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Younger, Healthier Skin

at Any Age

Natural Skin Rejuvenation Strategies

Dr. Dzung Price, M.D.

Younger, Healthier Skin at Any Age

Natural Skin Rejuvenation Strategies

Dr. Dzung Price, M.D.

____________________ Published by Newlife Marketing and Publishing

www.eternitycrystalbeauty.com

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About the Author DR DZUNG PRICE M.D.

Holistic medical doctor and

anti-aging specialist, Dr Dzung (Yung) Price is a Director of

the Renew You Centres for Wellbeing and Longevity in Queensland, where she and

her team provide natural health and beauty solutions.

With additional qualifications in nutritional, environmental and herbal medicines, antiageing,

acupuncture and energy medicine, she successfully

tailors each patient‘s health journey to their unique needs.

Dr. Price‘s special interests include anti-ageing medicine, bio-identical hormones, adrenal and thyroid

dysfunction, emotional freedom and advanced allergy elimination.

Co-creator of the revolutionary BioFAST Allergy Relief Program and author of ‗Your Allergy-Free Child‘ and

other publications on allergies, anti aging and natural health, Dr. Price is totally committed to promoting

natural health and beauty and emotional wellbeing


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Disclaimer

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or

prevent any disease. Persons with health or skin problems are

advised to consult a qualified health practitioner. The author and

producers of this book disclaim any loss or liability incurred in

connection with the advice contained herein.

YOUNGER, HEALTHIER SKIN AT ANY AGE:

NATURAL SKIN REJUVENATION STRATEGIES

Copyright 2008 by Dr Dzung Price M.D. All rights reserved

Published by Newlife Marketing & Publishing

PO Box 4543 Ashmore

Queensland 4215 Australia

Email: [email protected]

www.renewyoujourney.com


Phone: +61 7 5564 7667

Printed in Australia, May 2008

ISBN 978-0-9804643-7-5

http://www.renewyoujourney.com/

http://www.eternitycrystalbeauty.com/


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction 6 Your Hard-Working Skin 7 Why Ordinary Skin Care is Not Good Enough 9 Uncovering Your True Beauty 10 Eternity Crystal Beauty 11

THE THIEVES of YOUTH

Environmental Toxins: Invisible Enemies 13 The Body’s Coping Mechanism 14

It’s the Radicals, Man! 17 Premature Aging and Free Radicals 18

ESSENTIAL STEPS to REDUCE the AGING PROCESS

Everything Begins with Detoxifying the Drainage Organs 21 Your Primary Organs are Your Biggest Assets 21

Cleansing the Extracellular Living Matrix 24 CHI Health Innovations Detox & Drainage Solutions 27 The Detoxification Strategy 27

Antioxidants: Taming Free Radicals 29 You Are What You Eat 31 Foods to Avoid During a Cleansing Diet 33 Foods to Enjoy During a Cleansing Diet 35 Support with Supplements 38 Eating as Nature Intended 40


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Contents cont. Take Health to a Higher Level with an Alkaline Body 43 Alkalinizing Strategies 45

Keep Hormones in Check 50 ….Prevent Adrenal Gland Fatigue 50 Support Your Adrenal Glands 52 Cut Out the Coffee! 55 ….The Truth About Estrogen 56

Luxuriate in a Healthy Lifestyle 59 ….Daily Exercise 59 ….Daily Sunlight 60 ….Meditation 62 ….Ample Sleep 63

Support Your Skin with Supplements 65

Reap Youthfulness at Any Age 69 ….Natural Cosmetics to Make at Home 69

List of Benefical Ingredients 73

List of Harmful Ingredients 78

Sources 93

INTRODUCTION

Welcome. You are about to learn how to

achieve natural beauty fast, without drugs or surgery and in a totally healthy way. Some of the

solutions in this book provide visible results within a week or two; for others, the results may be evident right away. The right night cream, for

instance, can make your skin look and feel immediately more radiant, while a relaxing facial

massage changes your face in minutes. Building healthy skin cells and reviving your body‘s own rejevenation processes, on the other hand, takes a

little longer.

If your appearance is important to you, read and apply the program

outlined in this book, and enjoy the outstanding

results. You will learn that true natural beauty radiates from within.

Natural beauty doesn‘t come from toxic

injections or life-threatening surgery.

These can make physical changes and corrections, but they cannot give

your skin the glow and vibrancy that comes

from skin health, nor can they help your skin to rejuvenate itself.


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In this book, you will discover natural beauty strategies that can rejuvenate your cells from deep

within, giving you superior results. With this approach, your own true beauty will finally be revealed.

Your Hard-Working Skin

Aside from making you lovely to look at, your skin protects your inner health. It is your body‘s largest

barrier against toxins and against other irritants, and it plays a vital role in regulating the immune

system. Your marvellous skin can identify harmful substances and prevent them from entering the body. Fortunately for us, our skin is also the

thickest and strongest of the body‘s barriers, consisting of complex layers of cells that are not

easily breached. The outer layer, composed of several interacting parts, is responsible for retaining water in the body and blocking harmful

chemicals and pathogens.

Healthy, well-nourished skin can rebuild its protective barrier if it becomes damaged, and it can take measures to prevent foreign particles from

traveling any farther. For instance, you may have noticed a protective barrier of pus that the skin

may build around a splinter to prevent it from invading the body. If your skin is not healthy, it will inevitably begin to break down, leading to skin

allergies, sensitivities, skin disturbanes, and rapid or premature aging.


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Common reasons for skin breakdown are

dehydration, irritation or stress from excess sun exposure, hormonal problems, surface irritants or

chemicals, wounds or abrasions; or deficiency in certain nutrients such as vitamin B6 or zinc. The resulting unhealthy skin barrier can be breached

through inflammation, rashes, cuts and wounds, or weakened connective tissues due to excess acidity

or digestive malfunction. This allows harmful substances, toxins and allergens to enter the bloodstream.

So how do we keep our

wonderful skin barrier beautiful, young looking, and healthy? Simple. We

build its health and beauty from the inside

with wise lifestyle choices, including diet, exercise, stress management, and

deep-acting skin care products. We also protect

the skin from the outside by avoiding harmful irritants and toxins, and

nuturing it with quality skin care products.


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Why Ordinary Skin Care is Not Good Enough

Think about this: What you put on your skin is just as important as what you put into your mouth.

The skin is your body‘s largest organ. It protects your inner body and keeps precious moisture in,

and helps to eliminate waste material. Your skin also absorbs oxygen, moisture and nutrients from

your environment, and also absorbs much of what you put on it. For example, transdermal patches (like those used to help you quit smoking or for

medicanal purposes) deliver specific medications that are absorbed through the skin‘s pores. These

substances seep into the blood stream and then into the body‘s cells.

So, what exactly are you putting into your body when you use ordinary cosmetics? All too often, the

answer is: toxins. The multibillion dollar cosmetics industry may seem to have the answers to youthful

looking skin, but sadly many products are actually harmful, both to your skin and to your general health. You need to be a chemist to understand the

ingredient labels on most moisturisers, face creams, toothpastes, shampoos and cosmetics on

the market today. Far too many of them contain chemicals from the petro-chemical industry (such as like sodium lauryl sulfate and propylene glycol)

that make body cells sick, causing an array of symptoms from chronic fatigue to mood disorders

to hormonal imbalance.


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Propylene glycol is found in many moisturisers,

deodorants, shampoos, wet wipes, and in makeup. It is also found in antifreeze, paints, laundry

detergents, floor wax and hydraulic fluid. How can that be? Propylene glycol is a humectant; that is, it retains water content to stop products from drying

out. That might be good for light industry, but for your skin? Tests show that propylene glycol

contributes to contact dermatitis and poor growth of skin cells and membranes, rashes, dry skin and skin damage. Severe effects include eye irritation,

gastrointestinal disturbances, nausea, headache, vomiting and nervous system disruption.

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), commonly found in shampoos,

toothpastes and soft soap, are also used in concrete floor cleaners, engine degreasers and car

wash detergents. Researchers confirm that products containing

petrochemicals and industrial waste chemicals can irritate the skin, corrode hair follicles, denature

protein, and have been implicated in cancer. And we put this stuff into our mouths and on our skin! Research shows that we can be exposed to over

200 chemicals a day through our personal care products. What, then, is the alternative?

Uncovering Your True Beauty

The only way to develop beautiful skin that naturally resists aging is to nourish it with real


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food. Give your skin only what is good for it, and

for your body. Your skin deserves Nature‘s best ingredients - essential oils, herbs, fresh,

wholesome foods – and the benefits of truly healthy living.

Eternity Crystal Beauty

I have always sought ways to give my patients the best skin care possible.

After extensive research and testing, and working

with an expert in natural beauty, I developed totally natural, high quality skin

care products that provided excellent skin

health and rejuvenation yet were gentle enough for my most sensitive

patients. However, things took a giant leap forward

when I teamed up with Bojan Schianetz, who designed specific CHI (complex homeo-vibrational information) programs

to amplify and optimize my products‘ ability to heal and rejuvenate skin.

Together, we created the Eternity Crystal Beauty Skin Care Range, superior skin care products

bursting with good, fresh ingredients from nature‘s bounty (A list of ingredients used in these products


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is provided at the end of this book). Made of

highest quality, carefully harmonized botanicals, anti-oxidant plant extracts, vitamins, flower

essences and uplifting essential aromatic oils, each product also contains a pure quartz crystal. These crystals have been energetically enhanced with CHI

programs specially designed to help strengthen, heal and beautify your skin, and teach it how to

repair and rejuvenate itself. Yet even the best skin products are only part of the

story. True beauty comes from deep within, from the health and vigour of your cells, tissues and

blood. If you are serious about looking and feeling your very best, and achieving genuine lasting beauty, you must follow the path of natural health.

That‘s what this book is all about.

You know that within you is a beautiful You just waiting to come out. What you may not have realised is that your true beauty is hidden beneath

the effects of poor choices, our increasingly toxic environment, and stress. These can bury your cells

in layers of sick or depleted tissues, create cushions of retained fluids, and cause fatty deposits from foods that your bodies are literally unable to digest.

Now you are ready to put these behind you. You

will learn how to get rid of toxins, flush away deposits, clean your tissues, and nourish the cells in the deep layers of your skin. With just a few key

changes to your lifestyle, you will discover the joy of seeing your true beauty unfold.


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THE THIEVES OF YOUTH

Environmental Toxins: Invisible Enemies Much of premature aging caused by excess

free radicals and oxidation is due to toxins. Normally, our marvellous

bodies can cope with some level of toxins, but

in our increasingly toxic world, the body is often simply overwhelmed.

The air in our cities is

laden with toxins. Even if you live far from heavy traffic factories, you may

still be exposed to airborne toxins from farms, local insect control

mechanisms, building materials, household cleaners and so on. We also pollute our own bodily

environment. There‘s fluoride in toothpaste; chlorine and other chemicals in drinking water; aluminum in deodorants; mercury in eyeliners; and

petrochemicals in other cosmetics and household products.

