Disclosure

The information provided in this book is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

You should consult with a physician or healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program; before taking any medication or nutritional supplement; or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem.

Each person is different and the way you react to a particular product may be significantly different from the way other people react to such product.

You should consult your physician or healthcare professional regarding any potential adverse interactions between medication you are currently taking and nutritional supplements before taking any such supplements.

Aging Is A Natural Process But What Can You Do About Your Skin?

Anti-aging is such a popular term amongst North American people and has created a multi-billion dollar industry. We cannot avoid the process of aging. We all naturally go through DNA damage, cellular & tissue wear and tear, or for some, chronic diseases that shorten life spans.

For many, anti-aging is primarily an external result than internal. One of the obvious clues of aging lies in the health of our skin. Our skin is in dynamic equilibrium with our body organs.

Beauty has become one of the pillars in defining ʻsuccessʼ or being accepted but do you have to go under the knife or a needle to have beautiful skin?

Most people associate facial appearance with body image. Many pursue the youthful APPEARANCE because itʼs associated with beauty which is in turn associated with good health, success and good life. But itʼs only an accessory on how your internal self is operating.

I see many people run to the most expensive boutique store to grab the overnight

firming ointments. Unfortunately, in that whirlwind of trying to find the right product for you, 8 key factors are overlooked.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, facial rejuvenation procedures, both surgical and minimally-invasive, experienced the most growth in 2012. Facelifts and eyelid surgeries were up, while 2012 marked the highest number of botulinum toxin type A (Botox®, Dysport®) injections performed to date. Other facial rejuvenation procedures like soft tissue fillers, laser skin resurfacing (509,000 procedures, up 9 percent) and microdermabrasion also saw sizable increases.

Cosmetic minimally-invasive procedures increased by 6 percent, with more than 13 million procedures in 2012. The top five minimally-invasive procedures were:

1.Botulinum toxin type A (6.1 million procedures, up 8 percent) 2.Soft tissue fillers (2 million procedures, up 5 percent) 3.Chemical peel (1.1 million procedures, up 2 percent) 4.Laser hair removal (1.1 million procedures, up 4 percent)5. Microdermabrasion (974,000 procedures, up 8 percent)

What Is Skin?

The Skin is a living organ that is moving, changing, and renewing itself (every 28 days). It protects us from external harmful influences, warns us of internal threats, plays a role in our immune system and beautifies our appearance when cared for. Essentially, our skin shows us where our overall health level is! Itʼs the cover of the book of how we take care of ourselves.

The rate at which your skin loses its elasticity and firmness depends on several factors including genetics and lifestyle. Skin is mainly composed of water, collagen and essential fatty acids where a deficiency in any of these will cause aging of skin and prolong the renewal cycle.

Anatomy of skin

Since this book will primarily be about skin, it would be beneficial to briefly go over its basic anatomy.

Our skin has 3 layers:

1)deeper part of the skin called the dermis (where new skin cells form, also 90% of the skinʼs depth)

This part consists of collagen, proteins, and elastins. By the time we reach approx. 25 years old, primary production of these elements come to a halt and our skin begins to lose its fullness.

Collagen is the principal protein of our bones, cartilage, tendons and skin that provides rigidity. Elastin is a protein that gives our skin, blood vessels and organs elasticity. Without collagen and elastin, the body loses its youthful appearance, as it is no longer able to sustain moisturized and wrinkle-free skin.

Note that Fibroblasts (cells that create collagen and elastin) produce GAGS (glycosaminoglycans) which decreases as we age causing skin to depreciate, and lose water. Hyaluronic acid is a particular GAGs.

2)surface - epidermis

This is where the compounds that keep skin hydrated are produced. Melanin is also produced here.

3) Outermost surface - stratum corneum

Stratum corneum is what we see when we look at our skin. It acts as a raincoat. With the right skincare protocols, it sends a signal down to the layers below to produce new cells.

Causes of aging skin

The causes of aging in general and the causes of aging skin come hand in hand. They are the big three: genetics, environmental and lifestyle. They all come into play to give the face you see in the mirror.

Some particular factors just to name a few are:

• Shortening of our telomerase (protects our DNA) activity• Excess sugar activity• Systemic inflammation

• Progressive dehydration• Toxicity• Acidity - inhibits production of collagen and elastin; alters cell structures;

leads to inflammation• Reduced circulation & cellular energy production• Hormone Imbalance• Stress

Dr. Amen who wrote the book “Use Your Brain To Change Your Age” advocates that the health of your skin is a visual indicator of the health of your brain. He emphasizes that the brain-skin connection is crucial for looking young.

 What About Skin Conditions?

Skin conditions such as psoriasis, acne, discolouration, eczema and dermatitis can also put a damper on youthful looking skin. But they can all be treated, preferably internally. Topical cosmetics are helpful but cannot replace the effects of internal care. Keep in mind that these skin conditions are the expression of the bodyʼs way of excreting internal toxins. Many of these conditions really start in our GI tract, when the lining of the intestinal tracts become thin and porous, allowing toxins to enter the bloodstream. Our organs then become overtaxed in trying to eliminate the toxins. More details on treatment for particular skin conditions will be given later.

The bottom line is: to get your skin in great condition, you must look at the other components of what makes your skin clear and vibrant. There are people who have beautiful skin yet use minimal products and there are those who have a whole slew of products yet donʼt have that glowing skin.

There are 8 key factors that need to be addressed for those who are still looking for that skin transformation and even for those who simply want to have their skin looking youthful for as long as they can. Yes, skincare ingredients is one of them but the other 7 are just as important, if not more so.

Letʼs get started!

What are you putting in your mouth?

Weʼve all heard it since we were kids. You have to finish your vegetables. I can honestly say I am not a perfect eater. Chewing on endless vegetables is not on my favourite to-do list. For that reason, I try to juice a couple of times a week so that I can quickly drink a few servings of vegetables instead of chewing it.

But letʼs face it: an optimal eating habit consists of intaking vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants. More importantly than losing weight, with these components you can combat free radicals which can damage our skin directly and can also damage our cells as well. Now, free radicals is not so much the culprit as we do use them to neutralize viruses and bacteria. The problem is when we have excess free radicals; they now disrupt our cells.

Considering we increase our free radicals from daily pollution, radiation, food additives, microwaves, stress, excessive exercise, chemicals, electromagnetic stress from wireless communication devices, cell phones, etc., chances are our free radical levels are above what they should be.

One solution: Antioxidants can neutralize free radicals! Particularly, antioxidants can increase blood flow, hydration and skin density to skin tissue. However, in the process of oxidation, antioxidants does not function, unless another antioxidant is present. Thatʼs why an abundance of anti-oxidants will help. Fruits and veggies have anti-oxidants as well as certain supplements. As a general tip, Purple/Red foods have anti-oxidants and are anti-inflammatory. For example, Acai promotes healthy skin by improving blood flow and supporting collagen.

The image below illustrates some of the highest antioxidant-rich foods

Clear Skin Diet by Alan.C. Logan and Valori Treloar

As mentioned in the previous section, inflammation is a major culprit in aging skin. In fact, there is growing scientific evidence confirming chronic inflammation in the body is a result of consuming highly refined foods such as white sugar, flour, processed oils and packaged foods. That pretty much covers the main section of grocery stores. Tip: shop the perimeter of the store to find more whole foods. (Produce section, meats section). Although I am happy to see more stores starting to add aisles of organic, gluten-free items.

Letʼs move on to the issue of acidity. As a rule of thumb, our blood PH should be 7.3-7.5 for optimal health. Our goal is to eat 80% alkaline forming foods and 20% acid forming foods. This equation alone can give our skin a glow and decrease blemishes. Unfortunately, acidity is a common occurrence in the North American diet. I definitely have my cravings for deep fried foods, breads, pastries, coffee, wine, meats and sweets. But we have to keep in mind, the skin and kidneys are especially sensitive to harmful acids. Poor guys.

What happens in a state of acidosis is there is less oxygen available to the body.

It is this environment that many pathogens live and where harmful microorganisms can breed. This is their party scene. This will lead to a decrease in our immune functions since our white blood cells will begin to lose its strength and the pathogens will spread and continue to find other weak areas. Itʼs like watching a knockout round of boxing. Not pretty.

So how do we turn this around?

The most effective way to reduce acids within the body is to decrease intake of the acidic foods.

For a list of which food items are alkaline or acidic, this is a pretty decent chart http://www.alkaline-alkaline.com/ph_food_chart.html

I am not saying to cut out acids completely. There are definitely acidic food items that are beneficial for our skin. Iʼm saying to moderate those items or add more alkaline foods.

For example, proteins are essential in building collagen & elastin which has a direct relationship to firmer skin. Protein is also the building blocks for hair, bones, fingernails, organs and cells. In fact, a British study showed that women with low protein intake had a more wrinkled appearance.

Do try to go organic, free range or anti-biotic free.

Of course water, water and more good quality water!

Your body relies on water to detoxify properly and water is also essential for supple, younger looking skin. We have to replace the water that is naturally being lost through our day. Not to mention, water will detoxify our system.

For hormonal detoxification, keep onions, garlic, leeks, green tea, turmeric, pomegranates, ginger and honey around.

Foods Your Skin Will Love You For

Now that Iʼve said to limit acidic foods, this list will show the top 10 foods great for skin (yes, some of them are acidic).

