The condition develops when the body's immune system starts to attack healthy skin cells. Normally the cells are replaced by the body every three to four months, but in psoriasis the process only lasts about three to seven days. File picture

The condition is not contagious, so cannot be spread from person to person.
There is no cure for psoriasis, but a range of treatments can be used to improve symptoms and the appearance of the affected skin patches.
In most cases a sufferer will be prescribed creams and ointments to ease the symptoms.
If these prove ineffective, doctors may opt for phototherapy treatment. It involves exposing the skin to certain types of ultraviolet light.
In the most severe cases, systemic treatments are used. They are oral or injected medicines that work throughout the body.

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Most doctors who were terminally ill would AVOID aggressive treatments such as chemotherapy.

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Most doctors would turn down aggressive treatment if they were terminally ill, new research has found. Dr Kate Granger (pictured), who has terminal cancer, has talked about choosing to stop having chemotherapy

Most doctors would turn down the option of aggressive treatment if they were terminally ill, a study has found.

They say they would opt for a 'do not resuscitate’ approach should they find themselves on the receiving end of medical treatment.

Yet they tend to pursue aggressive, life-prolonging treatment for patients facing the same prognosis, Stanford University School of Medicine found.

However, studies found many patients would prefer to die at home without life-prolonging interventions but are often ignored.

The study, published in the journal PLOS ONE, found 88.3 per cent of doctors would choose ‘do not resuscitate’ orders for themselves and argued the reason behind this disparity and how patients are treated needed to be better understood.

Clinical associate professor of medicine Dr VJ Periyakoil said: ‘Why do we physicians choose to pursue such aggressive treatment for our patients when we wouldn't choose it for ourselves? The reasons likely are multifaceted and complex.’

As a geriatrics doctor she understands the difference between the type of care doctors want for themselves at the end of life and what they actually do for their patients.

She argued it was not down to doctors trying to make more money or because they are intentionally insensitive to their patients' desires.

At the core of the problem, she believes, is a medical system that rewards doctors for taking action, not for talking with their patients.

She said: ‘Our current default is “doing”, but in any serious illness there comes a tipping point where the high-intensity treatment becomes more of a burden than the disease itself.

‘It's tricky, but physicians don't have to figure it out by themselves. They can talk to the patients and their families and to the other interdisciplinary team members, and it becomes much easier.

While most doctors would not have aggressive treatment themselves, they do tend to prescribe it to their terminally ill patients (file picture)

‘But we don't train doctors to talk or reward them for talking. We train them to do and reward them for doing. The system needs to be changed.’

The study examined changing doctors’ attitudes to a new law designed to give patients more control over determining end-of-life care decisions.

Advance directives are documents that patients can use to indicate end-of-life care preferences.

The study involved 1,081 doctors who in 2013 completed a web-based advanced directive form and a 14-item advance directive attitude survey at Stanford Hospital & Clinics and the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System.

It also involved 790 doctors from Arkansas who were asked the same 14 survey questions - but did not complete an advance directive form - in a 1989 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Surprisingly, results showed that doctors' attitudes toward advance directives have changed little in 25 years.

The lack of change in doctors' attitudes towards advance directives mirrors what the study describes as the medical system's continued focus on aggressive treatment at the end of life, despite the fact that most Americans now say they would prefer to die at home without life-prolonging interventions.

The study found A&E medics, paediatricians, obstetrician-gynaecologists and those in physical medicine and rehabilitation have more favourable attitudes toward advance directives.

Radiologists, surgeons, orthopaedists and radiation oncologists were less keen.

In 2012 Dr Kate Granger, a hospital registrar with terminal cancer, wrote a piece for MailOnline explaining that she had chosen to stop her chemotherapy treatment.

Dr Granger, who was diagnosed with terminal cancer at just 29, said she had decided to stop the treatment because it was making her terribly ill.

She said that rather than continuing with the suffering, she would rather return to living her old life even if just for a few months.

At the time she said: 'I will accept further treatment only if it enhances the quality, not the quantity, of the days I have left.'

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Many low-fat foods 'have SAME amount of calories as regular equivalents due to added sugar'.

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Dieters choosing low-fat foods in the hope of cutting calories should beware: they can contain even more calories than regular foods, research has found.

A new study found that while most low-fat supermarket products contain a third fewer calories than their regular fat version, ten per cent actually have more or the same calories, mainly due to added sugars.

Obesity specialist Dr Matthew Capehorn said weight-conscious shoppers should realise that choosing low-fat products made by brands including Weight Watchers could hamper their efforts to cut calories.

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Low-fat bread and other foods can contain more calories than their regular counterparts, research shows

The study by the Rotherham Institute for Obesity, where Dr Capehorn is clinical director, found that Weight Watchers wholemeal thick slice bread had more calories than any own label, regular fat equivalent, while Weight Watchers sliced cheese also had more calories than own label equivalents.

REGULAR VS DIET - HOW THEY COMPARE

Weight Watchers wholemeal thick slice bread had more calories than any own label, regular fat equivalent.
Weight Watchers sliced cheese also had more calories than own label equivalents.
Asda natural low-fat yoghurt had more calories than Asda natural yoghurt.
Birdseye light and crunchy breaded chicken had more calories than Birdseye crispy chicken.
Sainsbury’s low fat custard had the same calories as Sainsbury’s custard.
Asda own brand low fat Italian dressing had more fat than the regular fat alternative.