Take facial moisturizers, for example. The University of Reading in the UK conducted a study

in 2004 that found high concentrations of parabens, which are commonly contained in moisturizers, in


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18 of 20 breast tumor samples. Many moisturizers

contain the artificial colors FD&C Blue 1 and FD&C Green 3, both of which include the carcinogen coal

tar. Moisturizers with sunscreen protection may contain benzophenone, homosalate, octymethoxy-cinnamate, or octinoxate, which are hormone

disruptors; padimate-O and parsol 1789, which damage DNA and cause cancer; and titanium

dioxide and zinc oxide, which cause brain cell damage.

The pesticides we use against cockroaches and ants contain cancer-causing toxins; and there‘s

formaldehyde in carpets and on furniture treated with Scotch Guard to resist stains. A recent report on the television program ―60 Minutes‖ revealed

that fire retardants in clothing and upholstery contain deadly poisons. Some clothing contains

poisons because it has been treated, dry-cleaned or starched. Electromagnetic radiation from computers and mobile phones are also a form of toxin. So we

pollute ourselves a lot without realizing it.

The Body’s Coping Mechanism The body deals with toxins in three ways:

It mobilizes the defense mechanisms to

eliminate the toxins and drain them to detoxifying organs such as the liver, kidneys, intestinal tract, lymph system and skin


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It deposits excess toxins into the extracellular

matrix, which is located between all cells. This obstructs normal transporting of nutrients and

wastes to and from all cells, resulting in low oxygenation and intracellular toxicity.

Toxins are stored inside cells, damaging intracellular structures and leading to chronic

disease. As you can see, if you allow toxins to accumulate in

your body, they can be stored in and around your cells, preventing healthy cell activity. This will

affect all parts of your body, including your skin. Basically, aging and disease are the body's reaction

to toxicity. Signs of toxicity include:

Low energy level

Inability to concentrate

Moodiness, anxiety or stress

Sinus congestion or postnasal drip

Frequent colds and flu

Bad breath or a coated tongue

Excessive body odor

Sore muscles or joints

Eczema or acne

Hay fever or allergies


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Bloating and flatulence

Indigestion or nausea

Food cravings

Weight gain

Persistent symptoms

Rapid aging.

The point is that when our bodies are stressed out

on the inside due to toxins and other factors, we cannot look our best on the outside. We look - and

feel - older than we truly are.


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It’s the Radicals, Man!

Why do we age? The number one reason is Oxidative stress … and it is caused by our everyday

lifestyle. Our bodies are designed for a simpler, hunter-gatherer lifestyle: moderate eating, natural

foods, lots of exercise, and short periods of stress. However, in modern times we‘re surrounded by too many artificial, processed ―foods‖; we regularly

experience high levels of stress; and we don‘t get enough physical activity to effectively clear out

accumulated wastes or release our stress. The result of this illogical scenario is excess Free Radical Production, also called Oxidative Stress.

When cells metabolize oxygen to produce energy,

they create by-products called oxidants. As the body burns calories it produces atoms missing one electron—this is called oxidation. Atoms speed

around trying to replace that electron; in doing so


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they bombard cells, causing cell damage and

turnover. The DNA in cells will only permit cells to replicate themselves a certain number of times

before they die. Premature Aging and Free Radicals

Free radicals are a type of oxidant; they are

essentially atoms with at least one impaired electron, which increases their propensity to become reactive. Free radicals can be helpful in

thwarting cold and flu viruses. Too many, however, and they can damage your cells and cell

membranes. In a sort of chain effect, an excess of free radicals speeds up the aging process and renders cells more likely to form harmful mutations

like those involved in cancer. Today‘s fast-paced lifestyle, processed foods and environmental

pollution promotes the development of free radicals.

Free radicals attack cells and damage DNA in the mitochondria, the central powerhouses of cells that

are responsible for producing energy. They also react with important cellular components such as DNA or the cell membrane, which can cause cells to

function poorly or die. When your cells die, your whole organism, meaning your body, begins to age.

Cellular destruction from free radicals cuts years off each cell's life—and consequently, off your life.

When free radicals react with proteins in the cell or tissue, these long chain proteins can become cross-


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linked, which means they become bound together

and tangled at the molecular level. Unable to move as freely, these protein chains can no longer do

their job efficiently. As a result, tissues lose their suppleness; skin wrinkles; veins and arteries become hardened and more inclined to build up

deposits of cholesterol.

Cross-linking is a key element in age degeneration, both at the internal level where it can cause arteriosclerosis and brain degeneration, and

superficially, since it appears to be the major reason why skin wrinkles and sags. Preventing

excessive cross linkage in your body is essential to any effective program of anti-aging.

From a cosmetic point of view, the damage that free radicals and cross-linking proteins do to the

collagen and connective tissue is particularly worrisome. Collagen, the mortar of the cells, makes up over 40 percent of your body's protein. When

collagen and other connective proteins are young, they have an almost gel-like quality to them. They

lend structural support to all the living cells. For the cells to be nourished, oxygen, moisture and nutrients have to pass through the collagen

network and the living extracellular matrix. Cell waste products are eliminated through this

network. Collagen that has become cross-linked as a result

of free radicals, however, attacks and impedes proper cell nutrition and waste elimination,


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therefore lowering the cell vitality and eventually

the vitality of the whole body. It makes your skin is sag and your muscles lose their firmness.

Free radicals and oxidative stress alter the molecular structure of the skin‘s cells, causing damage. As the skin loses its ability to repair free

radical damage, changes within cells become pronounced, which accelerates the aging process.

Skin becomes thin, and it loses its firmness and elasticity. Sun damage depletes skin tone due to the burnout of melanocytes, which reduces the

skin‘s ability to fight sun damage, causing uneven pigmentation. As the years pass, this results in

internal organ damage plus skin damage. Skin damage is visible through thinning, deep lines,

wrinkles, loss of tone and diminished radiance. Changes in muscle mass, called sarcopenia, also

affect the appearance of the skin; this is exacerbated by lack of physical activity.


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II. ESSENTIAL STEPS TO REDUCE THE AGING PROCESS

Everything Begins with Detoxifying the Drainage Organs To rid our bodies of toxins that deplete our youthful appearance, it‘s important to understand

what systems we need to detoxify, support and nourish.

Your Primary Organs are Your Biggest Assets!

The liver - The liver is the largest organ in the human body, and its primary role is to rid the body

of toxins and burn fat. The single most important organ in the detoxification process, the liver also contains many immunologically active cells. The

liver produces bile, which is stored in the gallbladder between meals. This bile aids in

digestion; excreting wastes; absorbing the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. Enzymes in the bile are also important to immune system functioning.

The intestines - At least 70 percent of the human

immune system is located in the intestines! The primary role of the intestines, namely the small intestine, is to extract nutrients from food. Food is

the number one factor in defining health, so the health of your intestines is crucial. The immune

system in the intestinal tract consists of several types of lymphoid tissue that produce and store


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immune cells. These cells attack invasive

pathogens and micro-organisms. Enzymes, particularly Cyp3Af, help the intestines detoxify

antigens. Also, beneficial intestinal bacteria reduce levels of any unhealthy bacteria.

The colon - The colon absorbs dietary fiber, sodium, magnesium and electrolytes. The large

intestine also absorbs vitamins, especially vitamin K, and reclaims water. Many health care practitioners hold that a toxed-out colon is the

source of all illness.

Lymphatic system - Referred to as the secondary circulatory

system, the lymphatic system is a network of

lymph organs, nodes, ducts, tissues, vessels and capillaries that

produce and transport lymph fluid from body

tissues to the circulatory system. It is a major component of the

immune system. The lymph system removes

excess fluids from tissues; absorbs fatty

acids and transports them to the circulatory

system; and produces immune and antibody-producing cells such as plasma cells and


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monocytes. The system works with white blood

cells in lymph nodes to protect the body from bacteria, fungi, viruses and cancer.

The lymph is moved through the system by the squeezing action of skeletal muscles, particularly

near the joints. Regular exercise enourages this cleansing flow, while tight clothing and inactivity

restrict it. If tissue fluid builds up, the tissue swells, resulting in edema.

Kidneys - The primary role of the kidneys is to maintain a correct balance of bodily fluids by

filtering metabolites such as urea and minerals from the blood along with water, which makes urine. The kidneys excrete the waste byproducts of

metabolism, including the nitrogenous wastes of urea from protein catabolism and uric acid from

nucleic acid metabolism, along with water. The kidneys regulate the body‘s pH balance and water composition of the blood; help regulate blood

pressure, metabolize glucose, produce red blood cells and secrete certain hormones.


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Cleansing the Extracellular Living Matrix

The extracellular living matrix consists of blood vessels, lymph fluid and nerve tissue. It

includes the interstitial matrix (between the cells), which acts as a buffer, and the basement

membrane, which supports epithelial cells. Overall,

the extracellular matrix provides support and anchoring for cells, separates different tissues from

one another, and regulates communication between cells. It regulates each cell‘s behavior, is

responsible for cellular growth factors and acts as a sort of depot for cells. The extracellular matrix is


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essential for growth and wound healing. The matrix

serves a dual purpose: nutrients flow into this space, and toxic products are excreted via this

space. All substances moving in and out of cells travel through the matrix. When it becomes congested with toxins, nutrients can no longer

supply the cell with its requirements. The matrix may then accumulate undesirable heavy metals,

metabolites, chemicals and mineral complexes; slow tissue drainage results.

It is important to cleanse the matrix so that nutrients become available to degenerating cells to

allow them to repair and heal. Hence, it is vitally important to maintain optimum matrix health for vibrant health, beauty and energy.

According to Traditional Chinese medicine, when fluid is blocked, life energy is blocked. This life energy is called qi, pronounced ―chee.‖ Qi energy

travels along primary pathways in our bodies,


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called meridians. Western scientists have confirmed

the existence of these meridians with sensitive electrical mapping devices. Modern-day excesses,

chemical toxins, negative thinking, and emotional blockages devitalize our energy pathways, pollute our bodies, and lower our vitality.

No one can be beautiful on the outside if stuffed full

of poisons on the inside—at least, not for long. When the body's elimination organs cannot fully

cope with toxins such as metabolic byproducts, environmental pollutants or an unhealthy diet, a

cascade of events takes place. The body‘s first tendency is to excrete the toxins by any means possible through elimination pathways, However,

when the usual pathways are overwhelmed, then acute or ongoing inflammation may result. If this

fails to bring about resolution, the toxins are stored in the body‘s tissues, muscles, and extracellular matrix, and must be released and flushed with

detoxification.

Because the body's major detoxification process takes place outside the cell in the extracellular matrix, we detoxify the cellular matrix in order to

eliminate toxins inside and outside all of the body‘s cells. At my clinics, the Renew You Centres for

Wellbeing and Longevity in Queensland Australia, we use two key detoxification strategies: special detox remedies from CHI Health Innovations, plus a

cleansing diet.


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CHI Health Innovations

Detoxification and Drainage Solutions

These carefully formulated warm homoeopathic remedies are designed to relieve some of the toxic load caused by an unhealthy lifestyle: substance

abuse, an unbalanced diet, overwork, etc. They work by opening and stimulating the body's natural

elimination processes to cleanse the body of poisons such as chemicals, germs and heavy metals, which build up over time and are

detrimental to the immune system.

