Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Tips to protect your hair from styling damage.

As much as we love our blow-dryers, flat irons and hot rollers, excessive heat during hairstyling can degrade hair's proteins and make your tresses prone to frizz and breakage.

Fortunately, you don't have to give up on your favorite styling tool to nurse your locks back to health. Just check out these "healthier" ways to do it.



Condition and detangle gently


To protect healthy hair from damage, use the conditioner (make sure it's for your hair type) every time you shampoo and detangle wet hair with a wide-toothed comb to reduce breakage.



Use a heat-protectant

Always prep hair with a heat-protective smoothing cream or spray before using heated styling tools. Look for one that contains silicone, which acts as a protective coating for hair.



Dry thoroughly

Hair is more fragile when wet. Towel-dry before blow-drying, and make sure hair is 100 percent dry before using a curling or flat iron. Otherwise, you'd get a lot of steam, which can be very damaging to your mane.



Go easy with the hot tools

To minimize hair's exposure to heat, hold the blow-dryer several inches away from hair. When flat-ironing, quickly pass the straightening iron through hair so that the heat is not concentrated in one area.



Try this heat-free trick to sexy waves


Achieve gorgeous waves sans curling iron or hot rollers: Smooth slightly damp hair with anti-frizz serum at the ends, then divide into three sections. Twist each section into a bun and secure with pins. Sleep on it, then literally roll out of bed the next morning with a head of sexy waves!



Limit teasing


Backcombing creates excessive friction, which can weaken your hair structure and leave hair more vulnerable to damage and breakage over time, so don't do it everyday. To create lift and volume, try a root-lifting product instead.






Monday, July 30, 2012

FREE Johnson's Body Care Oxygen Fresh Lotion



Bring any 100ml & above body lotion empty bottle (any other brands) to exchange for a bottle of new Johnson's Body Care Oxygen Fresh Lotion 100ml worth RM7.10 for FREE !! (no purchase require)

Date : 4 - 5 August / 11 - 12 August 2012

Time : 12pm - 6pm
            * While stock last

Venue of exchange : WATSONS
                                 ( Sg. Wang Plaza, Cheras Leisure Mall, Pavillion KL, Aeon Bukit
                                   Tinggi Klang, One Utama, Jusco Melaka, Kinta City,
                                   Suria KLCC,  IOI Mall Puchong & Gurney Plaza)

For more details visit Watsons Malaysia http://www.watsons.com.my

Saturday, July 28, 2012

Chatime Buy 1 Free 1 Offer


- Valid for all Chatime outlets in Malaysia, except Queensbay Mall & Gurney Plaza.
- This offer is for all Chatime Thirstea Members only.
- FREE 1 regular Coffee Jelly Milk Tea with purchase of any drink of your choice.
- Offer is from 1st August - 14th August 2012. (from 6pm - 10pm)
- While stock last.

Visit https://www.facebook.com/chatimemalaysia for info updates.


Enjoy your Tea........

World's Most Expensive Place To Live

Europe’s debt crisis, slowing growth in the U.S. and worries about a hard landing in China: Even if you’ve kept your job this past year, you’ve probably had plenty to worry about. But how about the rising cost of living?

According to a new report from human resources firm Mercer Consulting, the cost of living in North American, Asian and African cities has been rising this past year, despite the global slowdown.


The study looked at 214 cities worldwide and used New York City as the benchmark. Mercer’s annual cost of living survey is used by multinational companies to determine compensation for their expatriate employees around the world. The rankings are based on the cost of more than 200 items in each location including housing, transportation, food, clothing and entertainment.

So, which cities are the most expensive to live in?

1. Tokyo, Japan

Photo: Hiroshi Higuchi

Tokyo is the most expensive place to live in the world for expatriates and is one of three Japanese cities to make the top 10 list this year.

The city has risen from the number two spot last year and has been ranked either first or second for the past five years. While the cost of renting in Asia’s most expensive city has remained relatively the same, the cost of other goods like a cup of coffee, fuel and a fast-food meal has gone up over the past year. By comparison, Tokyo is about one-third more expensive than Karachi, which is the least expensive city for expats among the 214 cities surveyed by Mercer.