Check out Dr. Alan Loganʼs Clear Skin Diet for more information

Wild Salmon is one of the best sources of omega 3. It keeps our skinʼs outer layer soft, smooth, and hydrated. It also reduces inflammation on the cellular level and can help protect from the sunʼs ultraviolet rays. Salmon is also high in anti-oxidant astaxanthin, vitamins B, D, potassium and selenium. Keep in mind, farmed fish have more anti-biotic and contaminants.

Yogurt has the mineral zinc which is good for our skin; is a source of protein; provides good bacteria for the gut; has vitamin Bs and potassium.

Oysters are a great source of zinc & selenium which are major players in skin renewal and repair. It has vitamin B12 and creates collagen.

Blueberries possess anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It has vitamin C & E (helps rid our bodies of harmful chemicals), ellagic acid (prevents cell damage) and Oligomeric proanthocyanidins OPCS (supports collagen & elastin).

A Kiwi fruit is also an anti-oxidant and stimulates collagen synthesis. It has phyto-nutrients (protects DNA from free radical damage) and Vitamin-C.

Sweet potatoes are great because it has beta-carotene which helps smooth our skin, increase collagen production and protect from sun damage. It has magnesium, manganese and potassium (Increases blood circulation).

Spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, phyto-nutrients and Alpha-lipoic acid (replenishes anti-oxidants.)

Tomatoes (do not take if youʼre psoriatic) is full of lycopene (one of the best anti-oxidant agents of the carotenoids), vitamin A & E and minerals (potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium.)

Walnuts are high in omega 3, minerals, vitamin E (important nutrient for healthy skin), L-arginine (converts to nitric oxide- making bloods vessels relax- and allows oxygen to go to cells – enhancing circulation to skin) and ellagic acid (helps prevent wrinkles and collagen degradation).

Dark Chocolate (NOT milk chocolate) - natural cocoa can improve blood flow to skin.

More items to consider!

Herbal teas: Choose those with little caffeine, no theobromine and tannin - high potencies lead to nervousness and insomnia.

Green tea - Contains anti-oxidants and EGCG- which looks for free radicals and detoxifies them. They can also influence hormonal aspects of acne. The polyphenols in green tea are photo-protective and can prevent photo-aging. It also inhibits sunburn, inflammation and oxidative stress from ultraviolet light. You can also use green tea topically which can help prevent solar UVB light induced skin disorders (melanoma, non-melanoma skin cancers, acne, etc)Note: Matcha tea has higher potency of anti-oxidants.

Birch tea - for sluggish circulation, spots or dull skin.

Linden (lime blossom or vervaine) - helps keep freckles and wrinkles at bay.

Rosehip tea - high concentrations of Vitamin A, B, E, K and P.

For those with Psoriasis, try slippery elm bark powder, yellow saffron (do not take together; space them apart & do not take if pregnant), chamomile, mullein (take after being on saffron for a couple weeks) and watermelon seed. Slippery elm and yellow saffron help rebuild and repair intestinal walls and flush out toxins.

Psoriatic and eczema cases should avoid: strawberries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, tobacco, eggplants, white potatoes, peppers, paprika, shellfish, sugar, regular pizza, canned juice, soda and alcohol except occasional wine.$In general, here are some things to avoid

Food Combinations to avoid as these cause digestion issues and deprivation of critical nutrients.

Avoid eating:

Whole grain with citrus fruitsCitrus fruits with dairyFruit with white flour productsEat melons, apples, bananas separatelyCoffee with milk and sugar (I know your thinking really do I have to) I use diary free coconut milk by ʻSo Deliciousʼ and raw honey.

For more information on food combining, check out an article on Dr.Mercolaʼs site http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/10/27/food-combining.aspx

Minimize sugar to 10% of your daily caloric intake. It can have a negative impact on the proteins.

Drop The Table Salt Habit- Use sea salt, Himalayan salts because it can actually impact your immune in a positive way, and can help balance acidity.

Check for food allergies- Eating the foods your body canʼt tolerate can lead to eruptions of rashes, hives and eczema, throwing your immune system off balance.

In Bob Greeneʼs book ʼ20 Years Youngerʼ, cooking meats at very high temperatures can create HCAs known to promote cancer. It also produces AGEs (advanced glycation end products) that speeds up the aging process. When AGEs level are high, they cause inflammation, clogged arteries, wrinkles and sagging skin and organ damage. I.e. AGES in beef goes up 9 times when broiled; 12 times when stir-fried; AGES in potatoes when fried spikes up 89 times. Best ways to cook are steaming, poaching and stewing.

With the quality of todayʼs foods, absorbing nutrients may be difficult. From agriculture processes, to food technology, our food items are not what it used to be. That is why supplementing can be helpful in filling this gap.

Is Supplementing Necessary?

There are countless books on supplementation and whatʼs good for what. The

fact is, our foodʼs quality has decreased because of whatʼs involved in the growing process. We canʼt get as much nutrients out of food items. How often do you really eat organic or free range? As mentioned in the last part, the main section of our grocery stores carries ʻfakeʼ foods. Just look at the ingredients list and youʼll know what I mean. Donʼt fall for the marketing hype on boxes. If a bag of crackers say ʻWith Vitamin so and soʼ, I highly doubt those are therapeutic doses.

For these reasons, most people need to supplement with vitamins and minerals to give their bodies the nutrients theyʼve been depleted of. Note: Vitamins are not all created equally. I personally seek good quality whole food based products.

I wonʼt get into every supplement thatʼs on the shelves of healthy food stores. I will go over some of the ones that can impact your skinʼs health.

Note: These are recommendations and please do not take mega doses without a physician or practitionerʼs guidance. Overdosing can have implications. Also, these are supplements you take orally. Each of these supplements has benefits other than that for skin.

Here we go:

Fish oils (1500mg-2000mg daily) - Helps the skin recover more quickly after exposure to UV radiation; improves skin elasticity; boosts circulation to the skin and provides anti-inflammatory GLA and EFAs to repair skin and unblock pores. Food sources include but are not limited to: fish, walnuts, hemp and pumpkin seeds.

Borage Oil- this oil has similar benefits as the fish oil. Borage oil can help treat skin disorders resulting from fatty acid imbalances. This can be taken orally and topically.

Evening Primrose (you can also use topically)- the GLA and fatty acid in evening primrose is great to keep your skin hydrated and increase blood circulation. Animal studies show promise for skin rejuvenation following exposure to sun (Dr.Amen).

Zinc (8 mg) - zinc is a major player in skin renewal and repair; it synthesizes collagen; it metabolizes omega 3 fatty acids and it releases and transports anti-

acne nutrient Vitamin A from the liver. Zinc also breaks down the chemical that promotes sebum production under stress. (A buildup of sebum is a factor causing acne)

Examples of food sources that provide zinc: yogurt, seafood, beef, lamb, eggs, whole grains and nuts.$

Selenium (55mcg) - helpful in skin renewal and repair; it preserves skin elasticity (too much can cause depigmentation). Example of food sources that provide selenium: salmon, oysters, Brazil nuts, tuna, crab, garlic, eggs, brown rice and halibut. $Vitamin Bs- taking the B complexes promotes cell growth and muscle tone. Thereʼre 8 different types: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7 and B9 (biotin).

B3 (Nicotinamide) - solid results with oral nicotinamide added to standard acne therapies (Logan & Treloar). Good to add 1000 mg of Vitamin C and 150 mg of B6

B9 (Biotin) (2.5 mg)- helpful in building the protein that makes up skin, nail and hair. A deficiency in this vitamin B9 can cause acne, rashes and psoriasis.

Magnesium - deficiency in this mineral can cause inflammatory chemicals and free radicals, and increase chemicals that produce sebum. It is found to help reduce wrinkles, skin allergies and breakouts.

Beta-carotene - acts as an anti-oxidant and converts to vitamin A. It protects against free radicals and helps smooth skin. It can also help with sensitivity to light. It is preferable to get this from foods as getting too much of this in a supplement can have an opposite effect. Food sources include but not limited to: sweet potatoes, spinach, kiwi fruit, carrots, mangoes and cantaloupes.

Vitamin A- A deficiency of this vitamin can lead to dry, flaky skin. Vit A is essential in the normal shedding of the cells that line follicle walls. It is a natural substance that smoothes skin and promotes healthy skin.

Study shows that patients with acne had low levels of Vitamin A and Vitamin E (Logan & Treloar).

Food sources include but not limited to: beef liver, chicken liver, eggs, sweet potatoes, orange/yellow fruits, spinach and cod liver oils; eat the orange and yellows.$

Vitamin C - it is an anti-oxidant and collagen boosting nutrient; it promotes healing and cellular repair. Food sources include but not limited to: blueberries, sweet potatoes, spinach, peppers, oranges, strawberries, lemons and broccoli.

Vitamin E (preferably the form d- alpha- tocopherol- 23IU - 400IU)- this vitamin protects components of the skin from free radicals; it also works with other antioxidants. Food sources include but not limited to: spinach, tomatoes, walnuts, blueberries, wheat germ, sunflower seeds, safflower oils, sunflower oils, almonds, peaches, cabbage, asparagus and avocadoes.

Curcumin - this component of turmeric is shown by studies to decrease inflammation, hence can help with psoriasis, acne and eczema.

Acetylcholine- not only does it act like a neurotransmitter in the brain for memory, it provides moisture to the skin. Food sources include but not limited to: whole eggs, salmon, cod, shrimp, oat bran, almonds, hazelnuts, broccoli, brussel sprouts, low fat yogurt and cucumber.

Vitamin D- this vitamin decreases inflammation and boosts immunity against viruses, bacteria and fungi that can cause skin conditions. This is good if your skin is not healing as quickly.

