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How to Eat Healthy

2008-09-03T23:06:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

There are many popular diets on the market today. This article will explain how to eat healthy for life and avoid the fad diets.

Steps

Determine how many calories your body needs to function each day.This number can vary wildly, depending upon your metabolism and how physically active you are. If you're the kind of person who puts on 10 pounds just smelling a slice of pizza,then your daily caloric intake should stay around 2000 calories for men, and 1500 calories for women. Your body mass also plays a part in this: More calories are suitable for naturally bigger people, and fewer calories for smaller people. If you're the kind of person who can eat anything he or she wants without putting on a pound, or you're physically active, you may want to increase your daily caloric intake to 1000-2000 calories, a little less for women. Also consider that the more muscle mass you have, the more calories you need to function. The bad fats are saturated and trans fat, which you do not need any of in moderation. Someone on a 2000 calorie diet should consume less than 20 grams of saturated fat a day, and trans fat can and should be avoided all together. The good fats are plain fat, which you should eat about 30% of your calories in, and poly- and monounsaturated fats.
Don't fear fatty foods.You need to consume fat from foods for your body to function correctly. However, it's important to choose the right kinds of fats: Most animal fats and some vegetable oils are high in calories and are high in the kind of fats that raise your LDL cholesterol levels; the bad cholesterol. Contrary to popular belief, eating cholesterol doesn't necessarily raise the amount of cholesterol in your body. If you give your body the right tools, it will flush excess cholesterol from your body. Those tools are monounsaturated fatty acids, which you should try to consume regularly. These are the good fats, and they help lower the bad cholesterol in your body by raising the good cholesterol. Foods that are high in monounsaturated fatty acids are olive oil, nuts, fish oil, and various seed oils. Adding these "good" fats to your weekly diet can lower your cholesterol and reduce your risk of heart disease. Consider sautéing vegetables in small amounts of olive oil, and grabbing a hand full of mixed nuts for a snack instead of a candy bar. There are also various supplements that contain these good fats that you can take daily.
Carbohydrates are important.You need to eat foods high in carbs since they are your body's main source of energy. The trick is to choose the right carbs. Simple carbs like sugar and processed flour are quickly absorbed by the body's digestive system. This causes a kind of carb overload, and your body releases huge amounts of insulin to combat the overload. Not only is the excess insulin bad on your heart, but it encourages weight gain. Insulin is the main hormone in your body responsible for fat storage. Eat plenty of carbs, but eat carbs that are slowly digested by the body like whole grain flour, hearty vegetables, oats, and unprocessed grains like brown rice. These kinds of food not only contain complex carbs that are slowly digested by the body, but are usually higher in vitamins and other nutrients that are beneficial to the body and they are higher in fiber which keeps your digestive system running smoothly.
Eat larger meals early in the day.Your metabolism slows down towards the end of the evening and is less efficient at digesting foods. That means more of the energy stored in the food will be stored as fat and your body won't absorb as many nutrients from the meal. Many American families tend to have their big meal at dinner time. The problem with this is your day is basically over, and your body's need for energy isn't as great as it is early in the day. This large meal, late in the day, can also make you feel tired, and who wants to feel too tired to have fun now that the workday is over? Try eating a medium-sized meal for breakfast, a large meal for lunch, and a small meal for dinner. Better yet, try eating 4-6 small meals over the course of your day. That keeps your body fueled for the whole day without dumping a large amount of food into your stomach, which your body might have a hard time digesting.
Don't skip breakfast!Many people do because they don't feel they need to eat breakfast, or they just don't feel hungry first thing in the morning. Research shows that people who skip breakfast are usually fatter than those who eat a well balanced breakfast. Although you might not feel hungry first thing in the morning, if you skip breakfast you will feel extra hungry come lunch time, making you more prone to overeating for your afternoon meal. In addition, skipping breakfast makes your body think that you are starving. After all, by lunch time, you may not have eaten in almost eighteen hours. For the rest of the day after you skip breakfast, your body will store up most of the energy you get from food, instead of allowing you to burn it, in anticipation of food scarcity. Not only will this cause you to be tired during the day when your body isn't using the food that you ate, but the extra energy stored up will result in weight gain.
Make eating fun.Avoiding simple carbs and fatty foods doesn't need to be boring. Have fun not only with the food, but with the meal. Eating with family and friends makes the meal more satisfying than eating in front of the TV or in the car on the way home from work. You will also eat more slowly when enjoying your meal, which gives your body time to feel full before you burst a button. There are more creative cooking resources available to us than ever before. You can find great tasting recipes in magazines, books, and right here on the Internet. Eating baked fish three or four times a week can get boring, so do a little recipe hunting to find more exciting ways to prepare your meals.
Buy non-fat or reduced fat foods.This is done not to avoid getting fat, because eating fat will not make you fat. And it's not about eating fewer calories. It's about control. Control over what kinds of fats you put in your body. For instance, olive oil has many health benefits, so buy non-fat or reduced fat salad dressing and add a table spoon of olive oil to the jar. You'll have a salad dressing that tastes great, and is also better for your health. So buy the non-fat foods so you can replace the missing fat with "good" fats. Remember, you do need to eat a moderate amount of fat each day. Fat is something that can be very deceiving. For example, if your trying to lose weight, you're going to look for food with low fat content. However,there are some foods that have good fats, these fats are like monounsaturated fat and polyunsaturated fat. These fats add calories from fat, and so does trans fat and saturated fat, so they combine, which can be confusing. It's important to look at the saturated and trans fat content. If you see 20 calories from fat on the label, but 0g of trans fat and saturated fat, that means that there is polyunsaturated fat and/or monounsaturated fat. Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fat are good for you. They protect your heart and increase 'good' cholesterol. It's good to have enough good fats, but all good things have to come to an end.
Give yourself a cheat day.Cheating doesn't mean pigging all day on all the wrong foods once a week, it means enjoying a food you really love once a week. Have a couple slices of greasy pizza on Sundays, or a big slice of double chocolate cake on Saturdays. This cheat day will help you stick to the change in diet, and in some ways it's actually good for your body. Special occasions, such as birthdays in the family, count as cheat days.
Avoid excess amounts of alcohol.You know that heavy drinking is bad for your body, but it's also bad for your will power. A heavy night of drinking could send you to the fridge pigging out on all the wrong foods. However, many studies show that a beer or glass of wine a day is actually good for the body. Wine contains anti-oxidants which help fight illness and that moderate amount of alcohol can help you relax. Excess caffeine can also be bad for the body since caffeine stimulates your body into producing insulin in the same way that carbs do.

Tips

Eating healthy will give you some health benefits, but you won't achieve the full benefits possible unless you exercise. Exercising doesn't have to be hard, and you don't even have to break a sweat. Just going for a short 30 minute walk four times a week will greatly improve your health.
If you consume more calories than your body needs each day, your body will store the excess energy as fat. In today's society, that excess body fat is unnecessary. We are no longer hunter/gatherers. Your next meal is as close as your local grocery store and we don't need extra energy stores to hold us over till the next meal.
Use extra virgin olive oil when cooking. It's purer, and is better for your heart than other kinds of olive oil. The darker the better. Furthermore, "light" olive oil has as many Calories as extra virgin olive oil -- the "light" refers to the color and flavor intensity. Unfortunately, though, using extra virgin olive oil when cooking at higher temperatures ruins the flavors that make it "extra virgin". But olive oil isn't necessarily the most healthy oil, canola oil may be better.
This takes patience. You won't see a drastic drop in your cholesterol level or weight or increase in your energy level immediately. You need to give the changes in diet some time to kick in.
Have a positive and upbeat attitude. If you start your new diet thinking "This is something I have to do," instead of "This is something I want to do," then you've already failed before you started.
Adding whole, unrefined grains to the diet can add valuable vitamins and minerals that would otherwise be lost, however it can completely upset our digestion as well. Many animals that eat grains have 4 stomachs they use to digest them adequately, and ferment them so they can uptake nutrients. Humans have only one stomach, and if you introduce grains without first fermenting or sprouting them you may experience digestive upsets. There are various anti nutrients in grains (like phytic acid) and enzyme inhibitors that will prevent mineral absorption and lead to deficiencies and digestive problems. To remedy this, take oatmeal and soak it the night before in a little bit of yogurt. This will make it taste slightly sour, but make it more digestible. Sourdough bread is also another good example.
Lettuce is a great choice of natural fiber, and can taste great with the proper healthy dressings. You can make a great salad with nuts, raisins, and whole wheat croutons. Mix it in a bowl so it's evenly distributed and place it on top of a salad. Use a sugar free and low carb balsamic dressing; it has less than 1 gram of carbohydrates and 0 Calories. The head of lettuce is 21 Calories, plus the nuts and raisins and whole wheat croutons which could range depending on size but for this example we will estimate 100 Calories, bringing you a very low calorie and filling meal for only ~120 Calories.
Choose wheat (brown) bread instead of white bread. Processed carbohydrates such as those found in white bread are harder to draw nutrients from, and therefore are seen as empty Calories.
Smoothies are great for breakfast. Combine the following:
- banana
- 4 medium-size strawberries
- 1/2 cup of skim milk or soy milk
For protein, try substituting beans for higher calorie foods like boneless skinless chicken breasts, or tuna. Not only will you be getting additional phytochemicals from the plant based protein, it will not have the harmful saturated fat content. Remember that even an orange has more than 5% of its calories from protein!
Non-fat yogurt can make a great snack, and its healthy bacteria can help with various stomach problems.
Carry water with you at all times. Try to drink water in place of soft drinks and other flavored beverages. A good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces per day.
Consider eating organic. Organic food isn't made with the use of a lot of harmful chemicals, or other harmful processes. Not only is organic food good for you, but it is sustainable and good for the environment too! Other foods can be extremely harmful to the environment.
Read the labels on everything you eat. Don't just buy something because it is marketed as being "healthy." Lots of companies trying to sell their food off as healthy when really it is full of high fructose corn syrup, hydrogenated oils, trans fats, and hidden sugars. This is also the best way to learn about a product. It gives you almost all the information about that product you'll ever need. If you're trying to lose weight, try to choose foods with low calories. If you want to gain weight for a football team or some such reason, you are going to choose food with lots of calories. However, too many calories, not enough exercise, and eating too much at one time, can make you fat.

Warnings

There is a vibrant debate in health circles about whether organic food is healthier. Some believe that the chemicals in conventional foods are just as safe and healthy as the expensive organic alternatives. Organic food advocates would argue the opposite. Everyone agrees that organic options have just as many calories as non-organic options. So even if it is organic, make sure you pay attention to your calorie intake.
You should always consult your doctor before making drastic changes to your diet and your lifestyle.
Excess body fat is hard on your body. It's hard on your heart because it needs to work extra hard to push blood through your larger body. Your body builds extra veins that run through the extra body fat and has to work harder to push blood through those veins.
Excess body weight is also hard on your muscles and joints. Carrying around extra weight puts more pressure on your knees, hips, and back. While this might not have a huge effect in your youth, you will feel it as you get older.
Any drastic change in your diet can cause constipation, so make sure you eat a lot of dark green leafy vegetables, and other naturally high fiber foods. Your digestive system will typically adjust after a week or two, but you should consult your doctor if it continues. (Other good sources of fiber include: flax seed, psyllium, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and beans!-- Remember, you can always look at the nutrition facts to see the daily percentage of fiber given in different foods. For fresh, unpackaged foods, you can look up nutrition facts online; although, it usually won't ever hurt you to eat fresh, unpackaged fruits and veggies!)
Make sure there isn't a lot of unhealthy food in your house that can tempt you. Give or throw away the foods you shouldn't eat. You can't eat what you don't buy!
Please do not underfeed yourself. Even if you have extra body fat, do not let yourself go hungry. That is worse than being fat. Eating the right food and exercising daily is a much better way to lose weight!
Sugar resembles fat in many ways. There, again, is good sugar and bad sugar. We all like sugar, it's natural. And that doesn't mean if your trying to loose weight, you can't have sugar at all. The bad sugar, sucrose, makes you fat, because its high in calories, and it's sweet. The good sugar, glucose, is a natural sugar that comes from fruits and other natural plant sources. Glucose, the good sugar, goes into your blood, not your belly. It 'enriches' your blood, in a way. Sucrose, the bad sugar, doesn't go into your blood like glucose does. To put it simply, its raw energy turned into a sweetener, and when energy isn't used (exercise), it's stored (fat). That's why, on the label, sugars are below carbohydrates and indented, indicating that it is related to carbohydrates. So eat fruits, avoid candy and sweets if you're trying to lose weight.

Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Eat Healthy. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Cook

2008-08-29T00:43:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Cooking has come a long way from when our ancestors roasted wild game and local vegetation over an open fire. We've discovered an infinite number of ways to prepare and season food, but the nature of cooking remains the same: Apply heat to make food taste better. The rest is really just details that can be learned from an inquisitive spirit, creativity, and trial and error.

Steps

Find recipes. This is optional, of course, but is the recommended route if you're learning how to cook. Unfortunately, not all recipes are created equal. Some recipes don't break things down well for beginners, and some just aren't good. Get recipes from friends and family for dishes that you've tried (and loved). The benefit of doing this is that if you don't understand something in the recipe, you can call them and ask! If you look online, choose recipes that have received good reviews or comments. Look for dishes that you have tried previously (perhaps, made by a friend, or when eating at a restaurant) so that you may be able to appreciate the flavor to judge the finer nuances of the dish. The Better Home and Gardens cookbook has a great variety of recipes for beginners or more experienced cooks.
Gather the ingredients and tools for the job. If you're just starting to cook, don't substitute. The ingredients might interact in a way that you're not aware of, and substituting what you think is a similar ingredient might ruin the entire meal. When you become more experienced, you'll have a better idea for predicting how introducing a different ingredient will affect the cooking process and the final flavor. Otherwise, get the right ingredients (as fresh and as high quality as you can afford) and in the right amounts (no, don't eyeball it; become friends with your measuring spoons and cups and invest in a kitchen scale).
Prepare the food to be cooked. The practice of getting all of your tools and ingredients together, prepared, and measured is called "mise en place" by professional chefs, and is considered essential to efficient cooking. Your "mise en place" should be ready and close at hand before the stove is turned on.
- Wash and clean the food. Most food needs to be cleaned somehow, and usually just rinsing with water will suffice. Foods that are peeled should be washed before peeling to decrease chance of transferring chemicals and dirt from unpeeled area to peeled area.
- Cut the food into uniform slices or pieces so that they cook evenly. There are a wide variety of cutting techniques--chopping, dicing, cubing, slicing, julienning, etc. The bigger the pieces, the longer they'll take to cook. To complicate things further, some types of food cook faster than others; since zucchini cooks faster than carrot, for example, you might want to cut the carrot into smaller pieces if they're going to be thrown in at the same time so that they're both finished cooking simultaneously.[1]
- Add salt, pepper, herbs, or marinade as called for in the recipe (or to taste). Any number of herbs or spices can be used to increase the flavor of whatever you are cooking. These may need to be added before or after cooking. Just be sure to add a little rather than too much. You can always add more later. Be especially careful with salt; it is very difficult to fix a dish that is too salty.
- Ferment. This is NOT recommended for beginners. Fermentation (e.g. leavening) is a complicated technique that can result in wonderful baked goods, but it's the domain of experienced (or at least intermediate) cooks who understand how to control and direct this biological process. You need to be exact with baking (until you understand how each ingredient and method works, then you can switch around to your own tastes), especially since what goes in the oven can't be added to.
Preheat appliances as needed. There are some small details in this step that are often overlooked.
- Heat the water. Poaching, simmering, and boiling are slightly different techniques. Poaching is very gentle, reserved for delicate foods like eggs, fish, and fruit. Simmering is a little hotter, with a few small bubbles rising to the surface, and is often used for items that need a long time to cook. Boiling is when the water gets as hot as it's going to get and begins to evaporate into steam. The exact temperature varies by altitude, so be mindful of this if you're in a high altitude area. Get the water to whichever state the recipe calls for and keep it there. Don't place a lid on the pot if you're poaching or simmering because the heat may increase to a boil.[2] Remove from heat if necessary if the water starts to get too hot.
- Preheat the oven. Don't get impatient, or else you will most likely throw off your cooking times, since recipes are written assuming the oven is preheated.[3] It usually takes an oven about 15 minutes to get to 350°F or 176°C, but every stove is different. Some models will beep or make a noise when the temperature is reached; otherwise, you might need to calibrate your oven to determine how long it takes for it to preheat to a certain temperature. Put a thermometer in the center of a rack set in the middle of the oven and turn it to the desired temperature; after 10 minutes, check the thermometer every 5 minutes until the desired temperature is reached and remember how long it took to get there.[4]
- Heat the pan before adding oil. Only complete this step as follows with cast iron. Softer metals may warp when heated empty, and NEVER do this as shown, with a non-stick pan. Non stick cookware emits toxic fumes when heated empty. Heating the pan alone causes the metal to expand, opening up tiny scratches so that oil can get in there. Also, if you add oil to a pan that is already hot, it'll get hotter faster, which give it less time to break down. After you add the oil and cover the entire pan, wait for it to start smoking before adding the food. If you toss your food in before the oil has heated sufficiently, it'll soak up the oil rather than cook in it. This applies to butter, as well. Butter will brown slightly once hot enough and get a nice nutty smell. But don't let the oil or butter burn (keep in mind that butter and olive oil burn faster than other oils.[5]
  - Keep an eye on the pan. If it overheats and catches fire, turn the burner off and cover the pan completely with a metal lid, Damp Tea Towel or Fire Blanket (or smother it with baking soda). Never throw water on burning oil, and don't use a fire extinguisher--both can make the fire spread. Leave it for at least half an hour to cool.
Start cooking with water (boiling, poaching, simmering, and stewing, to name an approachable few). It's easier because you have a greater window of opportunity as to when the food is "done". If you cook the food for a little too long, the result is usually still edible, whereas if you miss that narrow window of opportunity with other techniques (frying, roasting, baking) you could end up with a ruined, burnt piece of food (perhaps raw in the middle) that's inedible. Stick with water-based cooking until you get a feel for judging when various types of food are done. For instance, learn how to boil, poach, simmer and stew broccoli until you know exactly how a perfectly cooked head of broccoli feels when you stick your fork into it.
Move on to "dry" cooking. This includes grilling, roasting, toasting, broiling, and baking. Now that you know what certain foods feel like when they're cooked, you need to be able to control the cooking process with your application of heat. This is really where you need to be attentive and patient. If you apply too much heat, the food will burn. If you apply too little, the food will be raw.
- When you arrange the food in relation to the heat source, center it so that all the food gets cooked evenly; rotate it in the middle of the cooking process if you must.
- Try to minimize opening the oven door or grill cover, as this lets heat escape and will make the cooking take longer (and may also interfere with the cooking process in other ways).
- If you have a recipe, follow the directions exactly (allow the oven to preheat completely, turn the heat up or down when it says to, and pay very close attention to your timer). If you don't have a recipe, start off with a low amount of heat and see how long the food takes to cook. Next time, add a little more heat and see how long it takes to cook. Repeat until you determine the maximum heat the food needs to cook in the shortest time without burning.
Advance to frying unless you're on a diet, in which case you might be better off not knowing how to coat your food in a layer of fat! If you do want to master this technique, however, it can produce amazing results that aren't easily achieved through other methods, like caramelizing onions so that they taste sweet, or sautéing vegetables so that they snap when you bite into them. It's a little more difficult than cooking with water or in an oven because you need to juggle timing, heat, and flipping/stirring.
- Lower the food carefully into the oil, as the oil can splash up and burn you. Use tongs or a wire basket.
- If sautéing or stir-frying, use a non-stick pan to prevent the food from becoming one with the pan. Pour just a thin layer of oil--pour it into a spoon, then into the pan (sometimes the oil comes out of the bottle faster than we'd like it to). The hotter the oil, the more you'll need to stir whatever you're frying so that it doesn't burn or stick.
- If shallow-frying, in which one third or one half of the food is immersed in oil, the oil is typically used only once.[6] If you're deep-frying, however, you may be able to use the oil more than once.
Write your own recipes. As you get better at cooking, you'll experiment and make some discoveries of your own. You'll know you're officially a good cook when people start asking "How did you make this? It's delicious!" Keep your cooking skills sharp by experimenting with new ingredients and techniques, like cooking on your car's engine!

Tips

When possible, taste your dishes frequently while you cook (not including raw or partially cooked fish, meat or eggs though, because of food safety issues). This lets you make sure the balance of spices is correct; it also helps you to learn how flavors develop with cooking.
A cooking thermometer is especially useful for beginning cooks to determine if roasts, meats, and other dishes are adequately heated.
When grilling meats, especially hamburgers and steaks, many cooks can tell if they are done by the firmness of the meat. A more well-done steak is firmer than a medium-rare one. The advantage of learning this (feeling meat as you are cooking with more familiar, surefire methods) is that you don't have to cut into your food, so the juices stay put.
Stay away from prepared food products in your cooking as these are hidden ways to add a great deal of fat, sugar, sodium and calories to your dishes. Opt instead for basic ingredients which enable you to control the amount of fat, sugar and salt in your food.
Look for a cooking class you could take, a person that could teach you, a cooking show, or a book you could read.
Start slow. Don't go home the first time and try to make a turkey dinner. Start with something small, like cookies or scrambled eggs, for example. Don't expect to be fully satisfied with your first try. Cooking is as complex as it is simple, and can take time to get results you like.
Enjoy a variety of foods. Research how to make the dishes you like and compare them to the ones produced by someone else.
Enjoy it. Cooking isn't for everyone, and is supposed to be fun, so if you find yourself dreading it, then it probably isn't for you.
Don't worry if you mess up on a recipe. We all make mistakes in our cooking now and then. You just have to use your good judgment to decide whether or not it's fixable.
Hot temperatures cook the outside more, while lower temperatures cook more thoroughly. So, use really hot temperatures to sear the outside of a rare steak or get a thicker crust on bread, but lower (and longer) temperatures for a well-done steak or a soft crust.
Stay in the kitchen while the food is cooking. If you walk away, you may end up with a burnt mess that's stuck to the bottom of the pan.
If you do need to walk away, invest in a timer.

Warnings

Beware of food allergies and the possible inedible or poisonous properties of different things before trying to cook them.
Be safe when heating anything. Anything hot enough to cook your food can be hot enough to hurt you.
When using sharp objects, be extremely careful not to cut yourself. A good cook knows better than to be careless when cutting up their carrots.

Related wikiHows

Sources and Citations

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cooking

↑ http://www.foodreference.com/html/art-sauteing.html

↑ http://whatscookingamerica.net/Information/PoachingSimmeringBoiling.htm

↑ http://startcooking.com/blog/67/Oven-Settings

↑ http://ideas.thenest.com/Dinner/Articles/cooking-qa-preheating-the-oven/

↑ http://www.foodreference.com/html/art-sauteing.html

↑ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frying

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Cook. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Sauté Vegetables

2008-08-29T00:39:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Sautéed vegetables are a quick, healthy and colorful dish that can be added to lunch or dinner or even served a la carte. While there are many possible ways to do this, follow these instructions for an easy, hot and nutritious side. Sautéed vegetables can be used in pastas, salads, wraps, quesadillas, or they can even accompany your favorite meat.