The Detoxification Strategy This is a three-pronged strategy to:

Support the organs of elimination, including the

liver, kidneys, lungs and skin; then transfer drainage of toxins from the lymphatic system and extracellular matrix to the liver and kidneys

Neutralize toxins in the liver and kidneys

Excrete toxins out of the body.

This involves three pillars of treatment:

Drainage and detoxification

Immunomodulation

Cell and organ support.


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These treatments honour the integrity of your living cellular matrix. At Renew You, our philosophy is to

do no harm. Every treatment is designed to enhance and nourish the living matrix, inside and out.

Our goal is to restore beauty, energy and health

with nature and a touch of technology. To promote more efficient and effective detoxification and to provide optimal cell rejuvenation, we only use

internal and external rejuvenation and detoxification products that have been carefully

imprinted with special frequencies and energies designed to enhance health and cleansing of the human body and the living cellular matrix.


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Antioxidants: Taming Free Radicals It has been scientifically determined that the

human body is capable of living a healthy life of 120 years. Indeed, peoples with physically active

lifestyles who enjoy diets consisting primarily of raw foods, such as those of the Hunzu tribe or

mountainous regions of South America, live active lives well into their 100s. The degree our lifestyle differs from our hunter-gatherer heritage is directly

proportional to the damage we inflict upon our bodies with free radicals, pollution and edible toxic

foodstuffs. This can take years off our lives. The body employs a defense system involving

antioxidants to prevent damage from free radicals. Antioxidants are molecules that can safely interact

with free radicals and terminate the chain reaction before vital molecules are damaged. The body‘s naturally occurring antioxidant enzymes, present in

almost all cells, include superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase.

Antioxidants reduce the effects of harmful oxidation and neutralize free radicals. They protect the body

from oxidation and further free radical damage, helping to prevent cell damage, slowing the overall

aging process, and also helping to prevent cancer and heart disease. That is why you hear and see so many advertisements for antioxidants.


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Although several enzyme systems in the body

scavenge free radicals, the principle micronutrients for combatting antioxidants are:

Vitamin C: Vitamin c, or ascorbic acid, is a

water-soluble vitamin contained in citrus fruits

and juices; cantaloupe, kiwi, and strawberries; and green peppers, cabbage, spinach, broccoli

and kale.

Vitamin E: This fat-soluble vitamin is

contained in apricots; nuts and seeds; vegetable and fish oils; plus whole grains, wheat germ and

fortified cereals.

Beta carotene: Beta carotene is a precursor to

vitamin A. It is found in tomatoes, cantaloupe, peaches, spinach, carrots, squash, broccoli,

yams, grains, egg yolks, milk and butter.

Selenium: This trace metal required to keep

the body's antioxidant enzyme systems function properly is sometimes included in this category

of antioxidants The body cannot manufacture these micronutrients,

so they must be supplied in the diet. The most effective way to obtain them is to enjoy a diet of

whole foods rich in these vitamins and minerals, and full of digestive enzymes. Plus, you can often benefit from supplementing your diet with high-

antioxidant vitamins.


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You Are What You Eat A cleansing or detoxification diet is one of

the most powerful tools at your disposal for eliminating toxins and building cellular health and

beauty. It not only helps to flush toxins, parasites and other pathogens from your body; it also

provided the essential nutrients that your cells, blood and organs need to rebuild and repair themselves so that you develop the healthy,

glowing skin and sparkling eyes of youth.

Depending your situation, you may need just a few days on a detoxification diet, or several months.

But the benefits are well worth the effort.

Although in many ways based on the principles of a good healthy diet, a cleansing diet is a more

intensive strategy specifically designed to speed up


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the purging of accumulated toxins over a shorter

period of time. It does this by maximizing nutrients that support the liver, the organ primarily

responsible for binding up circulating chemicals and toxins in the body, and by supporting all of your body‘s elimination channels and detoxification

organs. In addition, drinking ample pure water and eating lots of many high-fiber foods helps flush out

toxins through increased urination and defecation. This scours your colon clean, and removes impediments to circulation.

NOTE: You should consult your health care

practitioner before undertaking a cleansing diet to

ensure that you do not have adrenal fatigue. Children and pregnant or nursing women should not embark on a full-fledged detox diet. Also, do

not undergo detox diets more than three times annually without supervision. It‘s easiest on the

body to undertake a cleansing diet during the warmer months.

Because a cleansing diet minimizes food additives

and focuses on natural, whole, more nutritious organic foods, it also helps to strengthen your immune system and supports optimal cell repair

and rejuvenation. You will quickly begin to notice that you look better, feel better, and have loads of

energy. First, there are some important no-no‘s in a

cleansing diet. As much as possible, you should


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avoid certain foods (You can eat them again later,

after your detoxification is complete, if you wish).

Foods to Avoid During a Cleansing Diet

Sugar. This includes high fructose corn syrup,

corn syrup, brown sugar, turbinado, dextrose, sucrose, fructose, and all artificial sweeteners.

Dairy products. Anyone older than age four is

technically lactose-intolerant; after that age, the

intestines lack the enzymes necessary to completely digest dairy products. Humans are

the only species that ingest milk beyond infancy. Most dairy products have been pasteurized and homogenized, which destroys

all their beneficial enzymes; they are also filled with preservatives and chemicals to give them a

longer shelf life. Dairy products are a common allergen, and can cause acne. They are often contained in packaged foods as whey, skim milk

protein, milkfat, milkfat solids, and casein.

Wheat. More and more people are developing an allergy to wheat, perhaps because it is used so widely as an additive in packaged foods to

thicken texture or consistency. Wheat also causes acne and many digestive problems.

If possible, avoid processed grains, especially wheat. If you cannot do this straight away, then

avoid strictly processed white carbohydrates such as bread, bagels and doughnuts


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Gluten. Gluten is found in wheat, oats, barley,

rye, spelt, kamut and triticale. It may also be contained in ingredients such as unidentified

starch; modified food starch; hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP); hydrolyzed plant protein (HPP); texturized vegetable protein

(TVP); binders; fillers; excipients; extenders; and malt.

Yeast.

Peanuts. Peanuts are a common food allergen. Iingestion can even be fatal for many

individuals.

Caffeine.

Alcohol. When the liver processes alcohol, it

must temporarily stop metabolizing fat. That‘s why regularly consuming alcohol leads to obesity. The liver is the number one organ in

need of support during a cleansing diet, so alcohol (which taxes the liver) cannot be

consumed.

Non-organic foods, to the greatest extent

possible.

Food additives and preservatives.


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Foods to Enjoy During a Cleansing Diet

You do not have to go hungry or feel deprived.

Instead, choose these delicious, highly nutritious foods.

Fresh fruits and vegetables, if possible,

organic. Aim to eat at least five servings or more of fresh raw fruits

and vegetables every day. Raw foods have high

enzyme content, which is extremely healing and beautifying. All-natural,

100 percent fruit and vegetable juices fit this

category. Aim for eating a ―rainbow

diet‖ when selecting fruits and vegetables; the deeper the color, the higher

the antioxidant content. Fruits and vegetables are high in vitamin C and glutathione, both of which are vital for the detoxification process.

Brassicas like broccoli, Brussels sprouts,

cabbage, kohlrabi, kale and cauliflower assist the liver‘s detoxifying enzymes. Onions and garlic kill yeast and just about anything else that

ails you; they‘re also high in sulfur-rich compounds which help rid the body of toxic


36

heavy metals, environmental pollutants and

particular drugs. Artichokes contain caffeoylquinic acids, which help digest fats and

increase bile production. Beets rich in betaine aid in regenerating liver cells, metabolizing fat and producing bile. All red and green vegetables

are also particularly helpful.

Excellent sources of antioxidants include blueberries; cherries; pomegranate juice; wolf berries, acal berries, and green leafy

vegetables.

Gluten-free whole grains. This includes basmati or brown rice, buckwheat, millet, amaranth and quinoa. Your local health food store will provide

a wide selection of wholemeal hot and cold cereals, pasta, crackers, flour and even baking

mixes. Regular grocers may also carry many of these items, particularly pasta.

Quality protein. The liver needs ample protein to do its job during the cleansing process. Get

quality, low fat protein with each meal from beans, raw nuts and seeds, tofu, and hummus. Split yellow and green lentils and peas are easily

digested. Also good are mung and adzuki, garbanzo (chickpeas), kidney and pinto.

Cold water fish such as salmon (not farmed) and sardines provide excellent protein and are also

rich in omega 3 fatty acids, which is very good for your skin.


37

If you choose to eat meat, then do so in small quantities and from certified organic sources.

Extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil is a healthy

monounsaturated fat. Coconut oil is even better!

At least 12 to 16 glasses of pure water every

day. Adding a slice of lemon is fine. You can also enjoy natural fruit and vegetable juices, rice milk, decaffeinated herbal tea and green

tea.

More raw foods. This pertains to fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. Think hummus, salads and fresh fruit. Cooking destroys

beneficial enzymes, which decreases nutrients. Raw foods are alive, just like you; highly

processed foods are not. The more ―dead‖ a food is, the duller it will render your appearance. Eating living foods teeming with

enzymes will uncover the contours of your attractive facial structure, eliminate skin

irregularities and brighten your eyes. Thin body types, however, may not thrive on a

diet of too many raw foods. It may lead to excessive weight loss and constantly feeling

cold. For such body types, it‘s important to enjoy a balance of cooked and raw foods.

Limit condiments to sea salt, cracked peppercorns, herbs and spices, vinegar, and


38

naturally fermented soy sauce or tamari. Honey

is acceptable in small amounts. But do not use honey to sweeten hot tea or in baked goods.

Heated honey clogs the physiology; it can also lead to overstimulation, irritability and even sleeplessness if ingested too close to bedtime.

If you prefer to sweeten hot tea with honey, wait until the tea has cooled to room

temperature. Support with Supplements

At the onset of the cleansing diet, you may

experience a day of two of increased elimination, headache and nausea as the body rids itself of toxins. You may also notice increased acne or

fatigue as toxins are purged. This is perfectly normal, and indicates that toxins are being pushed

through the body to be eliminated. Very soon, you will notice a more robust energy level; clear and radiant skin; sharper mental focus, and improved

vision and hearing.

Helpful supplements to take during a detox diet include:

High-potency multivitamins that contain zinc, selenium and molybdenum

Vitamin C, a basic yet powerful antioxidant that

will decrease any headache or nausea


39

Milk thistle, a powerful herb and antioxidant that

assists with liver cell regeneration. It is also especially helpful after consuming excessive

alcohol and fat or exposure to chemical pollutants

Dandelion root as a supplement or tea to increase bile production and support the liver

Choline and methionine supplements, also

referred to as lipotropic factors, to improve fat

metabolism and bile flow.

Uncovering Hidden Allergies

One additional benefit of a cleansing diet is that it can

help to uncover unsuspected or undiagnosed food

allergies and sensitivities. Allergies or sensitivities are

one of the most overlooked causes of chronic health

problems, weight gain, and accelerated aging.

Undiagnosed or hidden allergies can cause a whole range

of symptoms ranging from headaches, sinusitis, mood

swings, aches and pains, gut problems, bloating,

depression, indigestion, sallow skin, arthritis and chronic

fatigue. They also accelerate the aging process.

