Showing posts with label Weight Loss. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Weight Loss. Show all posts

Tuesday, 14 October 2014

Essential Oils With Limonene, An Amazing Nutrient Oil

Are you trying to lose weight? Do you want to improve your mood or sleep? Are you having digestion problems? Are you looking for a natural aid in the prevention of breast cancer? 

It may not seem like you can take on all of these health concerns at once, but you actually can and in a natural, harmless way with Limonene, an amazing nutrient that you’ll find in essential oils.                                                   
Limonene, Found in Lemon and Orange Peels

What is Limonene?

Limonene is an amazing nutrient found in orange and lemon peels. It has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that allow it to be a superior nutrient to help with a variety of health problems.
Since it contains anti-inflammatory properties, it can assist bowel motility and digestive balance. It also contains several detox enzymes, helping to literally dissolve the fat sludge in your system as well as cholesterol gallstones. If you are looking to shed a few pounds, d-limonene can help with that as well as it has a mild appetite suppressant effect. Your mood and sleep can also be aided with limonene because it activates adenosine receptors on cells, essentially triggering the activity in our nervous systems that helps us stay alert, motivated, and positive. So taking essential oils with limonene can do the body wonders!

How Limonene Assists in the Prevention of Breast Cancer

One of the most amazing abilities of d-limonene is its assistance in the prevention of cancer. Our cells contain NF-kappaB, a gene signaling system that responds to attacks on cells. Sometimes, cells have a ‘confused’ or inefficient NF-kappaB system, allowing cancer to essentially hijack the cell and forward the survival of cancer cells. Luckily, D-limonene is one of the nutrients that can help NF-kappaB regulate this problem and fortify healthy function.  Although it is unknown how much limonene is needed in breast tissue to actually prevent breast cancer,  “researchers at the University of Arizona have proven that even 500mg per day readily accumulates in white adipose tissue, indicating that breast tissue accumulation of d-Limonene is likely at doses typical from d-Limonene dietary supplements.”

Limonene Assists with: 

  • Improving Sleep
  • Decreasing Anxiety
  • Weight loss
  • Metabolism
  • Reflux Indigestion
  • Bowel motility
  • Dissolve the “sludge” in your gall bladder
  • Prevention of breast cancer

Essential Oils with Limonene:

  • Grapefruit (92% D-Limonene)
  • Wild Orange (90% D-Limonene
  • Lemon (70% D-Limonene)
  • Lime (65% D-Limonene)
  • Bergamot (30% D-Limonene)
  • Citrus Bliss™
Essential Oils With Limonene Citrus Bliss Lime Grapefruit Lemon Wild Orange Bergamot

How Much Limonene You Should Take 

If you already consume 1 – 2 servings of citrus per day, then you are getting around 15 – 40 mg of limonene. If you are also consuming the peels in some way this level may rise to 50 – 90 mg. However, using essential oils with limonene will easily help you reach the recommended dose.
For a healthy person, 1000 mg is the recommended daily amount to support your defense system. If you are looking to shed those extra pounds or need to help with the other health concerns that d-limonene assists with, then up to 3000 mg is the recommended dose.
High doses of Limonene are considered safe for human consumption, with no toxicity to the liver or kidneys.

How to Use the Essential Oils to Support Your Defense System 

Limonene is rapidly and easily absorbed by the digestive tract, so ideally you can put a couple drops, depending on the desired daily dosage, into a glass of water. And since all of the essential oils with limonene that you can choose from are citrus-based, they will be flavorful to drink!

Thursday, 21 November 2013

Cellulite, Flabby Skin, and Stretch Marks

 Skin anatomy with and without cellulite


Summary

There are three common skin problems associated with weight gain and loss.  Cellulite, flabby skin, and stretch marks.  To understand what is going on there follows a short tutorial on fat in the body.  This material is primarily from a presentation by Dr. David Hill and gives a simple, but thorough, understanding of fat in our bodies.