Steps

Gather the ingredients. Measure and pour the oil or stock into the skillet. Place the skillet on the stove and set the burner to a medium temperature and let it heat up.
Cut the vegetables. Dice the tomatoes, mince the onions, and slice the bell peppers. You'll want to have fairly thin pieces if you're in a hurry as thick chunks will take longer to cook.
Drop the vegetables into the skillet. Let them sit for a few minutes until they begin to caramelize, as indicated by a slight change in color (dark or brown).
Stir once or twice. Continue to cook until the vegetables are tender (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat.
Sprinkle with your favorite seasonings, like pepper, thyme, rosemary, and salt.
Squeeze a little fresh orange juice on the vegetables if you'd like. Lime also tastes especially scrumptious on vegetables.

Tips

Vegetables take different amounts of time to sauté, so experiment with combining and cooking separately.
Serve as a side dish to meats, poultry or fish.
This dish would taste wonderful served over plain white rice.
Keep some soy sauce handy, as it tastes great with the vegetables!
Outrageous served over toasted cheese on bread.

Warnings

Be careful and don't burn yourself! Oil and metal both get extremely hot!
Children should cook only with adult supervision.

Things You'll Need

A large skillet (cast iron is safer than Teflon)
Vegetables of your choice, for example:
- Mushrooms
- Tomatoes
- Bell peppers (green and sweet red)
- Onions
- Garlic
- Carrots
- Scallions
- Finely chopped red potatoes
A sharp knife
A cutting board
2-3 tsp oil
Olive or canola oil
Various spices
Various citrus fruits for squeezing

Related wikiHows

Sources and Citations

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Sauté Vegetables. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Prepare Fresh Citrus Fruit Peel

2008-08-29T00:18:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Zesting a citrus fruit (lemons, limes, grapefruits or oranges) is an easy cooking project if you have a zester or a microplane. Both can be found at a cooking store or ordered online. A vegetable peeler or knife can also be used to zest the peel. Here are some tips on how to zest a citrus fruit and save the zest for later use.

Steps

Choose a fruit that is free of pesticides, dyes, and wax (since you will be eating the outer peel). If at all possible, start with an organic orange, lemon, or other citrus fruit. While some authorities recommend the use of organic citrus fruit, it is difficult to find. Thoroughly washing and drying the fruit should make the fruit safe to eat. If there is a concern, shop for organic citrus fruit.
Wash and dry the fruit thoroughly, whether it is organic or not. Cut out any discolorations or bad spots.
Hold the zester in your hand, much like a vegetable peeler, while applying pressure to the fruit. Pull the the zester across the surface and the zest will appear.
Adopt the same basic technique if using a microplane. A microplane is like a grater. Pull it across the fruit to separate the zest.
Try the old-fashioned method for grating zest. If you do not have a zester or microplane, take a vegetable peeler and peel the citrus rind. Once the peel is removed, finely mince the zest using a knife. The food processor can also mince the peel, if a food processor is available.
Freeze the zest. Once the citrus fruit peel has been zested, freeze it in small freezer storage bags or containers. The zest is available for later cooking.
to dry.]]Alternatively, dry the zest. Spread it in a single layer on a plate or waxed paper and leave it exposed to the air until it is dry enough to be brittle (a couple of days).
Store the dried zest it in a sealed jar in a cool, dry place.

Tips

]]Try to avoid the white pith. It is bitter. Instead, take just the bright orange or yellow layer on the very outside.
Orange zest is great in mulled cider, as an accompaniment to chocolate, and many other dishes. Also try it in tea, cakes, or as an addition to Apple Pie Oatmeal. It's good anywhere you want a hint of citrus.
Grinding or crushing orange zest before adding it to food can help to bring out the flavor.
Zest the fruit before eating or juicing it. It's much easier to hang onto the entire fruit.
The best tool is a microplane or grater, one with small blades that running your finger against them will not produce a negative effect.

Warnings

The zesting tool can be sharp, so be careful.

Things You'll Need

Citrus fruit
Zester, microplane, or grater
Vegetable peeler and kitchen knife

Related wikiHows

Sources and Citations

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Prepare Fresh Citrus Fruit Peel. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Cook Chicken - wikiHow

2008-08-27T20:59:00.000+01:00

How to Cook Chicken - wikiHow

wikiHow - The How-to Manual That You Can Edit

2008-08-27T14:44:00.000+01:00

wikiHow - The How-to Manual That You Can Edit

How to Prevent and Treat Dandruff

2008-08-22T19:43:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Dandruff, a condition characterized by flaking, itchy scalp, is one of the most common dermatological conditions. Fortunately, while the exact cause of dandruff is not known, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of getting it, and effective treatments are available. So if it looks like a winter storm is following you--and only you--around everywhere, read on.

Steps

Eat a healthy, balanced diet. As if you needed another reason to eat right, it turns out that a healthy diet may ward off the flakes. Make sure to get plenty of zinc, Omega-3 fatty acids, and B-vitamin, and avoid excessive yeast and sugar. Research suggests that dandruff is at least in part caused by a fungus that thrives in yeasty, fatty, sugary environments. Though this does not necessarily directly affect the conditions of your skin, your overall health will help with how your body responds to the fungus causing the dandruff.
Don't worry, be happy. Stress challenges the body's defenses and encourages all sorts of ailments, including dandruff, so relax now and don't worry about wearing a black shirt tomorrow.
Limit your use of hair styling products. Hairspray, mousse, and gel may contribute to dandruff in some people. They may also cause excessive drying of the skin, which can cause flaking--or trigger allergic reactions. If you notice dandruff soon after you begin to use a new product, chances are the product is to blame. The exception to this would be using a therapeutic styling gel or spray formulated with tea tree oil.
Wash your hair regularly. Dandruff seems to thrive in oily hair, so regular shampooing can help you fight it off. If you already have dandruff, washing your hair may help you keep the symptoms (the flakes) under control until it goes away. Massage your scalp so that you clean your skin, as well as your hair. This is one time when the "repeat" directions in "wash, rinse, and repeat" may be useful. The first washing breaks up the waxy sebum, and the second washing helps rinse it all away.
Use a shampoo designed to treat dandruff. If dandruff persists despite regular shampooing, you may need something stronger. There are a variety of anti-dandruff shampoos available at your pharmacy or grocery store, and they usually work. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully, and make a little extra time to shower, as most of these recommend that you leave them in for 5-10 minutes and lather twice.
Oil your hair with herbal oils or use special herbal gels. Gels from India have been known to help. Do this on a regular basis, at least twice a week for improvements.
Be aware that there are different active ingredients in dandruff shampoos. If one does not work for you try another. Ketoconazole (brand name Nizoral) is extremely effective against certain types of dandruff that are caused by a fungus. 1% ketoconazole is available without prescription in the US, 2% requires a prescription. The 2% is available without a prescription in Canada.
Be patient. While anti-dandruff shampoos may produce results after a few uses, it can take a week or two to see the difference.
Switch it up. If one type of anti-dandruff shampoo doesn't seem to work, or if it works for a time but then doesn't, switch to a product with another active ingredient (the active ingredient will be labeled on the bottle).
See your doctor if the problem persists after more than a couple weeks of treatment. There are prescription shampoos available, and prescription steroid creams may also help.

Tips

Try using a softer shampoo. During an interview, several barbers have said that the cause is often a harsh shampoo kills or drys out the skin.
Another possible remedy consists of pouring a generous amount of table salt into your hand before showering and covering your scalp in it. Gently rub it in, covering your whole scalp. Rinse it out in the shower, and shampoo normally.
It's best to get your vitamins from food, rather than nutritional supplements. A quick Internet search will turn up foods you can integrate into your diet that are rich in zinc, Omega-3s, and B-vitamins.
If anti-dandruff shampoos aren't working, or if you notice redness on the scalp or silvery or yellow flakes, you may not have dandruff at all. A number of other conditions can lead to flaking skin and itchy scalp. See your primary care physician or dermatologist.
A quick internet search will turn up all kinds of home remedies for dandruff. While some of these may indeed work, anti-dandruff shampoos are inexpensive enough to be adequate for most people.
Wear light-colored clothing (especially tops) while you have dandruff. Most people won't even notice.
If you have hay fever, eczema, or other skin or respiratory allergies, your dandruff may be caused in part by an allergic reaction. In this situation, you may find it helpful to shampoo LESS frequently, so the natural oils that protect your scalp aren't stripped away. Allergic people may also react to dandruff shampoos by generating MORE dandruff. If you think this may be the case for you, try washing your hair with conditioner only, or washing less frequently. CAUTION: Try this first during a vacation or a time when you will be less publicly visible, since your scalp will be very oily at first. It will take two weeks to a month for the balance of oils on your hair and scalp to adjust itself.
Rinsing your scalp with a rinse of 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar to 3/4 cup water may help the problem. The natural acids will help loosen any sebum (dead skin and oils) that clings to your scalp and flakes to form dandruff. Rinse thoroughly with WARM, not hot, water. If you don't rinse well, you will smell like vinegar. While apple cider vinegar is the gold standard of home remedies, white vinegar or lemon juice should work as well. Lemon juice may lighten dark hair.
To treat a bad case of dandruff, wash your hair with your usual shampoo and then rinse with an alcohol-based mouthwash. You can follow with an ordinary conditioner.
Tea tree oil has antiseptic qualities that may help kill the fungus, and keep your scalp moisturized. You can buy a small bottle at many groceries and health food stores, and add 5-6 drops to your regular shampoo. Or just purchase a shampoo that contains tea tree oil.
Buy and use two or three different types of regular shampoo and don't use the same one two days in a row. This way build up is minimized. For some reason this gets rid of lesser cases of dandruff.
Plain old fashioned Listerine (the original amber formula) works wonders on dandruff! In fact, up until the 1980s, the label even mentioned that it was effective on infectious dandruff. Daily or several times a week, saturate a cotton ball with Listerine and swab over your scalp. It really works!
Leave-in treatments like Scalpicin may be useful for particularly itchy scalps.
If the shampoos with the ingredients below don't work, try others.
Wash your hair with cold water.

Warnings

Some anti-dandruff shampoos, such as those containing selenium sulfide or coal tar may discolor light or dyed hair.
Discontinue use of any anti-dandruff shampoo or medication if the condition worsens or spreads, or if you notice side effects. Consult your primary care physician or dermatologist if the problem doesn't go away.
Tea tree oil may have adverse side effects. A recent article in the New York Times states: "In Boston at the annual Endocrine Society meeting in June, Clifford Bloch of the University of Colorado School of Medicine presented several cases of young men who had developed marked breast enlargement from using shampoos containing lavender and tea tree oils, which are widely used essential oil additives that present no problem for adults."
this study was fully rebutted by the Australian Tea Tree Industry Association (ATTIA) and in fact only one of the three subjects was exposed to a product containing tea tree oil in addition to lavender oil. It appears that the real culprit may be the lavender oil or other estrogenic compounds in shampoos. No other environmental or dietary factors were considered. Some foods such as soy and licorice contain very high levels of phytoestrogens.
Watch out for shampoos that are packaged to look like dandruff shampoos but only say that they will rinse away loose dandruff. Any shampoo will rinse away loose dandruff.
Using more than one anti-dandruff product may cause redness and irritation.
Avoid Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS). It's a foaming compound that's a mild irritant. Some people find that using specialist soap without SLS as a shampoo for a couple of weeks makes their dandruff go away. You'll probably get it back if you switch back to ordinary shampoo. [1]

Things You'll Need

Shampoo with one of these anti-dandruff ingredients: ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, salicylic acid, coal tar extract, or sulfur. If one doesn't work try another.

Related wikiHows

Sources and Citations

Mayo Clinic
American Academy of Dermatology Article on scalp care in pdf format
MotherNature.com
OTAN.us Some home remedies, from aspirin to olive oil to vinegar. (Even if those don't work, you could put them together to make a pain-killing salad dressing!)
Dandruff Control Made Easy Articles and products to control dandruff and beautify your hair using tea tree oil and natural herbal ingredients.

↑ http://www.health-report.co.uk/sodium_lauryl_sulphate.html

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Prevent and Treat Dandruff. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Make a Herbal Pillow

2008-08-22T19:36:00.001+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Herbal pillows are a great use of alternative medicine and can be used for many uses from helping to put a baby to sleep to the relief of headaches.

Steps

Cut your fabric into two square pieces. Each piece should be the same size as your finished pillow plus half an inch seam allowance. A six-inch square is good, but you can make it any size you choose.
Place the right sides of the fabric pillow facing each other. Sew them together along three sides, leaving the fourth open for stuffing. Turn the sewn fabric the right side out and press with an iron.
Place your choice of herbs in a bowl and add your fixative. Different mixtures of herbs are used for different things:
- Restful herbs - Chamomile, hops, lavender, rose petals, lemon verbana and mint
- Herbs for a crying baby - Lavender, catnip and mugwort
- Herbs to induce dreams - Balsam needles, lavender, rosemary, sweet marjoram
- Herbs to relieve headaches - Chamomile, lavender, rosemary
- Herbs for romantic slumber - Sweet marjoram, lavender, rose petals, lemon grass
Leave your pillow in an air-proof bag for at least a day before you use it. This allows the scent to strengthen and enhances its therapeutic effects.
At bedtime or naptime, tuck your herbal pillow inside your regular pillowcase, or just lay it beside you.

Tips

A fixative will help your dried herbs retain their fragrance much longer. Fixatives include: musk, ambergris and civet
Your cotton balls help add soft fullness to your herbal pillow
Many of the herbs that are used in making potpourri can be used to make your herbal pillow.
Make a pillowcase for your finished herbal pillow from luxurious fabric.
Make a quick herbal pillow by placing half a cup of herbs in a 3/5-inch drawstring bag. Draw it closed and tie the strings.

Warnings

If you intend to give the herbal pillow as a gift, make sure its recipient does not have any allergies to the herbs you use.

Things You'll Need

Linen or muslin fabric
Sewing machine or needle and thread
An Iron
Herbs of your choice
Fixative
Cotton balls
Decorative fabric trim

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Make a Herbal Pillow. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

how yo learn turkish language

2008-08-18T18:28:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

This article is a stub. You can help by expanding and clarifying it. Notice added on 2007-01-18.
Learning tips for Turkish language

Steps

Accept that it is one of the most flexible languages in the world, that words make sense even if you don't put them in the correct order.
Always put the verb at the end of the sentence.
Try to contact Turkish people, face to face if possible. You may speak to turkish speakers over msn, skype, etc.
Try online lessons.
Install Turkish operating systems.
Visit Turkey.
Watch Turkish soap operas.
Read Turkish books.
Learn all the bad Turkish words first, because many English words are common in the Turkish language and you might accidentally insult someone.
Listen to Turkish songs.

Tips

Listening is extremely important to learn speaking Turkish. Because the verbs are very tricky, very hard to learn. Try to pronounce the verbs before you dive into Turkish grammar.
Turkish is "spoken as written" language. Every sound is expressed with a letter. So pronunciation is quite easy.
Cursing and swearing is quite interesting and fun.

Warnings

You may never learn to speak properly.
It takes a lot of time to learn it. Especially the verbs.
Subjects are at the end of the verbs and can not be pronounced all by itself. For example: gelemeyebilirim (I may not be able to come; the letter -m means "I").

Things You'll Need

A native Turkish speaker
DFH Satilite TV for soap operas

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Learn Turkish. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Make Cucumber Water

2008-08-04T00:21:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Zero calories AND refreshing

Ingredients

A small cucumber
Lemon/Lime(optional)
Water

Steps

Get a small cucumber
Grab a clean knife
Get a pitcher of water
Cut your cucumber thin
Add the cucumbers to the water
If you want, add lemon/lime
cover and shake
Put in the fridge for about ten min.

Tips

The longer it cools, the better it tastes

Things You'll Need

A Knife
A place to cut
A pitcher of water

Related wikiHows

How to Make Korean Shaved Ice
How to Make Your Tap Water Taste Better
How to Choose the Right Bottled Water
How to Purify Water

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Make Cucumber Water. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Deal With Losing Your Wallet

2008-08-04T00:18:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Losing your wallet or purse can be a devastating experience. Not only have you lost your identification, but also your cash, your credit and debit cards and anything else that may have been inside. Follow this guide to take back control of some of what you've lost.

Steps

Try to find the wallet. Remember when you last had your wallet. Doing so will help you eliminate places where you could not have lost it, and concentrate on places where you may have. Retrace your steps. What were you wearing? Where did you go? When did you take your wallet out of your pocket? Simple questions like these may help. If you know there's a slim chance of finding it, or if your wallet was stolen, proceed to the next step.
- Make calls to places you've gone recently (since you last saw your wallet) including restaurants, theaters, and the like and ask if they have a lost wallet. They will need a description. Usually the name on an ID or a specific member's card will do. Even larger places, like malls, have lost-and-found offices or security centers.
- Don't assume that the movie theater or other business would call you. Some businesses do not make calls due to concerns that it might disclose the fact that you were somewhere or with someone that you do not want made known.
Assume the wallet is stolen. If you can't find the wallet within a few hours, someone else might, and you don't know if that person will return it to you. When it comes to your identity, credit cards, and bank accounts, you're better off safe than sorry. The maximum time you will want to wait is 24 hours as, for many companies, there are deadlines for reporting lost cards.
Call your bank and report your debit card stolen. It is very important to do this quickly as, unlike credit cards, the law says that debit cards leave the consumer on the hook if left unreported. You can be charged for any withdrawals and even overdraft charges. Once you call the bank, your debit card liability is reduced to $50.
Call your credit card companies as soon as you can and cancel your credit cards, especially your store cards. They often have less stringent security policies and have stricter reporting than many major credit cards. Apply for a new card for the same account if you can.
Report your wallet lost or stolen to the police. It may seem like a waste of time, but having a police report will help you in many areas including insurance claims, liability issues and more.
Get a new driver's license. If you get pulled over, the officer may or may not believe your story of having a lost wallet. Don't take the chance.
Call the credit reporting agencies (credit bureaus) and report your lost cards and other relevant items. The major credit recording companies include Equifax, Experian and Transunion..
Buy a new wallet. While you're waiting to find your old one, you'll need something to keep everything in. If and when you find your old wallet, you can choose which one to use. If you think you will lose it again, consider purchasing one with a chain, or something that will help prevent losing it in the future. As an affordable alternative, buy a nylon wallet. They last for years. Put a rubber band around it so you know when it's moved, or buy or make an ankle holster with a Velcro strap to place the wallet in, fasten it around your ankle. Use a money clip with one credit card in it. As an alternative to buying a new wallet, try making one.
Asking friends.If you remember where you last left your wallet call your friends or parents and ask them to search for your wallet in their place.
Good places to check for your wallet.Try to look for your clothing used last time(pants,pockets etc.)Also check your washing machine dryer also your toilet (I know looking for your wallet sounds random but it is actually very useful.

Tips

Keep your cards separately in a card holder. When you lose a wallet you can still use your cards, and when you lose cards/cardholder,
Make sure you write down important account numbers before you lose your wallet, or check your paper or electronic bills for the account numbers and contact information. In the case that you do lose your wallet, these numbers will be critical to know. Police officers may accept a driver's license number happily if you've lost your wallet.
A simple way to record the contents of your wallet is to photocopy or scan both the front and back of all your cards. Keep the copy in a very safe, but separate place. The place should be readily accessible to you, not in a bank safe deposit box that might be unavailable when you need it.
Keep phone numbers on-file for banks, credit card companies, etc. In the event that you lose your wallet, you'll need these quickly to help prevent anyone else using those cards.
Don't keep all your cash in your wallet. Get a money clip to hold some of it in, or keep some at home in a safe place and only carry what you think you may need. This way, you reduce the amount of cash you may lose if you lose your wallet.
Periodically during the day, make sure you still have your wallet. It takes only a second to do, and it gives you a better chance of finding your wallet if you have just lost it. Get in the habit of checking regularly: every time you get up to go somewhere, while you're walking, etc. A light touch of your back pocket or a quick look in your purse will give you a clear indication.
Do not keep your wallet in your back pocket when you travel, or are in crowded places. This extra level of security for you nearly eliminates the chance of someone slipping it out of your clothing. Put your wallet in your front pocket or a backpack, or use a money belt.
If you regularly keep your wallet in your back pocket, try to wear pants that have a button on the back pocket, and use it.
If you notice charges to your account that were made between the time you lost your wallet and the time that you suspended your credit/debit cards, call your institution and inform them, then file another police report (unless the institution says they will do that for you). This insures that you are not liable for those charges, and gives you a better chance of finding your wallet after the investigation is over.
If you keep your wallet in your back pocket, make sure the pocket is not stretched out. Your wallet will most likely stay in your pocket if the wallet is not too thick and your pocket is tight.

Warnings

Never store pin numbers, passwords or your social security number in your wallet.

Related wikiHows

Sources and Citations

http://www.usatoday.com/tech/wireless/phones/2004-07-22-wallet-phone_x.htm — The Mobile Phone Wallet

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Deal With Losing Your Wallet. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

Tomato, Watermelon, and Cucumber Salad

2008-07-31T12:06:00.001+01:00

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
1 serving: Calories 100; Carbohydrates 13g; Fat 5g; Sodium 364mg
INGREDIENTS
2 large red tomatoes, cut into 1-inch wedges (about 2 cups)
2 pounds watermelon, cut into 1/2- by 2 1/2-inch wedges
1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch wedges
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (about 1/4 cup)
3 tablespoons red-wine vinegar
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon fresh-ground pepper
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced
DIRECTIONS
Make the salad: Gently toss tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, and onion together in a large bowl and set aside. Combine vinegar, oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour vinaigrette over the watermelon mixture and toss to combine. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. Sprinkle with basil and serve.

How to Be Fun and Flirty

2008-07-30T23:04:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

This article is a stub. You can help by expanding and clarifying it. Notice added on 2008-07-24.
Do you want to be flirty and fun? Well, read on to find out how!

Steps

Be exciting. Don't be dull! Be energetic, outgoing, and happy! You should rarely ever have a dull moment in your life. You should really shine at parties. Make a scene if you're at a party and then, we get to the next step.
Be entertaining. You should be able to put on a show with your personality. Be bright and funny. Live your life like a rockstar! Smile all the time as if the world was smiling with you.
Be funny. This helps with being exciting and entertaining. Laugh a lot, tell jokes, and smile!
When you are flirting, smile, wink, and be sweet! Use good, and not cheesy pick up lines. Be original, or you'll look like a fool. Flirt a lot, and be fun!
Be yourself! This is the most important! Be yourself when flirting, as well as when you're being fun. Nobody likes a person who is just a exact copy of somebody who they totally aren't when they're trying to impress somebody...even if they aren't!
Look bold. Wear bright make up and wear cute and neon clothes! This will make you stand out. Contrast colors with neon and black, you'll really pop, then.
Ta da! Now you are bold, and flirty!

Tips

Don't flirt too much. Flirting a little once and a while is good, but not too much or you'll look trashy and rumors could start. Especially if you aren't single!
Don't wear neon everything. Once again, contrasting works best! i.e.: Black/Dark jeans with a neon green shirt paired with a neon green and black striped pair of ballet flats
Don't laugh too much, especially at corny jokes. You could just end up looking cheesy and strange instead.
Smile! This is your best accessory!
Whiten your teeth. Nothing worse than always smiling with dirty teeth!
If you have sparkling pearly white teeth, wear rosy red lipstick, this will make your lips look brighter!