The fact is, any symptom could be related to an

underlying allergy or sensitivity you may not be aware

of. To find out more about whether you may be suffering

from hidden allergies and what you can do to rapidly

regain health and vitality, visit

www.freefromallergies.com.

http://www.freefromallergies.com/


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Eating as Nature Intended

Once you have completed your cleansing diet, it

will be very easy to continue eating the foods that your body needs, and that will keep your skin vibrant and lovely. The previous suggestions can be

easily adapted to a lifetime of healthy eating. You will already have learned to prefer whole, natural,

fresh foods over foods that have been grown in chemically treated soil, processed to death, radiated, or bio-engineered.

The secret is to listen to your inborn ability to

choose the right foods. After being detoxified, your body will be much more sensitive to the effects of what you eat, and will

naturally guide you towards foods that are

good for you. The quantity of food you

eat is just as important. Most modern diseases

arise from both eating the wrong foods, and eating too much…more than our

digestion and elimination organs can handle,

process or detoxify. Also, it is very highly

beneficial to eat early and to keep your evening


41

meals small, so as to allow the body to go rest

without the huge burden of digesting your food. Sleep is designed to rest and rejuvenate our

bodies, enabling us to repair, heal and prepare us for a brand new day. If we spend the whole eight hours of sleep digesting our heavy evening meal,

then there is not enough energy left over for rejuvenation and repair, causing accelerated aging

and fatigue the next day. In addition, a big meal at night stimulates

excessive insulin production, which in turn inhibits growth hormone production, which reaches its peak

around 2 or 3 a.m. Growth hormone is our primary anti-aging hormone directing and orchestrating cellular rejuvenation activities overnight. If you eat

a big cooked meal at night, you overburden the pancreas, steal metabolic enzymes to digest your

cooked meal - causing a sluggish metabolism - and you effectively suppress your growth hormone production, which means you are rapidly aging

overnight instead of rejuvenating.

Numerous scientific studies have shown that low calorie intake dramatically slows the aging process and boosts growth hormone production. It is a

simple fact that excess calories cause excess free radicals, deplete your vital enzyme system and

accelerate the aging process. Hence, if you take in fewer calories, fewer free radicals result.

Of course, this does not mean starving yourself! Listen to your body signals and eat only when you


42

are hungry, not out of boredom, routine or fatigue.

Make appropriate anti-aging choices with raw, fresh colorful foods rich in nutrients and low in calories.

You will find that you eat far more, feel satisfied and stay beautiful, vital and young.


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Take Your Health to a Higher Level with an Alkaline Body

Health and beauty begin with an alkaline

body, and one way to achieve that is through the kind of healthy diet we have already described. Our bodies function best, and rejuvenate more

effectively with a slightly more alkaline inner environment, ideally pH balanced at 7.39.

The acidity range is from six down to zero; zero represents a state of absolute acidity. The more

acidic a substance is, the lower its number. Alkalinity ranges from eight to 14; 14 represents a

state of total alkalinity. Balanced pH falls between 7.36 and 7.42. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14. The number 7 is neutral pH, signifying the ideal

balance between acid and alkaline substances.

The body is alkaline by design, but the functions of daily stress, digestion and metabolism create acids. That doesn‘t necessarily mean that acid is all bad

and that a purely alkaline state is all good; it‘s vital


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that the body attain a balance between the two,

being slightly more alkaline. Death results when acidosis reaches between 7 and 6, or when

alkalosis reaches between 7.8 and 9.

When alkaline and acidic elements are consumed in fairly equal quantities, the body attains acid-alkaline balance. Acidic and alkaline foods possess

opposing but complementary characteristics. The common problem in today‘s world is that the body

becomes too acidic, typically due to poor diet. When that happens, complications arise because the body can no longer function properly. So many

maladies are caused by a body state that‘s too acidic. The triple action of aggressive acid activity,

enzymatic disturbances and demineralization can strike any tissue. Symptoms of an overly acidic body state include:

Constant physical and mental fatigue

Loss of muscle tone

Irritability, anxiety, being easily prone to stress

Conjunctivitis

Lumbago

Dental maladies: cavities; sensitive, inflamed

gums; cracks at the corners of the mouth

Diarrhea and/or rectal burning sensation

Intestinal inflammation such as colitis or

enteritis


45

Itchy and burning urinary tract

Dry, itchy skin; red, irritated skin in

perspiration-heavy areas such as underarms or

behind knees

Thin, easily breaking fingernails

Dull hair; falls out in noticeable amounts

Leg cramps and spasms

Stiff neck

Osteoporosis

Arthritis

Sciatica

Tendonitis.

Today‘s diet is composed primarily of acidic foods, such as sugars, refined carbohydrates and proteins. Alkaline foods such as vegetables are often

consumed in quantities too small to neutralize excess acids. Other causes of excess acidity are tobacco, alcohol and caffein; stress, and insufficient

exercise.

Alkalinizing Strategies

The easiest way to achieve pH balance is to eat less of acid-forming foods, and eat more alkalinizing

foods. This involves a way of eating that has been largely outlined in the Detox diet provided in the


46

previous section. Here are a few more guidelines

for a cleansing, alkalizing way of living:

1. Revolutionize your breakfast. Most typical breakfast foods promote high levels of acidity,

yeast, and fungi growth in the body. Foods such as breakfast cereals, sweet rolls, toast, pancakes, waffles, muffins, oatmeal, maple syrup, honey,

coffee, and orange juice contain huge amounts of sugars and simple carbohydrates, which over-

acidify the blood and tissues. You are unwittingly creating an ideal breeding ground for the major enemies of your body‘s cells and tissues: bacteria,

yeast, and fungi. Traditional high-protein breakfast foods such as sausage, bacon, etc., also promote

the growth of yeast and fungi. In addition, most meats, especially pork, are high in parasite activity.

Therefore, if you are truly seeking health and youthfulness, you need to revolutionize your

breakfast. Choose foods that you would normally eat for lunch or dinners, such as rice dishes, soups,

vegetables, lentils and legumes. Add some proteins such as free-range eggs or fish to help cell renewal. For example, you might try a breakfast of millet or

brown basmati rice with fresh avocado and tomato slices, soaked almonds, sunflower sprouts and flax

oil. An excellent way to start your day! 2. Add liberal amounts of dark green and yellow

vegetables plus grasses from a wide variety of sources. SuperGreens such as barley, wheatgrass

and spirulina, are just one way of adding 49


47

different greens to your daily diet. Fresh vegetables

and grasses are an excellent source of the alkaline salts that are anti-yeast, anti-fungal, and anti-

mycotoxic. The chlorophyll contained in plants and grasses is

identical to human blood except for one atom, which makes it highly nutritious for us. Green foods

such as wheatgrass and barley grass are some of the lowest-calorie, lowest-sugar and most nutrient-rich foods on the planet. Juiced, green vegetables

are very cleansing. Vegetables and grasses are also loaded with fiber.

3. Include moderate amounts of low-carbohydrate grains in your diet. Though valuable sources of key

nutrients and energy, complex carbohydrates are highly acid forming in the body and should not

exceed 20 percent of the diet. Eat fresh - preferably sprouted - organic grains in moderation, as they are acid forming. Some of the ancient

grains such as amaranth, spelt, quinoa, buckwheat, and millet are more alkaline choices.

4. Eat lots of sprouts. Some of the best foods to eat are sprouts. Sprouted seeds become more alkaline

as they grow. They are live plant foods that are biogenic, which means they transfer their life

energy to us. Sprouts can easily be grown in your kitchen during any season.

5. Increase alkali-forming foods, and eat fewer acid-forming foods. Good alkali-forming foods


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include fresh sprouts, spinach, kale, Swiss chard,

avocados, lemons, limes, cucumbers, celery, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, green

beans, eggplant, broccoli, fresh tomatoes, zucchini, green/red/yellow peppers, onions, okra, garlic, parsley, watercress, cabbage, squashes, soy beans

(including tofu), garbanzo beans, raw almonds, Brazil nuts, hazel nuts, sesame seeds, flax seed,

sprouted grains and legumes. Green juices from all green vegetables and their

tops are highly alkaline. Also, vegetable broths are extremely alkalizing to the body. These need to be

yeast-free and preservative free. Acid-forming foods to avoid or reduce are animal

products, milk, cheese (especially strong cheese), refined grains and yeast products, and sugar,

including very sweet fruits. 6. Eliminate yeasts and fungus. Research links

yeast with breast cancer, gall and kidney stones and arthritis. Yeast and fungus promote acidity in

the body, which can lead to inflammation and damaged cells. Eliminate bakers or brewers yeast and all yeast-containing foods, especially baked

goods such as bread, muffins, pies, cakes and pastries. Other sources of yeasts and fungus

include alcohol, tobacco, mushrooms, and poorly stored or old legumes, beans and nuts.

7. Drink plenty of water. Ideally you should drink four liters or more of good, structured water each


49

day to increase urination, which helps to remove

excess acids from your body. Distilled or reverse-osmosis purified water are more neutral and can be

brought into the alkaline range with drops of Prime pH.

8. Get 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise every day. This pushes accumulated acids from your body

tissues and moves them out of your body through increased perspiration and deep breathing.


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Keep Hormones in Check Prevent Adrenal Gland Fatigue

The adrenal glands are thumb-sized, and one sits atop each kidney. Although they are small, they play a huge role in our overall youthfulness

and energy levels. The adrenal glands produce the youth-related hormone DHEA, and also the stress

hormones adrenaline and cortisol. DHEA decreases the percentage of body fat; increases muscle mass; improves energy and mental clarity, and lowers

LDL, or bad, cholesterol. Cortisol is a beneficial hormone - but only in the proper amounts. Cortisol

stimulates the liver to convert amino acids to glucose and mobilize fatty acids in the blood; this gives us energy.

You can, on the other hand, tax your adrenal

glands with too much daily stress, a diet high in overprocessed ―foods,‖ lack of daily exercise, or

insufficient sleep. Then, your overworked adrenal glands crank out too much cortisol, adversely

affecting your health and speeding up the aging process. Signs of adrenal fatigue include:

Feeling groggy when you awaken; having

trouble peeling yourself out of bed in the

morning

Inability to fully awaken without morning

caffeine


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Relying on caffeine and sugar-laden junk food to

keep going, especially in the late morning

and/or afternoon

Poor memory and fuzzy thinking

Cravings for sugary junk food

Hypoglycemia

Headaches

Recurring infections

Low sex drive

Depression

Difficulty falling asleep, often due to worries

racing through the mind.

While adrenal fatigue is often overlooked, it can be confirmed with a non-invasive salivary Adrenal Stress test from your health care provider. This test

analyzes cortisol levels by collecting saliva four times during the course of a day. A laboratory then analyzes cortisol and DHEA levels, which are

indicators of your stress levels.

Stress – whether psychological or physiological – is the underlying cause of adrenal fatigue. Stress can

result from factors like:

Overwork—mental and or/physical

Exposure to environmental toxins


52

Unresolved emotional issues, such as worry,

anger, guilt, depression, anxiety and fear

Chronic pain or illness

Working late hours

Surgery, injury or physical trauma

Temperature extremes

Excessive exercising

Severe allergies.