Digestive enzymes- helps digest and absorb nutrients from food, reducing inflammation.

Probiotics - Probiotics has a strong influence in our immune system considering 80% of our immune system is in our GI tract. This area has intestinal bacteria and microflora, which all plays a role in promoting health. With a healthy GI tract, our intestinal barriers are strengthened so toxins donʼt get into blood stream. This can alleviate the skin from acting as a backup toxin remover.

Taking probiotics has many benefits that mitigate the factors that lead to a

disruption in our skin health. Probiotics protects against bad microbes, break down toxins and can decrease oxidative stress and inflammation.

Take a minimum of 50 billion for skin conditions - look for a formula high in BIFIDOBACTERIA (main beneficial bacteria in the colon). Sorry, eating yogurt wonʼt cut it for therapeutic doses.

A 2 month study showed probiotics improved acne and that inflammatory acne was associated with altered microflora in most patients (Dr Logan et. al).

You can also take hyaluronic acid and collagen for extra support in skin health.

By no means, you have to take every single supplement that has anything to do with the skin. My personal basic protocol is a good quality whole food based multi-vitamin, fish oil, probiotics, and extra Vitamin D. Sometimes, I do take extra supplements if Iʼm in a rigourous fitness training routine.

What About Your Hormones?

Hormones certainly do play a role in your skin health. They are the messengers that coordinate communication between the body systems be it your immune, nervous, skeletal, endocrine, or GI system. I will not go into detail on hormones as it is not my forte. But it is important to accept that the quality of our lifestyle affect our hormone functions.

Cortisol, the stress hormone, has the most profound effect on the appearance of your body and face. It breaks down collagen, elastin, joints, bones and muscle tissue. It reduces levels of youth hormones (Growth Hormone and DHEA). It raises insulin levels which leads to negative sugar effects on your skin. In fact, research show thereʼs a relationship between insulin levels and acne (Dr Logan et al). Tip: take cinnamon for blood sugar spikes. I add a whopping amount in my juices.

If you are not sure where your hormone levels are at, many doctors and naturopaths offer testing of hormones such as a comprehensive saliva test. It is not necessary however just know it can be done.

Hormone treatments include various supplements, topical gels/creams and HRT

(hormone replacement therapy). Do avoid synthetic hormone therapy.

An interesting observation on how hormones affect skin by doctors Vincent Giampara MD, Ronald Pero PhD and Marcia Zimmerman C.N include:

Women - fine lines around eyes and lips: estrogen deficiencyMen and women - puffiness around the eyes: high cortisol

$ $ Would Detoxing Help With My Skin?

Letʼs say itʼs the year 1989. Approximately just over 5 billion pounds of pollutants were released into the environment in North America. More than 1 billion pounds of chemicals were released into the ground, contaminating the soil and water table. Over 188 million pounds of chemicals were dumped directly into our waterways, and more than 2.4 billion pounds of chemical emissions were pumped into the air.

Our environment has declined since 1989. You can imagine how intense toxicity is now. Toxins cause harm to our bodyʼs cells and it is this that can cause oxidative stress to intensify which catalyses free radical levels.

The Environmental protection agency believes indoor air pollution including household products, personal care products, moulds, etc, is one of the top 5 environmental threats to North America ( Dr.Moreno).

Pollution is a major factor in toxicity. Recent studies indicate that almost 8% of all non-traumatic mortality in Canadian cities is attributed to air pollution (David Suzuki).

Other toxins include heavy metals such as arsenic, cadmium, copper, iron, lead mercury, etc. At high levels, this can lead to neurological disorders. We can also get in contact with toxins through contaminated food, food additives, water via agriculture, manufacturing, pharmaceutical industries and industrial chemicals. Pesticides are amongst the worst toxins.

In fact, many women suffering from hyper-pigmentation, hormonal acne, eczema and other skin disorders have difficulty with proper detoxification and elimination.

Epidemiological studies have identified associations between prolonged exposure to pesticides through farming or drinking well water; proximity in residence to industrial plants, printing plants, or quarries; and chronic occupational exposure to manganese, copper, or a combination of lead and iron, with symptoms of Parkinsonʼs disease.Bachurin SO, Tkachenko SE, Lermontova NN. Pyridine derivatives: structure-activity relationships causing parkinsonism-like symptoms. Rev Environ Contam Toxicol. 1991;122:1-36.

So what can we do? As mentioned, anti-oxidants help protect the body against the damage from free radicals caused by pollution, toxins, and inflammation. Most skin conditions can benefit by increasing antioxidants and improving the liverʼs ability to process and eliminate harmful substances. In fact, researchers from Japan reported that nutritional support of liver detoxification can improve acne (Logan et al).

Internal cleansing is crucial for any skin disease

Consider that our skin is a backup filtration system; it is essentially trying to do the job another organ should be doing, when that organ is taxed. But our skin can take a beating when we donʼt ensure our organs are taken care of. Just a quick background on the main players:

Kidneys- they play an important role in ridding bodily toxins. They filter impurities out of the blood and discard them through urine. Note: teas that help- dandelion leaf and stinging nettle.

Liver- our liver has over 500 functions. Consider that for multitasking. One of the most important functions is it breaks down and excretes poisonous materials; it is also a major filtering gland of the body; it helps purify the blood.

Tip: massage castor oil externally over liver area. Put heating pad on it for 2 hours. Teas to help: dandelion root and milk thistle.

Lymphatic system- is a network of vessels which transport tissue fluids and help drain toxins from organs. Impaired lymphatic drainage and circulation can manifest in poor skin health. Teas that help lymphatic system: burdock, cleavers and yellow dock. Also dry brushing and alternating hot/cold water in the shower

can help.

These are usually the main organs and systems that need cleansing. Most detoxifying products and kits in the market target these 3 big players.

What is detoxification/cleansing?

The good news is our body does have a natural process of elimination or neutralization of toxic materials from cells, organs and bloodstream. However, once someone reaches their threshold of toxins, the body gets overwhelmed and symptoms begin to appear.

There are many signs including but not limited to: joint pain, headaches, acne, eczema, psoriasis, food allergies, allergies, insomnia, chronic fatigue, bloating etc. The list can go on and on.

What is generally recommended is to do 2-3 detoxifications a year. There are several products out there that contain herbs & homeopathic remedies to initiate the process. You can ask your health food store which they have on stock and which has received good feedback.

Taking a break from bad foods will also give your organs a break. Adequate intake of good carbohydrates, energy-supportive fats, and high quality protein are essential for providing protective mechanisms against toxic damage. Lall SB, Singh B, Gulati K, et al. Role of nutrition in toxic injury. Indian J Exp Biol. 1999;37(2):109-116.

If you want to get an idea of how badly your body needs a detox, there are detox questionnaires that can be searched.

What Does Your Skin Tell You About Your Immune System?

As mentioned, 80% of our immune system is in our gut. We have to make sure that system is working properly since this is where most of the toxins are processed.

We must replenish the amount of friendly bacteria since too much bad bacteria can lead to inflammatory conditions which include eczema, acne and psoriasis.

Probiotic supplementation is a common way to make sure friendly bacteria can do just that. It protects against pathogens, manufactures vitamins, maintains intestinal barrier (lining), reduces inflammation, and enhances detoxification. Sounds great doesnʼt it?

When shopping for a probiotic consider: how many strains are there, the culture count, whether it has delayed release delivery, and potency at the time of expiration. Health food store staff should be able to let you know according to which products they have.

Other items that help soothe and repair the intestinal tract are: fennel seed, slippery elm bark and l-gluthimone (helps heal).

I highly recommend considering energy medicine because it plays a huge role in our immunity because it stimulates our body to awaken its own defence mechanism which not many medical systems are able to do. There are a booming number of various energy medicine modalities that I can go on about for hours but that have to be for another book.

To confirm you must look at your immunity when dealing with skin issues or maintaining it; in a book called ʻSkin deepʼ, research suggests that the skin plays an unsuspected role in activating immune system cells that protect the body from disease.

Are You Overlooking Your Lifestyle In How It Influences Your Skin?

Letʼs go over some of the common things we can do every day to help alleviate aging of skin.

1) Laugh!

In 2001 Lee Berk, Professor of Pathology and Anatomy at Loma Linda Uni. in California tracked two groups of cardiac patients, where one group got 30 minutes of comedy a day plus normal medical therapy, while the other just got normal therapy.  At the end of the year, the laughing group had lower blood

pressure, lower stress-hormone levels, fewer episodes of arrhythmia and fewer repeat heart attacks.  There is certainly a lot of interest in the benefits of laughter so be sure to make it a significant part of your day, every day.

Donʼt worry about laugh lines. The benefits of laughing are more important than those lines.

2) Manage Your Stress Levels! Stress has an effect on decreasing microflora in our gut in addition to many other things. Study showed that probiotics actually do influence mood (Logan et al).

3) Get Sleep!

Yes, the demands of todayʼs lifestyle are never ending and you may be ok with a few hoursʼ sleep a night. But keep in mind our bodies need that time to recover so that you mentally feel fine.  

Research at the National Institutes of Health in Washington, D.C., showed that less than an average of 9.5 hours of sleep at night causes premature aging, and the science of circadian rhythmicity (light-and-dark cycles) explains how sleeping controls eating and stress. The hormonal changes caused by sleep deprivation and more free radicals mean faster aging, not to mention breakdown of collagen.

In fact, women who are deprived of sleep have disturbed skin-barrier function, greater water loss from the skin and inflammatory chemicals in circulation, says Dr. Amen, author of ʻUse Your Brain To Change Your Age.ʼ

4) Donʼt go to sleep with makeup on. All cosmetic products leave a toxic chemical film. It dehydrates and clogs pores. Even if you are that exhausted, or have someone you want to impress next to you, take those few minutes to wash it off!