Warnings

Flirting too much, once again, can spread rumors and make you look like a total slut!

Related wikiHows

How to Be Fun at Parties
How to Be Energetic and Fun Loving
How to Flirt
How to Flirt Coyly (For Girls)
How to Be Funny

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Be Fun and Flirty. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Make Onion Rings

2008-07-26T21:40:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Just a step-by-step process on how to cut up and fry some onions. Check out the supplies and read all the directions before you start.

Ingredients

One third of a gallon of milk (not exactly, just an estimate)
2-3 eggs
Seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, etc.)
Flour
Medium or large onion (possibly multiple depending how many you're making)
Vegetable oil

Steps

Lay some foil out close to your stove and put two large mixing bowls on it.
Fill one bowl about halfway to two/thirds full with milk. Put 2-3 eggs in it and some seasoning (garlic powder, onion powder, etc.) Mix it up really well.
Fill the other bowl with flour and seasonings, then mix.
Find a medium-large onion and cut it into rings; once you have the amount of rings you want, put them on a plate near the flour and milk.
Put some vegetable oil in a large frying pan around half an inch deep. Depending on what your stove's like, on a rating out of 10, keep the heat 4-5/10. Use fresh oil.
Dip a ring into the milk then into the flour. Dip it back into the milk, and back into the flour. Repeat until it is thoroughly covered in the batter. Lower it slowly into the pan. It is easier to use a fork to get them in and out of the pan. (It usually takes 3 dips into the milk and flour.)
Repeat step six until there is no more room in the frying pan.
Put some paper towels onto a plate.
When the onion rings are golden brown flip them over with a fork. Once both sides are golden brown lift them with the fork onto the paper towels.
Repeat step six, seven, and nine until all of them are fried. (The second round will go a lot faster than the first so keep a close eye on them.)
Turn off the stove, and clean up, this is a really messy snack.
Serve them to your guests or relatives.

Tips

Never take your eye off them.
You can cook the smaller ones inside the larger ones to save time.
If you use one hand for dipping them in the milk, and one for the flour, your fingers will stay a lot cleaner.
Onions go great as a side for hamburgers.
Try them with ketchup or ranch dressing.
This can be done with chicken strips and chicken fried steak.

Warnings

Be careful when you're working with oil. If it's too hot it can catch fire. It also leaves burns when you get it on yourself
It usually crackles a bit and you may get some small amounts of oil on your hand or something. Don't be startled.

Things You'll Need

Two large mixing bowls
Foil (not required, but it helps the clean-up)
Large frying pan
Stove
Paper Towels

Related wikiHows

How to Cut an Onion
How to Cook Indian Onion Bhaji
How to Stop Onions from Stinging the Eyes
How to Make Caramelized Onions
How to Chop Onions without Tears

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Make Onion Rings. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Color French Fries

2008-07-26T21:26:00.002+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

They may look different, but they taste the same as normal fries! Have some fun with these colored fries; great for special occasions.

Steps

Drop a whole peeled and sliced unroasted potato into 175ml (1/2 cup) of juice mixed with two tablespoons of food colouring of your choice.
Keep it in the mixture for 3 hours.
Then dry and roast it normally.

Tips

Be sure and dry the potato fully after soaking in the food colouring or the grease will wash the colour off when it is roasted normally. You do not have to worry about it if you dry-roast the potato.

Warnings

Make sure your juice will cook.

Related wikiHows

How to Make Tasty Home Style Fries
How to Make Fries Crisp and Crunchy
How to Bake a Potato Using a Microwave
How to Cook a Cheese Burger
How to Make a Tasty Nacho Like Dish

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Color French Fries. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Swim

2008-07-26T19:13:00.001+01:00

Steps

Get into the water, making sure that it is not too deep for you. Holding on to the side of the pool, or someone you trust, let your head go under water. Remember to hold your breath. If you blow bubbles out of your nose then water will not go up your nose.
Grab onto the side of the pool and let your legs float out behind you. This will be easier if you put your face in the water. Start kicking your feet and get a feel for how it's done. When you're ready, stop kicking and proceed to step #3.
Turn around so you are facing the open water.
Slightly jump off the ground and bring your right arm in front of you, cup your hand and push your arm through the water until it's at your side. Repeat the process with your other arm. You are pushing yourself through the water with your arms.
At the same time, kick with your feet, like you did in step #2. This will make you move faster.
If your arms get tired, do not panic! You can flip over onto your back, let your arms float out to your sides, like a 'T', and let your feet float out in front of you. Relax, then just kick with your feet to keep moving, or just kick your legs.

Tips

Make sure there is another person present that is able to swim in case of emergency.
You can also take swimming lessons at most public pools.
If your legs sink while floating on your back, try to put your arms over your head as if you were reaching for something, this will make your legs float up upwards.
Keep your head down in the water. If you lift it up to breathe, your body sinks and stops all forward motion. To breathe roll to your side, head stays down but finds air with your chin just over the high shoulder.
Lengthen your pull through the water. Reach way out ahead, pull straight through centered under your body, then keep pushing down to your thigh before the hand leaves the water. The recovering hand moves in a straight line forward just above the water to reach way ahead again. Think long stroke.

Warnings

Don't panic! If you get exhausted, flip over onto your back and float - as described in Step #6.
Until you are comfortable in the water do not go into water that will be deeper than your chest. That way, if you get scared or tired, you can put your feet down without too much of a struggle.
If you are really skinny, you will not be able to float, because fat is what keeps you buoyant. You may want to try wearing a life jacket.
When you first learn to swim, you are using your muscles in new ways, and this is extremely tiring. Always have someone nearby who can swim well.
Underwater breathing contests are very dangerous. Although you might think, "we are only a couple feet in the water," if you stay underwater for too long, you can drown quite easily. But don't be scared, just say politely, "No thanks," if someone asks you to have an underwater breathing contest.

Things You'll Need

another person that is able to swim.
swimsuit or short pants
goggles (optional)
cap (optional)
nose plug (optional)
ear plugs (optional)
Patience (Required)
Perserverance (Required)

Related wikiHows

How to Do an Open Turn in Swimming
How to Exercise to Become a Better Swimmer
How to Choose the Right Swimsuit for Your Figure
How to Swim the Breaststroke
How to Swim Butterfly Stroke
How to Do a Flip Turn While Swimming

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Swim. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.
From:
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How to Get Ready for Bed Quickly

2008-07-22T18:20:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

This article is on how to get ready for bed. Everyone needs to go to bed right? Then you must know what to do before you get into bed or else in the morning...you will be trouble.

Steps

Take a nice warm or cool shower. If you already take showers in the morning then don't bother. At least wash your face because you might have sweated all day long.
Brush your teeth. You want to have a nice smile tomorrow at school. If you want, you could brush your teeth in the shower so it doesn't waste time.
Brush your hair. You want to take the snarls out because in the morning your hair just will be messier, and you do not want that. So brush, brush, brush!!
Check your homework, agenda, and all your stuff in your backpack just to make sure you are ready for the next day of school.
Change into your night clothes. If it's hot, wear some boxers or shorts if you are a girl. Wear a baggy t-shirt and you'll sleep in comfort. If it's cold wear some sweat pants and a baggy long sleeve shirt.

If you have some time leftover before your bedtime, then watch some T.V.
After you watch some T.V., go to your parents and kiss then good-night.
Go to your bedroom, turn off the lights and close the door.
If you are a little girl or boy, take your doll or stuffed animal and cuddle it by your side.

Tips

Try taking cool showers everyday. Hot or warm showers can make your scalp start rising a little but...and it will get kinda...crusty. Yuck. But sometimes it wil; be good to take warm or hot showers or baths because they make you feel relaxed.
Brush your teeth for at least 3 minutes. That way, your teeth will sparkle and your smile will really show off!
Did you know it's very healthy if you brush your hair a 100 times a day?
Ask your mom or dad to check the homework for you. That way, when your teacher grades your homework you will get 100%! Just remember to make sure you know why your mom or dad said that that answer was wrong.

Warnings

Don't get carried away with too much T.V.!!! Your eyes will be baggy the next day and you won't be able to concentrate.

Related wikiHows

How to Get out of Bed when You Really Can't
How to Wake Up When You Are Very Tired
How to Stop Sleeping on Your Stomach
How to Go to Bed Early
Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Get Ready for Bed Quickly. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Prevent Heart Disease

2008-07-22T18:06:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Heart disease, also known as Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) or Coronary Heart Disease kills more Americans each year than all the kinds of cancer put together, and accounts for about 30% of all deaths. It is usually preventable, but there are things such as gender, age and family history that are risk factors that you can not control.

Steps

Have your blood pressure checked occasionally. Keep your blood pressure low by eating a diet low in sodium, exercising and keeping your arteries functioning (see next step).
Eat less cholesterol, Trans and saturated fats. Those clog up your arteries, forcing your heart to work harder and even speeding up respiration.
Eat less meat. A diet low in saturated fat is one crucial factor in preventing heart disease, obesity, cancer, and diabetes among others. One way to lower your intake of saturated fat is to limit your intake of meat and high-fat dairy products. Incorporate more meatless meals into your diet. Meatless Monday is a non-profit national public health campaign in association with the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health that advocates lowering your intake saturated fat by limiting meat consumption.
Exercise regularly. Exercising has so many benefits. It relieves stress, lowers your blood pressure, burns fat, strengthens your immune system and just leaves you feeling good for the rest of the day.
Stay at your healthy weight, or lose weight if you need to in order to be healthy. Shedding a few extra pounds will take a lot of stress off your heart, feet, bones, joints and lungs, and keeps your blood pressure and cholesterol levels down.
Avoid excess stress. Stress will raise your blood pressure. Always look on the bright side of things, and don’t use any chemicals as a crutch.
Avoid tobacco smoking and places where Environmental Tobacco Smoke is present. About 20% of cases of CVD are caused by smoking. 40,000 non-smoking Americans get CVD and die from secondhand smoke each year (American Heart Association). Secondhand smoke is the third leading preventable cause of death in America.
Stay drug and alcohol free. Caffeine is an addictive drug, and is in no way healthy. Other drugs produce adverse side effects. By alcohol free, this article means not having a twelve-pack and passing out each night – a little bit of red wine each day may actually be beneficial to your health.

Related wikiHows

Sources and Citations

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Prevent Heart Disease. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Freshen Your Breath Before You Meet Somebody

2008-07-16T22:19:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

This method can be an absolute life saver if you suddenly end up with bad breath before you go to meet somebody

Steps

Buy a packet of Salt and Vinegar flavoured crisps (potato chips), a bottle of water, and a pack of mints that contain as little sugar as possible
First eat the crisps, this will remove all traces of sugar in your mouth, thus making it taste of nothing, and therefore smell the same way
Eating the crisps usually makes you thirsty, so the water is a must, because having any sort of sugar ruins the effect, plus, if you keep yourself well hydrated your mouth stays fresher for longer
Finally, the mints. The stronger they are the better. They arent a must, but its always nice to have breath thats minty fresh

Tips

NO. SUGAR. I can't stress that enough. If you have to have somethign sugary, just make sure you have something savoury afterwards to remove the traces of sugar.
If you're on a tight budget, just clean your tongue off! If you didn't already know, most of your bad breath is not caused by the food that you eat, but rather originates from the back of your tongue!
Depending on how much time you have before meeting this person, brush your teeth, floss, and/or use a mouthwash.
Dont chew gum before this, because it will make your saliva disgusting which will put out the other person. USE MINTS ONLY !

Warnings

This IS NOT a substitute for cleaning your teeth. It won't matter how fresh your breath is when you have twenty cavities and two teeth.
Doing this too often will result in a lot of additional weight being hefted about, so be warned about that too

Related wikiHows

How to Relieve a Toothache & Bleeding Gums
How to Disengage Your Gag Reflex
How to Get Rid of Painful Cracked Lips
How to Stop Bleeding Gums, Gingivitis, Periodontitis
Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Freshen Your Breath Before You Meet Somebody. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Get Rid of Morning Breath

2008-07-16T22:15:00.001+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Morning breath is one of the most embarrassing things to have. Many people avoid talking or even opening their mouth until they assured themselves that the problem is solved. This article can teach you how to get rid of morning breath.

Steps

Avoid smoking or the use of tobacco/drug products. Smoking has the same effects as caffeine to the mouth and teeth, making odors stronger and increasing risk of tooth decay.
Brush your teeth after every meal, before you go to sleep, and after you wake up. While you sleep, saliva decreases which creates the opportunity for bacteria growth on the food residue that lingers in the mouth[1]. Remember to floss any chance you get in order to reach food particles that the toothbrush did not get. Invest in a tongue cleaner to get rid of any extra bacteria in the mouth.
Chew sugarless gum throughout the day. Chewing gum not only helps stomach acid, but also creates fresher breath. If you are at work or school, try smaller pieces of gum, for example Trident, instead of the regular long sticks. If this is not possible, try Tic-Tacs.
Know that strong foods, such as garlic and onions, can contribute to bad breath. Try to substitute these foods for similar ones or avoid using these on a regular basis to omit bad breath.
Visit your dentist regularly and doctor if the situation does not go away. They can see if the situation can be solved with a simple remedy or if it is contributed by something else. Things can include stomach acid or acid reflux, issues, infections around the mouth, or lung disorders.

Tips

Don't eat 3 to 4 hours before going to bed.

Sources and Citations

↑ http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/hilaryjones/embarrassingprobs/badbreath.htm

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Get Rid of Morning Breath. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Be More Proud of Your Appearance

2008-07-16T21:51:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

An editor has suggested that this article be merged with: "How to Change Your Appearance" Per the merge policy, if these topics are determined to be similar but distinct, then the articles will remain separate. Please comment on the discussion page. Notice added on 2008-06-07.
Have you ever thought that you were ugly? Or just hated the way your teeth were or maybe you think you're a bit overweight? Whatever it is, you can learn to deal with it, or change it. But because your changing your appearance, doesn't mean you have to change your personality. Truth is, ugliness doesn't occur in appearance...but personality.

Steps

Make sure you know what about your appearance is bringing you down. If it's something you can't change on your own, like your nose, don't have plastic surgery. Afterall you might grow to love THAT nose later on in life and plus it's bound to change as you get older.
Once you know what you're insecure about, take a closer look. Is it really that bad?
Solve it. You can either solve it by; Getting over it (not harshley) or by doing something to make it look better. If you hate your teeth, eating too much candy and not brushing your teeth won't help you love them. Consider braces if your teeth need straightening, but first you might want to have a dentist appointment.
Love it. Whether you've changed that bit about you or not. Be proud that you have a unique face and/or body (unless you have an identical twin). Beauty comes in many forms. Words such as "Ugly" and "Hideous" are used by people who are either jealous, or too full of them-selves.
Ignore. Yeah, so if one day you're proud of your appearance and then you start to hate it because someone says that you're "Fat", "Skinny" or "Fugly". Remember it's not always their business on what you look like. If you decide to use a ton of eyeliner or foundation (if you're a girl) and ignorant people decide to call you things like, "Orange freak" or "Emo". Or if you decide not to wear any sort of make-up. Or if you have braces or anything that people make rude remarks on, just say thanks for noticing and walk away. Afterall you can look HOWEVER you want to look.
Talk. Talk to someone if your insecurity level as gone over the top that you just can't bare it anymore. That person might help you, if they make it worse, your just going to have to find someone who will take you seriously and will try to comfort you.
Be You. Have you ever noticed on how your personality tends to reflect on your appearance? That doesn't mean you have to change the way you are. Just be who you are, some may hate you for that, but remember NEVER to change for ANYONE. No matter what.

Tips

If your spots are bringing you down, go to a cosmetic store and ask for a product that might help you with your spots. Don't go straight to buying make-up, it's braggable that it's going to create more.
Remember, ignore people who label you and judge you by your appearance. They might be jealous or just in the mood for being rude to people. Which isn't fair and is completley ignorant.
During this process, don't call someone ugly, it doesn't make you any prettier what-so-ever.
Treat your-self by going shopping or just have some chocolate if you feel depressed by the remarks. If the remarks are seriously damaging you, you might consider repeating something in your mind which helps you get over appearance depression.

Warnings

Make-up will give you spots if you don't pick the right quality. Always do checks before you buy any sort of cosmetic product from a store. You seriously don't want to know what it may do to your skin.
Don't change your personality! Let it change on it's own, not by force to impress anyone
If you decide to do any sort of piercings to make your-self more proud of your-self, make sure you check the stores hygiene. You don't wanna get any sort of infection.
Changing because of a boy or for a boy won't always work out the way you want it to. This goes for boys who want to impress girls.
NEVER stop eating if someone calls you fat. If you're over-weight and think you wanna change that about you for prehaps health reasons more than appearance, go on a sensible diet. But please don't stop eating all together or limit your daily intake of certain food.
I don't think it's a good idea to change your style either if your not comfortable with changing it. Change your style when you want to, not when someone else says you should. But it's always great to try out new things, just don't do it because someone says you should.

Things You'll Need

Confidence
A great friend you can trust to help you through all this

Related wikiHows

How to Improve Your Appearance
How to Have a Neat, Clean Cut Appearance
How to Change Your Appearance From Emo to Preppy
How to Improve the Appearance of a Button Nose
How to Be More Physically Attractive (Men)
Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Be More Proud of Your Appearance. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Look Good in Pictures

2008-07-16T21:42:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Looking good in pictures makes you feel more confident about yourself, which is important. If you're one of those people who look bad in pictures, this article is made for you.

Steps

Learn why you look bad in pictures. Look at pictures of yourself and pictures of other people and find out why they look good, and you look bad. Some problems are:
- pictures in shady area, is not good
- pimples, blemishes, zits...
- ugly hairstyle or clothing
- or just your mind.
Look good and prepare before taking pictures. Get out clothes that are your favorite and look really good on you. And look at many types of hairstyles to see which one suits you the best. If you have a wide face, try wearing your hair down. This will make your face look smaller and more prettier. On the other hand, if you have a small face wear your hair up and out of your face.
Clear your skin and look pretty. Wash your face with a pimple fighting cleanser. Then pat dry your skin, and apply a toner. After applying the toner, put on a good moisturizing cream on your face for a fresh look. Apply your make-up as usual.
Good night, and sleep tight. The day before you get your picture taken, make sure you have a good night sleep. If you have dark under eye circles, then put two slices of cucumber on your eyes. Make sure you're not stressed out, this will lead to ugly pictures.
Be confident about yourself.Make sure you feel proud of who you are. If you feel like your ugly then you'll appear ugly in the picture. Look at your old pictures of your self and think about the good times back then and look and feel pretty. When you take the picture make sure you smile and look happy. If you fake a smile then you will look really bad. So feel and look happy as well.
Find a good spot to shoot the picture. If you take it in a shady are the picture will look really dark and ugly. On the other hand, if it's too sunny and bright, then the picture will be blurry and hard to see. So get a nice spot to take the picture. Good luck on the picture day!

Tips

Give a nice smile, not too big or not too small, just the size of Montreal!
Take the shower in the morning of the picture day so you feel fresh.
Don't stand straight as a stick, do a little pose too look cool.
Make sure you're in a good mood and feel good. If you have a stomach ache, then try skipping the picture day.
Always look at the positive side, not the negative side.

Warnings

Do not pressure yourself too much to look good, and spend a fortune on your hair, clothes, or make-up.
Make sure the make-up looks natural. If you put loads of make-up you will look really fake!
Do not eat too much on the day of your picture day you will get a stomach ace.
Do not eat too little either.

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Look Good in Pictures. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Make Turkish Coffee

2008-07-15T13:13:00.001+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

In order to make Turkish coffee, you need to start with fresh medium-roasted beans that are either pulverized using a mortar and pestle or ground in a cylindrical brass coffee mill.

Preparation

Put extra fine ground coffee (as fine as powdered cocoa, preferably less oily Arabic beans) (about one teaspoon (2 g) per demitasse cup (60 ml) of coffee into a special pot with a wide bottom, narrower neck, a spout, and a long handle, called a cezve.
Add sugar and a Turkish coffee cup (fincan) of cold water for each cup of coffee you're making.
Heat the brew to frothing three times. (When the froth reaches the cezve's narrow neck, it's a sign to remove the pot from the heat and let the froth recede.)

Mixing

After the third froth-up, pour off a bit of the froth into each cup.
Bring the liquid still in the cezve to the froth-point once again, then pour it immediately, muddy grounds and all, into the Turkish coffee cups, which are smaller than demitasse cups.

Drinking

Wait at least a minute for the grounds to settle before you pick up the tiny cup and sip.
Enjoy the rich, thick flavor, but stop sipping when you taste the grounds coming through. Leave the "mud" in the bottom of the cup. Some say the positioning of the "mud" at the bottom of the cup can tell a persons fortune.

Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Make Turkish Coffee. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Make a White Chocolate Mocha

2008-07-15T12:07:00.002+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

A white chocolate mocha is another version of a standard mocha. With a kick of espresso, you get the hearty taste of white chocolate in your cup. Here is a recipe for a white chocolate mocha.

Ingredients

White chocolate powder (or white chocolate syrup)

Espresso

Milk

Ice cubes (for iced version)

Steps

Measure out the chocolate. Follow the guide for measurements[1].
- 12 oz cup: 2 tablespoons, 1/8 cup, 1 ounce
- 16 oz cup: 4 tablespoons, 1/4 cup, 2 ounces
- 20 oz cup: 6 tablespoons, 3/8 cup, 3 ounces

Steam the milk. Place the steam wand straight down into the milk instead of in a diagonal position. The temperature for the milk should be between 140 and 150 degrees F. Anything over 160 may scorch a person's mouth.

Pour espresso shots by tamping the ground espresso into the portafilter and locking it into the espresso machine. The aim time is between 17 and 23 seconds; anything longer than that, the espresso will cook itself and lose the taste.

Pour the espresso into the coffee cup.

Stir the powder/syrup and espresso together until the powder has dissolved or you don't feel any clumps.

Pour the milk in.

Top off the drink with whipped cream or any topping of your choice.

Iced White Chocolate Mocha

Scoop the powder into the coffee cup.

Pour espresso shots.

Skip the steaming milk step.

Mix the espresso with the powder in the coffee cup.

Pour cold milk into the cup at a slow pace. As you're doing this, keep stirring so that the white chocolate is mixed thoroughly.

Leave an inch (2.5 cm) or so of room from the top. Drop ice cubes into the cup.

Tips

White chocolate powder may be purchased at many specialty chocolate or coffee stores, and is widely available online.

Whipped cream is optional on mochas because of the chocolate taste.

For the iced version, be sure to drop the ice cubes in the drink by hand instead of pouring it in. This is to avoid any spilling, especially if the cup is full or you can pour into another cup filled with ice.

Espresso is hot out of the machine, be careful not to burn yourself!