As Japan’s most important economic center, Tokyo is the most desirable place for expats to live in. But the city's real estate market is expected to be hit by shrinking demand from expatriates in 2012 due to corporate cost-cutting and downsizing, according to Knight Frank.

Monthly Rent, Luxury 2 Bedroom: $4,848
Cup of Coffee: $8.29
One Gallon of Gasoline: $7.34
Daily International Newspaper: $6.38
Fast-Food Meal: $8.29


2. Luanda, Angola

Photo: Chad Henning

Luanda, the capital of Africa’s second largest oil producer, has fallen to second place this year from the number one spot it has held since 2010. An oil boom has helped Angola become the third-largest economy in sub-Saharan Africa after South Africa and Nigeria. Crude oil sales account for over 95 percent of its export revenue, and the government expects GDP growth of 12.8 percent in 2012.

The most costly expense in Luanda is renting property, similar to number 8th ranked N’Djamena. Despite the average monthly cost of renting a luxury two-bedroom apartment falling $500 compared to last year, it still remains high at $6,500. Consumer inflation in Angola was more than 11 percent year-on-year in March.

The country is the largest recipient of foreign direct investment in sub-Saharan Africa with inflows of nearly $10 billion in 2010, according to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Its main overseas investors include China, Portugal, Brazil and the U.S. and expatriates from these countries are sent to oversee local operations in Luanda.

Monthly Rent, Luxury 2 Bedroom: $6,500
Cup of Coffee: $3.90
One Gallon of Gasoline: $2.38
Daily International Newspaper: $5.46
Fast-Food Meal: $19.94*


*Replaced by club sandwich and soda in absence of any comparable fast food outlets.

3. Osaka, Japan

Photo: Allan Baxter

Osaka, Japan’s second largest city, has moved up three spots this year from sixth in 2011 and 2010.

Known as an important commercial center for Japan, about 1.1 million people commute into the city during the day, according to the Japanese Statistics Bureau. The city has high rental prices because of its dense population, a limited amount of accommodation and high expatriate demand. A relatively strong yen has also heightened the cost of living for expatriates. The cost of buying daily goods like a cup of coffee, fuel, an international newspaper and fast food have all gone up from last year.

Osaka is also a key industrial hub and home to nearly 44,000 manufacturers, which creates added pressure on resources. But a strong yen and an aging labor pool have hit the once mighty industrial hub in recent decades. The city has seen a decline in manufacturing with three firms closing shop every day since the peak year of 1983.

Monthly Rent, Luxury 2 Bedroom: $3,062
Cup of Coffee: $7.02
One Gallon of Gasoline: $6.85
Daily International Newspaper: $6.38
Fast-Food Meal: $8.29


4. Moscow, Russia
Photo: Lars Ruecker

Moscow is the most expensive city in Europe for expatriates and has ranked fourth globally since 2010.

Despite widespread concerns over corruption, red tape, pollution and growing traffic congestion, Moscow’s place as Russia’s main political and business capital makes it the top destination for expat workers. The city attracts more investment than other Russian cities and accounts for about a quarter of the country’s $1.5 trillion economy. Daily issues like power outages and safety also drive up the cost of living for foreigners.

The rising cost of renting property is the most substantial increase in living costs for 2012, according to Mercer, with a luxury two-bedroom apartment going up by $200 compared to last year. Demand for luxury property in Moscow is also high because of growing wealth from the country’s oil and commodities boom. Moscow is home to the most billionaires in the world at 79, according to Forbes.

Monthly Rent, Luxury 2 Bedroom: $4,200
Cup of Coffee: $8.37
One Gallon of Gasoline: $3.67
Daily International Newspaper: $9.78
Fast-Food Meal: $6.70


5. Geneva, Switzerland
Photo: Katarina Stefanovic

Geneva has been ranked as the fifth most expensive place to live in the world for the past three years by Mercer. It is Switzerland’s second-largest city after Zurich. Together, the two cities represent the high cost of living in Switzerland, the only Western European country to make the top 10 list.

Geneva is the country’s most expensive metropolitan area and like Zurich, the Swiss franc’s appreciation has raised the cost of living for expatriates. The average monthly rent for a luxury two-bedroom apartment in the city has gone up by nearly $300 from last year to around $4,800.

