Organic and Gluten Free Beauty Products

Article by Bee Lindquist

Photo Courtesy of http://gladysspeaks.blogspot.com/

What is the meaning of Organic and Gluten Free beauty products? Often times we can get confused by labels. It seems as if everything today is labeled Organic or Natural. The other confusing name is “Gluten Free”? What do these labels mean and do I need to worry about them in my beauty products?
Let’s take these items one at a time.

OrganicAccording to the Organic Trade Association “Organic’ is a labeling term that denotes products produced under the authority of the Organic Foods Production Act. The principal guidelines for organic production are to use materials and practices that enhance the ecological balance of natural systems and that integrate the parts of the farming system into an ecological whole.”Organic hair products are composed without any kind of integration. All these products are made without pesticides, chemical compounds, fertilizers, synthetic preservatives, fungicides, colors and things consisting of irradiated products. So there is no chance of any side effects from use of such products

Organic products can do wonders to your hair because they provide the necessary nutrients to the hair. As these products are free from any kind of superficial preservatives these are valuable for your hair and they also do not have any kind of side effects. Many conventional hair dye formulas contain chemicals like ammonia, which irritates the skin and lungs, and p-Phenylenediamine (PPD).

There are a number of high quality products on the market that you can find at your organic hair salon. Many of these brands aren’t only organic, but they are vegan friendly as well. This means no animals were tested or used in any way when it comes to the products themselves. The Beauty Studio carries several organic brands including Onesta, which is a part of the “sustainable manufacturing” movement. We also carry the Davines line of hair products which uses “green” containers, meaning they are fully recyclable.
Another item you might want to consider is whether the salon you are patronizing provides gluten free products. There seems to be an ever increasing population with gluten sensitivities. Your skin and hair absorb the products introduced to them which could be a problem for those with sensitivities.









Gluten FreeThe FDA does not have a clear definition of Gluten Free yet but the FDA proposes to define the term "gluten-free" to mean that a product bearing this claim in its labeling does not contain any one of the following:
An ingredient that is a prohibited grain
An ingredient that is derived from a prohibited grain and that has not been processed to remove gluten
An ingredient that is derived from a prohibited grain and that has been processed to remove gluten, if the use of that ingredient results in the presence of 20 parts per million (ppm) or more gluten in the food or
20 ppm or more gluten According to Dr. Kenneth Fine, M.D. of EnteroLab.com, Gluten sensitivity is a systemic immune reaction to gluten anywhere in the body, not just that entering the body via the gut. Therefore, topically applied lotions, creams, shampoos, etc. containing gluten would indeed provide a source of gluten to the body, and we therefore recommend all such products be discontinued for optimal health
Since the cosmetic industry is self-regulated, it is more important than ever to carefully read labels, and use natural or organic products whenever possible. If you find yourself reacting to a cosmetic, it is possible that you may have an increased sensitivity to gluten, an allergy, or even Dermatitis Herpetiformis
The Beauty Studio carries Glo-Minerals which is not only organic but Gluten Free as well as the Eminence product line which is from Hungary.
The Beauty Studio is concerned about what is applied to your skin and hair as well as what goes into the environment. So if you have chemical or gluten sensitivities or if you just want to do your part to help the environment we can assist you in finding a product and a treatment. There really is no need for you to have to sacrifice quality and service just because you want to be able to do your part in helping the world and to the things that live within it.

Vitamin Sun



Picture Courtesy of pictureshunt.com

 By Bee Lindquist

Lately there has been a lot of hub-bub in the news regarding Vitamin D. Remember in elementary school when you learned the major food groups and what their benefits were? We learned that Vitamin D was key to absorbing calcium and therefore was added to to the milk we buy at the local supermarket. But what is it really and what are the benefits but more importantly are we getting enough?

 It is crucial for the absorption and metabolism of calcium and phosphorous, which have various functions, especially the maintenance of healthy bones. It is an immune system regulator.

It may be an important way to boost the immune system against disorders like the common cold, say scientists from the University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Children's Hospital Boston.

It may reduce the risk of developing multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis is much less common the nearer you get to the tropics, where there is much more sunlight, according to Dennis Bourdette, chairman of the Department of Neurology and director of the Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Center at Oregon Health and Science University, USA.
Vitamin D may have a key role in helping the brain to keep working well in later life, according to a study of 3000 European men between the ages of 40 and 79.
Vitamin D is probably linked to maintaining a healthy body weight, according to research carried out at the Medical College of Georgia, USA.
It can reduce the severity and frequency of asthma symptoms, and also the likelihood of hospitalizations due to asthma, researchers from Harvard Medical School found after monitoring 616 children in Costa Rica.
It has been shown to reduce the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis in women.

