By Beverly Terhune

Staying young is a full time job these days. This is a time of mothers giving birth in their 40's. Don't wait until 40 to start taking care of yourself. Emotions and reactions are a key to the way our body keeps its ambiance. The 11 basic tips below will get you well on your way to a healthier and happier lifestyle.

Enjoy life, strive to be:

Happy, Joyous and Free!!!

1. Pray and meditate.

2. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of quality water daily.

3. Eat at least 5 serving of fruits and vegetables.

4. Exercise and stretch at least 20 minutes.

5. Avoid smoking and smoking areas.

6. Chill...control stress.. Before it controls you.

7. Play games, read books, keep learning.

8. Listen to music.

9. List your goals, short and long term goals.

10. Supplement your diet with vitamins.

11. Stay Open Minded - Do not resist change.

Anti-Oxidants: Vitamins and Herbs

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is the most important antioxidant in the body that protects cell membranes and prevents damage to membrane-associated enzymes. It can be found in vegetable oils, especially sunflower oil, whole grains such as wheat germ, brown rice and oats, as well as nuts, dairy products and meats.

New laboratory research has shown that as an antioxidant, vitamin E helps inactivate free radicals.

There have also been numerous studies that show that topical natural vitamin E, also called d-alpha-tocopherol, reduces sunburn cell production, chronic UV-induced damage and the production of cancer causing cells.

Previous studies have demonstrated that regular vitamin E supplements, taken in conjunction with vitamin A supplements, were associated with a 70 percent reduced risk for basal cell carcinomas.

For additional sun protection, individuals may consider taking vitamin E supplements. Supplementation with natural vitamin E in 400 milligrams per day has been noted to reduce photodamage, wrinkles and improve skin texture.

In addition, topical d-alpha-tocopherol can soothe dry, rough skin. When combined with vitamin C, both vitamins create a highly protective lotion against sun damage.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is the most abundant antioxidant found naturally in the skin. It is commonly found in vegetables and citrus fruits. Much like vitamin E, vitamin C is important in repairing free radicals and preventing them from turning into cancers and accelerating aging.

Vitamin C is depleted when the skin is exposed to the sun, pollution or smoking. Even minimal UV exposure can decrease the vitamin C levels in the skin by 30 percent, while exposure to the ozone of city pollution can decrease the level by 55 percent.

Antioxidants are vitamins and minerals that help prevent oxygen from reacting with other chemicals in cells. Such reactions may damage cells in ways that make heart disease and cancer more likely.

Examples of antioxidants are vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene.

Vitamin E is the antioxidant that has been studied the most. Some medical research has shown that vitamin E can reduce the risk of heart attacks in people with heart disease.

Silymarin - Milk Thistle

The dried fruit of milk thistle contain a flavonoid complex known as silymarin. Milk thistle extract may protect the cells of the liver by blocking the entrance of harmful toxins and helping remove these toxins from the liver cells. As with other bioflavonoids, Silymarin is a powerful antioxidant.

Silymarin has also been shown to regenerate injured liver cells. Recent studies have shown that silymarin has the ability to block fibrosis, a process that contributes to the eventual development of cirrhosis in people with inflammatory liver conditions secondary to diseases such as alcohol abuse or hepatitis.

Milk thistle extract is most commonly recommended to counteract the harmful actions of alcohol on the liver. Double-blind trials indicate that it helps the liver return to a healthy state once a person stops drinking. Some trials suggest that Silymarin may improve quality of life and even life expectancy in people with liver cirrhosis.

Milk thistle alters bile makeup, thereby potentially reducing risk of gallstones. However, this needs to be verified by human clinical trials. Milk thistle extract has been shown to protect the liver from the potentially damaging effect of drugs used to treat schizophrenia and other forms of psychosis.

As with any vitamin or supplement, please consult your doctor before taking. Author Beverly Terhune speaks from 35 years of living with Rheumatoid Arthritis and shares her experience, strength & hope on how to lead a healthy, substance-free life.

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