Geneva is home to 20 international organizations such as the United Nations, World Trade Organization and Red Cross, making it a big draw for expats. Over 44 percent of the city’s population is made up of foreigners. The cosmopolitan hub is also home to the world’s most expensive private schools and is said to have one of the best education systems, further adding to the high cost of living for families.

Monthly Rent, Luxury 2 Bedroom: $4,818
Cup of Coffee: $6.57
One Gallon of Gasoline: $7.46
Daily International Newspaper: $4.38
Fast-Food Meal: $12.59


6. Zurich, Switzerland (Tied)

Photo: José Fuste Raga

Zurich, home to a number of banking giants such as UBS and Credit Suisse, moved one spot higher this year from 7th in 2011 and 9th in 2010.

Zurich is an attractive location for international firms looking to take advantage of Switzerland’s low tax rates. Expatriates are also drawn to Zurich’s high quality of life. The city ranks third in the world when it comes to education, tax, and security as motives for purchasers to buy luxury property, according to Knight Frank.

While most European cities have dropped in the rankings, the strength of the local currency, the Swiss franc, has boosted the cost of living in Zurich. While Mercer ranks Zurich as the sixth most expensive city, the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) ranks it as number one. EIU’s survey covers 130 cities and takes into account 160 products and services.

Monthly Rent, Luxury 2 Bedroom: $3,614
Cup of Coffee: $6.02
One of Gallon Gasoline: $7.38
Daily International Newspaper: $4.38
Fast-Food Meal: $12.59


6. Singapore (Tied)

Photo: Wsboon Images

Singapore, like other Asian financial centers, has seen a big inflow of expatriates, which has pushed up the cost of housing and other living costs.

The city has been moving up Mercer’s most expensive cities list, rising two spots this year from eighth in 2011 and 11 th in 2010. Known for its high property prices and rents compared to the rest of Southeast Asia, Singapore is also an extremely expensive place to own a car. The permit to buy a new car can cost anywhere between $46,000 to over $67,000. Prices of these 10-year permits, known as Certificate of Entitlement (COE), have jumped 40 percent since the beginning of this year.

An average Toyota Vios subcompact costs $85,700 including the permit, up from about $60,000 at the beginning of the year, according to motoring website SGcarmart.com.

Given the steep cost of living in Singapore, expat salaries are also correspondingly high. According to a survey by HSBC more than half of expats in Singapore earned more than $200,000 in 2011, making it the country with the highest expat salaries in Asia. Expats in Singapore need to have larger incomes than their home countries to maintain their standard of living. About 82 percent of expats surveyed said they were more likely to spend more money on accommodation, while 65 percent said they would spend more on food in 2011 compared to the global average of around 50 percent.

Monthly Rent, Luxury 2 Bedroom: $3,588
Cup of Coffee: $5.18
One Gallon of Gasoline: $6.55
Daily International Newspaper: $3.59
Fast-Food Meal: $5.66



8. N’ Djamena, Chad
Photo: Kanbou Sia/AFP

N’Djamena, the capital and economic center of the central African country of Chad, fell five spots this year from third place in 2011 and 2010.

The key reason behind the high cost of living in N’Djamena is the difficulty in finding suitable and safe accommodations for expatriates, making the few available places extremely expensive. Companies must also take into account the personal safety of employees in the violence-mired city, further adding to costs.

The influx of expatriates working in Chad’s oil industry has pushed up the cost of living, with a fast-food meal costing as much as $25. Chad’s oil fields have attracted a number of international energy giants such as China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), Exxon Mobil, Chevron and Malaysia’s state-run Petronas. Chad saw investments of more than $8 billion in 2011 by Chinese firms keen to cash in on the country’s energy industry.

Monthly Rent, Luxury 2 Bedroom: N/A
Cup of Coffee: $3.32
One Gallon of Gasoline: $6.55
Daily International Newspaper: $6.85
Fast-Food Meal: $25.18


9. Hong Kong

Photo: Joe Chen Photography

Hong Kong, the only Chinese city or territory to make the top 10 list, has been ranked the ninth most expensive place to live for the past two years, falling from the eighth spot in 2010.

