Is Your Diet Giving You Dark Under Eye Circles?

By N. K. Yukai

Think dark under eye circles mean you need to change how you're sleeping? Think again. They could mean you need to change what you're eating.

When you see dark circles you're actually seeing the network of blood vessels that lies just under the skin, which is thin and delicate in the under eye area. They make you look tired, and perhaps because of that most people assume that they're caused by lack of sleep. But in reality exhaustion is just one of many things that can lead to dark circles, and it's actually more likely that the wrong diet is the primary cause.

Here are some diet don'ts that are associated with dark circles:

Lack of iron in the diet - Iron is absolutely essential to the body. It's used in the creation of healthy blood cells, and insufficient iron can lead to anemia. Symptoms of anemia include listlessness, loss of energy, and dark discoloration under the eyes. Good sources of iron include liver, lean beef, molasses, beans, broccoli, sardines, tuna, prunes, and leafy dark green vegetables like spinach.

Too much salt in the diet - Eating too much salt can make the body retain fluid, which in turn can lead to puffiness and discoloration in the under eye area. Stay away from salty foods and snacks like chips and salted nuts, and avoid high sodium items such as bacon and other processed meats, canned soups and vegetables, and fast foods.

Not enough vitamin K - Dark circles under the eyes can be a sign of vitamin K deficiency. Without sufficient vitamin K the blood will not clot properly, and any leakage from the tiny capillaries under the eyes may pool and create very dark, bruise-like discoloration. Good sources of vitamin K include olive, canola, and soybean oil and dark leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and swiss chard.

Not enough vitamin C - Vitamin C is known to strengthen the walls of blood vessels, preventing them from leaking. Good sources of vitamin C include oranges, peppers, kiwi fruit, grapefruit, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, and cantaloupe.

Not drinking enough water - Not drinking enough water can quickly lead to dehydration, which may have serious impact on circulation. When the circulation slows, the blood vessels under the eyes become enlarged and look darker.

Too much alcohol and caffeine - Both alcoholic drinks and caffeinated drinks like soda, coffee, and tea can increase dehydration.

Specific food allergies - allergies are definitely associated with dark circles, and food allergies are a major culprit. Some foods often associated with allergies and dark circles include dairy, wheat, yeast, and sugar.

You Are What You Eat - To a Point

By Rick Javier

Combining a good diet with good exercise will go a very long way in keeping you healthy and helping you to live longer and stronger. It has for a lot of people.

You can never run out of ideas on how to keep fit to be healthy because it is one of the most discussed topics on the radio and television and one of the most written subjects in magazines and newspapers. With the Internet, there are lots of articles such as this that talk about it and they can be found on almost every health related website like this and even article directories and other content websites.

It's not only through physical activities that you can combat stress and look good. You will be surprised but as simple as winding down with a good book can be an effective way to combat stress, which has an adverse impact on the health of the body.

If you are one of those who don't frequently visit their doctors for checkups, you should. Regular trips to the doctor to ascertain your health status keeps you updated about your body and helps you maintain perfect health. I know you might say you don't visit the doctor frequently because nothing is wrong with you, but who knows? You can't be sure unless you are constantly given a clean bill of health by your doctor after medical checkups.

When you are trying to make up your mind on what exercise equipment to buy, make sure you have the space to put it, the time to use it and the money to buy it. The money is very important as some of the exercise equipment can be very expensive. You should only buy those that you need AND that you can afford. Both factors are very important.

What Are the 14 Super Foods?

By Kristie Leong M.D.

Here are the 14 super foods you'll want to consider adding to your diet. There's no doubt that diet plays an important role in the maintenance of health and the prevention of disease. To help reduce the risk of disease, more people are adding super foods to their diet. Super foods are those foods that have additional health benefits beyond simply providing nutrition.

These foods are high in phytonutrients, which may give them additional disease fighting powers. Although the foods that are worthy of being called super foods may be open to debate, there are certain stars in the nutritional world that play an important role in diet, and may play a part in protecting against chronic disease.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a rich source of vitamin C and fiber, as well as a group of chemicals known as isothiocyanates, thought to potentially prevent certain types of cancer. This simple, green super food is a healthy addition to any diet.

Watercress

This green super food has a unique chemical known as nasturtin, which is converted into an isothiocyanate known as PEITC. This has been shown in studies to slow down the growth of prostate, breast and colon cancer cells. The components in watercress are also thought to reduce the risk of macular degeneration of the eye. This green super food is best eaten raw, as heat can destroy the PEITC.

Walnuts

Walnuts are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help to lower blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. They're also a rich source of fiber and vitamins, particularly vitamin E and the B vitamins. Although nutritionally dense, they're higher in calories than the other super foods and should be eaten in moderation.

Blueberries

These humble fruits have the distinction of having one of the highest antioxidant capacities of the common fruits. Rich in powerful antioxidants known as anthocyanins, blueberries are thought to play a role in protecting nerve cells involved in motor skills, learning and memory as people age.