5) Avoid over-exposure from the sun!

Too much sun exposure can cause wrinkles, age spots and other skin problems.

However, we can get Vitamin D being in the sun for 20 min a day. But on a nice day, do we really limit ourselves to 20 minutes? If you will be in the sun for a good portion of the day, wear a safe, effective sunscreen. Yes, hard to find ones that do not contain oxybenzone (because it can be a hormone disruptor), estrogen octinoxate, homosalate, and retinyl palmitte. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are a bit safer. Check out Ecoholic Body by Adria Vasil on how to make your own sunscreen.

6) Avoid smoking!

Smoking makes your skin look older and contributes to wrinkles. Smoking narrows the tiny blood vessels in the outermost layers of skin, which decreases blood flow. This depletes the skin of oxygen and nutrients that are important to skin health. Smoking also damages collagen and elastin — the fibers that give your skin its strength and elasticity.

In addition, each lungful of smoke sends free radicals everywhere, which also accumulates below the surface of your skin leading to wrinkles. Smoking depletes the body of Vitamin C (key ingredient for keeping skin plump and moist). Generally, the skins of people who smoke take longer to heal.

7) Use the washroom regularly! This will help flush out toxins that accumulate in our bodies. Adding in some of the food items mentioned earlier can help increase bowel movement.

8) Exercise!

Consider this: women lose 1% of muscle mass per year after age 40; men lose this in their twenties. This affects the structure beneath the epidermis. Do we want saggy skin?

When we sweat, waste from the blood gets moved out, and toxins will also be on its way. Exercising also activates the glands which opens the pores, increases circulation, filters the blood through the liver and kidneys and allows sweat glands to increase their functions.

9) Breathe! Yes, we all have to do this but many of us are shallow breathers. Take deep breaths regularly to inhale pure air which oxygenates the blood which removes gaseous poisons (carbon dioxide) from the body.

10) Limit alcohol consumption!

Consider that alcohol dehydrates the skin, makes blood vessels lose their tone and depletes vitamin A. Sure, have your weekend fun but too much of it damages the liver which reduces removal of toxins from the body.

Use an air purifier in your home! This can avoid dry air that can dry out your skin. I live in Canada where the winters are just horrible in making my skin crack and dry.

11) Have SAFE sex 3 times a week! Research from Scotland shows this can make you look 10 years younger (Dr.Amen). This study also showed having sex more frequently than 3 times a week didnʼt produce any added benefit.

Researchers at Wilkes University found having sex 1-2 per week boosts immune system by 30%. Sex can also boost hormones such as estrogen and DHEA (both of which promote tighter, smoother skin).

But please donʼt engage in it just for the sake of having increased immunity! Be responsible.

Emotion And Skin? What Gives?

This section is my favourite because this touches on the root of the problem in the first place, yet many underestimate the role our emotions play on our skin. If there's anything to take from this book, it's to...

Take Charge Of Your Stress Levels And Emotions!

"A telomere research study at the University of California, San Francisco, showed that "chronic stress can accelerate aging as much as 10 years."

For many people, stress is something to just tolerate since it's a part of being human and living. Yes, I can agree to a point stress is something you do have to cope with, but not something you have to tolerate. You do have a choice in every situation that you face. You deserve to have ease and joy in your life. But I'm not here to preach. Anyway I will point out more effects of stress.

One of our main stress hormones, Cortisol, is a corticosteroid hormone that is involved in the response to stress. It increases blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and may cause infertility in women, and suppresses the immune system. There is a list of other things but I'm trying to narrow it down to the skin.

See, stress can contribute to wrinkles and aggravate skin conditions like acne, eczema directly and indirectly though hormones. The more our cortisol levels increase, the more it alters hormones. Stress can also increase the number of radicals wrecking havoc, decreases the efficiency of the antioxidant defense system, and lowers levels of vital vitamins and minerals (that has direct affect on acne).

In fact, the British Journal of Dermatology (Logan et al) showed adult acne in females improved with stress management habits. In the Dermatology Nursing Journal, it was demonstrated that females are 5 times more likely to indicate stress as an acne promoter.

Let's move on to a more serious cousin component of stress called "Negativity".

Sure, it's an obvious thing that negativity leads to more negativity. But really, destructive thoughts produce acidic toxins that does harm to an already toxic system. So negative emotions do lead to internal acidity, toxins, and poisons.

For example, you canʼt have feelings of hatred without developing stomach or liver problems.

This is an interesting study. John Pagano found that, chemical analysis of the perspiration of criminals proves that secretions of the body go through distinct changes with different emotions. One example is that violent grief affects pigments of hair.

Dr. Amen also shows that emotions of fear and anger can reduce the number of healthy bacteria in your gut tenfold. Well, there goes the immune system.

You may be thinking: let's get to the skin already! Ok, you asked for it. Just keep in mind that our immune system and skin go hand and hand.

Two authors, PhDs Ted Grossbart and Carl Sherman, wrote a book called Skin Deep which really resonates with my point here.

In their book, they explain how our skin is a sensitive responder to emotions, as is all our other organs. Fear can make your skin pale, embarrassment can make you blush and emotional conflicts can trigger/aggravate skin diseases. These cannot be contradicted.

In addition, "the skin is richly supplied with nerve endings that link it with the bodyʼs control center, our brain. Messages from sensors on the skin tell the brain that the temperature has dropped or something sharp is in contact with the hand. These messages from the brain tell us how to react."

Because of our skinʼs close relationship with the nervous system, the skin is really sensitive to emotional events as well. Anger, and depression cause measurable changes to the skin; Just another reminder.

Grossbart and Sherman say "Your skin canʼt talk in words but its emotional language may consist of wart or an angry rash of eczema or an outbreak of singles or psoriasis. Understanding your skinʼs emotional life is the most important first step toward controlling the psychological factors that cause, trigger and aggravate your disease."

I cannot agree more to that.

"Unfelt, unexpressed anger is the most common psychological mechanism beneath troubled skin."

What is the emotional task your skin is trying to do?

What matters to your health is not so much what happens out there in the world but rather its translation by your mind and its experience by your body. In other words, they are emphasizing that your emotions are based on your perception of what the external events mean to you. Two identical circumstances may mean two different things to two people. It's very important that you develop a positive outlook sincerely in order to avoid certain physiological effects.

"Skin Deep" also goes into detail on the 12 stories behind your skin. It's very insightful to go over. For example, your skin may be crying out for love and protection or your skin is raging or trying to control. It may seem far off for those who do not connect skin with emotions; however, it really does give you something to think about and reflect on about yourself.

Another expert, Louise Hay, goes more in-depth into the emotions that are behind physical symptoms in her book "You Can Heal Yourself".

For instance, she describes emotions we hold onto that are related to skin conditions including:

Eczema – youʼre holding onto antagonism

Edema - What or who wonʼt you let go of?

Fungus - Stagnating beliefs; Refusing to let go of the past; Letting the past rule today.

Psoriasis - fear of being hurt; Deadening the senses of the self; Refusing to accept responsibility for our own feelings.

Hives - small, hidden fears; Mountains out of mole hills.

Rash - Irritation over delays.

Sagging lines - Sagging thoughts in the mind; Resentment of life.

Scabies - Infected thinking; allowing others to get under your skin.

Sores - unexpressed anger that settles in

Warts - little expressions of hate. Belief in ugliness

Pimples - small bouts of anger

Do any of these relate to you?

Now that we've gone over the psychological aspect of skin, what can we do about it? The obvious steps we can take are:

Appreciate yourself in a healthy, inspired way!

Be at peace with yourself!

Find time to be quiet or meditate!

You know already know this but I'm sure some of us think there are more important things to think about or to do. If you don't have your ideal life and

perfect skin, you may want to reconsider. If you don't have your ideal life and perfect skin and do take time to appreciate yourself and cultivate positive emotions, it's just a matter of time before the pieces come together.

This next part is a quick explanation on a methodology that I've personally seen turn lives around in a short time. It's not introduced mainstream as it hasn't gotten its deserved attention yet.

But what if there was a way to determine your unique, stress blueprint? One of the most effective ways to address your particular inherited stress response is something called homeopathic facial analysis.

What is Homeopathic Facial Analysis?

It was developed by Australian Homeopath Dr Grant Bentley. He runs Victoria College of Classical Homeopathy in Melbourne and has devoted many years developing HFA. I'm a supporter as I also embrace his methodology in my private practice.

The concept is that your facial features are a reflection of how you react to stress and changes in your environment. Our stress responses, "fight or flight", or reactions to stressful events are imprinted unconsciously through evolution and past generations, which in turn serves to help us adapt to today's world. Except what worked in the past does not fit into the modern day.

When we are in survival instinct mode, we are going to react as if a past danger is present whether it is there or not. i.e. we're irritable, judgemental, impatient, over reactive and overly-competitive even when there are clearly enough resources in that particular circumstance. When we are out of balance, we also behave in a way that makes others feel about us the same way we feel about ourselves.

Facial analysis in this context can shed light on your life themes- how we spend our free time, who we like to be with, the type of stress that follows us around and how we react to stress. It does not intend to predict futures or attach meanings to single features; itʼs not about looks, ethnicity, gender or age. Facial analysis is about shape, size, and placement. The way our features are arranged show which force is dominant within us, it describes trends of illnesses. Basically, facial features narrows down to show what internal energy you carry, which forms your defense system...which are not the same with everyone. Once that is known, your stress protocol will be that much more effective.