One of the most substantial increases in the cost of living in Hong Kong has been in renting property. The average monthly rent for a luxury two-bedroom apartment jumped around $1,300 from $5,800 in 2011 to almost $7,100 this year. As one of the most densely populated cities in the world with limited housing supply, average house prices have skyrocketed over 93 percent between 2006 and 2011 — making Hong Kong the world’s second-hottest property market, according to real estate consultancy Knight Frank.

Hong Kong’s reputation as a major global financial center remains a big draw for international businesses and expatriates, which in turn pushes up the cost of living. The cost of food and fuel has also gone up from last year with headline inflation jumping nearly 5 percent in April.

Monthly Rent, Luxury 2 Bedroom: $7,092
Cup of Coffee: $6.83
One Gallon of Gasoline: $8.36
Daily International Newspaper: $3.61
Fast-Food Meal: $3.54


10. Nagoya, Japan

Photo: Jantelagen/Mark McDonald

The cost of living in Nagoya has risen rapidly in the past few years, with the city breaking into the top 10 for the first time in 2012 from 11th in 2011 and 19th in 2010.

Nagoya is Japan’s auto manufacturing hub, and an important place of business for some of the world’s leading carmakers like Toyota, Honda, General Motors and Volkswagen.

Expats are generally drawn to the city because of its large industrial sector. Demand for housing in the densely populated area, which is the third-largest in Japan, has driven up the cost of housing.

Still, the cost of renting a luxury two-bedroom apartment in Nagoya is around half the cost of renting in Tokyo. But Nagoya is as expensive as Tokyo when it comes to the cost of a cup of coffee, fuel or a fast-food meal. To top it off, a surging yen has resulted in higher prices in general for expats living in Japan.

Monthly Rent, Luxury 2 Bedroom: $2,551
Cup of Coffee: $6.38
One Gallon of Gasoline: $6.70
Daily International Newspaper: $6.38
Fast-Food Meal: $8.42


World’s Most Expensive Places to Live originally appeared on CNBC.com
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/the-world-s-most-expensive-places-to-live-2012.html?page=all

Friday, July 27, 2012

FREE Single Scoop of Ice Cream at Haagen-Dazs Malaysia


From now until 15th August 2013, enjoy a complimentary scoop of Haagen-Dazs ice cream with every Double Scoop purchase !!


T&C :
- Valid at all Haagen-Dazs shops in Malaysia
- Valid for takeaway only
- Additional charge will be incurred for waffle cone
- Complimentary scoop is not inclusive of toppings
- Not valid with other discount (inclusive of Haagen-Dazs Ambaasador card
   privileges), promotions and gift vouchers.


For more details : visit your nearest Haagen-Dazs Shops or  http://www.haagendazs.com.my ,
www.facebook.com/haagendazsmalaysia

These are the Fat-Burning Foods


1. Chili peppers

Spice up your meals! Capsaicin, the chemical that gives peppers their fiery kick, has been shown to rev up metabolism. Dieters who took capsaicin will doubled their energy expenditure for several hours after eating.





2. Green tea

Green tea contains a chemical called EGCG which sparks a process in the body known as thermogenesis (aka "fat burning"). Daily green tea consumption with increased metabolism and a smaller waistline.






3. Oats

Oats have a very beneficial effect on blood sugar and insulin, which can keep metabolism in fat-burning mode. They're also a rich source of fiber, which helps you stay fuller longer as well as slows the absorption of fat through the small intestines.










4. Low-fat dairy

The calcium in milk, cheese and yogurt helps kick metabolism into higher gear. Dieters who consumed 1,200 to 1,300 mg of calcium daily lost almost twice as much weight as dieters who took less calcium. To cut out the fat, opt for skim or low-fat dairy.





5. Lean meats

Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass -- the more muscle mass you have, the more efficient you are at burning calories. Even better, protein requires more calories for your body to digest than either fat or carbs. Just be selective about your protein source -- only opt for lean meats such as skinless chicken and turkey breast and lean cuts of beef.