Things You'll Need

1/8 measuring cup

Espresso machine

Spoon

Coffee cup

Related wikiHows

How to Become an Effective Barista

How to Make Turkish Coffee

How to Make Espresso Fredo

How to Make a Latte

How to Make an Eiskaffee (Creamy Iced Coffee)

Sources and Citations

Muddy Waters Espresso recipe

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Make a White Chocolate Mocha. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Get Smooth Legs

2008-07-11T22:10:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

When you get that perfect new mini skirt or little black dress, the whole outfit is ruined by hairy legs. Do you want to shave your legs and get them as smooth and silky as possible? Follow these tips for super smooth, sexy, sleek legs that will have the opposite gender gawking at you.

Steps

Make sure the shower (or bath) is warm to open pores, which will give you a closer shave.
Use shaving foam to get a closer and smoother shave.
Use a loofa and run water over it to get a closer shave by removing the dead skin cells. Once you have massaged in the exfoliation cream, use the loofa to wipe off any remaining residue.
Use a good razor to shave your legs, making sure you do it carefully so that you don't cut yourself. Shave up your legs, not down your legs.
Rinse your legs with cold water to close the pores, pat them dry with a warm towel.
Put on some moisturizer and massage it in well.

Tips

Be careful around ankles and knees. These areas are uneven and difficult to shave. You may want to use cream for these areas.
If you don't have a shaving foam, use conditioner. It works just as well!
Take your time, don't rush, or you could end up making a very bad job of it.
If you do nick yourself while shaving, try dabbing on some antiseptic cream or lotion to help heal the cut faster.
There are other methods of hair removal: waxing (it hurts a lot at first, but you will get used to it), using hair removal creams (there is a myth that all hair removal creams smell, but there are nice smelling creams out there!), and bleaching the hair on your legs. For first timers, try shaving, but since there are down-sides to shaving such as re-growth and stubbles, you may want to consider getting them waxed. Gather up your courage and get an appointment today - you won't regret it! You'll have silky smooth legs that last for four months! No more messing around with razors in the shower!
Try not shaving your legs for 2 weeks; it will be smoother when you shave.
Make sure your exfoliation lotion has solid beads in it, bursting beads and moisture beads won't really work.
If you're not that good with shaving your knees and you nick yourself a lot, try using something like nair so it will be smooth and nick-free and will not have as bad stubble!
If you have pretty dry legs you NEED to moisturize otherwise when the hair starts to grow back it will feel rough and unpleasant.

Warnings

A sharp, newer razor works best. Don't use a blunt or rusty razor. Dull razors require more pressure, which causes a more likely chance of cutting.
Don't shave when your legs are dry! It is extremely bad for your skin and will create more scrapes if you don't use soap or shaving cream.
Be careful using hair-removal creams. Half of the ingredients of Nair and other hair removal products are there to repair the skin damage that the hair removal agent caused in the first place.

Things You'll Need

Water
Disposable Razor
Loofah
Body Scrub
Soap

Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Get Smooth Legs. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Get Rid of Very Dry Knees from Shaving

2008-07-11T21:37:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

If you're getting scaly skin on your knees from shaving your legs, these may be just the tips you need.

Steps

Soap your knees with liquid soap before shaving.
Shave in the direction your hair is going so it won't hurt and won't be rough. The final stroke must go against the flow of your hair so as to get all the hair.
After shaving, apply extra moisturizing lotion.

Tips

Use Veet with aloe instead of soap, or a similar moisturizing shaving cream; it will moisturize your skin sufficiently.
Apply jojoba oil to knees. It is nature's best moisturizing lotion. It absorbs quickly and will not feel greasy.

Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Get Rid of Very Dry Knees from Shaving. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Choose the Right Hair Colour

2008-07-08T13:25:00.000+01:00

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

If you want to change your appearance the easiest way to do it, is to do something to your hair. Choosing the right hair colour isn’t as easy as simply picking out a colour you like. There are a lot of factors that you should consider before picking a colour for your hair. Take the time to observe your natural hair colour, your skin tone, and eye colour before making the final decision. You should also ask yourself if you want a dramatic change or just a new fresh look. Below are some steps that you can follow to make sure you are choosing the right hair colour.

Steps

Take a look in the mirror and observe what type of skin tone you have. If you have Olive skin you suit darker hair colours. If you have Pink skin avoid shades of red or golden blonde. Stick to ash tones to neutralize your coloring. Pale skin suits pretty much any hair colour. If you have Yellow skin avoid yellow, gold or orange tones. Stick to deep reds.
[[ What type of clothing colours suits you best? If you look good in red, orange, golden yellow, olive green or rust, you suit warm hair tones such as golden blonde, golden brown, strawberry blonde and auburn. If you look good in bluish red, fuscia, black, royal blue or pine green, you suit cool hair tones such as platinum, ash blonde, ash brown, burgundy and jet black. If you look good in red, purple, charcoal grey, periwinkle or teal, you suit neutral tones like sandy blonde, beige blonde, chocolate brown and mahogany.
What colour of eyes do you have? A hair color with warm tones like red, gold and auburn shades are best for people with warm skin tones and brown, green or hazel eyes. This is because these particular eye colors also have a yellow base. Hair colors like light gold or ash are cooler-toned colors and are best suited to people with fair skin and blue or grey eyes. These eye colors have a blue base as opposed to having a yellow or brown base.

Tips

Brown hair color suits almost everybody. By varying a shade of brown with highlights you can achieve a huge range of colors.
Black hair color is easy to apply and is easy to apply on all types of hair. Usually, this color looks good only on people with dark or olive skin, and sometimes on people with pale white skin.
Black hair is also the hardest color to lift so once you go black you can't go back (at least not without damaging your hair.)
Red hair color is the brightest shade and attracts most attention. Be sure to choose a shade of red that compliments your skin tone.
Blond hair dye is particularly harmful to already damaged hair, as bleach is a powerful chemical. It's best to make sure your hair is healthy before going blond. Keep in mind; most shades of blond usually tend to look unnatural on olive or dark skinned people.

Warnings

You cannot go from one extreme of hair color to another.
When you are coloring your hair for the first time don't do it by yourself. Get it done by a professional.
Keep Hair coloring to a limit because you can damage your hair

Related wikiHows

Sources and Citations

“HAIR COLOR · CHOOSING THE RIGHT HAIR COLOR.” Hairstyle.com.
January 11th 2008
“<http://www.hairstyle.com/hair-articles/choosing-right-hair-color.htm>”
“Everything you need to know about hair color.” About.com.
January 11th 2008
“<http://beauty.about.com/od/haircutscolor/a/colorforhair.htm>”

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Choose the Right Hair Colour. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Get Jennifer Aniston Hairstyles

2008-07-08T13:12:00.001+01:00

Jennifer Aniston's hairstyles are pretty much all based on the premise of ultra straight hair. Whether she wears it down, framing her face or in an alluring updo, it all starts with straightening. The best way to get the ultra-straight effect is with a flat iron.

Steps

Wash and completely dry your hair (wet hair will fry)
Apply a small amount of mousse or gel.
Set the flat iron to the correct temperature according to the manufacturer's instructions (this will vary depending on your hair type).
Work in small sections starting with the underneath hair and working your way to the outer layers. With each section, start at the roots and slowly work your way down the length of the hair until you reach the ends.
Finish with a light application of hairspray, if desired.
Leave hair down for a simple, yet elegant look. Style up just about any way you like. Almost any hair style will look good the way Jennifer Aniston's does once you've straightened it.

Tips

Keep the chunks of hair small when ironing to avoid missing sections.
While the straight-hair look works on most cuts of hair, it is worth noting that Jennifer Aniston always has her hair cut in long layers. To achieve the ultimate in Jennifer Aniston hairstyles, be sure to ask for long layers next time you are at the salon.

Warnings

Don't use a flat iron on wet hair as it can fry and burn it.

Things You'll Need

A flat iron.
A hairbrush
Shampoo and Conditioner
Hairspray and Gel or Mousse

Related wikiHows

Sources and Citations

This website has a great article on Jennifer Aniston Sedu hair styles and includes some inspiring photos http://www.getbeautytips.com/Articles/sedu-hairstyles.php

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Get Jennifer Aniston Hairstyles. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

How to Fix Frizzy Hair

2008-07-05T02:14:00.000+01:00

Things You’ll Need:
Deep Conditioner
Daily Conditioner
Leave-in Conditioner Or Anti-frizz Serum

1-Learn to like your curls. Straightening efforts and hair relaxants damage hair.
2-Keep shampooing to a minimum since shampoo tends to dry out hair. If you do wash your hair daily, dilute shampoo with an equal amount of water.
3-Use a daily conditioner to keep hair moisturized. Finger-brush your hair while the conditioner is in it. Then rinse.
4-Apply a leave-in conditioner or anti-frizz serum to your damp hair.
5-Deep-condition your hair once a week.
6-To touch up your hair in the afternoon, moisten your fingers with water and a small amount of conditioner. Run your fingers through your hair and smooth out the frizz.

How to Straighten Hair with a Blow-dryer

2008-07-05T02:10:00.001+01:00

Things You’ll Need:
Straightening Balm
Blow Dryers
Heat Protectant Sprays
Anti-frizz Hair Serums
Towels
Shampoo
Deep Conditioner
Ceramic hair flat-iron

1-To straighten hair, begin by shampooing, conditioning and towel-drying hair.
2-Apply a heat protectant product to your hair, paying special attention to the ends.
3-Place a quarter-size dollop of straightening balm in your palm. Rub your palms together to distribute the product over your hands, then massage it evenly through hair.
4-Comb through your hair with your fingers while gently blow-drying it on a low setting. This removes excess water.
5-Pull your hair into three sections, two at the sides and one at the back. Clip the two sides up.
6-Select a small portion of the hair from the unclipped section to straighten.
7-Using a thick, round brush and beginning at the roots, gently pull the brush through the hair to the ends while blow-drying it. Pull the hair away from your head, stretching and straightening it as you go.
8-First pull the brush through the underside of your hair so that you expose it directly to the heat of the dryer. Once that area is mostly dry, switch to the top of the hair.
9-Keep the tension consistent and evenly distribute heat over the section of hair you're working on. This ensures uniform hair texture and prevents overdrying of certain areas.
10-Once that portion of hair is straightened, continue selecting and blow-drying small portions until that section is dry and straight.
11-Repeat the process on the two other sections to straighten your entire head of hair.

*Source:
www.ehow.com

Healthy Habits for Life

2008-06-26T14:01:00.001+01:00

The Healthy Habits for Life Child Care Resource Kit
is a comprehensive tool to help you integrate nutrition
and physical activity into your program.

Here’s a fun-filled, hands-on resource kit to help you and your children find ways
to get moving and make healthy food choices along with Sesame Street friends. You’ll find
tons of activities, games, poems and songs, dances, and ways to include learning
about healthy choices into your everyday routines.
It’s easy to use. This kit is designed to be used throughout the day and to easily fit into
your daily routine. The activities don’t require a lot of time or preparation, and they’re
versatile. You’ll find activities for large and small groups, indoor and outdoor learning, and
active and quiet play. Choose the activities that work best for your group.
It’s fun for everyone – even you! All of the activities are designed to include all
children – and you! When children see that you are excited about staying healthy and
learning along with them, they are more likely to be engaged. The silly and joyful
Sesame Street characters will add to the fun you’ll have together.
1- Get Moving! focuses on physical activity and how it builds
strong, healthy bodies.
2-Food and Drink to Grow On, highlights ways we can
make healthy food choices.
3- Every Day Is a Healthy Day builds upon the first two sections to
help children remember what they’ve learned – and celebrate their new knowledge.
As you already know, children learn best when there is a strong partnership between
home and school, so the Healthy Habits for Life kit also helps you involve families.
Now turn the pages and begin building healthy lifestyles!

Healthy habits help keep your family well.

2008-06-26T13:58:00.001+01:00

Take care: Cover coughs and sneezes.
Keep hands clean:

Healthy habits can protect you and your children from getting germs
or spreading germs at home, work and school. Simple actions can stop
germs and prevent illnesses.
Cover your mouth and nose. Use a tissue when you cough or sneeze
and drop it in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue, cover your mouth
and nose as best you can.
Clean your hands often. Clean your hands every time you cough or
sneeze. Hand washing stops germs. Alcohol-based gels and wipes also
work well.
Remind your children to practice healthy habits, too. Germs that
cause colds, coughs, fl u and pneumonia can spread easily.
Healthy habits help reduce illnesses and sick days. Feel good
about doing the right things to stay well.

Healthy habits stop germs. At home, work and school.

How to Treat a Black Eye

2008-06-19T18:31:00.002+01:00

1-If you control the swelling in the area, you’ll also help control the pain. That means applying something cold to the eye. This could be:
*Ice wrapped in a towel
*A gel pack you have kept in the fridge for such occasions
*A bag of frozen peas
*Sticking your face in a snow bank (not easy if it’s summer and you’re in Orlando).
2-Apply the cold compresses 10 minutes on your face, 10 to 15 minutes off. Ice should be covered with a towel to protect your eyelid, where the skin is pretty thin. In fact, it’s better to apply the compresses to your cheek, not the lid, to avoid further damage.
3-Keep this routine going with the cold compresses for the next day or two. Boring? Of course, but you should have thought of that before you got the black eye.
4-Treat the inflammation. Use acetaminophen. Avoid aspirin, as that thins the blood, and what you’re hoping to do is to get the blood to clot and stop leaking into surrounding tissues.
5-Take large doses of Vitamin C for the next five days; this has been shown to promote healing of contusions.
6-After one or two days, switch from cold compresses to warm compresses.
7-Try to control sneezing (like, don’t sniff ground black pepper) and don’t blow your nose for several days. In the event the bone around the eye has had some minor fracturing, expelling air forcefully from your nose will also force air out of sinuses near the socket, injecting it under your skin. Like most injections, this doesn’t feel good. Moreover, it may also cause additional swelling and increase the possibility of infection.

*Source:
www.howtogetridofstuff.com

How to Get Rid of Ear Wax

2008-06-19T15:37:00.002+01:00

Steps:
1-Fill an eyedropper with hydrogen peroxide of a strength no greater than 3%. Anything stronger may damage your eardrum.
2-Fill your ear canal with the peroxide.
3-Lie on your side with the ear facing up, to keep the peroxide in.
4-Let the peroxide sit until it stops fizzing.
5-Get in the shower, and hold your ear up to the water from the shower head. Let body-temperature water run into the ear until the wax plug is washed out.
6-Repeat, if necessary.
*Source:
www.wikihow.com

How to Get Rid of Body Odor

2008-06-19T13:29:00.001+01:00

Tips for Getting Rid of Body Odor:
*Stay away from refined sugar - it feeds bacteria and will increase your body odor many times over.
*Go for a jog or sit in a sauna. You’ll be stinking it up at first, but after a while you’ll flush out your pores and notice that your sweat no longer stinks.
*Anti-perspirants work to reduce odor, but they do so by clogging your pores and locking the odor-causing toxins and bacteria underneath the skin. This can lead to underarm cysts and pimples.
*If all else fails, spot wash with soap and water.
*Try and stay cool, sweat is a transmitter of the odor.
*Apply an absorbent powder such as baby powder to your underarms after bathing.
*A baking soda+water paste applied to the areas of smelliness can help neutralize existing odor.
*Alcohol and tobacco are known to contribute to foul body odors - cut back on the day of your big date.

*Source:
http://www.howtogetridofstuff.com/

How to Get Rid of Dandruff

2008-06-18T23:16:00.002+01:00

Things You’ll Need:
Bath Towels
Lemons
Thyme
Vinegar
Combs
Dandruff Shampoo
Lecithin
Tea Tree Oils
Vitamin E
Instructions:
1-Mix 8 tbsp. peanut oil with the juice of half a lemon. Rub the mixture into your hair, leave on for 10 minutes and then wash as usual.
2-Add 3 drops of tea tree oil, a natural antiseptic, to a small amount of shampoo and then wash your hair.
3-Rinse your hair with a solution of 1/4 c. vinegar and 1 qt. water.
4-Use an infusion of the herbs chaparral or thyme as a hair rinse.
5-Add flaxseed oil, primrose oil or fish oil to your diet.
6-Use kelp as a seasoning.
7-Take selenium, vitamin B complex, vitamin E and zinc supplements. Do not exceed 100mg of zinc a day.
8-Take vitamin C and a bioflavonoid complex.
9-Add lecithin granules or capsules to your diet.
10-Make at least 50 percent of your diet raw food.
11-Avoid or decrease your intake of fried foods, dairy products, sugar, chocolate and nuts.

*Source:
www.ehow.com

Basic Skin Care

2008-06-18T23:08:00.002+01:00

Healthy and supple skin is not so much of a dream if you take proper precautions and pay attention to your diet and exercise. Balanced diet, hydration and protecting from sun and wind should be a part of your daily regimen. Here are the four basic steps to skin care that are mandatory and cannot be skipped on any account, if you want a naturally glowing skin. It is important that you use the products according to your skin type. You have to pay attention to the order of the steps too:
1. Cleansing The Skin
Cleansing is quite essential to avoid acnes and other skin problems. Wash your skin often using a mild face wash and wipe off with a clean washcloth. It is quite important to get rid of any impurities such as dirt particles and makeup before going to sleep so that your skin can breathe properly at night. Use mild cleanser at least twice a day but make sure that it rinses away easily, does not cause skin irritation and do not wash away natural oils too.
2. Toning The Skin
Toners not only cleanse the skin further and help in removing any remnants of particles that you may have left behind but also cools, nourishes, hydrates and freshens up your skin. It tightens up skin and close up any skin pores that may have opened up while deep cleansing the face. Toners must be alcohol-free as alcohol dries off skin.
3. Exfoliating The Skin
Exfoliants remove dead cells from the skin, rejuvenate the skin and eliminate fine lines and wrinkles from the face. The younger skin that surfaces after exfoliation naturally looks more beautiful and glowing. These products usually have alpha or beta hydroxy acids to quicken up the process but do avoid the ones that are granular as they tend to damage the new skin too that is much more sensitive than the mature layer that it digests.
4. Moisturizing The Skin
Like our body, our skin also needs hydration and proper nutrients to keep it healthy. So, treat it with a good moisturizer and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with more than SPF 15 daily and night cream daily that helps the skin to balance and restores any damage that might have occurred to it overnight.
*Source:www.beauty.iloveindia.com

How to Exercise Early in the Morning

2008-06-17T12:55:00.001+01:00

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:
Alarm clock
Exercise plan
Workout gear
Discipline

1-Choose an alarm clock with a pleasant wake-up call. If your alarm scares the pants off of you every morning, then you might be waking up grouchy and uninspired for a very good reason. Test-drive clocks in the store and look for a sound that suits you.

2-Before you go to bed each night, lay out your workout clothes, gym bag or other gear. Include a variety of items in case the weather changes overnight.

3-Wake up at the same time every day (and ban the snooze button). Even if you choose to sit on the couch and read the newspaper instead of exercise, at least you are teaching your body to rise and be semi-alert at this hour.

4-Don’t leave enough time to dilly-dally. The more you are standing around in a dark, cozy house, the less likely you are to leave it. Wake up, get dressed, and get out the door.

5-Experiment with your pre-workout food. Figure out how little you can eat and still fit in a solid workout. Can you run 5 miles on an empty stomach? Can you ONLY run on an empty stomach? Some quick-and-easy foods that are usually gentle on a pre-workout stomach: banana, cereal bar, toast or yogurt. If you are doing an especially tough workout that requires ample fuel, give yourself enough time for your food to digest before exercising.

6-Find a friend or group to keep you accountable and motivated. If you are meeting outside for a walk or bike ride, establish weather-related guidelines. (For example, if the weather drops below X degrees or it’s thundering outside, hit the gym or stay home.)

7-Explore different activities, then alternate your workouts to keep things fresh, but consistent.

8-Create an exercise plan or fitness goal so that you know what you’re working toward. Once you start seeing results, you will be more motivated to keep that alarm set on EARLY.
*Source:
www.ehow.com

Bear share 5.2.5

2008-06-15T16:59:00.002+01:00

http://www.4shared.com/file/51423187/1bf64ca1/BSLITEINSTALL.html?dirPwdVerified=5274207c

Jet audio

2008-06-15T15:25:00.003+01:00

http://www.4shared.com/file/51388441/d85fcb6b/JAD7_BASIC.html?dirPwdVerified=5274207c

FLV player

2008-06-15T11:17:00.004+01:00

http://www.4shared.com/file/51374751/b846c1a/FLVPlayerSetup.html?dirPwdVerified=5274207c

How to Keep Healthy

2008-06-15T00:57:00.002+01:00

A lot of people, when they come to college, don't realize how bad their diets are until they start gaining the infamous "freshmen 15". Here are a few steps anyone can follow to stay or become more healthy.But it takes you just a few seconds to know something, maybe so useful.

In years ago people said heath is just not being ill. But nowadays it has an other definition."Being healthy" is more than just not being ill. It has many parts as body health & mental health. Mental health is just as important as physical health.
Being healthy in past years was to have the health of each cell by whole body, but now we serach and try to have each cell's health and whole bodys health is a result!

Now we invite you to read this article!

Steps

Focus on today. You may think, that you'll never stick to being healthy, but if you focus on today, not tomorrow or next week or next month, you can do it.
Eat between 3 and 5 meals a day. Stick to portions and you will be hungry when your body is ready for the next meal. Remember: Food = Fuel. Too much Fuel = Fat. Not enough Fuel = Empty tank + Fat (because when your tank is empty, your body is tricked into thinking that because you're not putting any more fuel in, it's time to store up as much fuel as possible to save for later, hence creating more fat).
Don't overdo Carbs! Try eating heavy carbs one night and see how much you'll be starving for more the next morning. Carbs are turned into insulin, and if not burned off will tell your body to store fat.
Get your air as clean as possible. The military, midwesterners, Indians, and probably several people you know, all have 3 things in common about being naturally healthy. They spend a lot of time outdoors, sleep with the windows open, and eat vegetables at least once a day. While a certain reporting magazine says that air filters are only decent at best with the motor on high, there are now university reports of air purifiers that kill surface bacteria including Staph and MSRA, and eliminate air contaminants as well as airborn particulates. These are machines that are made to be kept on LOW! Ever notice how astronaunts don't get sick like they used to? Remember- Hospital odors are chemicals they use to clean everything. Studies show many people get sicker the longer they stay in one. The EPA has long been quoted saying that over 50% of all illnesses can be attributed to the air you breathe in your home. So- Get a good nights sleep with clean air, it's when your body regenerates.
Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. If you do not have a gym or karate membership and can afford one, get one! If you can't afford it, just go for a jog or bike ride. If you have a bad back, a reclined bike may be best.
Nutrition is key. Anything "fast-food" is probably too fast to contain anything good for your body, anyway. Also avoid other cholesterol-rich foods. Take the time to prepare your meals and include plenty of vitamin rich vegetables in every meal. Not doing this robs your body of essential elements that keep you healthy and sickness-free. You need to eat a lot more fruit and vegetables.
If you're taking vitamins, know that there are good, and there are great. Don't expect great vitamins in giant cut-rate chain stores. Ask a health food store or Google "best vitamin forum". You'll find people who are bragging or complaining. You'll be amazed at just what some companies have for you. ADHD? Diabetic? Safe Sleep-aid? Short memory? Energy? They're out there.
When choosing soft drinks or sweets, go with diet or sugar-free options. Sucralose and aspartame, the two most common artificial sweeteners are FDA-approved and while they say they are completely safe there are non-industry funded studies that show different results. There is Stevia but it's hard to find and there's not a lot of studies yet. It's also made of natural ingredients, and all the sweeteners, unlike natural sugars, have almost zero calories so you won't build up any fat. Additionally, this is a great way to prevent dental cavities. Diet soft drinks? Many doctors are now telling us to stay away from ALL sodas, period. Need the pick-me-up? Try vitmins and water, or an apple.
Lifestyle is a huge factor, too. If you do not have access to at least an hour of sunlight, every day, you can count on having acne, oily skin and hair, poor complexion, depression, etc, etc. There's even a popular doctor advising his clients and readers to get 15 minutes of full nude sunlight at around noon every day.
Come up with a time table for your plan. It is not only easy for you to control, manage the time, but also to push down the presser on your work. It makes you feel better and no depression in work. You are happy, of course, you will healthier.
Stop smoking & drinking. If you have to drink, drink for quality, not quantity. If you want to know what it can do to you, just look at older people who have done both for a long time. Try an experiment: Stop smoking and drinking for a day, clean up, and go talk to people who don't smoke, about people who do. Try the opposite sex.
Have a job or school to go to every day that is placed a couple of kilometers from your home. Buy a road bike (your size) and Bike there every day as fast as you can. That gives you abut 10 minutes of hard training every day.
When you have run out of things to do - go work in your yard, wash your car, run the dog, chase the kids, or just plain exercise!