It also found that Asda natural low-fat yoghurt had more calories than Asda natural yoghurt, Birdseye light and crunchy breaded chicken had more calories than Birdseye crispy chicken, and Sainsbury’s low fat custard had the same calories as Sainsbury’s custard.

Often, extra sugar was added to boost the taste of the lower-fat foods.

Dr Capehorn said: 'Low-fat foods do appear on average to help reduce calorie intake...however appropriate food choices may still require reading nutritional information on the food labels, as ten per cent of low fat foods still have more calories, and 40 per cent have more sugar, than their regular fat counterparts.'

He began the study to establish whether low-fat versions of products were nutritionally healthier than their regular counterparts, mainly in terms of sugar and overall calories.

Of the ten most popular UK supermarkets, four provided enough information online for researchers to complete the study in November: Sainsbury's, Asda, Waitrose and Tesco.

Fat, sugar and calorie content for any low fat food that had a directly comparable regular fat product made by the same brand were recorded.

Of 62 products that matched these criteria found in the four supermarkets, 56 low-fat products had fewer calories, and on average overall the low-fat products had 31 per cent less calories.

However, ten per cent of low fat foods analysed still had more or the same calories than the regular fat version, while 37 of the 62 products (60 per cent) had less sugar than the regular fat alternatives.

One low-fat product, Asda own brand low fat Italian dressing, had more fat than the regular fat alternative.

Dieters hoping yoghurt will help them lose weight should check the calorie content (file image)

An example of where there was an obvious calorie saving with the lower fat version was Benecol light spread, which saved 216 kcals/100g compared with Benecol buttery spread.

Weight Watchers said it was redeveloping its wholemeal thick sliced bread after research found it had more calories than any ‘own label’ supermarket brand.

A spokesperson said: 'Weight Watchers continues to strive to provide customers with high quality Weight Watchers Foods and we are constantly evolving our products to ensure this.

'As such, we are redeveloping the Weight Watchers Thick Sliced Wholemeal Bread to ensure it is the best choice for our consumers.'

The findings by the Rotherham Institute for Obesity were presented at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO) in Sofia, Bulgaria, yesterday.

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Does plastic surgery ruin the maternal bond?

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Are parents who opt for cosmetic surgery on their face unintentionally ruining their relationship with their children?
Studies suggest that having Botox injections could alter the way infants perceive adults, leaving them unable to recognise emotion.
This means that when an nip and tucked mother tries to empathise, the baby is left distraught as the adult seemingly appears unaffected by their behaviour.

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Is cosmetic surgery leaving babies emotionally detached from their mothers? Studies suggest that 'enhancements' such as Botox injections make it difficult for children to empathise with adults and recognise emotion in parents (stock image shown)

Last year more than 50,000 cosmetic surgery procedures were carried out in the UK - a rise of 17 per cent on average from 2012.

THE BOTOX TIMEBOMB?

More than five in six people who have had Botox admit to having no idea what exactly was injected into their face.

And new figures reveal today that more people than ever are seeking help after botched procedures.

A shocking 84 per cent of youth-seekers admitted to having absolutely no idea what was going into their faces when under-going the procedure - or even if the injection given actually contained key ingredient Botulinum toxin.

The national research carried out by the Transform Cosmetic Surgery company has found that almost a third (29 per cent) of respondents said they had their treatment done at a local beauty salon, one in ten had one at home or a friend's home, and 3 per cent were treated at a 'beauty treatment party'.

And there doesn’t seem to be any signs of the trend abating.

By 2015 the global value of the plastic surgery industry is set to rise to £3.6 billion ($6 billion), a rise of £1.3 billion ($2.2 billion) from 2010.

A study carried out by Dr David Neal from the University of California in 2011 fouind that infants were unable to get an emotional response from adults who had had Botox injections.
This left them distressed and upset as they lacked the ability to be empathetic with their parents.
Dr Neal said that when infants were unable to mimic their parents’ emotions, such as showing sadness or happiness, they could sometimes be left confused.
This suggests that, as more and more parents today turn to Botox to supposedly ‘improve’ their appearance in later life, they might be worsening their relationship with their children.
This research has come to the fore again in recent days after a British artist spoke out against the use of plastic surgery in parents at the Hay Festival in the Brecon Beacons National Park.
As reported by The Times, Jonathan Yeo said that cosmetic surgery was ‘homogenising the way we look’ in addition to the aforementioned negative effects on appearance.
‘What are the unintended long-term consequences of these things that we are doing casually for our own gratification?
‘Aside from the fact it is risky, it is painful, it is expensive, it is often quite obvious you have had it done.’
Yeo has himself studied cosmetic-surgery patients and their sometimes painful pursuits of achieving physical perfection.
He says that, in the future, we may find the age of plastic surgery rather odd.
‘It is a funny time. I think we will look back on this time like we do on people using leeches and wonder why we did it,’ he said.
‘I think it is quite crazy. I want to document it. It is the big story of our era.’

Jonathan Yeo, pictured, discussed at the Hay Festival some of his own research into cosmetic surgery that suggests it emotionally detaches parents and children. He is known for portraits of several high-profile people including an infamous piece of President George Push made out of cuttings from pornographic magazines

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