Facial analysis can interestingly help you uncover answers to these questions:

Why do people treat me the way they do?

Why does the same theme keep repeating in my life?

Why do I react in the same way even when I know it is going to hurt me?

Why do these physical symptoms keep showing up when I thought I dealt with it already?

Homeopathic Facial Analysis can address any issue that is an outcome of having low energy. This can be mental i.e. irritability, overly competitive, over-reactive or it can by physical which can be expressed in various ways i.e. skin issues, stomach sensitivity, joint problems, allergies, inability to recover fast enough, and essentially chronic pathology.

According to facial analysis, we can't just throw away our survival instinct; itʼs with us for life. It's a part of our design, our programming. We are always going to move in and out of instinct mode. It's part of being human and consciousness at the same time. What we can do is balance it out so the triggers (we're not conscious of) won't create a negative ripple effect.

Apart from living a healthy lifestyle (eating habits, exercise, living your passion, being around positive people), finding your particular stress protocol calms you, stops you from being on red alert constantly, helps us be the best version of us. And then these out of control stress responses will not be necessary & you'll be surprised at how your body will begin to straighten itself out.

Generally when your systems are strengthened, what becomes clear are your positive thoughts, your own individual talents, and for the most part chronic symptoms can improve because anxiety and struggles are now calm. The best part is stress and exhaustion no longer run your life, and your external facade will represent this. Yes that includes your skin.

Clearing out your bathroom cabinet

Ok, now to the section that many of you have been waiting for. SKINCARE

Do you really know the ingredients youʼre putting on your skin? Or as long as the bottle says ʻsmooths wrinklesʼ or ʻfull coverageʼ do you put it on?

In Canada, companies must list the ingredients on product labels. But that doesnʼt mean the listed ingredients are all thatʼs in the product. There are so many ingredients in makeup and skincare that I canʼt even pronounce. I donʼt exactly know what effect each and every one ingredient has on your health.

A couple of experts I turn to when it comes to everyday products and toxicity are Dr. Mercola and Adria Vasil. In fact, I will refer to them quite a bit in this section.

One of Dr. Mercolaʼs articles such as the one below disclosed several studies that link personal care products with certain toxins.

In Scientific American it was reported that chemicals found in personal care products such as deodorants, lotions and conditioners, are detectable in Chicagoʼs air at “alarming” levels. The chemicals in question, cyclic siloxanes, are known to be toxic to aquatic life. According to Keri Hornbuckle, an engineering professor at the University of Iowa, these airborne compounds are pervasive all around us.

Another chemical, known as D4, is commonly used in polishes, detergents, sealants, adhesives and plastics. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), D4 is toxic to wildlife and to certain species, including rainbow trout; itʼs toxic at the levels found in our environment. In animal studies, the compound has been shown to cause tumors and reproductive problems. Like so many other chemicals, it acts like a weak estrogen. D5, on the other hand, has been shown to cause problems in the nervous systems, liver, and immune system in animals. Despite this, no country on earth is currently regulating either of these chemicals.

Moreover, the Journal Environmental Health Perspectives confirms previous findings that link lipstick to toxic metal exposure. Californian scientists found nine toxic metals in the 32 lipsticks and lip glosses tested, including:

1.Lead

2.Cadmium

3.Chromium

4.Aluminum

According to the researchers, some metals were detected at high enough levels to “raise potential health concerns,” and although no name of brands was identified, they advised the public to “treat these results as applicable to all lipsticks.” According to their findings, a woman who frequently reapplies lipstick or lip gloss may ingest as much as 87 milligrams of the product each day. An “average user” may ingest about 24 milligrams a day. At the average rate, 10 of the 32 products tested would exceed your “safe” level of chromium, which has been linked to certain tumors. High use could also result in overexposure to aluminum, cadmium and manganese. (http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2008/08/09/poison-kiss-lead-in-lipstick.aspx)

Some of the most well-known chemical hazards that most people are exposed to in their personal products on a daily basis include:

Everyday personal care alerts:

1) The deodorant soap has a pH of 9, which removes the protective acid mantle of the skin making it more alkaline and therefore, more vulnerable to penetration. It also contains ammonia, formaldehyde and phenol, which are known carcinogens, and triclocarban, which is under suspicion of being a cancer causing agent with daily use.

2) $ $ Shampoo contains cocamide DEA, which is associated with carcinogenic $ nitrosamines and sodium lauryl sulfate, a known mutagen.

3) $ $ The hair tint contains quaternium-15, which releases carcinogenic $ formaldehyde and the carcinogen, phenylenediamine.

4) $ $ The conditioner contains methylisothiaolinone, an ingredient that is $ mutagenic and is presently being evaluated as cancer-causing.

5) $ $ The shaving cream contains a-pinene, a chemical that damages the $ immune system.

6) $ Body lotion contains mineral oil, which, as a cosmetic grade petroleum product, includes the contaminant polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PHAs) known as xenoestrogens that can mimic estrogen in the body.

7) $ The dusting powder contains talc, a substance like asbestos. When talc was combined with a common air pollutant, benzo(a)pyrene, it induced tumors in 80% of the animals tested.

8) $ The toothpaste contains saccharin and FD&C Blue#1, which are carcinogens. It also contains resorcinol, which can cause a blood disorder (methemoglobinemia), convulsions and death.

9) $ The mouthwash contains 27% ethanol, which is suspected of causing esophageal cancer. It also contains phenol, which can cause fatal poisonings through skin absorption.

10)$ The hairspray contains polyvinylpyrrolidine (PVP) and reports show that it may cause harm if the particles are inhaled. Modest intravenous doses fed to rats caused tumors.

11) $The moisturizer contains phenol carbolic acid, which can cause circulatory collapse, paralysis, convulsions, coma and death as a result of respiratory failure. It also contains PEG-40, which contains dangerous levels of dioxin and propylene glycol, which studies show can negatively alter brain waves and cause liver and kidney disorders.

12) $Blush contains FD&C Red #3, which caused human breast cells to grow, mimics the effect of natural estrogen at the molecular level and damages the genetic material of human breast cells.

13) $Most eyeshadows contains iron oxide, which although deemed safe by the FDA for use in the eye area, is a suspected carcinogen, teratogen or toxin. The eyeliner contains ascorbyl palmitate, and studies suggest that the palmitates are to be considered carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic.

14)$ The mascara may be contaminated with bacteria. It also contains polyvinylpyrrolide (PVP), a carcinogen.

15)$ The lipstick contains paraffin, which is a mixture of hydrocarbons and is derived from petroleum. It is known to be contaminated with the carcinogens, benzo-a-pyrene and benzo-b-fluroanthene.

16) $Perfume contains toluene, a suspected potent carcinogen that was found in every fragrance tested, and benzaldehyde, which is a central nervous system depressant that may cause kidney damage.

17)$ The sunscreen contains padimate O and the preservative, BNPD, which together create the carcinogenic nitrosamine, NMPABAO.

Some assume quality ingredients must be more expensive but cost doesnʼt matter. Many safe, natural skincare products are economical, while chemical-laden products are expensive.

Now Your Ingredients!

The ingredients below is not a comprehensive list of the no-nos, but some of the main ones. You can do some research on Dr. Mercolaʼs articles which describes more ingredients in more detail.

BHA & BHT: found in moisturizers, makeup, water bottles, microwaveable plates, tooth sealants, canned foods, and baby toys. These chemicals may cause cancer and interfere with hormone function (endocrine disruptors). Itʼs a potent endocrine disruptor that can also interfere with your thyroid hormones. Brain damage, decreased intelligence, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism were also found to be potential side effects. It is also harmful to fish and wildlife.

BPA and BPS: Bisphenol-A (BPA) “can be found in a wide variety of plastic

www.ewg.org is a great site to show toxicity levels in personal care products. It does not have all the brands known to mankind however.

You can also go to www.ecoholicbody.ca to download a printable sheet of the 15 ingredients you should not see in your products.

products, such as water bottles, microwaveable plates, tooth sealants, canned foods, and baby toys. Itʼs a potent endocrine disruptor that can also interfere with your thyroid hormones. Brain damage, decreased intelligence, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism were also found to be potential side effects. In fact, California recently added BPA to its “dangerous chemicals” list, which means any product using the chemical will likely be required to include a warning label.

Bisphenol-S (BPS) has been shown to have estrogenic activity comparable to estradiol, the most potent human estrogen. Furthermore, recent research has shown BPS can induce apoptosis (cell death) and interfere with cellular secretion of prolactin (PRL)—a hormone that regulates hundreds of biological functions, including metabolism, reproduction and lactation.” (Dr. Mercola).

CYCLOMETHICONE & SILOXANES: found in moisturizers, cosmetics, hair products, body products. These may interfere with hormone function and damage the liver. Harmful to fish and other wildlife.

DEA, MEA & TEA: found in creamy preparations and foaming- causing nitrosamines. Harmful to fish and wildlife.

DIBUTYL PHTHALATE: in nail products, etc. Toxic to reproduction and may interfere with hormone function. Harmful to fish and wildlife.

DIMETHICONE: A silicone emollient which coats the skin, preventing toxins from escaping. May promote tumors and accumulate in the liver and lymph nodes. Found in creams, hair products and foundation. Non-biodegradable.

TRICLOSAN: found in 'anti-bacterial' products i.e. toothpaste, soaps, hand sanitizers. May interfere with hormone disruption and contribute to anti-biotic resistant bacteria. Harmful to fish and wildlife.