Apples

Although the apple may not be the most exotic fruit on the vine, it does have some noteworthy health benefits. Apples are rich in flavonoids, which have been shown to have antioxidant activity. Apple consumption has been correlated with a reduced risk of stroke as well as diabetes. Plus, apples are also a good source of vitamin C.

Spinach

Spinach is another green super food lauded for its health benefits. Rich in a variety of flavonoids and high in vitamins K, A and C, this simple food is thought to play a role in the prevention of a host of chronic diseases. It packs a powerful nutritional punch for a vegetable so low in calories.

Yogurt

Yogurt is considered a super food because of its probiotic capabilities. The friendly bacteria found in a container of yogurt help to preserve the health of the intestinal tract, as well as the immune system. Plus, it's a good source of calcium and protein. There's much to love about this underappreciated dairy product.

Wild salmon

The only meat to make the list, salmon is known for its high content of omega-3-fatty acids, the same heart friendly fats found in walnuts that help to lower blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It's important to select wild salmon since farm raised salmon may be contaminated with PCBs and dioxanes, both potential cancer causing agents.

Kale

Kale is a member of the brassica family of vegetables, which includes fellow super foods, broccoli and watercress. Kale has many of the same benefits as these other green superstars because of its high content of isothiocyanates. It's thought that kale may have cancer preventive properties as well as cardiovascular benefits. It's also a concentrated source of vitamins and minerals, being particularly high in vitamins A, C and E.

Tomatoes

Although many people may not think of the tomato as a super food, it is a rich source of lycopene, a potent antioxidant that is being studied for its role in preventing prostate cancer. The lycopenes found in tomatoes are best absorbed when the tomato is cooked, so tomato sauce is one of the best ways to get the health benefits that tomatoes have to offer.

Green tea

Green tea is a healthy source of catechins such as EGCG, which are thought to play a role in preventing a variety of chronic disease including certain types of cancer and heart disease. Numerous studies are ongoing to look at the potential benefits of drinking green tea for health.

Flaxseed

High in omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed may help protect heart health and reduce inflammation in the body. It's also high in lignans, which studies have shown may prevent or slow down the growth of breast tumors. The beneficial components of flaxseed can only be absorbed when the seeds are ground; whole flaxseeds pass through the body undigested.

Avocados

Avocados contain oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that's associated with a lower risk of heart disease as well as the ability to lower cholesterol levels. They're also rich in potassium, fiber and folate, although higher in calories than most vegetables.

Raspberries

Last but not least, raspberries are a rich source of anthocyanins, and their sweet taste makes them an excellent alternative to a high calorie dessert.

These super foods are a tasty way to add extra nutritional punch to your diet. Whether you choose a green super food or a cup of yogurt flavored with fresh blueberries, you'll be doing something good for your body.

Eating a Healthy Balanced Diet

By Rob Baldaro

It is recommended to eat small meal portions throughout the day and to not skip a meal. Breakfast is the most common meal to skip as most people either do not feel hungry early in the morning or they simply don't have the time. By eating regularly throughout the day the blood sugar levels stabilize and you won't get hungry. Eating regularly also ensures that you get all the essential nutrients that your body requires to stay healthy.

Skipping a meal or waiting too long for your next meal causes your blood sugar levels to drop, which causes you to feel shaky and weak. You will find it hard to concentrate on your tasks, your energy levels drop and your mood changes. It is the carbohydrates that determine your blood sugar levels and by eating complex carbohydrates you can help stabilize the sugar levels and hunger pains. Eating sweets, chocolates, cakes and biscuits do not help as they are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and cause your blood sugar levels to rise rapidly and then just as quick to drop.

To stop these types of sugar level fluctuations you should choose starchy foods that are low on the glycemic index. The glycemic index tells you how quickly certain carbohydrates will trigger a rise in your blood sugar levels. It is best to go for foods that have a low glycemic index count such as wholemeal foods and oats.

As mentioned earlier you should not skip breakfast because your blood sugar level drops at night so it is important to replenish your body when you wake up in the morning. You are also likely to snack on sugary foods like sweets or chocolates throughout the morning.

Lunch should be your largest meal of the day so you have the rest of the day to work it off. Try not to eat lunch that is high in carbohydrates as this will make you feel sluggish for the rest of the afternoon. Eat a protein rich meal with some fruit or a salad and that will also go towards your five a day for fruit and vegetables.

It is good to have a snack between meals, say mid morning and mid afternoon. Rather than picking up a chocolate bar or a packet of crisps, go for a low-fat snack like fruit, dried fruit, yogurt or some nuts and seeds. Nuts and seeds are a good source of protein and help you feel fuller for longer.

Finally drink plenty of fluid during the day, preferably water. Keeping hydrated will stop your energy levels from dipping and stop you from getting headaches. Try to drink about eight glasses of water throughout the day and cut down on caffeine drinks. If you start drinking the recommended amount of water from today, you will feel more energized and alert within two weeks. To maintain a full healthy life, take up an activity to compliment your diet like walking for 30 minutes each day five times a week.