Various studies have shown that people with adequate levels of vitamin D have a significantly lower risk of developing cancer, compared to people with lower levels. Vitamin D deficiency was found to be prevalent in cancer patients regardless of nutritional status, in a study carried out by Cancer Treatment Centers of America.
In adults, vitamin D deficiency can lead to osteomalacia, which results in muscular weakness in addition to weak bones. Populations who may be at a high risk for vitamin D deficiencies include the elderly, obese individuals, exclusively breastfed infants, and those who have limited sun exposure. Also, individuals who have fat malabsorption syndromes (e.g., cystic fibrosis) or inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease) are at risk.

It is easy to determine if you are getting enough Vitamin D. Next time you have your regular check up ask if they can include it on your Complete Blood Count Test. They will determine if you are lacking in Vitamin D. Talk to your physician about adding a Vitamin D supplement to your routine. While Multi-Vitamins are good they often do not contain enough of the recommended daily dosage to make a difference in your Vitamin D absorption. Make sure when purchasing any supplement that you read the label to make sure it does not interact with medications already prescribed and only buy tested products.

Vitamin D is a group of fat-soluble secosteroids (A secosteroid is a molecule similar to a steroid but with a "broken" ring). In humans Vitamin D is unique both because it functions as a prohormone and because when sun exposure is adequate the body can synthesize it (as Vitamin D₃). While we are all very conscious about the amount of sun we are exposed to because of cancer risk, it is important to get at least 15 minutes of sun light per day in order to synthesize Vitamin D.

The major biologic function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones. Recently, research also suggests vitamin D may provide protection from osteoporosis, hypertension (high blood pressure), cancer, and several autoimmune diseases.

Data collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), USA found that 9% (7.6 million) of children across the USA, was vitamin D deficient (defined as less than 15 ng/mL of blood), while another 61 percent, or 50.8 million, was vitamin D insufficient (15 to 29 ng/mL).
The other benefits of Vitamin D according to the Mayo Clinic are:

Vino-Therapy

Sipping a glass of wine is one of life's most relaxing rituals. Associated with leisure and pleasure, vino-therapy now claims a wide range of proven health and beauty benefits.

Vino-Therapy, the use of wine and grapes in ritual skin and healthcare, dates back to the ancient civilizations of Greece, Rome and the Middle East. Early healers and philosophers recognized that drinking wine was not only pleasurable but also healthful in moderation. They explored its topical uses as well. Hippocrates prescribed wine to disinfect wounds and purge fevers and folk healers of Europe were credited with having cured epidermal diseases with an ointment made from grapevine sap. Today's wellness-oriented guests turn to spas for vino-therapeutic treatments to improve their skin and for the sensation of relaxation and escape.

Photo Courtesy of http://www.dphclub.com/

Joseph Vercauteren, Ph.D., a professor at the School of Pharmacy at the University of Bordeaux, discovered that the grape seeds are rich in polyphenols, which have positive effects on human skin. Polyphenols are stronger and more effective than Vitamin E. They reduce exposure to environment stressors that are responsible for wrinkles and skin aging. They can improve circulation by strengthening blood vessels. They also have anti-bacterial and antiseptic properties. This polyphenols found in red wine acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory.

Eminence Organic Skin Care recently began utilizing Tokay, a sweet Hungarian wine, rich in antioxidants and nutrients in its products. Its components are effective in contracting hyper-pigmentation and improving skin texture. When applied topically and given ample time to settle into the skin, as afforded by a mask, compounds in wine will reduce signs of aging and refine the dermis, restoring vitality. Key ingredients include antioxidant-rich grape seed, polyphenols, anti-aging and firming resveratrol from the stalks, brightening viniferine from the sap, hydrating vinolevure from the walls of wine yeast, and a naturally exfoliating grape acid.

Temecula Wine Country attracts visitors from all over the world and The Beauty Studio welcomes guests who wish to relax after a day of vineyard touring and tasting. Agnes Freeman, our Skin Care Professional, has created a 60 minute treatment. It begins with a tasting, your choice of white or red wine. For the skin, she mixes raw honey, cinnamon and grape seeds, and soaks the client in red wine to dissolve unwanted skin cells. A Tokay Hungarian wine mask, with essential oils, is freshly prepared for each client's skin and warmed before application. This is thoroughly massaged into the skin, creating a feast for the senses. Her creation is anti-aging magic that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation.