6. Coffee

Coffee does more than perk you up, a cuppa also provides enough caffeine to raise metabolism. Caffeine increases the release of fat from fat cells and boosts the consumption of oxygen and fat burning. Too much caffeine, however, has side effects including increased heart rate, so drink in moderation.





7. Fatty fish

Fatty fish (such as tuna, salmon, mackerel) are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which fire up fat burning. These fatty acids lower levels of the hormone leptin in your body, which directly influences your metabolism: The higher your leptin levels, the more readily your body stores calories as fat.





8. Lentils

Iron is essential for carrying the oxygen your muscles need to burn fat, but up to 20 percent of us don't consume enough of this nutrient and this can lead to a sagging metabolism. Lentils are an excellent source -- just one cup packs 35 percent of your daily needs.







9. Whey protein

Whey protein powder contains amino acids that burn fat and build muscle. Add a scoop to your smoothie for a fat-busting shake. The best times to sip a shake are before and after exercise and as an evening snack.




10. Water

While water isn't exactly food, it has a direct impact on many metabolic pathways. You should aim for at least 8 glasses everyday. Adequate fluid intake also helps prevent overeating. Much of what we perceive as hunger is actually thirst. You can demonstrate this for yourself by simply drinking a glass of water next time you feel hungry. Half the time the hunger will be gone in a few minutes.



Source from :  http://malaysia.shoppinglifestyle.com/diet/slideshow/10-fat-burning-foods/2168/1/

Are You Ready?




        Good Luck to All Athletes !

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Lung diseases trigger

Among all lung troubles, studies show that Asthma seems to lead the way for a huge chunk of the population. Asthma is a medical condition in which the respiratory airways leading to the lungs swell causing constriction in the airway resulting in breathing problems. The most common indicators of asthma are difficulty in breathing, chest congestion, discomfort, wheezing and even chronic sneezing in some cases. As the airways swell, the muscles in the specific area constrict causing lack of air traveling to the lungs. These asthmatic break outs are set off by allergens or substances which cause these allergic kinds of reactions.

There are numerous varieties of allergens that people face on a daily basis which may trigger the lung troubles. The commonly identified allergens are dust, pollen, air pollutants, exercise, molds and smoke. However, what remain unknown to a vast majority are the following unexpected and unsuspecting agents which can also induce asthmatic reactions:


Candles
Paraffin based candles are very commonly used in our households, both for decorative as well as for its functional use. These candles are readily available in the markets due to their easy methods of preparation. People these days take on candle making as a hobby in which ready to make paraffin wax candle kits are sold abundantly in shops. However, the fact that on burning, these type of candle emit toluene and benzene loaded smoke which may aggravate asthmatic reactions, especially when used in unventilated spaces for a prolonged period of time.





Gas Appliances
Studies have revealed that the nitrogen dioxide gas emitted from gas appliances like heaters, stoves, burners, etc is a leading cause of asthma in children. It has been estimated that children exposed to the smoke from gas appliances are more likely to develop wheezing, breathing problems, coughing and chest congestion, compared to others without such exposure. This is why it is always advisable to use gas appliances in ventilated areas or near windows.





Flour
Exposure to large amounts of flours can be a leading cause of developing asthmatic problems. This is because the flour dust tends to cause acute irritation in the lungs and cause the related problems. It was observed that people who did not have asthma developed breathing problems when working with large quantities of flour such as in bakeries, etc.






Printers
The commonly used printers and photocopying machines at work are potent factors for development of asthma among unsuspecting people. Laser printers and large photo copying machines emit thousands of micro particles which enter the airways and cause asthma problems. Even the ink used in printers can pose to be problematic agents for people with asthma or can induce asthma on prolonged exposure.






Fireworks
The grand displays of fireworks during festive occasions are definitely grand and a visual treat. But the after effects of these firecrackers are the emission and expulsion of large amounts of chemicals including sulfur dioxide. These chemicals can easily get into the respiratory airways and cause breathing problems and in extreme cases, sever bouts of asthma.










Plastics
Modern households consist vastly of plastics in various forms such as shower curtains, carpets, floor mats, toys, disposables, etc. These plastic commodities on gradual decomposition emit phthalates which causes extreme degrees of wheezing, sneezing and elevated breathing problems. These days' plastics are an indispensable part of our daily lives due to which we tend to encounter plastic products at every step. However, staying safe is the key.