FORMALDEHYDE: Used in moisturizers, hair products, fabrics, some eyelash glue and even some supposedly 'clean, natural, pure' pressed mineral foundations. Formaldehyde is linked to cancer, developmental toxicity, allergies, fatigue, skin rashes, etc. It is restricted in Europe but not in Canada.

OXYBENZONE (BP 3/benzophenone) & OCTINOXATE (octylmethoxycinnamate): hormone disrupter - lower birth rates of baby girls and produces thyroid changes.

PALM OIL: leads to mass clear-cutting of Indonesiaʼs and Malaysiaʼs rainforests that it endangers orangutans, tigers and elephants. Avoid any ʻpalmʼ in the ingredients (sodium palmate, retinyl palmitate). If you must have it in your body care, make sure itʼs certified organic.

PARFUM/FRAGRANCE: even used in 'unscented' products (often as last ingredient). This mixture of chemicals can trigger allergic reactions and asthma. Some linked to cancer and neurotoxicity. Some harmful to fish and wildlife. Restricted in Europe but not in Canada.

PETROLATUM: Found in hair products, lipstick/balms and skin care products. Banned in beauty products in the European Union. Impurities in the manufacturing process implicated in causing cancer, particularly breast cancer.

PHTHALATES (Dibutyl phthalate DBP and diethylhexyl phtalate DEHP): used to make plastics and is banned in toys but not cosmetics. One of the most “pervasive endocrine disrupters so far discovered. These chemicals have increasingly become associated with changes in the development of the male brain as well as with genital defects, metabolic abnormalities and reduced testosterone in babies and adults.” (Dr. Mercola)

PPD: found in permanent hair dyes; contains cancer-causing and non-Hodgkinsʼ lymphoma-linked phenylenediamine. This can be called p-Aminoaniline, 1,4- benzenediamine, p-benzenediamine CI 76060, d-Diaminobenzene, 1, 4 -phenylenediamine, 1,4-diaminobenzene, or 4-aminoaniline.

RETINYL PALMITATE: speeds up the carcinogenic effect of UV rays in mice. Stay out of the sun if this ingredient is in on your skin.

SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE (SLES) & SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE (SLS): found in foamy products such as shampoos, bubble bath and cleansers. SLES can be contaminated with 1,4 Dioxane, which may cause cancer. SLS may damage the liver. Harmful to fish and wildlife.

PEG (polyethylene glycol compounds): used widely in conditioners, moisturizers and deodorants. Can be contaminated with 1,4 Dioxane, which may cause cancer.

PARABENS (METHEYL PARABENS, PROPYLPARABEN, BUTYL-PARABENS): used in most cosmetics, skin care products, etc. may interfere with hormone function and are allergy-asthma triggering ingredients. Associated with breast cancer (fully intact parabens have been found in the middle of breast tumours).

TRICLOSAN/TRICLOCARBAN: thyroid disrupter; may contribute to anti-biotic resistance (showing up in dolphins at levels known to disrupt development in other animals).

Avoid: glycolics, benzoyl peroxide. (generates free radicals, causes drying)

Many products in the stores will have a paragraph just listing ingredients so please donʼt overlook that part. What you can overlook is the marketing hype in big bold letters at the front of the bottle. Oops, did I say that?

Even with terms like natural, plant-based, or organic (unless thereʼs a third party such as USDA Organic which is considered the top seal in the market), you must look at the ingredients. (Adria Vasil does go over some of the seals to look out for in her book Ecoholic Body.)

So what can we do?

Educate yourself and be a conscious consumer. Consider looking for safer brands for your personal care and cosmetic products. A good resource to have (they have an app as well) is EWG.

The Environmental Working Group has a great database to help you find personal care products that are free of phthalates and other potentially dangerous chemicals.

Avoid using artificial air fresheners, dryer sheets, fabric softeners or other synthetic fragrances.

_______________________________________________________________

Other Great Resources:

cosmeticdatabase.com - ranking system

naturalproductsbuyersguide.com

ecocert.com

ams.usda.gov/nop (National Organic Program)

cosmos-standard.org

www.drmercola.com

________________________________________________________________

I am not saying donʼt wear sunscreen. Just be very very picky at the ingredients. (There are recipes where you can make your own sunscreen)If you think about it, our ancestors didnʼt have access to sunscreen, yet skin cancer is hitting our generation more prominently. Hmm.

You may scoff at that, and rightly so; you donʼt have to believe everything you read, including what is included in this e-book as well. I do emphasize the need to do your own research, and again, be a conscious consumer.

What Ingredients Should You Go For ThenNow the fun part; Best is saved for last.

As mentioned in the resources, an especially great book to have is Ecoholic

Did you know?

There are some studies that actually recommend being weary of sunscreen. The principle behind it is that sunscreen blocks UVB rays which causes sunburn, but by isolating UVA rays, it increases skin cancer and marinates free radicals in the skin. In addition, sunscreen inhibits vitamin D because the skin needs the UVA ratio with UVB in order to produce it. Other surprising findings show that when exposed to the sun, sunscreen activates harmful free radicals in its ingredients. One expert mentioned “sunburns are easier for our DNA to process than the cell damage of being in the sun with the sunscreen ingredients. Also, sunscreen inhibits melanin which is our innate photo protector mechanism which helps DNA transform photons into harmless heat- natural process.”

Body by Adria Vasil. She goes over suggested brands, what to look for, etc. I do have to add my 2 cents on lines that were not in the book.

A couple of lines I love and tried for myself and for my patients are Clear 60 Minute Skin Care http://www.epic-cosmetics.com/, and Aq Thermal http://www.aqthermal.com/eng/spa_water_essence/spa_water_essence.php.

I have completely phased out my skincare products, laundry detergents, toothpaste, cleaning products and most of my cosmetics to the safer product lines. I donʼt suggest doing it overnight but definitely consider doing it in steps.

So letʼs get going on some items your skin will love you for!

If you have psoriasis, these options and tips can help:

• A mixture of olive oil and peanut oil helps heal surface cells

• Cold pressed castor oil

• Witch hazel - steamed or topically

• Olive oil and myrrh - massage mixture on right side of abs (fecal matter buildups here). This will help stimulate circulation to upper intestinal tract.

• To reduce itching and inflammation, blend ripened banana skins, water, olive oil and apply to area; cover with gauze; do daily for a week at least.

• Avoid anti-perspirants because it blocks pores, so toxins wonʼt excrete.

For scarring, try these option of ingredients: aloe, calendula, rosehip seed oil, beta carotene, and sea buckthorn seed oil.

For Acne, these options can help:

Did you know?

While the blood pH must be slightly alkaline for a healthy body, the skin is vibrant, healthy and well-guarded against environmental irritants with an acidic composition. Healthy skin pH ranges from 4.0-5.5.Testing your skin pH can be tricky though because it has to be done in a lab. Guideline: alkaline= more dry skin; acidity= redness, irritation.

• Apply Olive Oil in circular motions for a couple of minutes. Gently rub off with washcloth and hot water. Reapply a thin layer of olive oil and leave it. Repeat twice for a week.

• Witch Hazel will dry out blemishes, absorb excess oil, cleanse pores and help externally protect the skin from acne-causing bacteria. To make a potent anti-blemish blend for oily skin, combine witch hazel with teatree oil.

• Rub the inside of the ripe banana peel over the whole face. After 5 minutes, rinse. Repeat 2-3 times a day for 4 days.

General ingredients and items that are nourishing to the skin:

Many of these ingredients can be taken orally as capsules as well as topically. These ingredients are also great for other purposes other than the skin.

Vitamin E, zinc, green tea, grape seed, selenium, resveratrol, coffeeberry, pomegranate, lycopene, quercetin and Coenzyme Q10 (has a regenerative effect).

Emu oil - anti-inflammatory, moisturizing

Rosehip oil- good for redness; reduces skin aging; reverses UV damage

Kukui oil -Hawaiian plant oil high in essential fatty acids

Argan oil- prevents and reduces stretch marks

Avocado oil - rich source of vitamin E. (Note: studies show Vitamin E does not heal scars)

Coconut oil - highly moisturizing with nutrients

Sea buckthorn seed oil - healing effect; relieves dry skin; prevents wrinkles

Goji seed oil - reduces age/sun spots and freckles; good for sensitive skin

Tamanu oil- great for inflamed damaged skin; good for eczema

Phyhllanthus emblica (Indian gooseberry) - lightening powder

Vitamin C (in the form of L-ascorbic acid) - protects your collagen; helps prevent free radical damage to skin

Peptides/pentapeptides- can help with collagen stimulation; repairs broken capillaries

Wasabi Extract - anti-bacterial

Hyaluronic Acid – works extremely well to hydrate skin, also great for joints

Astaxanthin - one of the most potent anti-oxidants

Gentle Enzymes – there are many enzymes used in skincare but a couple of their primary purposes are to exfoliate, reduce inflammation and protect against damage.

Willow bark - anti-inflammatory, astringent and soothing

Copper and zinc particles in products- in moderation can help speed up tissue renewal

Bananas- improves elasticity and hydration of the skin

Witch Hazel is antiseptic, hemostyptic (slows/stops bleeding), constricting/shrinking/squeezing, anti-inflammatory, cleansing, drying, and cooling. Itʼs also a powerfully antioxidant. The astringent power of witch hazel can halt oozing secretions from wounds or skin irritations such as eczema, and also stop the bleeding from open cuts, abrasions, or even nose bleeds. Other uses for witch hazel are: for varicose veins, tightens pores and reduces itching.