The bottom line is this: unresolved or accumulated

stress can push your adrenal glands to exhaustion. If your adrenal glands are taxed, you will begin to feel old and tired, and very soon, you will start to

look old and tired. If you do not help your adrenal glands to recover, you risk serious health problems,

including autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases, and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Support Your Adrenal Glands

The following suggestions will help keep your adrenal glands functioning at their best — and keep

you looking and looking your best:


53

Get eight hours of sleep every single night, and go to bed by 10 p.m. The earlier before

midnight you go to bed, the more your adrenal glands will be recharged. Even if you go to bed

late because you can sleep in the next morning, your adrenal glands will not be fully restored. This is absolutely crucial for overall

youthfulness.

Enjoy a diet loaded with whole foods and very low in refined sugar. Eat plenty of protein at each meal and snack.

Take 500 to 2,000 mg of vitamin C divided into

several doses throughout the day. Vitamin C supports the adrenal glands‘ blood vessels.

Take 500 to 1,000 mg of vitamin B-5, pantothenic acid, in divided doses throughout

the day. It helps the adrenals produce energy.

Take 25 to 50 mg daily of a B complex vitamin.


54

Take 300 to 400 mg of magnesium in citrate,

glycinate, malate or fumarate forms in divided doses throughout the day.

Take 15 to 30 mg of zinc every day.

Take 100 mg of Siberian ginseng twice daily, preferably before 3 p.m. so as not to interfere

with sleep.

Enjoy daily exercise, but not in excess.

Allow yourself to accept affection and

nurturance from others.

Laugh often!

When faced with stressful situations, you can also

boost your body‘s ability to produce DHEA with mental exercises. Here‘s one developed by the Institute of HeartMath in Boulder, Colorado. Try it

when you feel overstressed, angry, anxious, guilty or fearful:

Stop; observe your emotions

Try to name what is annoying you; write it down if necessary

Focus your awareness to your heart area; place

your hand on your heart if necessary


55

Imagine a happy, funny or uplifting person,

event or place

Think about something that makes you feel unconditional love for 15 seconds, such as a child or a pet; place your hand on your heart if

necessary

Notice how you overcame the downward plummet of negativity!

The body‘s DHEA levels have been shown to increase after only one month of practicing this

exercise. Practicing it three to five times daily proves most effective.

Cut Out the Coffee!

That morning cup of coffee may seem like a warm, soothing treat, but caffeine is a powerful stimulant that stimulates the body‘s stress response. One cup

of coffee contains 110 mg of caffeine. Drinking six cups of coffee is the equivalent of taking an

amphetamine, or 5 mg of detroamphetamine. Consuming caffeine stimulates the adrenal glands to crank out more adrenaline. Not only does this

increase irritability, anxiety and muscle tension, but it also hampers proper digestion and weakens your

immune system. Further, caffeine stimulates the central nervous

system, making it difficult to fall asleep. It also decreases your body‘s production of youth-related


56

hormones, particularly DHEA and melatonin.

Melatonin production is necessary for sound sleep, and again, you need a good night‘s sleep to

recharge your adrenal glands. Without adequate sleep, you get caught up in vicious cycle wherein your adrenal glands cannot fully recharge at night,

and subsequently produce more youth-eroding cortisol and adrenaline.

Also, caffeine causes blood sugar to spike dramatically. The body then responds by producing

large amounts of insulin, which in turn causes a blood sugar crash. Insulin tells the body to store

excess sugar as fat, which causes weight gain. Is your morning coffee really worth all these problems?

The Truth About Estrogen

Not only do the adrenal glands define our youthful energy level, but they help produce estrogen. After

age 25, the estrogen produced by a woman‘s ovaries begins to decline. The medical and

pharmaceutical establishments play on women‘s fears of growing older and therefore ―less beautiful‖ by overemphasizing this ―inevitable withering

away.‖ Yet the body is perfectly capable of producing ample levels of estrogen for an entire

lifetime. The truth is that the adrenal glands gradually take

over producing estrogen. When the ovaries begin slowing down estrogen production, the pituitary


57

gland in the brain tells the rest of the body to take

over. By the time you have passed through menopause, your adrenal glands are solely

responsible for producing estrogen. They convert androstenadione into estrone, a non-ovarian form of estrogen. This completely natural transition of

the body‘s estrogen production process may be responsible for hot flashes and night sweats.

The misconception that only ovaries produce adequate estrogen feeds into a negative mindset

about the ―inevitable decline of aging‖. We think that menopause is a sign that we are getting old,

and so we inevitably feel and look older. Yet the reality is much more complex, and also a lot more positive than we are often led to believe!

Research has shown that maintaining optimum

hormone levels not only slows down aging processes, but also to combats a wide variety of debilitating diseases. It can even reverse the

process of aging for some of the body‘s organs.

Aging is primarily due to tissue breakdown, which is a catabolic process. Testosterone and DHEA are anabolic, meaning that they build hormones; they

help to, if not reverse, at least slow down the aging process.

DHEA, or dehyroepiandosterone, is one of the most abundant naturally occurring hormones and seems

capable of producing the most dramatic results in the following areas: enhancing the immune system,


58

reducing the incidence of cancer, heart disease and

osteoporosis; lowering blood cholesterol; stabilizing blood sugar levels to prevent the onset of adult

diabetes; assisting in weight and fat loss; controlling Alzheimer‘s and autoimmune diseases; plus improving memory, depression and learning

problems.

Testosterone promotes building up body tissues such as muscle and bone. Testosterone production decreases with age, but the relative loss of

estrogen is much faster. This sets up an interesting imbalance. As estrogen declines, another substance

called Sex Hormone Binding Globulin also declines, causing more testosterone to be freed within the body. This can lead to signs of a relative

testosterone excess indicated by such signs as oily skin, acne, excess facial hair, and loss of hair on

the head. As a woman becomes fully menopausal, however, testosterone production slows down further, signs of testosterone excess disappear, and

the woman soon becomes testosterone-deficient.

The key to regaining hormonal health is balance. Estrogen and progesterone need to be replaced early enough in the peri-menopausal process to

balance testosterone. Testosterone needs to be replaced at a time that lab tests dictate is

appropriate. See an appropriately-trained anti-aging physician to look at the possibility of natural hormone replacement and restore your hormones

back to healthy and youthful levels.


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Luxuriate in a Healthy Lifestyle Daily Exercise If you want to slow down the aging process

and help your cells rejuvenate themselves, exercise, like sleep and food, is not optional. It is

an absolute necessity. Exercise is the body‘s number one outlet for stress hormones that make us feel and look withered.

Basically, stress is a

survival mechanism. Our adrenal glands pump out

adrenaline which increases heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, blood sugar,

and muscle tension, and dilates pupils. The body is

being prepared to literally run in order to escape physical danger, or fight.

This stress response was

appropriate when our world was populated with wooly mammoths and

saber-toothed tigers. But today‘s stressors are more likely to be traffic jams, office deadlines and

unexpected bills - things that do not call for a powerful physical reaction. Therefore, the stress chemicals that flood our systems are not naturally

used up or eliminated. Unless we get enough


60

exercise to flush these chemicals out, they can

accumulate in the body, contributing to our body‘s toxic load.

As with diet, we must embrace the hunter-gatherer within, which was designed to be active! Hence, the

crucial importance of daily exercise. Without it, stress hormones have no opportunity to escape

from the body. Stress energy is bottled up, and the body is forced into stress mode for hours on end. Eventually this buildup of stress becomes chronic,

eroding our health and therefore our beauty.

Every human being needs 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic activity every day. There‘s no need to exercise beyond 60 minutes - unless, of course,

you‘re enjoying an activity that you‘re absolutely passionate about, such as cross-country skiing. Nor

do you need an expensive gym membership. Just get outdoors for a brisk walk, some bicycling with the kids, or a game of basketball—whatever sounds

like fun to you. If it‘s raining or too hot outdoors, enjoy some indoor yoga, or bounce on a mini

trampoline. To ensure sound sleep, conclude all exercise no later than three hours before bedtime.

Daily Sunlight

In today‘s society, we spend up to 90 percent of our time indoors, yet poor indoor air quality is responsible for more than 50 percent of all

illnesses! Sunlight and fresh air, on the other hand, are nature‘s two most powerful antiseptics. We are


61

living organisms that need sunlight to survive. If

we didn‘t, taking tropical vacations in the middle of winter wouldn‘t be so wildly popular!

Sunlight provides these health benefits:

Boosts liver function

Facilitates digestion

Improves waste elimination

Strengthens the immune system by increasing white blood cell count

Regulates blood sugar

Promotes weight loss by stimulating thyroid

function, which boosts metabolism

Converts cholesterol to vitamin D, lowering cholesterol levels and increasing calcium

absorption

Tells the body‘s internal circadian clock to

stimulate melatonin production in the evening, which induces sleep…and sleep is vital to supporting the adrenal glands to slow the aging

process in general

Regulates blood pressure

Improves circulation

Lowers heart rate

Increases the brain‘s production of endorphins,

the feel-good chemical that prevents depression


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Kills germs on skin

Try to get at least 15 minutes of natural sunlight

every day, preferably during mid-day hours. Running errands doesn‘t count. If you get outside for some exercise following lunch, you‘ll take care

of your exercise and sunlight requirements simultaneously!

Of course, it‘s important not to overdo exposure to sunlight to prevent premature skin aging. If you‘re

going to be out longer than 15 minutes, or if you have particularly fair and sensitive skin, be sure to

use sunscreen - preferably an all-natural brand that‘s free of nanoparticles. Also, be especially careful of exfoliation in conjunction with sun

exposure so as not to peel off your skin‘s natural wrinkle protector.

Meditation

Individuals who have practiced Transcendental

Meditation for five years or longer measure a full 12 years younger than their chronological age! Why? Because meditation reduces free radicals and levels

of the stress chemicals cortisol and lactate; lowers the heart rate and cholesterol levels, and increases

DHEAs and skin resistance to germs. It also puts the nervous system and brain into a state of deep relaxation.


63

To enjoy the benefits of

meditation, simply sit in a comfortable position with

your spine erect yet relaxed. It doesn‘t matter whether you prefer sitting

cross legged on the floor or sitting in a chair. Rest

your hands palm-up on your lap or thighs, close your eyes, and focus on

your breathing. Whenever your mind starts to

wander, which it will, simply refocus your attention on your

breathing. It‘s that simple!

Try to meditate for at least five minutes daily. Some people prefer to do it just after awakening to set a peaceful tone for the day, and others prefer

just before bedtime to calm down the mind for sleep. Morning and evening are even better. You

can also fit in meditative moments throughout your day, such as when waiting in the doctor‘s office.

Ample Sleep

There is a reason why we call it a ―beauty sleep!‖ Getting eight hours of sleep every night, and going to bed by 10 p.m. at the latest are absolutely

crucial to guarantee overall youthfulness.


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Sleep deprivation forces the adrenals to

overproduce cortisol. Getting ample sleep facilitates ample production of DHEA, which helps keeps

cortisone levels in check. It also lowers the percentage of body fat. Too much cortisol also increases blood sugar, and it raises the risk of

developing high blood pressure, heart disease and high cholesterol.