As shocking, these are also such things that we tend to face very often in our daily lives. There are numerous times where we inhale a lot of smoke unwillingly but then the after effects of these usually mount to extremes of breathing problems.

Lung troubles are on the rise these days with more and more causative agents that seem to add to the list. The list formulated here is an awareness that even small things can pose to be dangerous when dealt with at varying degrees. Thus, one should always check out the characteristics of such unsuspecting things which might convert to these kinds of serious lung problems.



Source from : http://www.diyhealth.com/7-lung-diseases-trigger.html

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Soup & Salad for RM10++ - ONLY at TGI Friday's Restaurant Malaysia


With purchase of a main course at TGI Friday's Restaurant, you are entitle to enjoy Soup & Salad for only RM10++.

Don't miss out, this promotion is available from 19 July until 20 August 2012.

From daily 6pm - 9pm.


Details at : http://www.fridays.com.my/html/locations.html

Monday, July 23, 2012

Starbucks Malaysia Buy 1 Free 1 Ramadhan Promotion


Enjoy Buy 1 Free 1 promotion with purchase of handcrafted beverages at Starbucks outlets across Malaysia from now until 17th August 2012. Valid only from 6pm - 8pm for every Wednesdays and Fridays.



Allergy inducers at gym and their quick fixes

Gyms are like other public places, the hideout of many germs and common allergy inducing chemicals and compounds. Many of the compounds used in the gym equipment, indoor pools, rags and even locker room soaps may trigger allergies in susceptible people. These allergies include sneezing, coughing, skin rashes, red eyes and respiratory problems. So, if you feel overwhelmingly weary after a gym session and your physical condition worsens on a regular basis, then it is a matter of concern. Some people suffer from chronic cold and flu symptoms even though they workout regularly, this is too a matter of concern.

Allergy triggers at gym

1. Rubber exercise mats or yoga mats
Latex yoga mats can trigger various allergic reactions. Even though rubber or latex mats are commonly used, they're a bad choice for individuals with latex allergy. Because even trace amounts of latex may be enough to cause allergic reactions in susceptible people. So, instead of buying toxic PVC mats which contain a lot of plastic chemicals, choose mats made of hemp or organic cotton or other natural materials. Latex yoga mats can also cause contact dermatitis. The skin allergy symptoms are generally treated with topical steroids, antihistamines etc.


2. Indoor swimming pools
Swimming is without a doubt the best exercise one can get, but indoor swimming pool water have too much chlorine content. Chlorine acts as an asthma trigger for some individuals. Chlorine also triggers skin rash, itch, eye infections etc. Ask your pool crew to check the chlorine levels in the pool. Its good to take a shower immediately in filtered water or clean bathing water right after a swim in a indoor swimming pool. Wear swimmers goggles while you're swimming. Its always better to choose outdoor pools or fresh waters over indoor pools.


3. Chemicals in cleaning products
Many of the cleaning products used in the gyms are toxic disinfectants. They contain a high amount of phthalate fragrance chemicals and toxic VOCs which are hazardous according to the federal law. Unfortunately these harmful cleaners are very commonly used, despite the fact that they trigger asthma, several types of allergies and even cancer! The remainders or residues that remain on the cleaned equipment, may get ingested through your hands if not washed right away after workout. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers, they kill 99% of MRSA.



4. The gym locker room
A common ingredient of most antibacterial soaps is Triclosan which is linked to many health problems. These kind of soaps are offered in many gyms, not only do they trigger allergic reactions but also have effect on your immune system. So, avoid the gym's antibacterial soaps, bring along your own regular soap or hand cleanser instead. Other things include sharing of soap bars, towels etc. How sharing towels can be contagious is quite obvious and needs less explanation, but even soap bars are prone to carry germs and contaminate. So it's better not to share toiletries of any sort.