What and Why of Fat
Body fat cells, also known as adipose cells or adipocytes, are like other cells in our bodies except they are specialized cells that contain a large droplet of lipid or fat. The number and size of fat cells varies from one body structure to another, and from one person to another.  Clusters of fat cells make up adipose tissue or what we call “body fat.”



Fat has several important functions in the body.
  First, fat provides protection or “padding” for vital organs and structures acting as a shock absorber in the body. High amounts of adipose tissue is stored beneath the skin around the stomach, hips, and buttocks providing protection for vital organs. 

  Second, fat provides insulation that helps slow heat loss through the skin. 

  Third, and the primary function of adipose tissue or body fat, is energy storage. Our bodies make energy from the food we eat. One of the primary methods the body has to store energy is fat.

Excess storage of fat is a health risk for most.  This occurs as fat cells are formed and swell up like balloons from foods eaten. When other forms of dietary nutrients used to produce energy in the body are scarce, fat cells deflate by releasing their lipids into the blood stream. Unfortunately fat cells do not “die” when they release their fatty contents and can re-inflate as more unused calories are converted to fat.

The process of creating new fat cells is called ADIPOGENESIS. The release of stored lipids from fat cells to be used for energy is called LIPOLYSIS. Managing a healthy body fat percentage includes reducing adipogenesis so fewer fat cells are formed, and increasing lipolysis so more of our stored fat is used for energy.

Cellulite

This dimpling or Orange peel appearance of the skin on the abdomen, buttocks, hips, or thighs comes from fat cells in the inner layer of the skin.

Unlike the fat cells in the interior of our bodies that give the common unsightly signals of being overweight these fat cells are not readily used for energy in the body and therefore do not respond to diet protocols the same.

The reason for the dimpling appearance is that in this layer of the skin the fat cells are deposited between connective tissue or cords.  As the fat cells volume exceeds the length of these connective tissues bumps or dimples are visible on the surface of the skin. 
Two other factors come into play.
As we age the outer layer of the skin becomes thinner and less elastic therefore, the dimples become more apparent as we age.  Secondly, the connective tissue is vertically oriented in women but crisscross in men.  Hence, the dimples are more visible in women.

Flabby Skin

Flabby or loose skin is similar and different than cellulite.  Many times as someone looses weight they loose fat cells and muscle tissue.  If this is done rapidly the overlying skin cannot tighten as quickly the underlying tissue is eliminated.  Also many times as you “pinch” flabby skin you will feel there is still quite a lot of underlying fat yet to be removed. 

To eliminate flabby skin the most common advice is to use a slower weight loss procedure to allow the skin to adjust more evenly.  This might not always be possible or advisable.  Beyond this the procedures address the three components of the problem.

     1)  Continue to loose the excess fat below the surface of the skin (love handles) using diet techniques discussed in the material following.
     2)  Tone the underlying muscles.  This requires the dreaded exercise and should be targeted at the areas below the sagging skin.
     3)  Nourish and tone the skin with essential oils, massage and other skin Firming techniques so that it can steadily rebuild to its more normal structure.  

There is debate on how successful this can be with large amounts of excess tissue and some suggest cosmetic surgery is the only option.  It would seem prudent to nourish and tone the skin for lengthy periods of time before resorting to the risks of surgery.

Stretch Marks

As skin is stretched with added fat cells (or during pregnancy) the dermis or middle layer of the skin that includes blood vessels may be stretched to the point that it tears and microscopic bleeding occurs.  This tear with blood then is visible through the epidermis and is seen as a stretch mark.  It will initially be a deep reddish or purple color and fade with time.  For many the scarring will not completely go away without some treatment.


These marks typically appear on the abdomen, breasts, buttocks, thighs, or upper arms.  Essential oils, with their healing properties that cause tissue to rebuild, are an excellent source of help.