You Say Tomato

Tomatoes: Not Just for Bloody Marys!!

By Bee Lindquist

Tomatoes are they fruit or vegetable? This argument has been around for ages. The truth is they are a fruit. Mostly the tomato is a super-food. Not that it wears a cape and is able to leap buildings in a single bound, but in a “makes you healthy” way.

Photo courtesy of http://www.vegac.com/

One of the most well known tomato eating benefit is its Lycopene content. Lycopene is a vital anti-oxidant that has been known to fight cancerous cell formation.

Free radicals in the body can be flushed out with high levels of Lycopene, and the tomato is amply loaded with this vital anti-oxidant. The rich redness in color of the tomato actually comes from the nutrient.

Our bodies do not naturally produce Lycopene yet the human body requires this anti-oxidant. Lycopene While other fruits and vegetables do contain this necessary health ingredient, no other fruit or vegetable has the high concentration of Lycopene.

Tomatoes are chock full of anti-oxidants which combat the signs of aging. They help reduce the amount of free radicals in your body which helps maintain the support system necessary for your skin and hair. They also help your body retain moisture, especially during times of the year when artificial climate control like heaters and air conditioners are running.

These machines can dry out your body and skin, but eating a tomato daily can help you keep your water level stable. That doesn’t mean you should pass on the regular water, though; it’s still important to drink about 8 glasses a day.

You don’t have to eat a bowl full of tomatoes, one a day will do. You can also have a refreshing glass of tomato juice with a little sprinkle of cayenne to keep you refreshed.


Remember daily consumption of a tomato will give you a rosy complexion and help keep you healthy, so don’t pass them up!

Spring into Summer!



Your beauty routine needs to refocus on one thing this spring: MOISTURE! After months of cold and windy weather, the time to switch gears is now.

First of all, skip the HOT shower in the morning or evening! You can cover your body in cream but if you have stripped your body of that protective barrier, it’s going to take a lot to get it back to that natural balance. Switch your soap to a creamier body wash that can add moisture while you cleanse. Dermalogica has a hydrating body wash and hydrating body lotion that are a great combination to hydrate while cleansing.



Nails can benefit from oils not lotions. Use this tip: rub some oil into your cuticles before pulling on your garden gloves. It works similar to wearing socks over your moisturizer at night to give your moisturizer time to heal.

Every line of hair products has developed a moisturizing and hydrating shampoo. Try one as your daily shampoo or as the alternate shampoo that you switch to when you feel sun and wind damage has changed the texture or look of your hair. Schwarzkopf makes a Sun Guardian Trio that has a shampoo, treatment and a spray leave in conditioner that has a sunscreen in it. This protects your hair from sun damage, color fading and if you apply this to your hair before going into chlorinated water, it will help prevent the ‘green’ tint that comes with swimming in chlorinated pools. Hydrating conditioners and treatments can be a great addition to your summer routine as well.

A second place that you may see dryness is in your lips. You may have heard that you can be addicted to lip balm. This really is not true, but if you feel that way, you may have an underlying issue. There is a barrier layer on your skin and when it’s very dry outside, that barrier gets disrupted, the layer gets tears and holes, so any moisture you put on your lips, seeps right back out. The solution is finding a hydrating balm with lipids that will give the barrier layer time to heal. Stay away from long-lasting lip color formulas and balms with menthol.

Products used under your makeup can help keep moisture in all day. Dermalogica’s Barrier Repair melts gently into your skin to help shield against environmental and internal triggers that cause skin stress. GloMinerals GloFace Primer creates the ideal canvas while filling in fine lines for a smooth base application. It contains antioxidants and extends the wearability of your foundation and ensures a flawless looking complexion. Dermalogica’s Boosters and Eminence Serums are meant to wear under your moisturizer to seal in moisture as well. They are in a liposome base to ensure the deepest possible penetration of concentrated ingredients to create beautiful glowing skin from within.

Sunscreen is a must at this time of year! Dermalogica’s Multivitamin BodyBlock has skin-smoothing Shea Butter but also has Oil of Evening Primrose. Without a greasy film, this spray can fight off environmental assaults that contribute to the visible signs of aging. Spf sprays, creams and lotions are needed EVERY day, not just when you are heading for the beach. Dermalogica’s entire Solar Defense system of products is hydrating while being protective!