Tips

Counting calories sucks, so instead of doing that, just eat the portion size and when ordering a large portion of something, save the rest of it for another meal. The food will not disappear!
Some foods, like celery and gum, help you burn calories by chewing.
Snacking on vegetables fills you up quicker than snacking on sugar substance and tastes better, too.
Too much sugar is the devil. Too much soda is the devil. Avoid the Devil by drinking water and staying away from sweets. Those are bad for you.
Jog up and down stairs in your house if there is no park near you live.
Pack your lunch instead of buying one out.
Never skip a meal. It can really mess with your metabolism. It will also cause you to overeat later on in the day and that makes you fat.
Drink lots of water to help keep you hydrated
Make sure you are getting enough sleep as little as it seems 7 and a half hours of sleep is just right.
Try to have a good serving of each food group a day.

Warnings

Look around you: You're surrounded by either horribly unhealthy people or those that treat their bodies as beautiful temples of love. Which are you?
Don't go overboard, like by starving yourself or throwing up. If this happens, get professional help.

*Source:

www.wikihow.com

How to Get Used to Cold Water

2008-06-15T00:54:00.000+01:00

Cold water is not good for your body, however, if you've just finished playing a game of volleyball during the summer, some people may beg to differ. Here's how to get used to drinking cold water.

Steps

From now on, try not to eat hot food too often. "Often" means more than once a week. This is because your stomach will get confused if you drink freezing water and eat hot food.
Drink warm water almost all of the time. In this sense, warm means room temperature. Don't drink tap, just drink bottled water.
Eat dairy and bread products. It helps (though I don't know why.)
Shower in slightly cold water-you don't want to get hypothermia, though you don't want to be in hot water, either.

Tips

Take it slowly and gradually, and you will be able to drink cold water for the rest of your life even if you don't follow the steps above, as long as you do the steps for about a month or more.

Warnings

Be aware that if you are pregnant, you should not drink lots of cold water.
If you drink to much cold water, your stomach will hurt no matter what.

BBQ Steak

2008-06-13T00:11:00.001+01:00

*Ingredients:

1 small onion, chopped
7 cloves garlic
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup vinegar
1/2 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
2 tablespoons Dijon-style prepared mustard
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 (2 pound) tri-tip steak

*Directions:

_Place onion, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, soy sauce, rosemary, mustard, salt, and pepper into the bowl of a food processor. Process until smooth. Place steak in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour marinade over steaks, seal, and refrigerate for about 3 hours.
_Preheat the grill for high heat.
_Brush grill grate with oil. Discard marinade, and place steak on the prepared grill. Cook for 7 minutes per side, or to desired doneness.

Grape Tarts

2008-06-13T00:08:00.001+01:00

*Ingredients:

All-purpose flour, for work surface
1/2 (17 ounce) package frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
1 large egg yolk
1 tablespoon heavy cream
2 cups red and green seedless grapes
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Pinch of salt
Sanding sugar, for sprinkling

*Directions:

_Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. On a lightly floured work surface, unfold pastry. Cut into 4 squares (4 3/4 inches each). Transfer to a rimless baking sheet. Using the tip of a paring knife, score a 1/2-inch border around edges of squares, being careful not to cut all the way through pastry. Refrigerate until firm, about 15 minutes.
_Whisk together egg yolk and cream; set egg wash aside. Toss together grapes, granulated sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Divide grape mixture among tart shells, keeping it inside the borders. Brush edges of tarts with egg wash, and sprinkle with sanding sugar. Bake until pastry is crisp and golden and grapes are just beginning to collapse, 23 to 27 minutes. Let cool on sheet on a wire rack.

Chocolate Brown-Sugar Brownies

2008-06-12T18:31:00.001+01:00

Ingredients:
2 sticks unsalted butter
4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, coarsely chopped
4 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup pecans, coarsely chopped

*Directions:

_Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter and lightly flour a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. In the top of a double boiler, melt the butter with the chocolate; let cool.
_Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat the eggs with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until thickened; beat in the vanilla. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the chocolate mixture until combined. Sift the flour over the batter and fold it in. Fold in the pecans.
_Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 25 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Let the brownies cool in the pan for 1 hour before cutting into squares.

For shine and clean hair

2008-06-09T13:01:00.001+01:00

Baking Soda Rinse recipe:
1/2 cup baking soda
1 cup warm water
*how to use:
Dissolve baking soda in warm water. Pour over hair after shampooing. Massage into the hair and scalp for several minutes, then rinse. This will efficiently clean and shine the hair.

How to Protect Yourself Against Computer Problems

2008-06-09T00:55:00.001+01:00

Things You’ll Need:
Paper manuals or online refences to your equipment
Good observation skills
Possibly a screwdriver
Possibly a Camera

*Instructions:

1-Pick a day when everything with your computer and its connecting equipment is running satisfactory. Hopefully this will be most days. Without touching anything, take a look at how everything is connected. Unless it is wireless, everything should have a wire running from it back to your computer. With some exceptions, like the mouse and keyboard, most equipment should also have a power cord running back to the wall or a power strip. Recognize where and how things are connected while they work. You will be glad you did if they suddenly stop working. If you want to take a couple of pictures you can too.

2-While everything is on, look at any lights on all of your equipment. Learn how they look when things are working. Are the lights green, orange, red, yellow? Are they on solid or blinking?

3-On a Windows computer open the Control panel from the start menu and see how things are set. You won't break anything just by looking at it. Probably some of the most common ones to look at are "printers and faxes", "display", "network connections", and "system". If you have a laptop then you'll definitely want to look at "power options" as well. If you change anything, just be sure of what setting you started with so you can change it back if needed.

4-On a Windows computer hit the CTRL, ALT, and Delete keys at the same time to bring up the task manager. If that doesn't work you can also go to the "run" command in the start menu and type "taskmgr". Look at the "performance" tab and see where the numbers are when everything is working normally. Those numbers will go up if you have more programs running. You can also go to the Processes tab if you want. But don't feel insulted if you don't know what anything other than "Excel.exe" means.

5-If you are feeling ambitious, and you aren't a total butterfingers, you can even open up your computer case to see how everything is set up inside. You would first need to disconnect all of the wires from your computer, especially the power cord. If it isn't totally obvious how to open your computer case then you should consult any manuals that came with your computer, look for online references from your computer brand's website, or wait until your whiz-kid nephew is with you for this step. Again, don't disconnect any wires or internal parts unless you are positive how they were to begin with. Feel free to take another picture or make a simple sketch diagram if you want to.

6-Following the steps in this article can help you in two main ways. First, it can help you solve some simple computer problems yourself. Second, it can help you get better service for the times you still do need to call any kind of tech support or go to the store. Instead of just saying "umm...what should I be looking for?" You can say something like "the Internet Router has an orange light instead of the usual green ones."
*Source:
www.ehow.com

To clean a computer

2008-06-09T00:47:00.003+01:00

Instructions:

1-Shut down your computer and remove all peripherals such as monitor, mouse, keyboard and speakers.

2-Begin with the monitor. Use special computer monitor cleaning solution or wipes. You can find these at many large retail stores or electronic stores. Always apply solution to a smooth, clean, non-abrasive cloth and never directly to the monitor. You can use a cloth that is slightly damp with plain water for a quick cleaning.

3-Clean the keyboard. Flip the keyboard over and lightly tap it to dislodge dust and anything that may have fallen between the keys. Use a can of compressed air to clean between the keys. Use a damp cloth or cotton swabs to clean the keys. You can use cleaning solution, but apply to the cloth instead of spraying it onto the keyboard.

4-Continue on to the mouse. If you have an optical mouse, you just need to wipe it down and make sure that the bottom is unobstructed. If you have a mouse with a ball or a tracker ball mouse, you need to take the ball out, clean it, and then take a toothpick or pin and clean the grime off of the rollers. Reassemble the mouse when you're done. Use a toothpick or pin to clean the cracks around the edge and buttons of the mouse.

5-Open your computer’s casing and clean inside it. This is the most delicate part so be careful. Use compressed air to blow away the dust. Pay special attention to the areas around the fan, any vents on the side, and the motherboard. You can find a miniature vacuum cleaner that you can use to clean out the dust. Do not use anything liquid inside your computer.

*Source:

www.ehow.com

How to Protect Your Kids from Secondhand Smoke

2008-06-07T20:38:00.001+01:00

If you, or someone in your family, smokes and you have children, then it is important to ensure that they are not the recipients of secondhand cigarette smoke, which is classified as a known human (Group A) carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Secondhand smoke is scientifically correlated with a range of illnesses from asthma to cancer to heart disease, and it is even more damaging to children whose lungs and immune systems are still developing. Given the statistics, the less exposure your kids have, the better.

Steps

Stop smoking. If you or anyone else in your home smokes, the most effective way to prevent harm to the kids is to quit (or persuade the resident smoker to quit) as soon as possible. It is a hard habit to break but look at just some of the benefits you get for stopping:
Healthier kids, less respiratory illness (and fewer medical bills) for you and for them,
Clean home environment, no yellowing paintwork, no odors.
Cleaner, healthier teeth & gums, which can save you from having work done at the dentist.
Cleaner upholstery, curtains, and mirrors.
No chance of household fire from a cigarette or of cigarette burns.

Smoke outdoors. Make it a rule to never smoke inside the home, even in the middle of winter. Indoor smoke builds up and anyone in proximity to that smoke is a target of the carcinogenic chemicals and respiratory irritants cigarette smoke contains. The chemical particles also fall onto the household furniture, upholstery and walls, and continue to emit potentially damaging chemicals long after the cigarette is extinguished, not to mention the stale odor of tobacco smoke. But, standing on your driveway and lighting up will be bad for people who pass by, and smoke in the yard can easily go over walls and fences. However, smoking outdoors is always the best choice. because the smoke will naturally disappear much faster outdoors than indoors. smoking in your home is similar to smoking in a car with the windows rolled up. except that the effects are more instant in a car rather than more long term in a home.
Never smoke in the car. It is never okay to smoke in a car when you have kids, even when your kids are not in the car with you, because the smoke residue lingers and off-gases whenever the kids are in the car. Rolling down a window helps some, but can blow the smoke directly into your kids' faces.
Ask guests to light up outdoors. It is your home and you have a right to a smoke-free environment. Be polite but firm and let the guests know that because of the kids, there is a strict "no indoor smoking" policy in place.
Keep the kids away from public places where smoking is concentrated. If you do not live in an area with laws banning smoking in restaurants, find the restaurants that voluntarily ban smoking when you take your kids out to eat. This also applies to concerts, shows, entertainment places, and anywhere that smokers feel comfortable lighting up. Be aware that even where smoking is banned indoors, many places still permit smoking on outdoor patios. Keep the kids away from tables of smokers or take them indoors.
Ask babysitters not to smoke. This can be difficult, especially if you are asking grandparents or friends to babysit, but you must be firm for the sake of your children's health.
Make alternative arrangements. If you work or follow hobbies in a place that permits smoking, and you need to take your child there for any amount of time, make sure that your child is not exposed to the smoke of others in this environment. If you cannot manage this, make alternative arrangements.
Tips

Air fresheners only mask the scent of cigarette smoke - they do not remove it. Filters suck up the odor, but all the harmful chemicals will still be lingering, undetectable but still harmful.
Remember what secondhand smoke exposes children to. Would you allow your children to consume or inhale arsenic, lead, mercury, DDT, acetone, ammonia, formaldehyde, cyanide, or carbon monoxide? These are the chemicals found in secondhand smoke. They may not be visible, but they are there. When inhaled even in small amounts on a regular basis, they can cause significant damage to a developing body. Secondhand smoke causes 3,400 cases of lung cancer each year and 22,000 to 70,000 heart disease in adult non-smokers in the US each year (American Lung Association).
If you slipped and smoked in your car or indoors, vacuum thoroughly and clean out the car or the room by wiping down furniture, car upholstery, etc. and leave the windows wide open to let in fresh air. Empty all ashtrays and put the garbage bag outside. The amount of extra cleaning effort might help to convince you that it is just easier not to smoke in the first place.
Change the air filter in your car if you smoke in it. They will contain the smoke smell and make it worse when you turn on your heat or A/C.

Warnings

The surgeon general states that there is NO safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke. Short exposures to second hand smoke can cause blood platelets to become stickier, damage the lining of blood vessels, decrease coronary flow velocity reserves, and reduce heart rate variability, potentially increasing the risk of heart attack (American Lung Association).
Kids exposed to cigarette smoke can get severe bronchial and other respiratory illnesses, and have an increased exposure to carcinogens, which can trigger cancer. Young bodies are far more vulnerable to cell mutation triggered by secondhand smoke as they are growing. But, that does not make adults completely immune to secondhand smoke either.
Cigarette smoke contains around 4000 chemicals, a number of which are known carcinogens.

How to make good ice tea

2008-06-05T17:00:00.001+01:00

Things You’ll Need:
Tea leaves or tea bag
Drinking water
Sugar
Lemon

1-If you have an ice tea maker or brewer, you can add the tea leaves in the machine then turn the switch on,wait for few minutes, pour it in your tall glass with ice and voila! you just make yourself a glass of ice tea.
2-How do you make ice tea without ice tea maker?
3-First: Boil water.
Second: Put tea leaves into tea strainer steep it into hot boiling water, or if you use tea bags then just steep them into hot water for few minutes.
4-Third: add sugar if you prefer, stir.
Fourth: Discard tea leaves. Wait until it cool down a little bit.
Fifth: Fill water pitcher with ice cubes then add warm or room temperature tea in the pitcher.
5-Keep it in the refrigerator. When you ready to drink it just pour it into tall ice tea glass and garnish with lemon wedge.

*Source:
www.ehow.com

To Make Your Hair Smell Good

2008-06-05T15:40:00.003+01:00

Perfume Can Make Hair Smell Good:
All that you need to do is spray it on your brush or comb. Note that it will work better if you use a brush, which will be able to hold the scent of the perfume longer. Then, use the brush to brush your hair, the same way that you normally would, once it has been dried. You will now be able to smell the perfume in your hair, but the scent won't be too strong.

Body Spray Can Make Hair Smell Good:
you can follow the same method as you would for using perfume. However, there is a much better method that works the best for body spray, although it can be used for perfume too. Spray some of the body spray in front of you and then walk into it, being careful to make sure that you are ducking your head enough to get into the area of air that it was sprayed into. This is another great way to pick up the scent, but to make sure that it also won't be too strong.

Hair Products Can Make Hair Smell Good:
all that you may need to do is choose the right hair products. This can mean shampoos, conditioners, hairsprays, hair gels and hair mousses. Not only should you find the brand that you feel works the best on your hair, but you should choose one that you feel smells great. For nice scents, you may want to check out some of the hair products that are offered by Herbal Essences. Before you can find the hair products that will make your hair smell the best, it is likely that you will need to do quite a bit of experimentation beforehand.
*Sourse:
www.associatedcontent.com

8 Foods You Should Eat Every Day

2008-06-03T10:15:00.002+01:00

Spinach

Sexual enhancement, Muscle growth, Heart healthy, Bone builder, Enhances eyesight

It may be green and leafy, but spinach is also the ultimate man food. This noted biceps builder is a rich source of plant-based omega-3s and folate, which help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Bonus: Folate also increases blood flow to the penis. And spinach is packed with lutein, a compound that fights age-related macular degeneration. Aim for 1 cup fresh spinach or 1/2 cup cooked per day.

SUBSTITUTES: Kale, bok choy, romaine lettuce

FIT IT IN: Make your salads with spinach; add spinach to scrambled eggs; drape it over pizza; mix it with marinara sauce and then microwave for an instant dip.

PINCH HITTER: Sesame Stir-Braised Kale Heat 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 Tbsp. minced fresh ginger, and 1 tsp. sesame oil in a skillet. Add 2 Tbsp. water and 1 bunch kale (stemmed and chopped). Cover and cook for 3 minutes. Drain. Add 1 tsp. soy sauce and 1 Tbsp. sesame seeds.

Yogurt

Cancer fighter, Bone builder, Boosts immunity

Various cultures claim yogurt as their own creation, but the 2,000-year-old food's health benefits are not disputed: Fermentation spawns hundreds of millions of probiotic organisms that serve as reinforcements to the battalions of beneficial bacteria in your body, which boost the immune system and provide protection against cancer. Not all yogurts are probiotic though, so make sure the label says "live and active cultures." Aim for 1 cup of the calcium and protein-rich goop a day.

SUBSTITUTES: Kefir, soy yogurt

FIT IT IN: Yogurt topped with blueberries, walnuts, flaxseed, and honey is the ultimate breakfast — or dessert. Plain low-fat yogurt is also a perfect base for creamy salad dressings and dips.

HOME RUN: Power Smoothie Blend 1 cup low-fat yogurt, 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, 1 cup carrot juice, and 1 cup fresh baby spinach for a nutrient-rich blast.

Tomatoes

Cancer fighter, Heart healthy, Boosts immunity

There are two things you need to know about tomatoes: Red are the best, because they're packed with more of the antioxidant lycopene, and processed tomatoes are just as potent as fresh ones, because it's easier for the body to absorb the lycopene. Studies show that a diet rich in lycopene can decrease your risk of bladder, lung, prostate, skin, and stomach cancers, as well as reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. Aim for 22 mg of lycopene a day, which is about eight red cherry tomatoes or a glass of tomato juice.

SUBSTITUTES: Red watermelon, pink grapefruit, Japanese persimmon, papaya, guava

FIT IT IN: Pile on the ketchup and Ragu; guzzle low-sodium V8 and gazpacho; double the amount of tomato paste called for in a recipe.

PINCH HITTER: Red and Pink Fruit Bowl Chop 1 small watermelon, 2 grapefruits, 3 persimmons, 1 papaya, and 4 guavas. Garnish with mint.

Carrots

Cancer fighter, Boosts immunity, Enhances eyesight

Most red, yellow, or orange vegetables and fruits are spiked with carotenoids — fat-soluble compounds that are associated with a reduction in a wide range of cancers, as well as reduced risk and severity of inflammatory conditions such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis — but none are as easy to prepare, or have as low a caloric density, as carrots. Aim for 1/2 cup a day.

SUBSTITUTES: Sweet potato, pumpkin, butternut squash, yellow bell pepper, mango

FIT IT IN: Raw baby carrots, sliced raw yellow pepper, butternut squash soup, baked sweet potato, pumpkin pie, mango sorbet, carrot cake

PINCH HITTER: Baked Sweet Potato Fries Scrub and dry 2 sweet potatoes. Cut each into 8 slices, and then toss with olive oil and paprika. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes at 350°F. Turn and bake for 10 minutes more.

Blueberries

Brain stimulant, Cancer fighter, Heart healthy, Boosts immunity

Host to more antioxidants than any other popular fruit, blueberries help prevent cancer, diabetes, and age-related memory changes (hence the nickname "brain berry"). Studies show that blueberries, which are rich in fiber and vitamins A and C, boost cardiovascular health. Aim for 1 cup fresh blueberries a day, or 1/2 cup frozen or dried.

SUBSTITUTES: Açai berries, purple grapes, prunes, raisins, strawberries

FIT IT IN: Blueberries maintain most of their power in dried, frozen, or jam form.

PINCH HITTER: Açai, an Amazonian berry, has even more antioxidants than the blueberry. Mix 2 Tbsp. of açai powder into OJ or add 2 Tbsp. of açai pulp to cereal, yogurt, or a smoothie.

Black Beans

Muscle growth, Brain stimulant, Heart healthy

All beans are good for your heart, but none can boost your brain power like black beans. That's because they're full of anthocyanins, antioxidant compounds that have been shown to improve brain function. A daily ½cup serving provides 8 grams of protein and 7.5 grams of fiber, and is low in calories and free of saturated fat.

SUBSTITUTES: Peas, lentils, and pinto, kidney, fava, and lima beans

FIT IT IN: Wrap black beans in a breakfast burrito; use both black beans and kidney beans in your chili; puree 1 cup black beans with ¼cup olive oil and roasted garlic for a healthy dip; add favas, limas, or peas to pasta dishes.

HOME RUN: Black Bean and Tomato Salsa Dice 4 tomatoes, 1 onion, 3 cloves garlic, 2 jalapeños, 1 yellow bell pepper, and 1 mango. Mix in a can of black beans and garnish with 1/2 cup chopped cilantro and the juice of 2 limes.

Walnuts

Muscle growth, Brain stimulant, Cancer fighter, Heart healthy, Boosts immunity

Richer in heart-healthy omega-3s than salmon, loaded with more anti-inflammatory polyphenols than red wine, and packing half as much muscle-building protein as chicken, the walnut sounds like a Frankenfood, but it grows on trees. Other nuts combine only one or two of these features, not all three. A serving of walnuts — about 1 ounce, or seven nuts — is good anytime, but especially as a postworkout recovery snack.

SUBSTITUTES: Almonds, peanuts, pistachios, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts

FIT IT IN: Sprinkle on top of salads; dice and add to pancake batter; spoon peanut butter into curries; grind and mix with olive oil to make a marinade for grilled fish or chicken.

HOME RUN: Mix 1 cup walnuts with ½ cup dried blueberries and ¼ cup dark chocolate chunks.

Oats

Muscle growth, Brain stimulant, Heart healthy

The éminence grise of health food, oats garnered the FDA's first seal of approval. They are packed with soluble fiber, which lowers the risk of heart disease. Yes, oats are loaded with carbs, but the release of those sugars is slowed by the fiber, and because oats also have 10 grams of protein per ½-cup serving, they deliver steady muscle-building energy.

SUBSTITUTES: Quinoa, flaxseed, wild rice

FIT IT IN: Eat granolas and cereals that have a fiber content of at least 5 grams per serving. Sprinkle 2 Tbsp. ground flaxseed on cereals, salads, and yogurt.