Oils, blends & products recommended:

Oils & Blends:  Grapefruit, Helichrysum, Lavender, Myrrh

Essential oils based products: Anti-aging Moisturizer, Slim & Sassy, Slim & Sassy Kit
Also consider: Cypress, Frankincense, Geranium, Sandalwood

Suggested protocols:

Cellulite -
•  Helichrysum oil and Slim & Sassy blend -  Topically apply Helichrysum essential oil then layer with Slim & Sassy Blend to locations with cellulite and other fatty accumulations.

Flabby Skin -
•  Grapefruit oil and Slim & Sassy blend -  Topically apply Grapefruit essential oil then layer with Slim & Sassy Blend to locations with excess fat accumulations.

•  Tone and Condition  -  Consider the dōTERRA Skin Care products Anti-Aging Moisturizer, Tightening Serum, and Invigorating Scrub to tone and condition the skin.  Self made blends of individual oils can be used as well or may augment these products.  Recognize in extreme cases it will take extended periods of time and consistency for progress.

Stretch Marks - Grapefruit essential oil added to dōTERRA Anti-aging Moisturizer. Or Helichrysum, Lavender, and/or Myrrh applied topically with Fractionated Coconut Oil.  Add 5 -10 drops to 1 tablespoon of Fractional Coconut Oil.

Monday, 10 June 2013

Weight Loss

A key to losing weight is patience. Weight gain happens over time and losing weight obviously takes more than overnight, so be patient and don’t expect to notice changes immediately. Also synergy is an important part of loosing weight.  That is combining all the methods available results in a much higher probability of success.

 Weight Loss Synergy Chart
 
                                     Method                                               Results
                            Eat less foods/calories                                       Fair
                                          and    
                               Eat proper foods                                           Good

                                          and    
                      Exercise/increase metabolism                          Very Good

                                          and    
                  Change attitude/mental compulsions                       Great

                                          and    
                             Use essential oils                                          Excellent 


As the methods of weight control are combined, the results amplify. Often during weight loss, people concentrate on one or two methods. They might exercise effectively and have a motivated attitude, but they continue to eat unhealthy, fattening food. Or they eat less and eat better food, but won’t exercise.
 
Weight loss is most successful when all methods are combined. Together their synergy offers significantly greater results than any single method. Essential oils can be a key to this because they can help with all the methods.

Attitude/Compulsions
Essential oils are a remarkable source of uplift and mental well-being either through diffusion, massage, or baths. Since weight loss takes months of mental resolve and years of follow-up, having this emotional support is an important asset. Oils that strengthen us mentally and emotionally are Cypress, Oregano, Peppermint and a balancing blend. Oils that help us stay on course during times of stress are Lavender andYlang Ylang and an elevating blend. Diffuse these oils in areas where time is spent. Absorbing the oils through the olfactory system provides great benefits and the proper diffuser will also add anions (negative ions) to the air which is a very good positive energy source.

Stress is a major contributor for most people who sometimes “binge” or habitually eat late or eat fattening foods. Prior to mealtimes or as you feel stress induced hunger emerge diffuse, use a shoulder massage, or use a tissue cup using the oils mentioned above. If you have a problem with late night eating or snacking, try running the diffuser where you spend time prior to sleeping to curb late night binges.

Metabolism
Oils that give us energy are Grapefruit, Wild Orange, Peppermint, Rosemary and a citrus blend. These can be diffused or combined with massage. For “on the go” metabolism boosts, carry a tissue cup or inhaler with one of these oils. The aroma will help provide energy during workouts and during times where you feel sluggish.

Appetite suppressant
Dr. Alan R. Hirsch, M.D., F.A.C.P., in Scentsational Weight Loss has documented the following research with clinical trials using double blind sample groups. His research shows that by deeply inhaling the odors of food just prior to eating reduces the amount we eat. Dr. Hirsch suggests that various food odors be inhaled three times in each nostril a short time before eating for this benefit. He later explains that just deeply inhaling the plate of food before starting to eat and eating slowly can provide some of these same benefits. His work reinforces the strong connection between aroma and our physical bodies and how aromatics can be used for healthful benefits.