Don't Dry Up

By Bee Lindquist

Courtesy of www.brainwads.net

Summer is finally here and with it the dry arid temperatures in our valley are beginning to heat up. So how do you stay calm cool and collected in the heat? Simple, through hydration.

Your body circulates fluid much like a radiator and the circulation in your body helps dissipate heat, but when the air temperature is higher than 90° F, cooling by sweat is the only way to prevent the body from overheating. Your circulatory system can collapse because the heart and temperature control systems cannot dissipate the heat your body is generating. When working in the heat, the activity of the muscles generates even more energy. This makes it even more important to consume enough fluids to sweat and cool your body. If you are not sufficiently hydrated your body core temperature will rise and begin to destroy tissues and organs. Collapse can come on quickly. Your body will give you warning signs, don’t ignore them.
Working in our climate conditions requires planning and preparation. Your daily diet and how much viable fluid you consume plays a part in how well you can function in the heat. Heavy meals can divert blood flow to the gut reducing the body’s ability to cool itself. Eat small light meals more often instead of a single large meal. The breeze that cools you is also the breeze that dries you out. The fact that you feel cooler in a breeze indicates that water is evaporating and needs to be replaced.

Carbonated beverages and beer are not as effective at replacing body fluids and the alcohol actually increases your dehydration. Plain water at room temperature is the most quickly absorbed for re-hydration. Taking very cold beverages can be refreshing but actually closes the portals of absorption in your system and can lead to shock if you are nearing a crisis point.

What you lose when sleeping is important too. Your lungs need to keep moist to properly process the oxygen into your system. During the night the inhaling and exhaling of the dry air can rob your body of a lot of fluids. Starting the day with juice or a large glass of water helps replace these fluids. Starting the day with juice or a large glass of water helps replace these fluids. Coffee is just a bad idea during the hot weather, as a diuretic it robs your system of even more fluids.

Some signs of being properly hydrated are clear urine, moist lips and if you pinch your skin it will bounce back. Dry, cracked lips can be a sign of long term dehydration. Clothing is important. Loose fitting, breathable clothing can help wick the moisture away from your body and increase the evaporative cooling. Protecting your skin from the sun prevents sunburn. Wearing a light colored hat protects the face and keeps the brain case cooler. Take the time to erect a shade over a work are if possible. Water-proof sunscreens may actually block pores in their effort to help cool the body.

If you believe you have been over-exposed to the sun and heat, immediately get out of the sun and seek shelter. Begin to reintroduce fluids to the system, cool water is the best. (Very cold water may prove a shock to the system and exacerbate the symptoms). Drink it gently. Apply cooling compresses to points of high blood flow like the neck, wrists and inner thighs. Covering the victim in waterproof material and dousing with water is known to be successful in extreme cases. Rapid immersion in cold water of a victim in a critical state can be very dangerous, leading to stroke and heart attack. Immersion of the wrists and ankles in pans of cold water is safe and effective. Do not leave a person suffering from heat stroke or dehydration alone. Anyone suffering visible effects should seek medical attention.

So after a little preparation, get out there and enjoy the beautiful summer. Work slowly and deliberately, be willing to take breaks and know how to listen to the warning signs your body will give.

Plan on short days, starting as early as light allows. Carry a light portable shelter and wear breathable cotton clothing. Drink plenty of water.

Your age and weight has a profound effect on your susceptibility to heat related problems. After the age of 50 you are subject to increasing risk of overheating. After age 65 you are more than twice as likely to suffer heat related problems as someone in their 30’s. The larger you are the more at risk you are too. The distance from your skin to your body center and the amount of fat insulating the core dramatically affect the body’s ability to cool itself.

The best way to avoid heat exhaustion is to drink continuously; small amounts at a time are more quickly absorbed than bolting down two glasses at a time. It is also advisable to drink cool not cold water because your body will have to work to equalize the temperature of the liquid to your core temperature. Working outside you should consume up to 32 ounces of water and no less than 16 ounces per day for safety.

Gluten Free Cosmetics, Hair and Skin Products

By Bee Lindquist

For those diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, finding hair and skin products that are gluten-free can be challenging. It takes time to decipher the ingredients listed on each label and many of the product manufacturers do not know or want to disclose ingredients because the FDA does not require them to do so. Many times, when asked, they cannot guarantee that their fragrances are gluten free, even if they feel their shampoos and conditioners are free from wheat proteins.