PINCH HITTER: Quinoa Salad Quinoa has twice the protein of most cereals, and fewer carbs. Boil 1 cup quinoa in a mixture of 1 cup pear juice and 1 cup water. Let cool. In a large bowl, toss 2 diced apples, 1 cup fresh blueberries, ½ cup chopped walnuts, and 1 cup plain fat-free yogurt.

How to Smell Nice

2008-05-27T13:12:00.002+01:00

Steps

Shower. Showering means washing your hair, too. Greasy hair smells anything but fresh. Failure to bathe regularly will give you a musty odor (which you aren't aware of) extremely quickly. Make sure to wash after any sports/sweaty activity. Your towel must be clean, it defeats the purpose of showering if you dry off with a filthy towel. Use a fresh one every day, or at least every other day. Wash with nice-smelling soap like Dove or Dial. Avoid cheap citrus bodywash, because the alcohol used as an antiseptic can overpower the weak citrus scent. If you are a fan of citrus, try something like Dial bodywash or some other well known brand. Store brands work too, but always sniff before you buy it. If you smell any alcohol, then put it back on the shelf, so you don't end up smelling like antiseptic.

Shave your armpits. Shave your armpits (many women know and do it, but this also helps on men!). A lot of bad smell is stuck to the hair. Wash under your arms with hot water, and rinse with cool water. Try an antiseptic soap, but make sure it smells nice, not like alcohol.

Wear deodorant. It needs to be an antiperspirant as well as a deodorant. Antiperspirants prevent sweating, while deodorant neutralizes your body odor. It's a two step process: Neutralize the odor, and replace the odor with a more pleasant smell. Use an unscented antiperspirant or deodorant if you wear cologne, since the smells can clash. Getting the clear ones reduces white smudges. Shaving areas will reduce the amount of bad smell that has to be neutralized.

Brush your teeth two times a day. Brush them at least two times a day, use floss regularly, and brush your tongue with toothpaste or use a tongue scraper. Follow up with an alcohol-free mouthwash that is antibacterial like Crest's new Pro-Health rinse; alcohol-containing mouthwashes kill germs but the alcohol will be changed by your saliva into sugar, which will then attack your teeth. Eat fresh veggies or chew mint-flavored sugar-free gum between brushings. Go to the dentist twice a year to keep your teeth in optimal condition.

Wear socks. Sweaty feet trapped inside shoes are a recipe for bacterial growth. When at home, wear flip-flops or something that opens your feet to the air but doesn't let them touch the floor. Airing out your feet is important.

Use a touch of cologne/perfume. Drug store colognes typically smell cheap; avoid things like Charlie, Jovan Musk.. Splurge a little and get something that you like such as Kenneth Cole, Givenchy, Shiseido, J'Adore by Dior, Ralph Lauren, Vera Wang, Davidoff, Calvin Klein, Estee Lauder, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Hugo Boss, Polo, Maybe Baby by Benefit Cosmetics or Escada. If you are dirt poor, you can just go to Wal-Mart and get some Axe or Tag that smell ok. Then just put a dab on you. There are also essential oils that can give you a nice, simple scent in rose, vanilla, lavender, etc. Body sprays are a lighter option if you don't want the stronger scent of a perfume. Make sure to not use too much of whatever scent you choose, and never use them as a substitute for cleanliness since the mingling of odor and cologne/perfume smells as foul as the odor itself. A dab of perfume behind the ears and on the wrists is sufficient.

Wear clean clothes once, then wash them. Wearing them several times will negate the benefits of taking baths and wearing perfumes, deodorants, etc. Reduce the number of 'dry clean only' clothes in the wardrobe -- it is impractical and costly to dry clean clothes after every wear and dry-cleaning isn't as effective as standard washing to remove stains and smells. Use a good laundry detergent and softener. Some are available without scents or dyes.

Throw out shoes that smell. If they really smell, throw them away and buy new ones. Use the odor-absorbing baking soda based foot sprays.

Use talcum or some other wetness-absorbing powder. Use talcum powder with odor-absorbing baking soda immediately after taking a bath wherever there are major sweat glands, i.e., back, groin area, underneath the breasts, the back of your knees, etc.

Don't eat certain foods. If you have body odor problems, avoid garlic, onion, cumin, fenugreek, curry, cheese, cigarettes, coffee, and anything else that smells. Your sweat glands will ooze sweat combined with these smells - stinky!

Prepare onions carefully in cooking. When cutting garlic or onion, rinse with tomato or lemon juice to neutralize the odor. Simple soap and water does not quite get the job done.

Change your bed sheets often. If you have body odor problems, change your bed sheets at least twice a week.

Don't smoke. It's one of the worst smells in the world. Even if you only smoke outdoors, you'll come in smelling strongly of smoke. What's more, smoking dulls the senses of smell and taste, so you won't know if something else about you smelling bad to others.

ALWAYS have gum or mints with you. Breath can get gross fairly quickly.

Tips

Focus first on preventing odor through keeping clean. Then, use fragrances sparingly and selectively if you want, so they don't clash with one another.

If you sweat a lot, Mitchum has a higher percentage of aluminum than other anti-perspirants and is therefore stronger/more effective.

If you shave the pubic region, applying anti-perspirant there will prevent any red stubble/irritation.

Vanilla is a scent that appeals to many men, so if you are out on a date with one, it can encourage the romantic mood.

You can also use deodorant soap when showering.

Women should avoid using talcum powder, strong soaps, sprays and deodorant in the groin area, as this can cause irritation and painful yeast infections. If you suffer from this, avoid hot baths: take cool showers only and use special soaps which are hypo-allergenic, your pharmacist or gynecologist should be able to recommend one.

Wear your cologne lightly, don't over do it.

Apply deodorant or lightly-scented lotion just after showering. This puts moisture back into your skin that your soap may have taken out, and keeps your body sweat-free from the start. Remember to thoroughly dry areas before applying deodorant, especially if you haven't shaved underarm hair.

Check your hands after eating food with really strong flavors (eg. mcoys barbeque crisps) because the smell can stain your skin for ages. It is not very appealing! You may need to scrub your hands to get rid of it.

Warnings

Poor hygiene can lead to health problems! (Dental, skin, hair, feet...the list goes on.) Take care of your body so your body can take care of you.

If you're a woman, do not douche or use feminine wash products. It upsets the natural balance of the vagina/vulva and can cause infections. Washing the external parts of the area daily with a gentle soap will be sufficient if you are healthy.

Don't overdo it on the perfume or cologne, if you choose to wear it. A little goes a long way, and your sense of smell will acclimate to it, so you may stop smelling what to others is too much. Be aware that some people are heavily allergic to fragrances and many more just don't like them, especially in crowded spaces.

With anti-perspirants, be aware of allergic reactions. The zirconium in "superior odor protection" can cause a reaction, while aluminum-based ones may not, so don't give up completely on anti-perspirants if one causes a reaction. Also, do not rely upon your anti-perspirant scent for a pleasant smell, as most conflict with other scents or leave you smelling soapy at best.

A few medical studies have linked Aluminum-Zirconium deposits with Alzheimer's. Although this is unproven, be sure to thoroughly wash under your armpits when showering.

*Source:

http://www.wikihow.com/

How to Clean Your Ears

2008-05-27T12:40:00.006+01:00

Steps

Talk to your physician or an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) specialist if you have frequent and troublesome buildups of ear wax.
Obtain an ear syringe and hydrogen peroxide or ear wax remover from a drug store.
Fill the ear syringe with body-temperature hydrogen peroxide or cleaning solution, 3% or 4% solution (dilute with water as needed).
Tilt your head back and to the left.
Carefully insert the end of the syringe into your right ear and squirt a few drops into your ear. You should hear (and feel) fizzing and popping - almost like someone put soda pop in your ear. This "fizzing" sound is the sound of the hydrogen peroxide .
After the fizzing and popping has stopped, tilt your head to the right, allowing the liquid to drain out into a tissue.
Repeat the process for the left ear.

Tips

According to Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) specialists, cotton swabs are the last thing you should be putting in your ear. Cleaning your ears with q-tips may cause more problems. Instead, use a moist cloth to wash the external part of the ear or rinse your ears out during a shower.
Clean ears after taking a shower. It's much easier.
The hydrogen peroxide technique should not be used more than once or twice per week at most. More than this can cause the ear canal to dry up too much.
Do not use the hydrogen peroxide technique if you have a perforated eardrum or a history of ear problems.
If you're not sure about any of this, consult your physician.
For problematic earwax, consult an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) Specialist.
If you find your ear canals are drying out too much from the hydrogen peroxide, put a couple drops of oil (toasted sesame, olive, baby) into your ear. Toasted sesame is best, as it is slightly warming and has anti-fungal and anti-parasitic properties.

Warnings

Do not put a Q-tip in your ear. Be careful putting anything into your ears! Even a Q-tip can scratch the ear canal, causing a painful and potentially serious infection (Q-tips also refered to as cotton swabs).

Things You'll Need

Hydrogen peroxide
Ear Syringe
Tissue

*Source:

www.wikihow.com

Korean Style Rice

2008-05-24T10:53:00.004+01:00

You’ll Need:
Rice cooker
Asian-style sticky rice
Water

Instructions:

1-Wash hands thoroughly.

2-Take out inner metal bowl from rice cooker.

3-Fill metal bowl with desired amount of rice. For two to three people, fill the bowl with about 2 inches of rice.

4-Add water to rice until there is about two inches more water than rice in the bowl.

5-Wash the rice by hand by kneading and squeezing the rice in the water.

6-Drain the water from the bowl, by slowly tipping the bowl to one side, and holding fingers slightly apart, against the side of the bowl. The water will drain off, but your fingers should keep the rice kernels in the bowl.

7-Repeat Steps 5 and 6 at least four more times.

8-Place one hand on top of the wet rice, and lightly press down.

9-Add water until it hits the first set of knuckles on your hand.

10-Place the metal bowl back in the rice cooker, and press down on the "cook" button so that it lights up.

11-When the button pops up, signaling the rice is cooked, take a plastic spoon and stir the cooked rice.

12-Close the rice cooker, leave it plugged in so that it is in "keep warm mode," and let it sit for 10 minutes.

13-The Korean-style rice is now ready to eat.

Get a Great Workout in 30 Minutes

2008-05-24T10:38:00.003+01:00

1-Try running during your lunch break. Stash your clothes and shoes in your bag and let it be known your going to be busy for 30 minutes. Prepare by having a mid-morning snack to give you energy.

2-Get in a good stretch and the run for 5 minutes to warm up.

3-After your warm-up, accelerate for 30 seconds then run slow for 30 seconds.

4-Then accelerate again for 60 seconds. This pace should be faster than your first acceleration but not a sprint. Try to gradually increase your pace for each acceleration.

5-Do this 30-30-60 cycle four times, separating each cycle with 2 minutes of light jogging.

6-Finish your workout with at least 5 minutes of cool-down jogging and some stretching.

*Source:

http://www.ehow.com/

2008-05-22T23:37:00.008+01:00

How to Build Self Confidence

Steps

Recognize your insecurities. What does that voice in the back of your mind say? What makes you ashamed of yourself? This could be anything from acne, to regrets, to emotional abuse (past or present) from a loved one or friends at school. Whatever is making you feel unworthy, ashamed, or inferior, identify it, give it a name, and write it down.

Talk about it with friends and loved ones. Wear it on your sleeve. Each day chip away at it; wear it down. There's no quick fix. Get to the root of the problem; focus on it and understand that you need to resolve each issue before you can move on.

Remember that no one is perfect. Even the most confident people have insecurities. At some point in any of our lives, we may feel we lack something. That is reality. Learn that life is full of bumps down the road.

Identify your successes Everyone is good at something, so discover the things at which you excel, then focus on your talents. Give yourself permission to take pride in them. Give yourself credit for your successes. Inferiority is a state of mind in which you've declared yourself a victim. Do not allow yourself to be victimized.

Be thankful for what you have. A lot of the times, at the root of insecurity and lack of confidence is a feeling of not having enough of something, whether it's emotional validation, good luck, money, etc. By acknowledging and appreciating what you do have, you can combat the feeling of being incomplete and unsatisfied. Finding that inner peace will do wonders for your confidence.

Be Positive, even if you don't feel positive. Avoid self-pity, or the pity and sympathy of others. Never allow others to make you feel inferior--they can only do so if you let them. If you continue to loathe and belittle yourself, others are going to do and believe likewise. Instead, speak positively about yourself, about your future, and about your progress. Do not be afraid to project your strengths and qualities to others. By doing so, you reinforce those ideas in your mind and encourage your growth in a positive direction.

Look in the mirror and smile. Studies surrounding what's called the "facial feedback theory" suggest that the expressions on your face can actually encourage your brain to register certain emotions. So by looking in the mirror and smiling every day, you might feel happier with yourself and more confident in the long run.

Fake it. Along the same lines of smiling to make yourself feel happy, acting confident might actually make you believe it. Pretend you're a completely confident version of you; go through the motions and see how you feel.

Express yourself, whether it's through art, music, writing, etc. Find something you enjoy. Everyone is born with talents and strengths. You can develop and excel in yours. If it's difficult to name two or three things you have some ability in or just plain love to do, think about things others do that you would like to do too and take some lessons or join an enthusiasts club. When you're following your passion, not only will it have a therapeutic effect, but you'll feel unique and accomplished, all of which can help build your self confidence. Plus, adding a variety of interests to your life will not only make you more confident, but it will increase your chances of meeting compatible friends!

Stick to your principles. It might be tough, but if you don't have something you can believe in, you don't have anything. If you don't stand for something, you will fall for anything. No matter what's happened in your life, you can always lay claim to the fact that from this day forward, you've followed your principles to the best of your ability.

Help others. When you know you're kind to the people around you, and are making a positive difference in other people's lives (even if it's just being kinder to the person who serves you coffee in the morning) you'll know that you are a positive force in the world--which will boost your self confidence. Go volunteer twice a month at an elementary school. Bake something for your neighbor for no reason. Confidence that you have earned is the most long-lasting.

Stop worrying. what worrys you today will be forgotten by you and people arround you tomorrow. can you remember what you were so worried about same day same time last week? if not, then you should not right now. you will not worry about it even one week from now

Tips

Exercise and eat healthy. Exercise raises endorphins and makes one feel happier and healthier. It is certainly an easy and effective way to boost your self-confidence.

When you're feeling superbly insecure, write down a list of things that are good about you. Then read the list back. You'd be surprised at what you can come up with.

Turn feelings of envy or jealousy into a desire to achieve. Stop wanting what others have just because they have it; seek things simply because you want them, whether anybody else has them or not.

Don't be afraid to push yourself a bit - a little bit of pressure can actually show just how good you are!

Take a wilderness experience course such as those found at Outward Bound or NOLS. Learning how to survive in the wilderness will build your confidence in other areas of life too. You can also try taking a martial arts or fitness class/course (or both). This will help build confidence and strength.

Try to make yourself talk positively at all times. When you hear yourself saying you can't do something, stop and say you can. Unless you try, you will never know whether you are able to or not.

Everyone is beautiful in their own way, don't let anyone tell you differently, and remember to tell yourself that you are beautiful everyday, even if you don't believe it, one day you will.

Money, luck, beauty, and all other material things are just an illusion of happiness. It misleads us to believe we will feel excellent if we have these things or have fun, but in the long run, you will discover that while these things aren't to say horrible, but only mere satisfactions. You will realize having the American Eagle jacket, Nike Shoes, or an attractively rich person flirting with you is only a satisfaction, so you in the end you might feel glad you've gotten what you wanted, but you'll want more and more until you reach happiness. It'll be you just running for happiness blindly until you are worn out.

Trust me, happiness is not all about being lucky, attractive, or the best but feeling joyful in yourself, letting go of your insecurities, and having real fun. Sometimes going clubbing is also what the media tags as being the most fun thing, and it can be, but you decide what feels wonderful and happily fun. The reason people also reflect back to their childhood as "the good ole days" is because that's when being the richest or prettiest doesn't count really, and when we were able to release ourselves and have true fun, feeling happy and confident.

It depends on your childhood though. Perhaps yours was abusive or you were in an environment that was evolved around fortune, so remembering your childhood isn't pleasantly nor happily nor confidently remembered. If that's the case, don't look back to it if awakens horrid memories, then simply move on and seek happiness elsewhere in this present and the future.
Write something on wikiHow! If you have a suggestion for anything then share it. You will feel good for contributing,helping someone and having your voice heard. This is my second entry and I think I can feel it working...=]
Keep smiling all the time. It will help you feel more confidence .

Warnings

Don't get wrapped up in your mistakes and dwell on bad points; they can contrast your good points or even give you something to improve. There's no feeling like being good at something you were really bad at.

Don't confuse what you have with who you are. People degrade their self worth when comparing possessions.

Surround yourself with nurturing friends, not overly critical individuals who make you feel inadequate or insecure. This could do great harm and damage to your self confidence.

Do not try to become confident in the interest of finding a partner. You will regret creating a false personality as the relationship goes along.

It's good to have a lot of confidence, but don't build it up so much that you get egotistical and annoying.

Lack of confidence is not necessarily a curse! So do not worry. Many ignorant, fanatic and maniac people are confident but is that desirable? No. Building self confidence should be associated with simultaneous growth from within. Thus by overcoming pettiness and superficiality you can build unshakable self confidence [Cf: Conceptual Stress: Dr. Shriniwas Kashalikar]

2008-05-22T21:25:00.003+01:00

How to Apologize

Steps

Realize that what you did was wrong. and probably hurt this person
Realize that there is no excuse. Do not try to think of or offer one. An apology with an excuse is not an apology. Take Full Responsibility.
Decide when to apologize. Sometimes immediately after your mistake is best, sometimes not. The sting of a harsh word can be cooled right away with a quick apology, but other offenses might need the other person to cool down before they are willing to even listen to your next sentence. However, the sooner you apologize for your mistake, the more likely it will be viewed as an error in judgment and not a character flaw.
Write your apology down. Construct a letter to the person you're apologizing to, rehearsing what you will say in person. If you don't feel comfortable with writing, then use a voice recorder. Not only will this help you remember what to say when you're face to face with them, but you can also bring the copy with you and hand it to them if you find the apology quite difficult to express. But don't forget that a direct and honest apology is best. Do it face to face, if possible. A phoned, emailed or recorded apology shows a lack of sincerity and effort and should only be a last resort.
Begin the apology by naming the offense and the feelings it may have caused. Be specific about the incident so that they know exactly what you're apologizing for. Make it a point to avoid using the word "but". ("I am sorry, but..." means "I am not sorry.") Also, do NOT say "I'm sorry you feel that way" or "I'm sorry if you were offended." Be sorry for what you DID! "I'm sorry you feel that way" makes it see like you are blaming the other person, and is not a real apology. Validate their feelings or discomfort by acknowledging your transgression's (potential) effects, while take responsiblity:
- "Boss, I'm sorry I'm late again, I know my shift started 10 minutes ago. I hope this doesn't complicate your day."
- "Dear, I'm sorry I forgot your birthday - there's no excuse. I hope you don't feel neglected, please let me set this right."
Make amends. Think about what caused you to make the offense. Is it because you're a little too laid back about being on time, or remembering important dates? Is it because you tend to react instantly to certain comments, without pausing to consider an alternative point of view? Is it because you are unhappy with your life, and you unknowingly take it out on others? Find the underlying problem, describe it to the person (as an explanation, not an excuse), and tell them what you intend to do to rectify that problem so that you never repeat this mistake again:
- "I snapped at you because I've been so stressed out with work lately, and it's selfish of me to take it out on you. Starting tomorrow, I'm going to cut down my hours to X per week. I really think it'll help me unwind, and help us spend more quality time together."
- "I've been distant and cold because I get paranoid that you're going to walk out on me because I don't have a job. But that's a terrible thing to do. Look, here's a list of things I'm going to do to find a job ASAP..."
Express your appreciation for the role they play in your life, emphasizing that you do not want to jeopardize or damage the relationship. This is the time to briefly recount what has created and sustained the bond over time and tell loved ones that they are indeed loved. Describe what your life would be missing without their trust and their company.
Ask if they will give you a chance to make up for what you did wrong. Insist on proving to them that you have learned from your mistake, and that you will take action to change and grow as a result, if they will let you. Make a clear request for forgiveness and wait for their answer. This gives the injured party the well deserved "power" in determining the outcome of the situation.
Be patient. If an apology is not accepted, thank them for hearing you out and leave the door open for if they wish to reconcile later. (E.g. "I understand you're still upset about it, but thanks for giving me the chance to apologize. If you ever change your mind, please give me a call.") If you are lucky enough for your apology to be accepted, avoid the temptation to throw in a few excuses at the end. Instead, have a transition planned out beforehand for what you can do to solidify the clean slate (e.g. "Let's go get some coffee and catch up. It'll be my treat. I miss knowing what you're up to.").
Stick to your word. This is the most important step. A true apology entails a resolution, and you have to carry out your promise in order for the apology to be sincere and complete. Otherwise, your apologies will lose their meaning, and trust may disappear beyond the point of no return. Follow through.

Tips

If you can, pull the person aside so that you can apologize while you're alone. Not only will this reduce the likelihood of other people influencing the person's decision, but it will also make you a little less nervous. However, if you insulted the person publicly and made him/her lose face, your apology is much more effective if done publicly.
Use relaxed and humble body language. Keeping your arms crossed or pointing fingers will put the other person on the defensive.
If the person is willing to talk to you about making amends, see this as an opportunity. If you've forgotten your wife's birthday, for instance, you might decide to celebrate another night and make it extra wonderful and romantic. This won't relieve you of responsibility for remembering the next important occasion, of course, but it will show that you're willing to take special time and effort.
One apology will often cause another, either from you for something else you realized you are sorry for, or from the other person because they realize the conflict was mutual. Be prepared to forgive.
A proper apology is always about the injured party. Keep your apology focused on the actual wrong done, and the recipient.
Don't keep asking if he or she is mad at you. This puts the focus back on you, and makes you sound impatient and selfish. Just as it takes time to heal, it can take time to forgive.

Warnings

Sometimes attempted apologies turn into a rehash of the same argument you wanted to amend. Be very careful not to re-argue any topics or open any old wounds.
Don't be too surprised (or suspicious) if you are forgiven. Take people at their word, just like they took your apology.
Don't apologize unless you really mean it. You can spot a false apologies from a mile away, and so can others.
Even if you feel that the conflict was partly because of the other person's miscommunication, do not say so in the middle of your apology. At most, mention briefly that the other person can help you avoid misunderstandings by reminding you when you step out of line, and apologize again for the hurt you caused.
Do not talk about about how bad you feel. The apology is not about your guilt, your shame, your fear of rejection, your anxiety or your loneliness while waiting to be forgiven. It is about the other person - remember that, even if it seems to be taking them a long time to forgive you.
Never assume that the injured party is "punishing" you by taking time to forgive you, but watch for warning signs that they will hold a grudge forever. If you hear the words "I'm not going to let you forget this," or "I'll be your friend again, but this will change our friendship forever," listen to your gut, and consider letting the relationship go.

How to be Feminine??