Alpha hydroxy acids- fruit acids from edibles like grapes, apples and oranges; dissolves dead cells; may stimulate collagen; (lactic, malic) - can increase sensitivity though. Use peptides for gentler anti-agers.

Note: If youʼre using retinoids, and you have sensitive skin, build it up slowly. Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A and retinal aren't as potent as prescription retinoids. Note: Donʼt stay in the sun too long while this is on your skin. Alternative: Tgf (Transforming growth factors)- beta instructs cells to produce more collagen, with less drying out than with retinoids.

General suggested daily protocol:

1) Exfoliate in the evening - removes the dead skin cells. Gives the layers below the opportunity to bring up new cells as well as increase circulation in skin. Also with the dead skin cells gone, the nutrients from your cream will be better absorbed.

2) Clean (evening and morning) - This will clean the dead cells youʼve loosened up. Good cleansers take away makeup, sunscreen, dirt, yeast and bacteria without stripping your natural oils. Avoid products that leave your skin feeling itchy, i.e. soaps.

3) Nourishment (creams, serum) evening and morning- main focus is to deliver your skin with vitamins, anti-oxidants and other ingredients to the stratum corneum.

Micro-needling will enable your pores to more effectively absorb your skincare. It does not hurt at all. I do it a couple times a week before putting on face cream at night.

Be consistent with the 3 steps!

Making Your Own

Concoctions

Did you know?

For centuries honey has been used to stimulate new skin generation. Pure honey contains B vitamins; amino acids; and trace minerals calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and zinc; proteins and enzymes; aroma compounds and polyphenol antioxidants. Itʼs also antimicrobial, making it stellar for blemish or acne prone skin.The antioxidants in honey repair damaged skin cells and help to diminish scarring. Honey also leaves dry skin moisturized, and oily skin matte. It will help dehydrate zits, and prevent future blemishes.

Tips: Dark eye circles, use eye creams with botanical skin lighteners like licoriceFor eye puffiness, use cold things, chamomile bags

With Herbs And Plants At Home

Making cosmetics on your own can save money and chemical-laden alternatives. The equipment youʼll need is a double boiler. Josephine Fairley has really great recipes in her The Ultimate Natural Beauty Book. I picked some of my favourites (Below).

Rose Moisturiser

Pack rose petals in a glass jar and cover with sweet almond oil.Bruise petals with a spoon in the jar and seal jarPosition it where it can absorb sunlight daily for infusion processAfter 3 weeks, strain off rose infused oilHeat beeswax in the sweet almond oil in the top of a double boiler until melted. Remove from heat and allow it to cool

before adding wheatgerm and rose essential oil. Once cooled, transfer to sterilized jar to set

Cleansers

Aloe Vera cleanser1 oz aloe vera gel2 oz olive oil1 oz rosewater4 drops rose essential oil2 drops grapefruit seed extract

Blend all ingredients in food processor and put in a bottle, then refrigerate. Shake before use.

Marigold cleanser

2 handfuls of scented rose petals2 oz sweet almond oil or extra virgin oil1/4 oz beeswax or grated beeswax1 tsp wheatgerm oil15 drops rose essential oil 10 drops frankincense (optional)

Remove all petals and place in a double boiler. Add the other ingredients and gently heat until everything is melted, stirring gently. Continue to heat for another 5 min, then pour through a sieve into another bowl, stirring until mixture is a little cooler but still runny. Transfer to sterilized jar and seal when fully cooled. Use within 6 months.

Marigold and frankincense nourishing cleansing oil

Place flowers in the bottom of a glass jar and pour sunflower oil over them.Seal and let it sit next to a sunny window for 3 weeks, then strain off the oil.Add hempseed and apricot kernel oils and decant into a screw top glass bottle.Apply oil on pads and onto your face.

Lavendar skin tonic (helps normalize sebum productions)

2 handful lavender flowers8 oz apple cider vinegar700 ml rosewater

Put lavendar flowers in the bottom of a jar and add the liquid ingredients. Shake well. Refrigerate for 10 days. Strain off the liquid and pour into another bottle.

6 heads of calendula flowers3/4 oz dried marigold (calendula flowers)1/2 oz cocoa butter3/4 oz beeswax granules3.5 oz sweet almond oil or extra virgin oil

2 oz dried calendula flowers2 oz sunflower oil2 tbs hempseed oil2 tbs apricot kernel oil15 drops frankincense or rose essential oil (optional)

Rose freshener

Put rose petals in a jar and pour the vinegar and rosewater over. Add rosewater drops.Seal and leave it to steep for 3 weeks in a dark place.Strain off liquid and pour into sterilized bottle.Apply on face or use cotton balls after cleansing.

Toner2 tbs dried chamomile1 tbs dried rosemary

Pour over boiling waterFilter out herbs and keep bottle in fridgeApply to cleansed skin on wool

Toners are useful to spot and treat pimples to restore pH.

For use on blemishes, these toners will help dry pimples out, while your honey wash will prevent your skin from freaking out and overproducing oils.

1 oz dried rose petals12 oz rosewater2 oz cider vinegar2 drops rose essential oil

Lemon Toner: In a little glass bowl, dilute a squeeze of about 1 tsp lemon juice in ½ cup water. If this is too harsh, you can add more water; if itʼs too mild, more juice. Dip your chosen apparatus (I like cotton pads) into the solution and swipe all over face. You can leave this on for up to five minutes. Then rinse, if desired, and pat dry.

Sweet Honey Face Wash

First thing in the morning or on a day when you havenʼt worn makeup, treat your skin to a pure honey wash. Take a nickel to quarter sized dollop of honey into your palm. Rub your palms together and spread it like liquid love all over your face. If you have the time, let it sit for five minutes or so, and then rinse with warm water. Pat dry with a cool, damp washcloth or a dry towel. Stroke to feel your baby soft skin.

Masks

Pulp raspberries in a food processor then sieve the pulp over a bowl, reserving the flesh and seeds. Add flesh and seeds to yogurt and blend well, then drop in the essential oil and stir again to mix. Apply to cleansed face.

Comfrey acne mask

Put comfrey in a bowl and pour boiling water over itCover and allow it to cool completely, then strainIn another bowl, mix egg white and fullerʼs earth and moisten with 2 tbsp of comfrey liquidApply mask for 25 min

Mashed apricots with 1 tsp avocado oilbananaegg whites, honey, oatslemon juicecinnamonmashed apple

For brightening effect: 2 tbs plain yogurt, 3 oz raspberries, 3 drops sweet orange essential oil

2 oz fresh comfrey leaves and flowers or 1 oz dried comfrey8 oz freshly boiled water1 egg white2 oz fullerʼs earth

To take off, soak cotton pads in remaining comfrey liquid and sweep mixture off face

Cucumber anti-blemish mask

1 inch cucumber1 drop rosemary essential oil1 egg white

Liquefy cucumber; add a drop of rosemaryWhish egg white; fold in cucumber mixtureSmooth over face

Vita-carrot mask

1 carrot1 tbs sweet almond oil5 drops jasmine essential oil

Blend carrot pulp with sweet almond oil and add jasmine essential oil.Apply on skin

Facial steam for problematic skin

2 handfuls fresh mint leaves or 1 tbs dried mint1 tbs fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves600ml mineral water2 drops peppermint essential (optional)

Bring herbs to a boil in a pan.

Other Mask ingredients:

Strawberries and egg whitesLemons - lightens dark patches

Oats, lemon juice, honey - hydratesYogurt, oats, honey - balancing the skin

Milk - sooths irritated skin

Remove from stove and add essential oilCool slightly.Lean over the bowl and cover head with thick towel.Do once or twice a week

Make up remover

1.5 oz dried calendula flowers1 tbs dried eyebright2 tbs olive oil2 tbs avocado oil2 tbs sunflower oil

Put dried herbs in wide necked jar and cover with oilsSeal and leave on windowsill for 4 weeksStrain a couple times and pour into sterilized jar with dropperPut 3-4 drops on pad and sweep across eye area

Honey Wash to Remove Makeup

Take equal amounts of honey and baking soda into your hand or, better yet, into a damp wash cloth. You just need enough to cover your face, maybe ½ teaspoonfuls of each. First pour the honey, and then the baking soda, so that the soda touches your skin first. Wet your face a little. Then apply the honey and baking soda, gently scrubbing, not scraping, and using the cloth to pick up makeup and surface dirt. Avoid your eyes. Be thorough. Then splash with warm to lukewarm water till all is removed. Check for any missed areas and repeat if necessary. Pat dry with a fresh towel.

(After using baking soda youʼll need to follow it up with an acidifying toner to restore a healthy pH.)

Apple zit blaster

If you feel a pimple forming, pour boiling water over a slice of appleWait until it is softRemove from waterPlace on pimple for 20 minutes

Ivy leaf anti-cellulite oil

15 large fresh ivy leaves4 oz grapeseed oil1 tsp wheatgerm oil15 drops juniper essential oil5 drops fennel essential oil5 drops rosemary essential oil

Bruise ivy leaves with a pestle and mortar, place them in the bottom of a jar and Pour the grapeseed oil over themAdd the other oilsLeave mixture for 1 week and then strain out ivy leavesMassage onto problematic areas

Good ingredients to use after being in the sun:

Aloe veraStrawberriesYogurtWitch hazelCucumber juiceCider vinegar

Another tip to remove eye makeup: use extra virgin olive oil, sweet almond oil, avocado oil  or any other of your favorite nourishing, cold-pressed oils. Douse a cotton ball with the oil and wipe makeup from your lovely lookers. Repeat if necessary.