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Support Your Skin with Supplements

The skin is a living tissue, and interacts within the entire framework of the body. The basis

of skin rejuvenation begins with cellular rejuvenation. To achieve this, we must:

Protect our cells from inflammatory damage and toxins

Protect the mitochondria and boost cellular

metabolism to provide energy for rejuvenation

The number one way that we can ensure cellular

rejuvenation is by enjoying a healthy lifestyle — which includes a whole foods-based diet, exercise, adequate rest, and antioxidant supplements.

The nutrients that most benefit the skin include:

Vitamin C Counters the effects of

overexposure to the sun. Reduces damage

caused by free radicals from pollution and smoke; these free radicals consume collagen

and elastin fibers that support skin structure, resulting in exaggerated wrinkles and sagging. To get sufficient vitamin C, enjoy foods rich in

this nutrient; take up to 2,000 mg of vitamin C daily in doses of 500 mg, and use vitamin C

topical cream to stimulate collagen production. The L-ascorbic acid form is necessary to

properly penetrate all skin layers.


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Vitamin E Reduces wrinkles and imparts

smoother skin. Don‘t take more than 400 IU daily to prevent toxicity. Lotion, cream or serum

forms are also especially helpful for dry skin. If these forms also contain vitamin C, it provides added protection against sun damage.

Vitamin A Repairs skin tissue. Eat loads of

fruits and vegetables. If taking supplements, don‘t exceed 3,000 IU daily of retinol form to prevent toxicity, but carotenoid forms from beta

carotene are unlimited. Topical creams reduce lines and wrinkles; tame acne, and can provide

psoriasis relief.

Vitamin B complex The most important B

vitamin is biotin, which is the foundation for all skin, hair and fingernail cells. Deficiencies result

in scaly, itchy skin. Biotin is contained in bananas, rice, oatmeal and eggs. B-vitamin creams impart an instant healthy glow and

improved tone due to cell hydration. Niacin retains skin moisture, keeping skin more plump;

niacin can make skin appear younger in as few as six days. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties to soothe dry skin, and it can operate

as a lightening agent in higher concentrations.

Vitamin K Reduces dark circles under the eyes, especially in cream or serum forms.


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Mineral water Drinking and washing your face

with mineral water can reduce irritations and enable the skin to better retain moisture.

Selenium Helps prevent sun damage when

used as a supplement or cream; it helps reduce

the risk of sunburn. Selenium is contained in eggs, garlic, seafood and whole-grain cereals.

Copper Copper works with vitamin C and zinc

to develop elastin, the fibers that support skin

structure from beneath. Creams containing copper firm skin and restore elasticity.

Zinc Reduces acne by lowering oil production.

May also reduce formation of acne lesions and

help any that are already present clear more quickly. Oysters are rich in zinc.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid This supercharged

antioxidant is hundreds of times more potent

than vitamins C and E. It is capable of penetrating oil and water, so it can affect cells

from the inside and the outside of the body; most other antioxidants can only do one or the other. Neutralizes skin cell damage caused by

free radicals, repairs damage to skin DNA, and helps other vitamins become more effective in

rebuilding skin cells damaged by environmental toxins. Available in supplement or cream form.

DMAE This antioxidant loves to gobble free radicals. It deactivates their ability to harm skin


68

cells. It stabilizes the outer cell membrane to

protect against sun damage and cigarette smoke. Also prevents the formation of

lipofuscin, the brown pigment that causes age spots. Available in supplements or topical creams. Also found in oily fish such as salmon.

Hyaluronic acid Can retain water up to 1,000

times its weight. Holds skin cells together, which creates smoother and younger-looking skin. Available in creams or supplements.

Essential fatty acids One of the best things

we can do for our skin is provide it with enough essential fatty acids. These important nutrients help keep your skin supple and moist. However,

to get enough of these fatty acids, you must include them in your diet. Your body cannot

manufacture them. Skin that is dry or has frequent whiteheads and blackheads is lacking essential fatty acids. EFA‘s help produce the

skin‘s natural oil barrier; without ample EFA‘s, the skin produces a more irritating version of

sebum, or oil.

You need a balance of omega 3 and omega 6

EFA‘s. It‘s easy to obtain omega 6 from grains and cooking oils. Omegas 3s are found in cold-

water fish, particularly wild-caught Alaskan or Tasmanian salmon, sardines and mackerel; also in flaxseed and safflower oils. You can also take

fish oil or evening primrose oil supplements to keep skin smoother and younger-looking.


69

Reap Youthfulness at Any Age Our CHI™ Health Innovations Detox and Draining

remedies and Eternity Crystal Beauty products are about honoring the integrity of the living cellular

matrix. While our detox remedies help to cleanse and revive your cells and the extracellular matrix in

which they live, Eternity Crystal Beauty products are carefully formulated by hand to nourish, heal and revitalize your skin. It‘s ‗out with the bad, in

with the good‘. Your skin will be healthier, blemish-free, and more vital, inside and out.

The guidelines in this book can give you a longer, more active, healthy life, and an inner glow that

others will envy. This is your birthright. You were designed to feel and look wonderful, well into your

senior years. And you don‘t need artificial remedies or cosmetic surgery. You just need to cherish your health. When we purge accumulated toxins from

our bodies, luxuriate in a healthy lifestyle and treat our skin to truly nourishing products, we become

our most beautiful, youthful selves! To find out more about Eternity Crystal Beauty

products, visit www.eternitycrystalbeauty.com

Natural Cosmetics to Make at Home

Here are a few of my favourite homemade products

to pamper your skin using ingredients directly from nature.

http://www.eternitycrystalbeauty.com/


70

Bath Bombs

¾ cup cream of tartar ¾ cup baking soda

10 drops of essential lavender oil 1 tbsp almond oil 1 tbsp dried lavender

1 tbsp beetroot juice (from a can of beetroot)

Mix the above ingredients together. Place them in lined muffin tins and allow to dry, or place the mixture into a bottle and cork it for bath powder.

To make rose powder bombs simply replace the lavender oil and dried lavender with rose oil and

dried rose petals respectively. Become creative find new ways to colour your bombs with natural food dyes as well as

experimenting with the numerous essential oils available.

Remedy for Dry Skin Dry skin is a two-fold problem: it needs to be fixed

both internally and externally.

1 tbsp cold pressed avocado or almond oil 1 tbsp pure jojoba and macadamia oil mix*

Each morning take the avocado or almond oil internally (include it in your morning smoothie). At

the end of your shower, but before you turn the shower off, place a small amount of jojoba and macadamia oil in the palm of your wet hand, rub

your hands together and then rub your hands over


71

your arms, legs and torso then step under the

shower and quickly rinse. Towel dry. * To make up the macadamia and jojoba mix,

simply place equal parts into a container and mix together.

Natural Body Exfoliate 1 cup Epsom salts

¾ cup almond oil 10 drops peppermint oil or lavender oil (essential oil)

Place all the ingredients into a glass jar with a lid,

mix thoroughly. To use scoop out a small amount of the salt and rub over your entire body, rinse.

Natural Lip Balm

40ml melted beeswax 60ml almond oil 4 drops peppermint oil

Place the beeswax in an empty but clean food tin

and place in a saucepan of water on the stove. Melt the beeswax and add the almond oil – the mix should be 60% oil and 40% beeswax. The less oil

you use the harder the lip balm. Remove the lip balm from the heat and add the

essential oil. Pour the mixture into small glass jars, leave lids off and allow to cool. Place the lids on them.

Store the jars that you are not using in a cool place or give them away as presents to friends.


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Natural Face Pack

Egg whites Clean pastry bush

Don't throw your egg shells away immediately. Instead scrap the last remains of the egg white out

of the shells with a clean pastry brush and paint on to your face. Allow the egg white to harden without

cracking it and then rinse off with warm water. Natural Heat Pack for Relaxation

1 clean sock 2 cups rice

Fill the sock with the rice. Tie a knot in the sock. Place the sock flat in a hot oven on a tray for

approximately 5 minutes. Test for heat, and if not hot enough continue heating for a further few

minutes. If you have a microwave, heat in the microwave for 1 minute. This is wonderful to place on foreheads, necks and backs.

The very best cosmetic you can give yourself is joy. It stimulates your whole system, raises your vibrations, puts a sparkle in your eye and a smile

on your face. When you feel joy, tensions and stresses just melt away, and you become truly

radiant. I wish you a lifetime of health, beauty, and joy.


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List of Safe Ingredients

The following ingredients may be found in Eternity

Crystal Beauty products, and may be used in many different beauty and personal care products. All of these ingredients are natural, irritant-free, and

allergen-free. The manufacturing processes for these products also poses less risk to our natural

environment since the ingredients are completely natural rather than synthetic. Some of the following

safe ingredients are so natural that they are almost self explanatory! Also, we abide by the ethical practice of never testing on animals.

It is important to note that there is no absolute

guarantee that all individuals will not experience any effects from all-natural ingredients. Some clients may exhibit more allergic reactions to all-

natural products than to synthetically-produced products.

Amphoteric 2, amphoteric 6 and amphoteric 20:

Mild cleansers.

Annatto: Annatto comes from achiote trees in

the tropical Americas. Central and South American natives use achiote fruit seeds for body paint. The achiote tree is often referred to

as the ―lipstick tree.‖

Botanical oils and high-quality 100 percent pure essential oils: These include such oils as citronella, soybean, cedar, verbena, pennyroyal,


74

geranium, lavender, pine, cajuput, cinnamon,

rosemary, basil, thyme, allspice, garlic and peppermint. Many plant-based oils act as

preservatives and also impart completely natural fragrance.

Beeswax: You know, the waxy substance crafted

by those happy, busy bees!

Candelilla wax: A wax derived from the

Candelilla shrub of northern Mexico and the southwestern United States.

Carmine, also called Natural Red 4, Crimson

Lake, Cochineal, C.I. 75470 or E120: This pigment is obtained from the carminic acid produced by scale insects such as the cochineal

and the Polish cochineal.

Carrageenan: A natural thickener from seaweed.

Cocamido betaine: A mild cleanser.

Cocamidopropyl betaine: A mild cleanser.

Colloidal silver: Used as a preservative.

Cornstarch: Yes. Starch derived from corn!


75

Grapefruit seed extract: Used as a preservative.

Hematite: The mineral form of iron III oxide.

This black shiny stone, prized for its grounding

qualities, is also used in many forms of Native American jewelry.

Iron oxides: Iron oxides produce non-toxic

pigments used for cosmetics and ceramics. The

iron oxides used for cosmetics are synthetically produced to exclude ferrous or ferric oxides plus

impurities typically found in naturally occurring iron oxides.

Jojoba oil: Jojoba oil is the liquid wax produced within the seed of the jojoba plant, which is a

shrub native to northwestern Mexico and the southwestern United States. Often used as a diluting oil for essential oils.

Phenoxyethanol: Used as a preservative.

Potassium sorbate: Used as a preservative.

Pycnogenol: Derived from pine trees; a powerful antioxidant.

Rice bran oil: Oil extracted from the inner husk

and germ of rice. Rich in the antioxidant vitamin

E.