2008-05-22T21:04:00.003+01:00

To be feminine follow these steps:

1-Take care of your hair and make sure it smells good. Regular haircuts will keep it healthy and allow it to grow faster. Long hair is known to be feminine; however, short hair can look alluring as well .

2. Keep make-up minimal. Mascara, lip gloss and powder will make you look great on any given day. More than that and your skin will suffer for it, which will put you in a vicious cycle of having to put more and more make-up on. we shouldn't have to spend so much time on it we are beautiful anyway.

3. Dress in what makes you happy, but make sure you present yourself in a positive light. Short shirts can definitely be cute, but not with torn fishnets, a crop top and a thong showing, just think about whether you'd let your own kids out of the house that way.

4. Don't be obnoxious, but being outgoing and feisty is attractive in a woman. If you're quiet and happy that way, just let your inner charm out once in awhile to remind everyone how great you are. As if they could forget!

5. Don't fish for compliments. As a modern woman, you'll realize all the wonderful things about yourself all on your own, and compliments from others are just gravy. Enjoy those compliments when you get them, though!

6. Realize that famous women get a LOT of help with their looks; it's a full-time job for them. If you were to spend that much time and money on your looks, you'd be broke and have no life, and be a very shallow person to boot!

7. Remove any body hair that makes you feel less than confident, especially if that body part will be on display. By all means, grow that leg hair in the winter! Why not?

8. Try not to use profanities. A good naughty joke or expletive when you stub your toe is acceptable, but regularly peppering your conversation with swear words makes you look unintelligent.

9. Be aware of your posture. Good posture makes you look more alert, confident and approachable.

10. Be smart. More women are going to university than men right now, but we are also getting paid less in the job force. We think we're over the juvenile 'dumbing ourselves down', but when you play down your intelligence as you grow older you are affecting your own career, and the careers of women everywhere.

*Tips:

-If you have talents such as ballet, writing, art, etc., try and make it known without bragging. Stereotypically 'masculine' talents are amazing to have too, like being good at hockey or math, but they won't help if your goal is to be feminine.

-Shower daily, wash your face twice a day, brush and floss your teeth twice a day, and use deodorant. Bad hygiene isn't an attractive quality in anyone.

-Remember these key words: intelligence, confidence, personality. Think about all the woman you admire, they will probably have these traits.

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from: http://www.wikihow.com/

The way to be beautiful??

2008-05-22T20:37:00.003+01:00

1-Seek to express your beauty:try to make note of things and people that strike you as beautiful. If you can, write them down. Try to understand what makes them beautiful to you. They may not be beautiful to others, but that's why beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

2-Recognize the beauty in yourself:Look in the mirror and search for beauty. By now, you've probably noticed that the most beautiful things in life are often subtle and hidden. The same goes for the beauty you hold. Maybe you have smooth, well-proportioned hands, or a flawless forehead, or perfectly-shaped shoulders. Whatever it is, it's yours--revel in it.

3-Enhance your physical beauty: Looking beautiful is all about emphasizing those features in you that are already beautiful. There are millions of ways to do this, as there are millions of potentially beautiful features on a single body. The important thing is to experiment with accentuating that beauty until you can look at your reflection and feel like you've given your beauty the representation it deserves.

4-Develop your inner beauty: There are plenty of so-called beautiful people out there who lie, cheat, steal, and even kill. Their beauty never lasts, but yours can. By finding yourself and building your character through integrity, you can be beautiful both on the inside and on the outside. Better yet, your inner beauty will always emanate and never fade, wrinkle, or turn gray.

5-Create beauty outside of yourself:it's time to make beauty. Art is a very popular emulation of beauty, but it's possible to inject beauty into everything you do(your work, how you interact with people, and the way you decorate your room, for example). This is an extremely satisfying pursuit that will not only make the world a more beautiful place, but it will also bring your quest for beauty full circle.

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from: http://www.wikihow.com/

To have a healthy hair

2008-05-21T23:31:00.003+01:00

The health of our hair, however, is actually what we need to evaluate. From scalp conditions to what we eat, there are several areas related to health that you should consider if you notice a change in your hair growth and texture.

Hair health depends on blood supply, circulation and nutrition,It can also be from one's thyroid, liver hormones and stress levels." Whether you're suffering from hair loss or want to prevent it from happening, these expert tips will help you keep your hair its healthiest.

Eating and Drinking for Hair:

Check the ingredients in the food you eat,A lot of foods lack vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, eating organic can greatly improve hair health,The closer to nature—raw green foods—you eat, the more alkaline and healthy your skin and body will become,You must address your skin and body internally and externally to achieve health and turn back the clock.

As much as you love coffee, sweets, and salty snacks, reducing your intake of salt, sugar, fats and caffeine can also aid in fostering hair health. Instead of coffee or soda, drink water. Since the human body is generally composed of 60-80 percent water, when deprived of it, your cell health suffers. Dehydration directly impacts hair growth, so Dr. Hart suggests drinking at least six glasses of water a day.

Strengthen the Building Blocks:

Whether you're guilty of putting your hair through a lot or a victim of aging and natural forces, you can help strengthen your follicles,you need to provide the building blocks (quality ones, that is) to fight the causes of inflammation,It's imperative to supplement the internal organs and skin layers with the missing tools to accomplish the job of building a firm foundation.

Your diet must be supported with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, nutrients and oils that continually replenish, strengthen and energize your entire body.

*Doing this will promote physical and psychological well-being and stop the epidemic of acne, hair loss, rosacea and skin cancers.

Other essential nutrients that aid in cell repair include, glutathione (the most important antioxidant for the body's immune system preferably in lozenge form), alpha lipoic acid (an effective antioxidant that prevents the symptoms of vitamin C and E deficiencies), and multi-minerals (minerals promote proper composition of body fluids, formation of blood and bone, maintenance of healthy nerve functions). The proper dosage of these nutrients will foster hair health.

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from: http://www.beauty.ivillage.com/

Bean Burritos

2008-05-20T16:13:00.002+01:00

Ingredients
1 16-ounce can refried beans (pinto or black)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

4 flour tortillas

Optional Condiments
2 tomatoes, diced

3 cups shredded lettuce

1 cup sour creambottled hot sauce or salsa

Directions
*Heat a skillet to medium. Add beans and stir continuously until warmed through.
*Place tortillas between two paper towels and microwave for 15-25 seconds, until warm and soft. Do not microwave for too long, or they will turn dry and brittle. Alternately, you can quickly warm them one-by-one in a clean, empty skillet over medium heat.
*Spread beans down the middle of each tortilla, stopping a quarter of the way to the ends.
*Add cheese and any other desired condiments. Fold the top and bottom ends up (the ends at the edges of the beans), then fold over each side. Serve warm.

Eat Red, Live Longer

2008-05-19T19:26:00.002+01:00

Red cabbage:

has deep-red (almost purple) pigments containing 36 plant chemicals that researchers say may be useful for guarding against cancer, boosting brain function, and promoting heart health.

Beet juice :

has a chemical that your body may convert into a compound capable of expanding blood vessels and lowering blood pressure, according to British scientists. Try mixing it into a smoothie.

Tomatoes :

have lycopene and beta-carotene, antioxidants that can keep your heart young by lowering your cholesterol.

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from http://www.eating.health.com/

10 min pilates abs-full

2008-05-18T23:40:00.003+01:00

Processed Meat and Cancer

2008-05-18T11:10:00.003+01:00

Study showed eating process meat may increase stomach cancer risk
Researchers from Stockholm, Sweden investigated data collected from more than 4,700 patients from 15 studies published from 1966 through 2006. Processed meat consumption as well as stomach cancer incidences were analyzed. The researchers found that higher intake of processed meat was associated with a greater risk of stomach cancer. Indeed, stomach cancer risk increased by 15 to 38 percent if consumption of processed meats increased by just one ounce a day. The results of this study were published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute in August 2006.

Processed Meats are not Healthy, anyway.
Although previous studies have linked processed meats with other cancers such as pancreatic cancer and colorectal cancer, it is still too early to conclude that processed meats cause cancer. However, it is wise to stay away from them, anyway. Meats that are salted, cured, smoked or preserved with nitrate are considered processed meats. This includes bacon, sausage, ham, hot dogs, salami, luncheon meat and other cured meats. They are usually high in fats and salt, which means they are not heart-friendly, either. A slice of regular ham, for instance, contains two times more fat and 25 times more salt than an equivalent portion of pork tenderloin.

Try the following healthier ways to enjoy meat:

*Choose fish, poultry, or beans as an alternative.
*Select meat with leaner cuts. For beef, choose eye of round, top round roast, top sirloin and flank; for pork, choose tenderloin and loin chops.
*Watch your portions. One serving of meat is the size of a deck of cards.
*Prepare meat with cooking methods that use less oil such as baking, broiling or poaching.

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from:www.healthcastle.com

10 Easy Ways to Healthy Eyes

2008-05-17T23:54:00.003+01:00

1. Eat greens. Ingesting lots of leafy green vegetables like spinach, collard greens and kale help avoid macular degeneration. (The “macula” is an area at the back of the eye that enables us to see fine details. When the macula doesn’t work, there is blurriness or darkness in the center of our vision).

2. Take vitamins. There are supplements made specifically for eye health. Be sure that they include these: Vitamins A, C, E and B2 and the minerals zinc and selenium.

3. Keep your eyes hydrated. A simple saline solution can help to lubricate and soothe eyes. (Be sure to check with your doctor if you experience stinging or burning in your eyes, or a sandy or gritty feeling, or you don’t produce tears when you cry. These symptoms could indicate “dry eye,” a condition that needs medical attention).

4. Eat apricots and blueberries. Blueberries are associated with reduction of eye fatigue and apricots are rich in beta carotene and lycopene, both of which promote good vision.

5. Get plenty of Omega 3 fish oil. It helps clear eyesight and eye health. (Heart-healthy diets in general tend to be good for the eyes as well, since blood circulation is so important to eye health).

6. Pamper your eyes. Try placing two slices of soothing cucumber over closed eyes for 15 minutes. It cools and refreshes the eyes.

7. Drink tea. It’s thought that drinking tea might help to deter cataracts.

8. Try Bilberry. This herbal remedy, according to some herbalists, can help to improve night vision.

9. Wear UV filtering sunglasses. Harmful UVA and UVB rays can contribute to cataracts.

10. Give them a break. If you work at a computer, remember the 20/20/20 rule. Take a break every 20 minutes. For 20 seconds, look at something 20 feet away or farther. This allows your eyes to refocus and relax and prevents the blurry vision that can occur by staring at a computer screen for too long.

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Protect yourself from Bacteria

2008-05-17T23:42:00.003+01:00

Steps to remove bacteria from your home and life:

Bacteria is everywhere. It is just a fact of life. Yet, there are steps we can take to remove or reduce this harmful substance from our home and life.

1. Wash our hands. Yes, this is the simplest step we can take. But it is also maybe the most important one. Bacteria comes into contact to our hands. It hides in the folds of our hands and in between our fingers. We touch something like a doorknob and the bacteria can spread onto it. Then another person comes and opens said doorknob he/she now is has come into contact with the bacteria. If he/she does not wash his/her hands soon, he/she will further spread it.

2. The kitchen is a real good breeding place for bacteria. The reason is clear. It is where we prepare foods such as raw meats, store leftovers and handle fresh produce. For these reasons, we must learn how to disinfect our kitchen properly. Use disinfect cleaners. Wipe your counter tops with sponges or paper towels then throw away or laundry. Watch about cross contamination. Cross contamination can happen for example when you wipe off meat juice with a sponge and then rinse the sponge with water only and then use it again to wipe off the counter top. The water is not strong enough to kill the bacteria in the sponge. The sponge needs to be laundried or put in your dishwasher.

3. Never use the same cutting board for both meats and fresh produce.

4. Refrigerate or freeze food immediately when brought home from the store.

5. Carefully scrub all fresh produce to remove bacteria before eating.

6. Cook all meats, poultry and seafood thoroughly.

7. Spray your trashcans regularly with a disinfectant spray.

8. Wash your towels separately from your other clothes, using the hottest setting on your washer.

9. Dry your clothes completely.

10. At the end of your wash, run a cycle of water and just ads some bleach or other type of disinfectant to it. Let it run through the regular cycles as if their were clothes inside of it. The bleach will clean any bacteria that could be growing inside.

11. Consider hiring a professional to clean your heating and cooling ducts with a professional disinfectant that will help to remove mold and mildew (forms of bacteria).

12. Do you see a greenish tint on the outside of your home? That is mildew. This is a form of bacteria that can gradually harm your home and back you sick. Have it power washed from your home using a cleaning agent made to remove mold.

13. Do you own a cell phone or a computer? Have your ever thought about the germs that our lurking on those keys? You could easily remove those germs and bacteria by simply and carefully wiping down with an antibacterial wipe.

14. What about your makeup? Did you know if that you stored it in a warm room it can become contaminated and bacteria can soon begin growing. This means that the bathroom with all that steam from our hot showers may not be the best room to keep it. Speaking of makeup, those makeup counters where women can get complimentary makeovers for free, may also be a breading ground for bacteria. Women are not supposed to share makeup. If the makeup artists uses the same blush on two women, bacteria can begin to form. Think about how many women may use the same blush each day during a makeover day (it doesn't matter if they switch brushes between each use).

Bacteria grows everywhere. The places we need to be most diligent about reducing it as much as possible are: where we prepare foods, where we eat, things we handle the most (doorknobs, remotes, cellphones, phones, keypads, refrigerator door handles, etc), our bathrooms, and where we sleep. If we do these little things, we may reduce the bacteria and we may become healthier

How To Get Rid Of Dandruff

2008-05-16T12:29:00.002+01:00

Cure for dandruff:

* Vinegar is poured into the hair, massaged into the scalp, and left to dry for a few minutes.

* Then the hair is washed.

* The process is repeated daily until the dandruff disappears, usually within a few days.

How to Appreciate Life

2008-05-16T10:08:00.002+01:00

If stress and worry and hurry have you feeling tired, depressed and sad, you're not alone. In these over-scheduled times, it sometimes seems that it would take a life-threatening event to get you off the merry-go-round and back in a place where you can really appreciate life. There's no need to wait for the bomb to drop. You can start appreciating life right now when you take these steps.

Instructions:

1-Write in a journal about what you're grateful for. List at least five things that you feel gratitude for each day. Some days might pose more of a struggle than others; but there's always something to appreciate, whether it's a roof over your head or the beautiful sunrise.

2-Laugh each and every day. Laugh at the comedic and the ridiculous. Laugh at your kid's corny jokes or how the dog keeps chasing his tail. Spend time with people who like to laugh and you'll find that laughter's contagious. And it just feels good!

3-Spend time with children. Whether playing with your two-year-old niece or watching kids play in the park, you're bound to learn something about enjoying life—a field in which kids are the experts. Why do you need to worry about impressing others when the simple act of playing in the sand feels so good?

4-Think positively to make a difference. Beginning the day with negative thinking colors your entire day. You expect and get the worst. But re-frame your thinking with a positive thought, and you'll be surprised how much better life is.

5-Notice the wonder of nature. Whether watching a rainbow or listening to the rain, you'll put yourself in a position to experience the miraculous in the ordinary. Stroll around the block and breathe in the fresh air to put your worries in perspective.

6-Slow down. With all evidence to the contrary, life is not a race. Take time each day to slow down and smell the roses, figuratively and literally. Eat slowly enough to savor each bite. Stop and listen to a song on the radio instead of letting it go by as background. Slowing your life gives you time to appreciate it.

7-Help others. Helping someone really sets off a feel-good chain reaction. See the effects of the simple act of helping, and you'll realize that you really do make a difference in the world.

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How to Prevent Bad Breath

2008-05-16T00:07:00.004+01:00

Things You’ll Need:
*Mouthwash
*Toothbrush
*Toothpaste

Instructions:

1-Prevention is the key to everything. Brush your teeth and scrape your tongue at least twice a day, especially in the morning. Tongue scrapers can be found in any convenience store.

2-After brushing your teeth, rinse your mouth out thoroughly.

3-Gargle with an anti microbial mouth rinse such as Listerine.

4-Try to avoid eating or drinking for about 30 minutes.

5-Avoid garlic and onions and eat fruits and veggies. Studies have shown this will help assist your body in maintaining fresh breath.

6-Try chewing fresh peppermint, spearmint, parsley, or basil instead of gum.

7-After you eat and drink rinse your mouth out with water. This will help keep down any buildup of bacteria in your mouth that causes bad breath.

8-Drink plenty of water. Keeping the body hydrated helps your body to tackle bad breath naturally.

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from:www.ehow.com

How to whiten your teeth at home

2008-05-15T23:33:00.004+01:00

Instructions:

1-So rest assured that there are many different things that you can try at home to whitening your teeth creating a more appealing smile. There are many whitening products that you can purchase to try at home, such as..

Crest Whitestrips (I highly recommend as I have used myself and loved the results)

Toothpaste and mouthwash that whiten teeth

Ultra White

Dentist made whitening trays

Whitening gels

Different whitening strips

Paint on substances

2-One of the best whitening products that you probably have right now in your home is hydrogen peroxide. Although it does not taste very good it is a great and affordable way to whiten your teeth at home. Twice a day, swish your teeth with hydrogen peroxide for about 1 minute each time. Of course spit it out and then brush your teeth as normal. You will get amazing results and fast! It takes stains off of your teeth and cleans your entire mouth great. Although it does not leave your mouth minty fresh it really does remove a lot of the stains and discoloration on your teeth in about a week. Hydrogen peroxide cost less then a dollar a bottle, so who can't afford to use this great whitening product?

3-Strawberries are also a great tooth whitener. It taste great as well so make this and then you can swallow it afterwards. Mash several strawberries well in a bowl and then brush your teeth with them like normal. It actually really works to whiten your teeth.

4-Baking soda is another great way to whiten teeth for next to nothing. Baking soda costs less then a dollar a box and just about every home already has a box in their pantry. So get about two teaspoons of baking soda into a little bowl and mix in just enough hydrogen peroxide to make it a nice paste, just like the consistency of toothpaste. Then brush your teeth as normal making sure you leave the paste on your teeth for at least two minutes. If you are not to thrilled about the flavor then you can add a bit of toothpaste in it to add flavor. Make sure you do not swallow the paste, trust me it wouldn't go down so smooth!

5-Showing off the whitest brightest smile possible can increase your confidence as well as allow you to show them off. Who does not want a beautiful smile? These days whitening your teeth is become increasingly popular. So try some of the suggestions above for a great and inexpensive way to whiten your teeth in the comfort of your own home. Good luck and show them your beautiful smile!

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Health Benefits of Lemon

2008-05-15T14:09:00.002+01:00

Lemon is an oval shape citrus fruit. Lemon is used as a beverage and an ingredient to some dishes to enchance its flavor. Lemon contains flavonoid a compound that contains antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.

Nutritive Values of Lemon : Per 100 gm.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .04 mg.;
Riboflavin : Trace;
Vitamin C : 50 mg.
Calcium : 40 mg.
Phosphorus : 22 mg.
Carbohydrates : 8.7 gm.
Protein : .9 gm.
Calories : 32

Health Benefits of Lemon :
*As a natural antiseptic, the juice of the lemon will destroy harmful bacteria found in the cuts and other areas of infection.
*For toothache, apply fresh lemon juice on the painful are.
*For skin problems, the juice of the lemon should be applied directly to the skin and allowed to dry especially for acne and eczema, then remove with water with olive oil added. The juice is also good for the removal of blackheads, freckles and wrinkles.
*Lemon juice when applied to hair after rinsing it , will give shine and volume to your hair.
*Lemon juice helps to prevent and cure osteoarthritis.
*Helps to prevent diabetes.
*Lemon juice helps in preventing the development and progression of atherosclerosis.
*Lemon juice is a great liver tonic.

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2008-05-15T11:09:00.001+01:00

Another year in black and white for Pavel Nedved
Juventus will still be able to rely on Pavel Nedved for its return in Europe. The Czech midfield player has extended his contract with Juventus for another year. The agreement – valid until 30th June 2009 – was signed this afternoon in Vinovo where the player met Juventus Managing Director Jean-Claude Blanc after practice. « The extension to Nedved’s contract – said Blanc – is the best way to start our campaign to strengthen the team before the next season. Pavel has written pivotal pages in the history of Juventus and will continue to provide the team with character and quality. His experience, class and determination are a certainty for his team mates, manager and supporters ». After practice Pavel Nedved said he was proud to wear the Juventus shirt for another year: «Behind my decision is the awareness of having lived seven extraordinary years and the desire to once again live the European experience with I team I feel trongly connected to. I wish to thank our supporters for the warmth they greeted me with, my team mates for the esteem they expressed for me in the last few days and the club which has chosen to continue to entrust me with an important role ».Pavel Nedved was born on 30th August 1972 and has been playing for Juventus since the 2001-2002 season. In the past seven years he has played 282 games, between League and Cup games, national and international, scoring 58 goals.

Fabulous Fajitas

2008-05-15T10:20:00.002+01:00

Wedges of onion and colorful bell pepper sauteed with chicken and mushrooms make this Mexican dish a true standout. A simple seasoning of Italian dressing mix simplifies preparation. Wrap in tortillas or pita and garnish with tomatoes and lettuce.

Yield:10 servings
Ingredients

2 green bell peppers, sliced

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 onion, thinly sliced
1 cup fresh sliced mushrooms

2 cups diced, cooked chicken meat

1 (.7 ounce) package dry Italian-style salad dressing mix

10 (12 inch) flour tortillas

Directions
1-Cut peppers and onion into thin slices. Do not dice, leave slices long and thin.
2-Saute peppers and onion in a small amount of oil until tender. Add mushrooms and chicken. Continue to cook on low heat until heated through. Stir in dry salad dressing mix and blend thoroughly.
3-Warm tortillas and roll mixture inside. If desired top with shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomato and shredded lettuce.

Nutrition Information

Servings Per Recipe: 10

Amount Per Serving

Calories:443 cal Total Fat:9.6 g Cholesterol:21 mg

Sodium:829 mg Carbohydrates:69.4 g Fiber:4.8 g

Protein:18.4 g

Asparagus Spring Rolls

2008-05-14T13:16:00.004+01:00

Add a creative twist to company-special meals by serving these fresh and fun appetizers of lasagna noodles wrapped around smoked salmon and asparagus spears.

Total Time: 40 min

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

1 serving: Calories 196; Carbohydrates 17g; Cholesterol 27mg; Dietary Fiber 1g; Fat 10g (Saturated Fat 5g); Sodium 350mg

INGREDIENTS:

*1 8-ounce package reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchatel)
*2 tablespoon snipped chives
*2 tablespoon milk
*1 - 2 tablespoon snipped fresh dill
*1 clove garlic, minced
*1 tablespoon lemon juice
*1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
*1 tablespoon olive oil
*1/4 teaspoon salt
*8 dried lasagna noodles
*24 asparagus spears
*6 ounces thinly sliced smoked salmon
*8 long chives

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a small mixing bowl combine cream cheese, snipped chives, milk, dill, garlic, lemon juice, and pepper; set aside.
2. In a large pot bring 3 quarts water and the olive oil to boiling; add salt and lasagna noodles. Cook noodles for 10 to 12 minutes or until pasta is nearly tender.
3. Meanwhile, snap off and discard woody bases of asparagus. If necessary, trim asparagus to 5-inch lengths. Add asparagus to pasta; cook 3 minutes more. Drain; rinse with cold water. Drain again and pat pasta dry with paper towels.
4. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each lasagna noodle. Divide salmon evenly among the noodles, placing a single layer of salmon on each noodle. Place 3 asparagus spears on one end of each noodle, letting the tips extend beyond the edge. Roll up each noodle. Tie with a fresh chive. Stand spring rolls upright to serve, if desired. Makes 8 side-dish servings.