When reading labels, it would be a simple task if ingredients were always listed as what they truly are, such as wheat, barley, rye or oats. Many times, they are listed as their scientific names like tritium vulgare (wheat), hordeum vulgare (barley) secale cereale (rye), or avena sativa (oats). There are ‘extracts’ from these grains that are listed as their scientific names as well as ‘forms’ of the grain in some products.

Many personal care products contain gluten since it is a common binder that helps ingredients stick together. However, many individuals on celiac disease forums report intolerance symptoms that include losing their hair and severe rashes and itching due to wheat sources in their shampoo. After switching to a true gluten-free version, the problems disappeared.

If you continue to suffer gluten intolerance symptoms, despite altering your diet, look into other exposure to gluten in different areas of your daily routine, such as your hair and skin products. An absence of symptoms does not mean the intestines are not being damaged. The safest alternative is to seek out fragrance-free, gluten-free shampoo, hair conditioner, makeup and cosmetics along with skin care products. It takes a very little gluten to set off an immune system response.

Some products that have hidden gluten, that you should also stay away from, are products such as toothpaste and lip balm (chapsticks). Elizabeth Hasselbeck wrote in her book, The G Free Diet, that she can’t tolerate any hair care products, body washes, lotions or anything that she comes in contact with have any type of gluten in it.

“If you use a cosmetic or skin care product that contains gluten and you develop a skin reaction, see your doctor or dermatologist to identify the cause. It is possible to have an allergy to wheat or another grain that could cause a skin reaction.”

There are many blogs and articles on the internet concerning different ways in which people found out what was causing reactions to gluten products. One woman had a nervous habit of chewing on her hair and thus, gluten free shampoo released unwanted gluten into her system. Another man had a problem with what he thought was acne blisters and found that the shampoo he was using had gluten, which he was allergic to, and was causing his problems. If you truly feel you have celiac disease, then it is suggested by many to stay completely away from and contact to that ingredient.

This subject has sparked a real interest in this ingredient by The Beauty Studio staff. We have learned that all of our GloMineral makeup, with the exception of the GloFace Primer and the GloLip Filler, is gluten free. We also contacted Eufora and Onesta to see which of their products are Gluten free. All of Eufora’s shampoos and conditioners are gluten free except the Momo Serum, Momo Cream and Solu Shampoo. These are a small fraction of the different types of shampoos and conditioners that we sell by Eufora. Onesta has told us that only Strengthening Shampoo and Quench Leave-In Conditioner do contain a small percentage of wheat protein. All of their other products are gluten free. We have a list of the Dermalogica brand of skin care products that are also safe and free from gluten. ALL Eminence Products are Gluten-free, Vegan and Parabin-free.

We are always concerned with our client’s health and beauty needs and if you ever have any questions or concerns about the products you use, please do not hesitate to ask. We will find out any information you need to make an informative decision.

5 Food Colors to Eat on a Daily Basis

By Pat Barry

photo img.tootoo.com

Have you heard about five different colors of fruits and vegetables you should eat on a daily basis? Dieticians like to have fun with their recommendations and they came up with this fun way of categorizing fruits and vegetables to make it easy to know you are getting your daily allowances.
White:
Onion, garlic, horseradish, kohlrabi. They have antibacterial, antiviral properties and they strengthen your immune system.
Blue-Black:
Eggplant, blueberries, chokeberry, raisins, blackcurrant, bilberry. They strengthen blood vessels, delay aging, improve vision at dusk and they also have anti-inflammatory properties.
Red:
Apples, tomatoes, cherries, strawberries, watermelons, beets, red cabbage. They have anti-tumor properties. They are great for your heart as well, because they contain potassium. This gives counterbalance to salt in your diet.
Yellow-Orange:
Oranges, bananas, carrots, lemons, peaches, corn. Rich in beta-carotene, which has anti-tumor properties. They regulate water management in the body and prevent your eyesight from getting worse.
Green:
Spinach, broccoli, lettuce, kiwi. Rich in vitamin C, folic acid, antioxidants, they cleanse your body of toxins, improve concentration and prevent skin aging. They protect your retina from damages as well.
Don’t be color blind when it comes to eating your fruits and vegetables!! Have fun with them everyday!!
By Pat Barry

That Makes Scents!!

By Pat Barry

The average human nose recognizes 10,000 scents. While some of them do nothing to help you stay healthy, many familiar fragrances have surprising benefits. Read on to discover five nose-pleasers that will help you look and feel better than ever.