76

Shea butter: A natural fat extracted from the

fruit of the shea tree, which is native to Africa. Used as an emollient and moisturizer.

Sorbitan laurate, sorbitan

palmitate and sorbitan

stearate: Mild cleansers.

Sunflower oil: The joy of sunflowers pressed into oil form!

Sweet almond oil: Derived

from the sweet almond tree, which produces white flowers and sweet almonds, as

opposed to the bitter almond tree with pink flowers. The kernel contains a fixed oil and

emulsion. Traditionally used in internal medicine.

Titanium dioxide: A naturally occurring oxide of titanium. Often used in sunscreen. When used

as a pigment, it may be referred to as titanium white, Pigment White 6 or CI77891. But avoid titanium dioxide nanoparticles.

Vitamins A (retinyl),C (ascorbic acid), and E:

Natural antioxidants used as preservatives.


77

A Word of Caution about

“Natural” Ingredients

Depending on what country you reside in, the relevant government agency that regulates personal care products may have no clear, standard

definition of ―natural‖ ingredients. That means that otherwise natural ingredients such as aloe vera or

jojoba oil may be highly processed or synthetic versions of the real thing. ―Natural‖ brands may also contain some questionable ingredients.

Also depending on your country of residence, the

term ―organic‖ on personal care products may be no guarantee of being officially certified as organic by independent, accredited, third-party agencies.

That‘s because personal care products aren‘t foods; therefore, they may not be included in stringent

labeling standards. Even if labeling standards are in place, they may be far more lax than those required for foods; for example, perhaps only one

ingredient must be organic, as opposed to 70 percent of the ingredients.


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List of Potentially Harmful Ingredients

Here is a list of toxins that you might want to avoid: they are the most common ingredients

found in personal care products, and they are potentially harmful to your health. You will find

these ingredients many personal care items, from cosmetics to facial moisturizers to shampoo. Many will sound entirely familiar because you‘ve seen

them on many an ingredient list. Some may even appear on labels for ―all natural,‖ ―botanical‖ or

―hypoallergenic‖ products!

Acrylic, styrene/acrylate polymer and acrylate

copolymers: These polymers in nail polish can cause nasal irritation and dermatitis. Workers in

nail salons who endure repeated exposure may develop asthma. These polymers may also be contaminated with more toxic methacrylic

resins.

Alcohol: Found in mouthwash and many medicines. Alcohol can increase body tissue vulnerability to carcinogens. Mouthwash with

more than 25 percent alcohol is associated with mouth, tongue and throat cancer.

Alkylphenol ethoxylates, or APE‘s: Hormone

disruptors that may be found in deodorants.

Contained in the ingredients octoxynol and nonoxynol.


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Alpha hydroxyl acid: Found in skin care

products. Exfoliates dead skin cells, but also removes the skin's protective barrier, which

may result in long-term skin damage.

Aluminum, aluminum chlorohydrate and

aluminum chloride: These metallic elements are contained in antiperspirants, antiseptics and

even antacids. They have been previously linked to Alzheimer‘s disease. With antiperspirants, astringent salts composed of aluminum seal

pores to reduce perspiration output. These compounds can cause contact dermatitis or

granulomas. Aluminum chloride is more irritating than aluminum chlorohydrate. Antiperspirants remain on the skin for hours and

are absorbed directly through the bloodstream without first passing through the liver, the organ

primarily responsible for detoxification.

Animal fat or tallow:

Animal fats and lye are the primary ingredients

in bar soap; these can be a breeding ground for bacteria.

Antibacterials, including triclosan: Antibacterial

agents are added to soaps, deodorant and toothpaste. Triclosan has been detected in breast milk, may cause liver damage, and

interferes with testosterone cell activity. Many studies have found that washing with ordinary


80

soap and warm water is just as effective for

killing germs. Triclosan also creates antibiotic-resistant super-bacteria. A 2002 study found

triclosan in 57 percent of surveyed outdoor streams; this means bacteria can readily breed that are immune to antibiotics used to treat

E.Coli and tuberculosis.

Ayobenzone, also called parsol 1789: This chemical found in sunscreens can damage DNA and subsequently cause cancer.

1,4-Benzenediamine, also called P-

phenylenediamine: Found in hair dyes. Irritates the respiratory system, instigates severe allergic reactions and can damage the central nervous

system.

Benzophenone, including benzophenone-1 and benzophenone-3: Found in shampoo, nail polish and sunscreen. Benzophone is an endocrine

system disruptor; it mimics the hormone estrogen. Lab studies show that estrogen-

sensitive breast cancer cells multiplied when exposed to benzophenone-3. Benzophenone is ready absorbed by the skin. Benzophenone can

also cause skin rash.

Benzyl chloride: A probable carcinogen, meaning that it causes cancer. It is found in facial moisturizers.


81

Bronopol: An irritant found in antiperspirants

that can contain formaldehyde, a probable carcinogen. Formaldehyde also irritates the

eyes, skin and respiratory tract. This is of particular concern with roll-on antiperspirants, as formaldehyde is a volatile organic compound

that readily evaporates when wet; it off-gasses during perspiration.

Butylparaben: This preservative in personal care

products and cosmetics can be allergenic. It

may also be a hormone disruptor, as it mimics estrogen.

Coal tar: Coal tar is a known human carcinogen.

It is used in dandruff shampoos, moisturizers

and anti-itch creams. It is also contained in coal-tar based dies such as FD&C Blue 1, used

in toothpaste, and FD&C Green 3, used in mouthwash.

Collagen: This is an insoluble fibrous protein derived from

ground chicken feet and animal skins. It is too large to penetrate the skin, therefore it forms a film

that can suffocate the skin.

Colorings, especially D&C Green 5, D&C Orange 17, D&C Red 9, D&C Red 19, D&C Red 33, FD&C

Blue 1, FD&C Green 3, FD&C Red 4, FD&C Red 40, FD&C Yellow 5


82

and FD&C Yellow 6: These are found in

antiperspirants, moisturizers, shampoos and sunscreen. Many are irritants and allergens.

Some contain lead acetate, a heavy metal that is toxic to the central nervous system. FD&C Blue 1 and FD &C Green 3 are carcinogenic.

Impurities in D&C Red 33, FD&C Yellow 5 and FD&C Yellow 6 can cause cancer when applied to

the skin.

N,N-Diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET): DEET is found

in insect repellents. DEET is an eye irritant and can cause skin rashes and blisters. DEET causes

neurological symptoms such as confusion, disorientation, lethargy and mood swings. There are 18 reported cases of DEET-induced seizures,

and three deaths. Children are particularly susceptible to the effects of DEET.

Diazolidinyl urea: A

preservative often found in

shampoos, baby bath soap, hair dye, nail polish and false

eyelash adhesive. Formaldehyde is a break-down product; it is toxic to the

immune system, irritates the respiratory system and can

cause cancer. Also be on the lookout for the preservatives Germaben II and Germaben

IIE; they contain diazolidinyl urea.


83

Diethanolamine, or DEA, and other ethanolamines such as triethanolamine, TEA,

and monoethanolamine, or MEA: DEA is a potential hormone disruptor, possible carcinogen, and depletes the body of choline,

which is necessary for fetal development. DEA is found in cosmetics, lotions, shampoos,

antiperspirants and sunscreen. It is usually in the form of a colorless liquid or crystalline alcohol, and it is used as an emollient,

detergent, solvent and emulsifier. DEA reacts in products that also contain nitrates to form

potentially carcinogenic nitrosamines, which can be absorbed through the skin. This risk is higher if the product also contains bronopol. DEA may

also irritate the skin and mucous membranes. DEA can also be present in related chemicals,

such as cocamide DEA.

Dioxin: Dioxin-treated containers can transfer

dioxins to products. Dioxin is a potentially carcinogenic byproduct.

1,4 Dioxane: This is commonly found in

cosmetics and children‘s bath products. 1,4

Dioxane is a potential carcinogen. It appears in products containing sodium laureth sulfate and

PEG, ceteareth, oleth, most other ethoxylated ―eth‖ ingredients, and ―-xynol‖ ingredients. A 2001 survey conducted by the Food and Drug

Administration found levels in excess of 85 parts per million in children‘s bath products.


84

DMDM hydantoin: This preservative can contain formaldehyde, which is an allergen, irritant and

potential carcinogen.

EDTA: This irritant is found in shampoos and

antiperspirants.

Elastin of high molecular weight: The effect of this animal derivative on the skin is similar to that of collagen.

-eth compounds: Any compounds ending in the

letters ―eth‖ pose a risk of containing 1,4 dioxane.

Ethyl alcohol: This volatile organic compound is found in moisturizers.

Ethyl lactate: This volatile solvent found in nail

polish is flammable. It can irritate the

respiratory system and the skin. Prolonged, repeated exposure can result in neurological

damage.

Ethylparaben: A hormone disruptor.

Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde irritates the

respiratory system, is toxic to the immune system and causes cancer. It is found in hair dye, nail polish, false eyelash adhesive and baby

bath soap as a break-down product of


85

diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea and

quaternium compounds.

Fragrance: Fragrance is a seemingly harmless ingredient, but it can be surprisingly toxic. ―Fragrance‖ is a catch-all term; manufacturers

don‘t have to disclose specific ingredients because it is protected as a trade secret.

Further, there is no regulation regarding fragrance. The term fragrance is often used to mask pthalates, which are endocrine disruptors

and carcinogens. They can also cause obesity, induce reproductive disorders, damage sperm,

and can harm developing fetuses. A study conducted by the North American

Contact Dermatitis Group found that fragrances are the number one

personal care product ingredient causing irritation and allergic reactions.

Fragrance can cause an allergic reaction in

respiratory passages. It is also the number one ingredient that causes

contact dermatitis, an allergic skin reaction

involving itching, blisters and inflammation. Even ―unscented‖ products may

list ―masking fragrance‖ in their list of ingredients.


86

Read labels carefully. In addition to pthalates, fragrance often includes the neurotoxin toluene;

the probable carcinogens benzyl chloride and methylene chloride; volatile organic compounds methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone and

ethyl alcohol; and other allergenic petrochemicals.

Germaben II and Germaben IIE: These

preservatives contain propylparaben,

methylparaben, diazolidinyl urea and propylene glycol.

Glycerin: Glycerin pulls moisture from the lower

layers of skin and retains it on the surface; this

dries the skin from the inside out. The only time this will not occur is when air humidity is

higher than 65 percent. Although glycerin is potentially harmful in skincare products, it is relatively harmless in products such as

toothpaste since the mouth is moist.

Homosalate: Homosalate is found in sunscreens. It produces estrogenic activity, meaning that it mimics estrogen and can therefore be a

hormone disruptor.

Hydroquinone: Hydroquinone is found in facial moisturizers and skin lighteners. It is allergenic, neurotoxic and may cause cancer. It may be

listed as an ―impurity‖ on ingredients labels.


87

Imidazolidinyl urea: This is found in nail polish,

hair dyes, baby bath soap, false eyelash adhesives, shampoo, antiperspirants and

deodorants. It breaks down into formaldehyde, which is an irritant, allergen and carcinogen.