By Shael Berni

In a society where most of the food available can be more harmful to you than helpful, eating right can be quite disheartening. But not all foods available today are unhealthy, if you know where to look. Some foods can actually be beneficial to the body, especially the brain. But what foods are beneficial to the brain and where can you find them? What if you have a strict budget and don't have hundreds of dollars every month to spend on exotic brain foods. Well, brain food is more readily available than you think, if you just know what to look for. You probably have tons of brain food in your house right now and don't even know it.

It is a very well known fact that many of the foods we eat today might lead to many illnesses we could be getting later in life. Such illnesses may be heart problems, diabetes, cancer, even Alzheimer's disease. There have even been reports that the top 5 cancer causing foods are donuts, chips, bacon, hot dogs, and cookies. This can be a frightening fact, especially if you have children. But instead of feeding your children food that may be rotting their bodies, as well as their brains, there is plenty of readily available food that kids like and is good for them. So, let's dive right in.

Some foods that are great for the brain are obvious choices, while some have benefits that are not so well known. We have all heard of the benefits of eating fish, but it is also very beneficial to the brain. Fish is rich in omega 3 fatty acids that help circulation of blood vessels, bring more oxygen to the brain, and lower cholesterol. Vegetables also have a long standing reputation as being healthy for the body, but they are wonderful for the brain as well. Vegetables have low levels of GI (glycemic index) which means they help slow down the sugar distribution in your blood stream, preventing a sugar crash, while providing more oxygen to the brain.

Some other foods that contain low GI levels are grains, cereals, rice, and spaghetti. Other foods that are great for brain activity are turkey, eggs, oatmeal, oranges even peanut butter. Peanut butter's high range of protein is excellent for brain health and brain development. That is why in cooking classes for kids the first thing they always teach kids is how to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches because not only do kids love them, but they're great for their brain health as well.

Milk and dairy products oftentimes have lower GI levels than fruit and are needed for proper oxidation to the brain. Also, any food with high levels of protein is great for the brain. High protein foods release high levels of amino acids which help to improve brain power. Two of these amino acids found in high protein foods are tryptophan and tyrosine which are considered essential building blocks of neurotransmitters in the brain. These neurotransmitters serve as carriers sending signals from one part of the brain to another and are essential in high brain activity.

If you enjoyed this article, please feel free to post it to your site or blog and forward this link to your friends. Have a great day!

Healthy Snacks on the Go

By Felix Alexander

With the families always on the go it is hard to give the kids and you a healthy snack when you are riding in the car to a game or on a long family trip. You need a healthy snack to keep up your energy and focus so you can finish the project. Some simple ideas can save you money and make some healthy snacks that your kids will eat; you can also let them help make their own snacks. You can get the things to make your own trail mix, cracker sandwiches, and vegetable sticks and dip. You can make all of this for little to no money and here are a few ideas to help you along your way.


When you go shopping, go down the cereal isle and look for some cheerios and a box of chex. Now get an inexpensive bag of chocolates and a bag of nuts. If you want to save money then you might just want to get a bag of peanuts in the shell. These are a bit cheaper but you have to shell the peanuts yourself. Next, find some cheap cheese crackers and a box of raisins. Now when you get home you can mix all of this together and you have a big bowl of chex mix with all of the natural flavors and you got a lot more food for a lot less money spent.



You can really save a lot of money if you have you own garden. You can grow some carrots, tomatoes and some cucumbers to make a healthy and easy snack for you and your family. Wash the vegetables off with cold water and then let the kids munch away. You can throw in a package of crackers and some lunchmeat and you got a whole supper on the go for a miniscule amount of money out of your pocket. All you need know is a thermos of water or what ever it is you want to drink and you got a weight watching meal packed with the vitamins and minerals that your whole family needs to grow up healthy and full of energy.

Easy Tips For Cutting Calories

By Callie Durbrow

In today's society people are very conscious of weight loss, dieting, and getting in shape. While these are very important to overall health and quality of life, many people do not go about this the right way. In order to get fit and healthy, it is important to develop proper lifestyle changes. Here are some quick tips on how to reduce your calorie intake in a healthy manner.

1. Look before you buy
• Check the food label

• Read serving sizes

• Avoid processed and packaged food

• Avoid sugar, starch, processed coloring and oils

2. Where You Eat Matters
• Select restaurants that offer healthy foods

• Choose small portion options or appetizers for your main meal

• Choose grilled or baked options

• Order dressings and sauces on the side so you can control the portion

• Skip the bread basket

• If you must have dessert, share with a friend

3. Cook at Home as Much as Possible
• Grill or bake meat

• Steam or grill vegetables

• Make enough food for leftovers

• Measure portion sizes- 1/3 protein, 1/3 vegetables, 1/3 starch (sweet potato, brown rice)

4. Avoid liquid calories
• Skip soda, iced teas, flavored water

• If you drink coffee, try to avoid cream, sugar, and syrup flavorings

• Drink water with every meal and try to drink a gallon per day

• Limit the amount of alcohol you consume

To cut down calories be sure to eat every 3-4 hours, snack on nutrient dense foods such as vegetables, proteins, nuts, and whole grains, drink a gallon of water per day, avoid processed foods, cook at home, and get into great eating habits that you can continue on for the long run.