To slim down!Sniff: Grapefruit

Researchers at Osaka University in Japan found that exposing rats to the scent of grapefruit oil for 15 minute intervals, three times a week helped reduce not only their appetite, but their weight.
Try: Grapefruit-scented oil diffusers
To calm your appetite!Sniff: Green apple, banana or peppermint

Battle temptation with a whiff of your favorite fruit or peppermint. In a study at the Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago, overweight people smelled banana, green apple and peppermint when they felt a craving and lost more weight than the non-sniffers.
Try: Eating fresh fruit when you get a craving
To ramp up your workout!Sniff: Peppermint

Studies have shown that peppermint fragrance improves your workout, increases alertness, reduces perceived fatigue, and enhances your mood. Take a whiff of the minty aroma when you need a quick pick-me-up.
Try: Growing a peppermint plant and using the leaves when you need it!

To sleep soundly:Sniff: Lavender

A beautiful bouquet of flowers can add a touch of warmth to any bedroom, but the scent of petite purple petals may also help you sleep better. Men and women who smelled lavender oil experienced deeper sleep and higher levels of vigor in the morning according to Wesleyan University researchers.
Try: Keeping a bouquet in your bedroom. Or try Onesta’s Lavender Hand and Body Lotion on your hands and neck before bed.
To Boost your mood!Sniff: Eucalyptus

The smell of eucalyptus oil has a stimulating effect, and may reduce exhaustion and mental sluggishness, says Nicole Vitale, senior director of The Spa at Equinox in New York City. And because of its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, you can also massage your skin with eucalyptus oil to relieve muscle aches.
Try: Aromatherapy massage with eucalyptus oil

Holistic Remedies for Hypertension or High Blood Pressure

By Pat Barry

Holistic or natural remedies for hypertension or high blood pressure can be attractive to many of our clients who want results without medications. First of all, the person needs to be assessed by a qualified professional.

The most important dietary recommendation for lowering blood pressure is to add more plant foods to the diet. A primarily vegetarian diet contains much less saturated fat and refined carbohydrates. It also includes one of the most effective ways to lower blood pressure by including more essential fatty acids.

Fish oil, flaxseed oil and salba are all rich in the omega-3 fatty acids that research shows lowers blood pressure. Another dietary change you can make is to eat two apples a day. This helps lower blood pressure due to the pectin in that fruit.

Eating raw garlic or taking garlic supplements will effectively address hypertension as well.

But the most excellent and effective results may be to include taking supplemental red yeast rice in tablet form and eating a kiwi a day.

Speak slowly, breathe deeply and get a pet! All of these are ways to bring balance back to your body.

Healthy Travel Tips for Air Travel

By Pat Barry

Plan ahead for a healthier, happier trip this summer!

Carry all medications to last your entire trip in your carry-on. Hopefully not, but there always is a chance of lost luggage.

photo courtesy of http://www.thatvintagegirl.com/

Ask your doctor if the dosage or time you take your medicine should change with any time change of your destination. Eating and sleeping times change with the time change so the time you take your medicine might as well.

The air in planes is so dry and it is advisable to drink non-alcoholic, decaffeinated beverages and a lot of water to avoid becoming dehydrated!

You can avoid jet lag if you take some precautions, starting before you leave on your trip!

• Get plenty of sleep before you leave.
• Don’t drink a lot of alcoholic beverages the night before or on your trip.
• Eat well balanced meals during your trip.
• Don’t forget to schedule in your normal exercise routine! You need exercise daily, even if you are on a trip.
• Get used to the new time zone by going along with the local meals and bedtime schedules.
• Melatonin is said to help with jet lag but this is not a proven aid. Tell your doctor if you would like to use melatonin or any other herbal medicines to help with jet lag.

If you get pain in your ears on take off or landing, think ahead and you may be able to minimize it.Try taking a decongestant medicine before you get on the plane. You can also swallow often and chew gum during the flight. You may have often been sitting next to that crying baby on a flight….this may have been due to this pain in the ear and they can’t verbalize it any other way. The best way for a baby’s ears to release that ear pressure is by sucking on a bottle or a pacifier during the flight.

Get up and stretch!!Even healthy people can get blood clots in their legs especially on long trips. Try to walk every now and then during your flight. It helps to drink water and stretch your calf muscles at times during the flight as well.

Be organized about your carry-on baggage by buying travel kits of the toiletries and skin and hair products you use at home. For one thing, they take up less room than regular size bottles of these products but it also may prevent you from having to pay the fee for bringing extra bags.