Using an inhaler or tissue cup, inhale Grapefruit, Peppermint or another favorite oil. Inhale deeply 3 times in each nostril before each meal, or when you feel hungry. Use a different oil each day. Follow this routine by inhaling deeply also from your plate before eating. After 7-14 days of using this routine, you will notice a decreased appetite.

There have been further studies showing that cravings can also be curbed by ingesting Peppermint or Grapefruit oils. One half hour prior to meals add 1-2 drops of these oils to juice. Again use a different oil daily.

Fat burn
A blend of Basil, Lavender, Cypress, and Grapefruit with a carrier oil gives an ointment that is known to reduce or emulsify fat in the body. Full body massage or an aromatic bath can be used.

Diuretic
If fluid retention is part of the problem, then Cypress, Lemon, and Oregano are diuretics. Apply on feet or with a full body massage and diffusion.

Weight loss skin care
As weight is lost, flabby skin and stretch marks will be a concern. A local massage with 2% Lavender in a carrier is effective. Some would also add wheat germ oil to the mixture. 2 part carrier to 1 part wheat germ oil and 2% Lavender.  Also go to Pregnancy for good experiences using oils on stretch marks.


Safety Precautions
With large weight reductions nutrition is important and it is best to consult a licensed health care or nutritional professional.

Oils, blends & products recommended:
Oils & Blends:  Slim & Sassy

BASIC: Cinnamon, Ginger, Grapefruit, Lemon, Peppermint

APETITE SUPPRESSANT: Grapefruit, Patchouli, Slim & Sassy

ATTITUDE: Balance, Cypress, Elevation, Oregano, Peppermint, Lavender, Ylang Ylang

METABLOLISM: Eucalyptus, Grapefruit, Peppermint, Rosemary

FAT BURN: Basil, Lavender, Cypress, Grapefruit

DIURETIC: Cypress, Fennel, Lavender, Lemon, Oregano, Rosemary

Essential oils based products: Life Long Vitality supplements, Slim & Sassy shakes

Suggested protocols:
Editor - In April 2010 dōTERRA introduced a blend of oils trademarked Slim & Sassy that includes the oils Grapefruit, Lemon, Peppermint, Ginger, and Cinnamon for weight management.  Later other products were added to build this strong protocol for weight control.

The full Slim & Sassy weight loss regiment can include three compimentary protocols plus two other helpful habits:
  Slim & Sassy blend for appetite, stomach, and mood management
  Slim & Sassy shakes for meal replacement
  Grapefruit and Slim & Sassy blend for topical cellulite reduction
  Cleansing and digestive aids
  Life Long Vitality supplements

Slim & Sassy blend - Slim & Sassy is a blend of essential oils to manage appetite.  Just add 8 drops to 16 oz. of water (regular size bottle of water, use glass or stainless steel container).  Sip your flavored water before, between, and after each of your healthy meals throughout the day to help manage hunger, calm your stomach, and lift your mood.

Slim & Sassy shakes - Slim & Sassy Shakes are a convenient and delicious shake mix providing the essential nutrients of a healthy meal with only 125 calories per serving that may be used as a meal replacement.  Make the shakes as directed (1 scoop full per glass of milk or water) and drink to replace one or two meals per day.

Grapefruit oil and Slim & Sassy blend -  Topically apply Grapefruit essential oil then layer with Slim & Sassy Blend to locations with cellulite and other fatty accumulations.

Cleansing and digestive aids -
·  GX Assist. This is a gastrointestinal cleanse.  Use the GX Assist as directed on the product package (3 caplets per day for 10 days) with meals.  NOTE:  This may be too strong for some (skin reactions or other discomforts as the body detoxifies.  If so reduce to 1 caplet per day for 10 days.

·  PB Assist -  This is a doTerra product that delivers friendly probiotic microorganisms to replenish those required in your intestinal tract to provide additional immune defense against unwanted pathogens .