Lanolin: Lanolin is extracted from wool. This irritant is found in cosmetics, lotions, shampoos,

antiperspirants and deodorants.

Lead: Lead is a naturally occurring contaminant

of hydrated silica, found in toothpaste. Lead acetate is found in some brands of men‘s hair

dye and in certain colorings. Lead is toxic to the nervous system.

Liquid paraffin, also called petroleum distillate: May be found in foot powder and several brands

of mascara sold in the U.S. The European Union prohibits or restricts use of petroleum distillates in cosmetics.

Lye: Lye is found in bar soaps. It is mixed with

animals fats, which dry and corrode the skin. Lye is a highly concentrated solution of sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide.

Mercury: Mercury is a neurotoxin found in the

preservative thimerosol, which is contained in some brands of mascara.

Mineral oil: Mineral oil is a petroleum derivative.

It forms an oily film over the skin to retain


88

moisture. This traps toxins and wastes, plus

hinders skin respiration by keeping oxygen out.

Methacrylic resins: These resins may be present in acrylic, stryrene/acrylic polymer and acrylate copolymers, which are found in nail polish. They

can cause dermatitis and nasal irritation. Prolonged, repeated exposure can instigate

asthma.

Methylene chloride: A probable carcinogen

found in facial moisturizers.

Methyl ethyl ketone: A volatile organic compound found in fragrance.

Methyl isobutyl ketone: A volatile organic compound found in fragrance.

Methylisothiazolinone, or MIT: An antimicrobial

agent found in hand soaps, dish soaps and

personal care products. Its molecular structure is similar to agent orange.

Methylparaben: Found in shampoos and

cosmetics. Methylparaben is an allergen and

hormone disruptor. It is also contained in the preservatives Germaben II and Germaben IIE.


89

Nanoparticles: Found

in cosmetics and sunscreens as zinc

oxide and titanium dioxide. May be listed as ―micronized‖

ingredients, particles that have been

fragmented to be smaller than 100 nanometers, which is 1 billionth of a meter. They work their way to the brain, causing cell damage; this is

particularly true if they enter a cut or abrasion.

Nonoxynol: Contained in alkylphenol ethoxylates, or APE‘s, which may be found in deodorants. APE‘s are hormone disruptors.

Octoxynol: Contained in APE‘s.

Octy-methoxycinnamate, or octinoxate: A

hormone disruptor found in moisturizers with

sunscreen protection.

Padimate-O: A derivative of PABA found in sunscreens that can damage DNA and lead to cancer.

Parabens, including butyl-, ethyl-, methyl-, and

propyl-: These preservatives are hormone disruptors and can impair sperm formation. The related sodium methylparaben is banned from

cosmetics by the European Union.


90

Parsol 1789, also called ayobenzone: his

chemical found in sunscreens can damage DNA and subsequently cause cancer.

PEG compounds: These compounds that contain

polyethylene glycol can become contaminated

with 1,4 dioxane.

Permethrin: This insecticide is sold for applying to clothing only, never directly on skin. Avoid applying directly to skin; causes acute allergic

reactions.

Petrolatum: This is a petroleum-based grease that may contain many of the same properties as mineral oil.

Petroleum distillates: These are potential

carcinogens found in foot powder and several brands of mascara sold in the U.S. The European Union prohibits or restricts use of

petroleum distillates in cosmetics. Also avoid ―petroleum‖ and ―liquid paraffin.‖

P-Phenylenediamine, also listed as p-

Phenyldiamine and 4-Phenyl-enediamine or 1,4-

Benzenediamine: Found in hair dyes. Irritates the lungs, causes severe allergic reactions and

can damage the nervous system.

Polyethylene: Can become contaminated with

1,4 dioxane.


91

Propylene glycol: This irritant is found in

shampoos, antiperspirants and deodorants…and industrial antifreeze, automatic brake fluid and

hydraulic fluid! This cosmetic form of mineral oil is a strong skin irritant that can damage the kidneys and liver. It is also contained in

Germaben II and Germaben IIE.

Propylparaben: This hormone disruptor can be found in sunscreens. It is also contained in Germaben II and Germaben IIE.

Pthalates: Pthalates are endocrine disruptors,

carcinogens, cause obesity, induce reproductive disorders, damage sperm, and harm developing fetuses. They are commonly contained in the

ingredient ―fragrance.‖

Quaternium 15: Breaks down into formaldehyde, which irritates the respiratory tract, is toxic to the immune system and causes

cancer. It is found in nail polish, shampoo, baby bath soap, hair dyes and false eyelash adhesive.

Selenium sulfide: This irritant is found in

dandruff shampoos.

Sodium lauryl sulfate, or SLS: This is an irritant,

allergen and carcinogen found in shampoos. It‘s also a harsh detergent used for engine degreasers, auto cleaning products and garage

floor cleaners! SLS is readily absorbed by the brain, eyes, heart, and liver. It can stunt healing


92

and children‘s eye development, plus cause

cataracts in adults.

Sodium laureth sulfate, or SLES: This alcohol form of SLS contains 1,4 dioxane. SLS and SLES can react with other ingredients to form

carcinogenic nitrates and dioxins. Large amounts of nitrates can enter the blood stream

with just one shampooing.

Talc: Found in personal hygiene products and

cosmetics. This mineral can become a carcinogen if inhaled.

Toluene and toluene diisocyanate, or TDI:

Toluene is a neurotoxin found in the ingredient

―fragrance.‖ TDI is a component of polyurethane; it can irritate the respiratory tract

and induce asthma.

Think about it. How can our true beauty shine if we

are slathering our bodies with toxic chemicals? Toxic ingredients only mask and erode our beauty.

Truly all-natural ingredients, instead, bring our beauty to the surface by promoting vibrant health within.


93

Sources:

Antiperspirants and Deodorants,

http://www.thegreenguide.com/reports/product.mhtml?i

d=43

―Aromatherapy is an Ancient Treatment for Physical and

Emotional Imbalances‖ by Johanna Stoppa,

http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/Stoppa1.html

Face Lotions,

http://www.thegreenguide.com/products/Personal_Care/

Face_Lotions

http://www.forces-of-

nature.net/warts/HPV_essential_oils.htm

Nail Care,

http://www.thegreenguide.com/products/Personal_Care/

Nail_Care

Pest Control—Insect Repellent,


d=11

Potentially Harmful Ingredients to Avoid, Safe Choice

Products Web site,

http://www.safechoiceproducts.com/harmful.htm

Shampoo,


d=40&sec=2

http://www.thegreenguide.com/reports/product.mhtml?id=43


http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/Stoppa1.html

http://www.thegreenguide.com/products/Personal_Care/Face_Lotions

http://www.thegreenguide.com/products/Personal_Care/Face_Lotions

http://www.forces-of-nature.net/warts/HPV_essential_oils.htm

http://www.forces-of-nature.net/warts/HPV_essential_oils.htm

http://www.thegreenguide.com/products/Personal_Care/Nail_Care

http://www.thegreenguide.com/products/Personal_Care/Nail_Care



http://www.safechoiceproducts.com/harmful.htm

http://www.thegreenguide.com/reports/product.mhtml?id=40&sec=2

http://www.thegreenguide.com/reports/product.mhtml?id=40&sec=2


94

Sunscreens and Sunblocks


d=27

―The Dirty Dozen Chemicals in Cosmetics‖ by Catherine

Zandonella, M.P.H, October-November 2007,

http://www.thegreenguide.com/doc/122/dirtydozen

―Therapeutic Quality Essential Oils: Revival of an Ancient

Healing Tool‖ by Patricia Lee,

http://www.earthpulse.com/health/oils.html

Voices of Our Ancestors by Dhyani Ywahoo, Shambhala

Publications, Boston, Massachusetts, 1987.

―Why Essential Oils?‖ by Rebecca Carina,

http://innerchangemag.com/carina-essential_oils.htm

www.wikipedia.org

―Rest‖ by K. Chamberlin,

http://www.amazinghealth.org/rest.html

―The detox diet‖ by C. Wong,

http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/dietarytherapy/a/Detox

_Diet_Plan.htm

―Nutrients and support for detox‖ by C. Wong,

http://altmedicine.about.com/od/detoxcleansing/a/Deto

x_Nutrients.htm

Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom, C. Northrup, M.D.,

1998, 1994, Bantam Books

―Antioxidants: Finding the Right Balance,‖ by Marian

Zboraj, Associate Editor, Neutraceuticals World, March

2006



http://www.thegreenguide.com/doc/122/dirtydozen

http://www.earthpulse.com/health/oils.html

http://innerchangemag.com/carina-essential_oils.htm

http://www.wikipedia.org/

http://www.amazinghealth.org/rest.html

http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/dietarytherapy/a/Detox_Diet_Plan.htm

http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/dietarytherapy/a/Detox_Diet_Plan.htm

http://altmedicine.about.com/od/detoxcleansing/a/Detox_Nutrients.htm

http://altmedicine.about.com/od/detoxcleansing/a/Detox_Nutrients.htm


95

―Carotenoids and Carotenoids Plus Vitamin E Protect

Against Ultraviolet Light-Induced Erythema in Humans,‖

by Wilhelm Stahl, Ulrike Heinrich, Holger Jungmann,

Helmet Sies and Hagen Tronnier, American Journal of

Clinical Nutrition, 2000; 71: 795-8

―Antioxidants and Other Phytochemicals: Current

Scientific Perspective,‖ by Stephen Barrett, M.D.

www.wikipedia.org

Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Vitamin A and

Carotenoids, Office of Dietary Supplements, NIH Clinical

Center, National Institutes of Health

Dr. Leia on Insomnia Causes and Menopause, ―Tests You

Should Have and Info on Natural Sleep Aids,‖

http://www.healthynewage.com/Super-Blue-Stuff.htm

The New Our Bodies Ourselves, The Boston Women‘s

Health Book Collective, 1984. New York, New York.

Simon & Schuster, Inc.

Meditation,

http://1stholistic.com/Meditation/hol_meditation.htm

―Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorder Due to Drug or

Substance‖ by S. Schutte-Rodin,

http://sleepeducation.com/Disorder.aspx?id=61

―Foods that help you sleep: Does warm milk really

work?‖ by K. Berge, M.D.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/foods-that-help-you-

sleep/AN01582

http://www.wikipedia.org/

http://dietary-supplements.info.nih.gov/

http://www.cc.nih.gov/



http://www.nih.gov/

http://www.healthynewage.com/Super-Blue-Stuff.htm

http://1stholistic.com/Meditation/hol_meditation.htm

http://sleepeducation.com/Disorder.aspx?id=61

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/foods-that-help-you-sleep/AN01582

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/foods-that-help-you-sleep/AN01582


96

Tips for Healthy Sleep,

http://www.sleepnet.com/tips.html

Insomnia,

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/insomnia/DS00187

The Acid-Alkaline Diet, http://www.acid-alkaline-

diet.com/

―Nutrients for Healthy Skin: Inside and Out‖ by Colette

Bouchez,

http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?article

key=50505

http://www.sleepnet.com/tips.html

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/insomnia/DS00187

http://www.acid-alkaline-diet.com/

http://www.acid-alkaline-diet.com/

http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=50505

http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=50505

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