Another anti-cellulite conconction I use is a mixture of:A palm-full of Organic coconut oil1 spoon Diluted instant coffee grinds (you can keep the actual grinds in but I find it falls off my skin easily)A few drops Grapefruit essential oilA few drops Wheat germ essential oil I mix it all up, apply it to my problem areas and go in the steam room or sauna before I rinse it off

Mint and black tea sunburn solution

Pour boiling water over mint and teabagsLet it stand for 10 minutes and then strainLet it cool, then transfer to a jarapply to sunburned skin using pads(tannic from the black tea draws the heat from the burn and restores skinʼs acid balance)

More on Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema and Rosecea

For more serious skin conditions, topical solutions can only take you so far unfortunately. At this point, you must look at whatʼs happening inside your body. A great resource to have on your shelf is The Road To Perfect Health by Brenda Watson. Letʼs briefly go over these conditions.

Causes of Psoriasis can include any of the following:

• Infections (certain pathogenic bacteria are found on the skin of psoriasis patients)

• Gluten sensitivity• Poor digestion (specifically poor protein digestion)• Bowel toxins (can influence the rapid regeneration of skin cells that is seen in

psoriasis)

4 oz fresh mint leaves3 black tea bagsboiling water

Blush

1.5 oz raw beetroot (grated)3 tbs veg glycerine

Face powder0.5 oz rice powder1 oz orris root powder1 oz dried lavendar flowers

Put ingredients in jar and shakeDo every day for 2 weeksSift in a bowl

• Leaky gut(found to be more prevalent with psoriasis)• Liver dysfunction• Heavy alcohol consumption• Smoking• Stress (increases itching and intensity of psoriasis)• Obesity• Certain medications• Family history

To clear psoriasis, consider implementing the following:

• Clear out the poisons accumulated in the body• Prevent further intake of toxic elements• Colonics• Vitamin Bs- help cleanse bowel and tones intestines• Steam baths• Exercise• Use Probiotics (minimum 50 million) for 2 weeks• Need long term detoxification program

ACNE

In acne cases, oil and skin cells are produced at a faster rate than normal, causing a buildup of dead cells. This buildup clogs the pores. Inflammation is at the core of acne

Causes: hormonal imbalance, inflammation, leaky gut, high carb diet, dairy consumption (hormones found in it), toxin exposure, cosmetic ingredients, poor liver function, low fiber intake (help regulate bowel movements which carry toxins; fiber lowers blood glucose levels), stress and genetics.

Standard treatments of acne include topical ointments, antibiotics, etc. However, long term use of antibiotics depletes beneficial gut bacteria, causing more problems (digestive, hormonal, anti-biotic resistance).

ECZEMA

Causes:

• Immune dysfunction- results in excessive inflammation of the skin• Dry, irritated skin• Irritant exposure- some allergic reactions take years to develop• Allergen exposure• Anti-biotic overuse- early use of anti-biotics in children assoc. with eczema• Leaky gut• Food allergy• Gluten sensitivity• H pylori infection• Yeast overgrowth• Candida overgrowth• Genetics

Use of neutral or slightly acidic soaps may help. Also, doing a cleanse (detox and candida) can help.

Factors that may worsen eczema: long baths, showers; stress; sweating; smoking; synthetic fabrics; chemical irritant and allergens.If your skin has eczema, your intestinal lining is also inflamed in a similar way.

Rosacea

Rosacea generally affects the central area of the face. It involves an overactive inflammatory response of the blood vessels of the skin and of the sebaceous glands of the skin, resulting in hypersensitive skin reactions.

Factors that play a role in development of rosacea include:

• Mites (Demodex folliculorum mite)- found in higher concentrations on the affected skin of people with rosacea

• H.pylori infection (link found between rosacea and bacteria Helicobacter pylori)• Low stomach acid (h. pylori thrives under low stomach acid conditions)• Dysbiosis (imbalance in the ratio of good to bad bacteria in the gut)

• Leaky gut• Liver dysfunction• Inflammation• Immune dysfunction• Lack of dietary fiber• Sun exposure• Hot or cold weather• Genetics• Stress• Alcohol• Certain foods, beauty products, medications

Note: Hives, eczema, blotching and itching can occur from acidic sweat passing through the skin's pores.

Some Non-Invasive Therapies You Can Do

These are some things you can do to stimulate healthy skin health. Iʼm sure there a lot more available but below are some of things Iʼve done myself.

• Acupuncture- stimulating some of the acupuncture points can help activate our immune system and endocrine systems.

• Facial-toning equipment- some products on the market have gotten really good reviews based on the results. I guess itʼs considered the non-surgical face lift. The basis is that the technology in these devices tightens and tones the skin.

• Micro-needling- as I mentioned, these things are handy and quick to use before putting on your face products.

• Facial yoga or facial toning exercises- you will find some entertaining videos on Youtube.

• Give yourself a face massage. Try this technique. Using your fingers, apply pressure around the nose area, then to your nose tip, across brows, temples, front of ears, behind ears, down side of neck (this will help drain the lymphatic system and also stimulates points for certain organs such as spleen, large intestines, liver, kidneys and stomach region; then put light pressure on top of the lip (hormonal point) and ear lobes - (kidneys)

• Massage neck area - loosens tensions that are directly related to forehead lines

• Steam bath - this will help remove toxins from the skin. Bathing in saffron tea or saffron water 30-60 min before taking a steam bath will increase the removal of toxins when it works through the skin in the steam room.

• Epsom salt or dead sea baths (20-30 min)- maintenance 2 cups Epsom or 1.5 cups dead sea salts; if psoriatic - 4 pounds of Epsom salt

• Red light therapy- This is becoming popular in spas, yoga studios, clinics and even tanning salons. The red wavelengths are said to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, speed up the healing processes, shrink pores, and reduce scarring among other benefits.

Overall, these main components, if implemented in your lifestyle, can greatly reduce the aging appearance. Letʼs recap; pay attention to your nutritional habits; consider supplementing to fill in the gaps; do a detox twice a year; pay attention to your lifestyle and emotional habits; clear out your cosmetics cabinet; and consider safer alternatives.

It is not an overnight procedure I know but well worth the investment when you donʼt have to hide behind thick foundation, botox and surgery.

I wish you the best in your transformational journey!

Beverly Isla is a certified wellness coach, founder of Press For Cause and Save A Pooch. Having been in journalism and news, she wanted other material to be in mainstream media. Her mission is to support social enterprises that contribute to things that matter. Topics of particular interest to Beverly are: holistic well-being, animal welfare, green living, and personal development.

Testimonials

"My skin issues were getting worse and my extreme moods were starting to affect my personal life. I decided to give homeopathy a chance. After a couple of months with Beverly, my skin improved dramatically despite the triggers and surprisingly my mood also lifted. I did not understand facial analysis but what it said about me was pretty amazing and how it links to my physical and mental conditions is amazing as well." --A.M, Vancouver

I have dealt with serious skin issues for decades. It was embarrassing. It looked like boils that bled. My skin was flaking off! I went from doctor to doctor with only temporary results. I'm very familiar with homeopathy since my husband was treated years ago. I started treatment with Beverly and within months, everyone was commenting on how my skin looked! It has slowly gotten better, but never worse, which I never achieved before. I am so happy that she is around to consult with." -- E. W, Toronto

"I came to Beverly due to a few concerns including long term eczema on my neck and fingers being one of them. It appears at the same time every year despite whatever I do. She helped me step by step and within a few months, my skin became normal. Even my other concerns that could not be treated with prescriptions started to disappear" --L.D, Toronto

"My adult acne has affected my life so much that I was ready to accept that Iʼll always have it. No matter what I tried, it would always show up on my face. Iʼve tried so many products with no luck. Beverly showed me what I needed to do that I would not have normally considered. With some time and commitment, my skin started to transform and I no longer have to wake up feeling anxious on how many pimples formed overnight. " -- S,I Toronto

References

Bentley, Grant, ND, Dip Hom Grad Dip Psych). Soul and Survival. Melbourne: Grant Bentley, 2008 Print.

Grossbart, Ted and Sherman, Carl, PhDs. Skin Deep: A Mind/Body Program for Healthy Skin. Albuquerque: Health Press, 1992. Print.

Watson, Brenda, C.N.C. The Road To Perfect Health: Balance Your Gut, Heal Your Body. Palm Harbor: Renew Life Press, 2010. Print.

Pagano, John, DC. Healing Psoriasis. Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons, Inc, 2009. Print. Drayer, Lisa, MA,RD. Beauty Diet. 2009. Print.

Greene, Bob. 20 Years Younger. New York: Hachette Book Group, 2011. Print.

Sutherland, Caroline. The Body Knows How To Stay Young. Australia, UK, Republic of South Africa, Canada, India: Hay House, 2008. Print.

Logan, Alan, ND and Treloar, Valori, ND. The Clear Skin Diet. Nashville: Cumberland House Publishing, 2007. Print.

Fairley, Josephine. The Ultimate Natural Beauty Book. London: Kyle Cathie Limited, 2008. Print.

Vasil, Adria. Ecoholic Body: Your Ultimate Earth-Friendly Guide To Living Healthy & Looking Good. Toronto: Vintage Canada, 2012. Print. Amen, Daniel, MD. Use Your Brain to Change Your Age: Secrets To Look, Feel, And Think Younger Every Day. New York: Three Rivers Press, 2012. Print.

Morena, Mike, MD. The 17 Day Plan to Stop Aging. New York: Free Press, 2012. Print.

Mercola, Joseph. www.drmercola.com