 

·  Zendocrine Detoxification Complex and Zendocrine blend -  The ZDC is a gentle detoxification of the body's cleansing and filtering organs including the liver, kidneys, colon, lungs, and skin while the ZB strengthens these same organs.  Take the Zendocrine Detoxification Complex caplet once per day as directed on the package.  Add 5 drops of the Zendocrine blend to a capsule and also take once per day.


 


 ·  TerraZyme - This is a Digestive Enzyme Complex for healthy digestion of food and metabolism of nutrients.  Take daily as directed on package

 

 

Lifelong Vitality supplements -
·   Lifelong Vitality supplements.  These supplements include antioxidants, omega fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.  They are a comprehensive dietary supplement program of essential nutrients and energy factors for lifelong vitality and wellness.

 

Other hints and helps
Too strong - The doTerra Slim & Sassy bottle calls for 4 drops per 8 oz of water.  Some find it adequate and refreshing, others do not enjoy the flavor that much and find 4 drops overwhelming.  Don't worry.  If 1-2 drops tastes better to you, it will still be effective.

An alternative - Some would rather take 4 drops in a shot glass with a couple tablespoons of water three times per day about 1/2 hour before meal times, and find it very effective. Others enjoy it better with juice.  Especially fruit juices. Others will put only 1-2 drops with a quart of water to dilute the flavor more, then have 3-4 quarts per day. The key is to be consistent.  People who have been able implement slim & sassy into their daily intake, have felt its power and effectiveness.

Hydration - The Slim & Sassy blend also makes a delicious and healthy flavored water for proper hydration during exercise or other activity. It has zero calories and is an excellent replacement for high-calorie beverages or for drinks that contain artificial sweeteners and colors.

Aromatically - Slim & Sassy can be used aromatically by diffusing in your home or personal office space or by simply applying a few drops to the palms, then cupping your hands and breathing deeply for a moment of calm and meditation as you reprogram your body to your new healthy lifestyle.


A body that is trim and fit is not only attractive, but also supports a lifetime of energy and vitality, and can help prevent the accelerated onset of many degenerative diseases. Managing weight and healthy body composition is primarily a matter of expending more calories than we consume. Eating less food (quantity) and improving our food selections (quality) along with increasing physical activity is the best way to experience permanent and healthy weight loss.
 
Eating Less - Food can be both physically and emotionally pleasurable. When we are hungry, our bodies send powerful signals through various physiological pathways to let us know it is time to eat. When we respond by eating, equally powerful signals reward us for responding to our bodies’ desires. These signals are influenced over time by how much we eat, what we eat, and why we eat.
Most people in the developed world consume more calories than required for supporting healthy and vibrant life function. Reducing the amount of calories we consume when dieting can be difficult if our bodies are conditioned to high-calorie diets. Eating more healthy foods in smaller amounts throughout the day, using a dietary supplement of essential nutrients, and participating in a regular exercise program can help change unhealthy signals to eat more than we need or to eat for the wrong reasons.

Healthy Hydration - Many unhealthy “diet” potions use diuretics that cause the body to release water resulting in short-term weight loss, but also resulting in dehydration and other negative health consequences. Drinking water regularly throughout the day can help support efforts to eat less calories. Proper hydration is also essential for metabolic functions throughout the body and supports cellular energy and activity.

Cautions: Slim & Sassy is safe to use aromatically, topically or internally when used as directed. Because it contains citrus essential oils that may increase photosensitivity in the skin, it is recommended that you avoid sunlight or UV rays for up to 12 hours after topical application. Do not use directly in eyes, ears, or nose. Keep out of reach of children. If pregnant or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician.

 

Friday, 31 May 2013

Slim and Sassy (Weight Loss)

Weight Loss



Slim & Sassy Essential Oil Blend- Grapefruit, Lemon, Ginger, Peppermint, & Cinnamon

This product is amazing!  You will have to try it to believe it!  You can take it internally under your tongue or in a capsule.  It can also be applied topically to your trouble spots.  For best results, use 6-8 drops 3 times a day.
        • Increases Energy
        • Rids body of harmful toxins
        • Curbs appetite
        • Increases metabolism