5. Workout clothes and towels
Often allergies are triggered by your own clothes. Clothes made of synthetic materials like polyester or nylon are likely to cause skin irritations in people with allergy to synthetic materials. Allergic reactions like itching, rashes etc are common symptoms. So choose natural fibers, Lycra(spandex) or organic cotton instead. These materials are more comfortable and they are not known to cause any kind of allergic reactions. Heat and sweat act as catalysts and speed up these allergic reactions. So, use a cotton towel to wipe off your sweat and wash your towel everyday. Cleansers, detergents and fabric softeners used to wash clothes can too cause allergy. So, choose natural fabric softener and detergents with less alkaline content.



6. Poor exercise technique on your end
Starting an intense workout directly without proper warm up and not cooling down after exercise may cause respiratory problems in some people. Warm-ups are recommended before beginning any exercise regime for a valid reason and so are cooling off with stretches post workout. Exercise-induced bronchospasm or bronchoconstriction (EIB) is a breathing trouble which may be caused due to not warming up or cooling down. This may happen to asthma patients as well as people without asthma. So, perform thorough warm-up and cool-down exercises prior and post workout respectively.



7. Food allergy
Some of the special foods that we eat post workout, for example protein snacks or protein bars or smoothies, may cause food allergies in some people. Some ingredients like nuts, egg, wheat, milk, soy etc., may cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to those ingredients. The only way to avoid this is by reading and finding out the ingredients of the products before eating. By knowing what you're eating you cut down the risk of food allergy by 80%. Bring your own drinks or snacks to the gym and do not buy protein powders with anabolic steroids.

Sunday, July 22, 2012

oh no...Headache !


Headache? Popping the pill is fine. But what if you’ve got zero stash and your only option is to ease your pain without meds.

Popping the pills too often can lower your pain threshold. Limit it to twice a week and if you need more meds, see a doctor. But before you swallow anything, try these pain-reducing strategies.



 

 

 

 

 

Apply ice

A trusty ice pack is a good short-term fix for head pain because it eases inflammation. Apply the ice to your aching area for 10 to 15 minutes every hour. The nerves and muscles on the outside of your head can be inflamed and irritated by the headache, or they could be causing the headache.



 

 

 

 

 

Strike a (yoga) pose

A study from India showed that yoga can reduce chronic tension headache pain by 71% as well as decrease spasms in your temporalis muscle, a chewing muscle on the side of your head. Gentle poses are the key.



 

 

 

Press here

Acupressure can reduce pain from chronic headaches. Some people find relief by using their right index finger and thumb to gently squeeze the muscle between their left index finger and thumb.

Thursday, July 19, 2012

DIY ways to heal your common pains

The next time you have a sore throat or tender muscles, don’t rush to the doctor or drugstore. Save yourself the time and money and open up your pantry instead.
Inside you’ll find plenty of foods and beverages that will fight off every ache, pain, germ, and scrape imaginable. Here are seven surprising ways to heal yourself naturally.






1. Muscle PainThe anti-inflammatory chemicals in cherry juice help your muscles recover more quickly after a tough strength-training session. Drinking 16 ounces a day for three days before an intense workout will result in less muscle soreness two days later.







2. Athlete’s Foot
Your fast fix for the pesky fungal intrusion? Combine two teaspoons of salt for every pint of warm water. Soak your feet in the mixture for five to ten minutes at a time.










3. Body Odor
If you’ve been smelling a little foul lately, put apple cider vinegar on a washcloth and rub it on your armpit to kill off B.O.








4. Minor Burns
Stand a little too close to the grill at your cookout? Do this: For the first 24 hours after the accident, wrap your burn in a dry cloth and leave it alone. After that, if your burn needs instant pain relief, combine 10 drops of peppermint essential oil with 1/8 cup honey and rub it on the burned area.






5. Dandruff
Keep your flakes at bay: First, warm a few ounces of olive oil on the stove. Then, wet your hair and apply the oil to your scalp with a cotton ball or brush. Leave the oil on for 30 minutes before washing it out with a dandruff shampoo.







6. Sore Throat
Feeling a little hoarse? Coat your throat with this homemade cure: Gargle 1 teaspoon of salt and 8 ounces of warm water a couple times a day.








7. Cough
Channel your inner vampire and stock up on garlic, stat. It inhibits cough-causing viruses in the respiratory tract. Eating two to four raw or slightly cooked garlic cloves at the first sign of a cold can help you fight it off.