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How to Make Small Talk

2008-05-14T11:41:00.004+01:00

Instructions:

1-Practice. Converse with everyone you come across: cashiers, waiters, people you're in line with, neighbors, co-workers and kids. Chat with folks unlike yourself, from seniors to teens to tourists.

2-Read everything: cookbooks, newspapers, magazines, reviews, product inserts, maps, signs and catalogs. Everything is a source of information that can be discussed.

3-Force yourself to get into small talk situations, like doctors' waiting rooms, cocktail parties and office meetings. Accept invitations, or host your own gathering

4-Immerse yourself in culture, both high and low. Television, music, sports, fashion, art and poetry are great sources of chat. If you can't stand Shakespeare, that too is a good topic for talk.

5-Keep a journal. Write down funny stories you hear, beautiful things you see, quotes, observations, shopping lists and calls you made. That story of the long-distance operator misunderstanding you could become an opening line.

6-Talk to yourself in the mirror. Make a random list of topics and see what you have to say on the subjects. Baseball, Russia, butter, hip-hop, shoes ...the more varied your list, the better.

7-Expand your horizons. Go home a new way. Try sushi. Play pinball. Go online. Paint a watercolor. Bake a pie. Try something new every day.

8-Be a better listener. Did your boss just say she suffers from migraines? Did your doctor just have twins? These are opportunities for making small talk.

9-Work on confidence, overcoming shyness and any feelings of stage fright. Remember, the more you know, the more you know you can talk about.

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from:wwwehow.com

How to Make Body Butter

2008-05-13T21:52:00.003+01:00

Body butter is one of the most sinful indulgences you can give thirsty skin. It is a real treat for the senses, particularly if fragrant. Whether to soothe rough patches on the skin or prevent them from forming, or to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy, learn to make your own body butter and have easy access to this delightful skin care experience.

Instructions:

1-Mix 2 oz. each of cocoa butter and shea butter with 1 oz. each of olive oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil and beeswax, along with a couple of drops of your favorite essential oil.

2-Melt the ingredients--preferably in a double boiler or in a microwave. Check the mixture periodically to be sure you don't overdo it. It shouldn't take too long.

3-Mix all ingredients while they cool using a hand mixer until they are well-blended. Peaks will form in the mixture when it is ready.

4-Scoop the body butter into a container for safekeeping once the mixture has thoroughly cooled. Or, fill several decorative jars to set aside as gifts.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF CARROT

2008-05-13T19:37:00.002+01:00

Carrot is Daucus carota sativus of the parsley family. Carrot is a vegetable grown for its edible root. Raw carrot are eaten in salads and are mixed with some viands.
Carrot contain carotene, a chemical that is converted into vitamin A by the body, it helps prevent night blindness.

Health Benefits of Carrot :
1-Carrot can enhance the quality of breastmilk.
2-Carrot can improve the appearance of the skin, hair and nails.
3-When taken daily it can lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
4-Raw contain betacarotene, a strong antioxidant that can prevent cancer.
5-Carrot juice when taken everyday prevent bodily infections and is claimed to be valuable for the adrenal glands (the small endocrine glands situated above the kidneys).
6-Carrot can help improve eyesight.
7-Carrot can help increase menstrual flow.
8-Carrots can regulate blood sugar.
9-Carrot can promote colon health, because carrot is rich in fiber.
Carrot is also helpful in the following cases : Obesity, Poisoning of the blood, Gum disease, Insomnia, Inflamed Kidneys, Liver, Gallbladder, Alzheimer's disease, Colitis, Ulcer Painful urination

Vitamin and Mineral Content :
*Vitamin A - 12,000 I.U, Vitamin B , Thiamine B1, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, E, G, & K
*Calcium, Iron, Phosphorus
*Fat, Carbohydrates, Protein, Calories

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Health Benefits of Strawberry75

2008-05-13T19:27:00.002+01:00

Strawberry is one of the most delicious and nutritious fruit. It has the ability to remove harmful toxin in the blood. It is also recommended for sluggish liver, gout, rheumatism, constipation, high blood pressure, catarrh and even skin cancer.

Strawberry is a rich source of folic acid, folic acid helps to prevent / reduce birth defects involving brain.

Nutritive Value : Per 100 gm.
Vitamin A : 60 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .03 mg.;
Vitamin C : 60 mg.
Calcium : 28 mg.
Phosphorus : 27 mg.
Potassium : 220 mg.
Carbohydrates : 8.3 gm
Calories : 37

Health Benefits of Strawberry :
1-This is highly rated as skin cleansing food, even though the skin eruptions may appear at first in some cases.
2-It is also known to clean or rid the blood of harmful toxins.
3-It has been reported to help cases of syphilis.
4-The strawberry, when cut in half and rubbed on the teeth and gums, removes tartar from the teeth and strengthens and heals the gums. The juice should be allowed to remain on the teeth as long as possible in order to dissolve the tartar. The mouth may then be rinsed with warm water.

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Do I need to take Multivitamins

2008-05-13T18:25:00.002+01:00

Different people face different challenges in reaching optimum nutrition by food alone. We offer some quick and easy solutions to help tackle these challenges.

Challenge 1: Inadequate Fruits and Vegetables
Solutions:

*Eat a serving of fresh fruit at lunch and dinner as dessert
*Include a variety of vegetables for lunch and dinner. Choose dark green, leafy vegetables (such as broccoli, spinach, Chinese bok choy and kale) as well as bright-colored vegetables (such as bell peppers, tomato, avocado, sweet potato and carrot)
*Use fruits as snacks. Bring to work fruits that are easy to prepare (such as grapes, apple, banana, berries or cut-up melons).

Challenge 2: Inadequate Calcium
Solutions:

*Instead of snacking on cookies, choose low-fat yogurt or low-fat cheese with fruits as snacks throughout the day
*If you are not a cow's milk fan, try other calcium-rich beverages such as calcium-fortified orange juice, calcium-fortified soy or rice milk, or goat's milk
*Try other calcium-rich foods such as tofu and canned fish with bones.

Challenge 3: Inadequate Whole Grains
Solutions:
*Choose whole grain bread when making sandwiches
*Have a serving of whole grain breakfast cereal or a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast
*Snack on popcorn instead of chips on movie nights
*Toss in brown rice, wild rice or barley in your soup

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from http://www.healthcastle.com/

7 Tips to Make Your Fancy Coffee Healthier

2008-05-12T18:32:00.002+01:00

1-Avoid whipped cream. Although this may seem obvious, many of us think of having a specialty coffee as a special occasion, or we are in the habit of having it, so we add whipped cream. By doing so, you are adding 110-140 extra calories and nine to 13 extra grams of fat for a 16 ounce drink.

2-Go for a lower fat (and calorie) version. Most drinks are prepared with whole milk but coffee shops offer skinny drinks made with skim milk. Using reduced fat (2 percent) or skim milk instead of whole milk will cut your calories by as many as 105 calories and more than 12 grams of fat per 16 ounce drink.

3-Cut the syrup. If you are like me and find most of the coffee beverages with flavored syrup to be too sweet, ask for half the syrup. You save 20 calories and five grams of sugar for every pump that you cut out of your drink.

4-Order sugar-free syrup. This will save you 80-120 calories and 20-25 grams of sugar for a 16 ounce drink.

5-Consider your portion size. If you usually order a large drink, consider cutting it down to a medium or even a small. This will cut your caffeine, calorie and fat intake considerably.

6-Try to increase your protein intake by having more milk (or soy milk) and less coffee. A simple modification is to have a cafe au lait (half coffee and half steamed milk) rather than a regular coffee. This way, you get more protein and calcium from your drink for a more nutritious drink!

7-Opt for a cup of tea once a week. Teas do not generally have as much caffeine as coffee, and they offer many different antioxidants that are beneficial to your health.

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Vitamin A

2008-05-12T18:16:00.002+01:00

Common names
*Vitamin A, Retinol, Retinal, Retinoic acid, Carotene

Recommended Intake:
Males ≥ 19 years: 900 ug/day
Females ≥ 19 years: 700 ug/day

What's Vitamin A for?
*Vital for vision, particularly night vision
*Repairs tissue and bone
*Involved in reproduction and fetal development
*Helps the immune system to fight off infections from bacteria and viruses

Best Food sources:
*Whole eggs, milk products, beef liver .
*Non-fat and low-fat dairy products. They are fortified with vitamin A to replace what is lost in fat removal .
*Dark greens and rich yellow / orange fruit and vegetables, especially carrots, cantaloupes and sweet potatoes .

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Power of Color in Your Bathroom

2008-05-12T10:47:00.004+01:00

Color affects us physically, psychologically, and emotionally, and bathtubs are a traditional place to soak in water that has been tinted to attain a desired mood or spirit purpose.

To make a therapeutic color experience in your bathroom, even if you’re showering:

1. Buy a lightbulb in the color you desire and insert it in your bathroom fixture, or in a shaded lamp for use during your bath or shower. (Please be sure it is a safe distance from the water.)

2. Candles are soothing and beautiful, and the flickering candlelight can bring a sense of peace and serenity to the room. Choose candles in the colors that promote the mood you desire.

3. If you are bathing, a few drops of natural food coloring in the bathwater can tint the water to a gentle hue without affecting your skin. (See Hints below for some great online sources of all-natural food coloring.)

4. You can also paint a wall the color you need, or bring in paintings or photographs with the desired color predominating. A shower curtain in the right color will work, too.

5. Soaps and towels in the approriate color are also effective

Color Attributes:

RED: increases vitality and energy. This color is traditionally considered the seat of life-force energy; it is invigorating, vital, and activating.

ORANGE: is cheerful, working as an antidepressant and creating a happy environment. Use orange when you need to facilitate the process of letting go. Orange can relax mind and body and loosen areas of stress.

YELLOW: has a detaching quality, creating a lack of involvement. It is uplifting, but a large amount of the hue induces nervousness and tension and can be disorienting or perplexing. Yellow has been known to distort perspective.

GREEN: can increase your energy without scattering it. It promotes sound judgment, stability, and physical equilibrium.

TURQUOISE: is soothing, inviting interest and easing tension. This color helps release anxiety while providing support. Turquoise is refreshing and stimulating.

BLUE: is a relaxing color. It invites communication, meditation, and balance by calming the body and mind. Because blue creates softness, it is best used in stress-related areas such as the office.

VIOLET: promotes self-confidence and love and concern for others. Use violet in meditation and prayer, or whenever you need to concentrate. It is the center of self-respect and pride and expresses individuality. Inner balance, silence, and relaxation are all aided by violet. A mind-balancing color, it helps you unburden and protect yourself. But violet is also an aphrodisiac and is widely used to promote festivity.

MAGENTA: helps to raise energy levels. This color is impervious and forceful and is used to stimulate and inspire. Magenta brings self-respect, dignity, and composure by aiding and promoting concentration. It is also the color of spiritual love.

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Get Your Prettiest Hands

2008-05-12T02:09:00.002+01:00

You can fight the ravages of time and the elements on your hands by remembering to take a few important steps each day:

* Apply moisturizer frequently.

* Wear rubber gloves when hands will be exposed to water or cleansers.

• Wear garden gloves when working outdoors.

• Apply to your hands a natural sunscreen with an SPF of 15 whenever you’re in the sun (sun damage can result in premature aging of the skin, dryness, and dark brown liver spots).

*For an added treat for nails, make this simple Nourish-Your-Nails-Oil that moisturizes nails to maintain their strength and flexibility and prevent brittleness, dry peeling, and cracking.

*20 drops lavender essential oil

*10 drops lemon essential oil

*1 tablespoon almond base oil

*1 tablespoon jojoba base oil
Add the essential oils, drop by drop, directly into a storage bottle. Next, add the base oils. Screw on the bottle’s dropper top, wrap your hands around the bottle, and shake the formula vigorously for two minutes to completely blend all ingredients and warm to body temperature.

Place the bottle in a dark location that’s between 60 and 80F degrees for twenty-four hours so that the oils can synergize.
No refrigeration is required, but for maximum freshness and potency, please use within six months.

Application: Nightly, apply one drop to each nail and massage in with a soft flannel cloth (or your fingers) for approximately one minute per nail.

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Scented Shower Gel Recipe

2008-05-11T11:05:00.003+01:00

Ingredients:
*1/2 cup unscented shampoo
*1/4 cup water
*3/4 teaspoon salt
*15 drops fragrance oilfood coloring ( optional)

Directions:
Pour shampoo into a bowl and add the water. Stir until its well mixed add the salt and fragrance.

Suggestions for scents:
*Kiwi extract
*Raspberry extract
*Strawberry extract
*Coconut extract
*Vanilla extract

Mix and match or use one alone. I personally like the raspberry and vanilla mix...smells so good!

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from:www.pioneerthinking.com

General Foot Care Tips

2008-05-11T10:56:00.002+01:00

For All Feet

*Wash your feet daily. Rinse off all soap and dry thoroughly, especially between toes.
*Trim nails straight across, and not too short. Don't cut out or dig at corners.
*Do not trim, shave, or use over-the-counter medicines to dissolve corns or calluses
*Wear clean socks or stockings, changed daily. Don't wear any that are too short or too tight.
*Wear shoes that fit. (See Finding the Right Shoes For You.)

Some people's feet sweat more than others, and are more prone to athlete's foot. These tips may help:

*Wear shoes made of leather or canvas - not synthetics. Sandals are good.
*Switch shoes from day to day.
*Use foot powder.
*See your doctor if severe problems persist.

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from:www.footcaredirect.com

Guide To Foot Care And Foot Problems

2008-05-11T10:38:00.003+01:00

Years of wear and tear can be hard on our feet. So can:
disease
poor circulation
improperly trimmed toenails
wearing shoes that do not fit properly

Circulation
It also helps to keep blood circulating to your feet as much as possible. You can do this by:
*putting your feet up when you are sitting or lying down
*stretching if you've had to sit for a long while
*walking
*having a gentle foot massage
*taking a warm foot bath

Other Foot Care Tips
*Try to avoid pressure from shoes that do not fit right.
*Try not to expose your feet to cold temperatures.
*Do not sit for long periods of time (especially with your legs crossed).
*Do not smoke.
*Wearing comfortable shoes that fit well can prevent many foot ailments.

Proper Shoe Fit

*The size of your feet changes as you grow older so always have your feet measured before buying shoes.
*The best time to measure your feet is at the end of the day when your feet are largest.
*Most of us have one foot that is larger than the other, so fit your shoe to your larger foot.
*Do not select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe but by how the shoe fits your foot.
*Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot.
*During the fitting process, make sure there is enough space (3/8" to 1/2") for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up.
*Make sure the ball of your foot fits comfortably into the widest part of the shoe.
*Do not buy shoes that feel too tight and expect them to stretch to fit.

Your heel should fit comfortably in the shoe with a minimum amount of slipping - the shoes should not ride up and down on your heel when you walk.
Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right. Then take them home and spend some time walking on carpet to make sure the fit is a good one.

Other Shoe Fit Tips
*The upper part of the shoes should be made of a soft, flexible material to match the shape of your foot.
*Shoes made of leather can reduce the possibility of skin irritations.
*Soles should provide solid footing and not be slippery.
*Thick soles cushion your feet when walking on hard surfaces.
*Low-heeled shoes are more comfortable, safer, and less damaging than high-heeled shoes.

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from :www.arthritis.about.com

10 Thrifty Ways to Deal with Mosquitoes

2008-05-10T22:42:00.003+01:00

1. Keep your lawn mowed and bushes trimmed. This eliminates having a nice place for mosquitoes to rest.

2. Keep spare tires and other items that collect water stored in a sheltered area. This cuts down on the amount of rain these items can collect. Empty standing water from buckets, boats, planters, wheelbarrows, etc.

3. Make sure roof gutters drain properly to prevent standing water.

4. Change the water in bird baths at least once a week or install a fountain or dripper to keep the water moving.

5. Wear light colored clothing. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark clothes.

6. Keep your body covered as much as possible. Yes, mosquitoes can find their way through the fabric, but it helps to cut down on the number of bites.

7. Spray garlic powder and water all over the yard.

8. Plant mosquito deterring plants around your yard such as citronella, marigolds, basil, lavender, and catnip.

9. Try hiding your scent. Some people are sold on the effects of using Bounce dryer sheets, Vicks VapoRub and Avon’s Skin So Soft. Some prefer eating garlic or lemons or taking B1 Vitamins.

10. When all else fails, use the bug spray. I had to resort to this at camp last week. I also found that the lotion worked better than the spray, although the smell was worse.

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from:www.thriftymommy.com

Cleaning Toilet Bowl Stains

2008-05-10T21:50:00.003+01:00

The tips below will help to get your commode in tip-top toilet shape

Keep it cleanThe first step is avoidance of stains. You can do this by simply keeping the toilet clean. Cleaning it on a weekly basis is usually enough to keep stains from building up.But, if the product you’re using now does the job, stick with it. Just keep to a regular cleaning schedule.

Determine if the toilet is stained – or scratched

Some toilets are stained. That’s the easy fix. Others are scratched. That is, abrasive metal objects were used to clean the toilet and they have scratched the porcelain surface. If this describes your toilet, it's a lost cause and it should be replaced.That’s why you should always use pure plastic brushes to clean your toilet and nothing else.

Stain fighters

If you find that your toilet is stained even after you’ve cleaned it, then you might need to enlist a stronger cleaning agent. If you decide to get rough, be sure to flush the toilet and turn off the water, getting out as much water from the bowl as possible. Having less water in the bowl means less dilution of the cleaning agents.

Use these cleaners, and again, use them with an all-plastic scrub brush. Don’t EVER use those toilet brushes with metal wires and plastic bristles poking out of them. The metal can scratch and permanently damage a toilet.

Here are some of the most popular cleaning agents – from mild to wild

Vinegar:

This old fashioned product is great for hard water deposits. Pour two to three cups in the toilet and let it sit over night. Your toilet will love you in the morning.

Bleach:

A little tougher, bleach is a good choice for a pretty potty. Sometimes the same chemical you use on your laundry is all you need to make the bowl turn snowy white. Add about ½ cup and let it sit in the bowl as long as possible, making sure to remove the fuzzy lid cover first which could be damaged by the bleach.

Borax:

This powder found in the laundry section at the grocery story is an old fashioned workhorse. Sprinkle it in and work that powder with your plastic brush. Let it sit in the bowl for half an hour. Flush, and it will be snowy white again.

Calcium cleaners:

Some areas have hard water and if this is your case, this water can leave scale or lime desposits and it requires a cleaner made for lime. These special cleaners, under the names of “CLR” and “Limeaway” are indispensable for hard water stains. Empty as much water from the bowl as possible and saturate it with the cleaner. Scrub and let it sit. You may need to do repeat applications to “eat” away all the lime deposits.

Iron cleaners:

Many areas have water with iron. This can leave a reddish ring around the bowl or stain the bowl with a reddish orange tint. If this describes your toilet, products made for iron include “Iron Out” and “Rit Rust Remover.” Again, remove as much water from the bowl as possible and use the cleaner. You may need repeat applications. Make sure you have adequate ventilation as well as eye (goggles) and skin protection (gloves).

Scrubbers, etc.

Some items are sold for “scouring” out toilet stains, such as small pieces of “screening” and pumice stones. I would never recommend you use these products because you could scratch the porcelain surface and once this is done, you will never be able to get the toilet clean again. Avoid these at all costs.

Hydrochloric acid :

Buy this at hardware stores. Follow the directions exactly. This will eat away stains from the past 40 years. Don’t let it sit longer than the directions indicate or you will “etch” the surface of the porcelain, and the toilet will stain faster than ever.

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from:www.bellaonline.com

Weightlifting exercise to get rid of fat

2008-05-10T09:17:00.003+01:00

* Gymnastics:

-- Especially fats, which are concentrated in the buttocks and thighs.

* Exercise:

- Stand in a straightening out. -

- The dimensions of each of the others to be along the shoulders.

- The direction of the fingers in front of the feet or a little outside the body (not the inside because they never cause of a knee strain).

- Trend vision in a straight line forward.

- Do not try to tilt the head behind the eyes or the lifting of the highest because it upset the balance of the body. -

- Iron weight lifting from the ground up to the level of the shoulders.

- Hands on the dimensions of each other when to hold weight for distance beyond the line of the shoulders.

- Install a good feet on the ground. -

- Taking deep breath.

- Moving to the hips behind the buttocks and down (not begin discouraging knees).

- Continuing to reduce discouraging knees, but does not move forward so as to avoid pressure on them.

- When the thighs in a parallel with the ground, will be directed by Exhaling.

- Return to put the outset, with moving the knees or hip to the side of the body.

- Repeating the exercise as a possibility.

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10 Worst Foods for Your Hips

2008-05-09T11:22:00.003+01:00

1-Dove ice-cream
They may have linked romance to chocolates but it doesn’t do any good for your fat reserves. Eleven ugly grams of fat lie stagnant in half a cup of ice-cream. Don’t surrender!

2-Chipotle Chicken Burrito
Bring on the cheese, rice, tortilla, chicken and sour cream! Now you’ve got trouble brewing. Not only does this carry 19 grams of fat but 1180 calories and 2900 mg of sodium. Most of that is going straight to your hips.

3-Pepperidge Chicken Pot Pie
Don’t let the ‘farm roasted’ and ‘white meat’ fool you. Half a pie contains 510 calories. It tastes so good that you won’t want to let the other half go!

4-Fondue
Cheese and more cheese. Although quite delicious this meal could endanger your life. A whopping 1300 calories makes it a killer dish, literally! Stay away from this cheese delight if you want to live long and healthy!

5-Duck Confit
It may be French but it’s still fatty! Duck is a lot like chicken but it isn’t as friendly to your body. 1000 calories is what you get when you indulge in this poultry meal.

6-Cheeseburger
Why did this have to be on the list? Unfortunately, cheeseburgers carry tons of saturated fat that can spell disaster for you. From white bread to cheese and red meat, it’s bad all the way!

7-French fries
Don’t wash down that meal with French fries unless you want starch mounting up in your body. Besides, you can never be too sure of the oil that is used to fry the potatoes.

8-Foie Gras
It doesn’t matter if you can’t pronounce it! It’s just fatty liver. Although the liver has just 400 calories in it, the count can considerably increase depending on the dish preparation.

9-Chicken Hash
Butter, cream, cheese and flour- there’s nothing good in that! Just picture your hips growing by the second. That’s what chicken hash can do to you!

10-Lasagne
This Italian wonder of pasta, cheese and beef is loved the world over especially because of the cheese. Sadly, lasagne isn’t hip-friendly at all!
That’s the round up of the ten worst foods for your hips. Don’t yield to the temptation if you want to fit into that black little number for the weekend!

from:www.allwomenstalk.com