Mila

For the most up to date health info we interviewed Mikaele Holzer (www.greenyourspirit.com) and Jennifer Bronsnick (www.JenniferBronsnick.com).  Mikaele is a Health Coach and graduate of the renowned Hippocrates Institute, while Jennifer is a trained Psychotherapist and Holistic Health Coach; both women are independent distributors with Lifemax and tout Mila as a nutritional powerhouse, mood booster and weight loss super food.

What is Mila?

Mila by Lifemax is a high integrity whole raw superfood backed by 20 years of scientific research.  It is a special blend of chia seeds that have been specifically selected for their high nutritional value.  Mila contains the highest levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, fiber, protein and phytonutrients of any plant source on the planet combined into one food. 

How is MILA different than other chia?

There are over 100 varieties of chia seeds.  Most of the chia brands on the market are mass produced and not tested for specific nutritional values, variety or potency, not thoroughly cleaned, and not all harvested at their peak of nutrition.  

Mila seeds are mostly grown on small farms close to the equator where the soil is very mineral rich, and the climate and elevation is perfect to produce the most nutrient dense seeds.  Lifemax independently tests each crop to ensure that every bag of Mila has the varities that are the highest in Omega-3’s, protein, fiber, antioxidants, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals.  Not only is the Mila blend hand selected, it is also meticulously cleaned to ensure there are no stems, weed seeds or unripened seeds.

Lifemax is the only company that uses a proprietary cold fracturing system to open the seeds, making them easier to digest and much more bio-available -meaning the nutrients absorb easily and are utilized by our body to continuously heal and bring balance on a cellular level.  Oftentimes, whole seeds do not break down easily and therefore they move through our system without being absorbed and utilized for their powerful nutritional qualities.  Seeds that are ground in large quantities (such as ground chia sold in stores) can heat up during the grinding process which destroys enzymes (life force), causing oxidation and tremendous loss of nutrients.

For more comparisons of Mila vs. other chia brands, please watch this video:

http://home.lifemax.net/mila-research-video

What are some of the top health benefits people are receiving by eating Mila regularly?

1) Weight Loss:  Many people who consume Mila are experiencing weight loss.  When Mila is absorbed in liquid before eating, it becomes gelatinous and can help make you feel full.  It has also been known to slow the absorption of sugar, balance blood sugar, eliminate cholesterol, clean out the digestive tract, increase energy and lift mood which all may contribute to weight loss.  Try drinking a glass of Mila that has been soaked in water before meals to help you fill up and eat less food overall.

2) Improved Mood and Mental Clarity:  Omega-3 essential fatty acids in the proper ratio (3 Omega-3’s to 1 Omega-6) which are abundant in Mila are well known for helping with depression, mood enhancement and overall improved brain function.

3) Healthy Digestion:  Mila is loaded with soluble and insoluble fiber which are extremely important for keeping digestion regular and preventing diseases such as diverticulitis, diverticulosis, crohn’s, constipation and others.  With fast paced lifestyles steering people towards highly processed foods, people are consuming less healthy fiber.  One scoop of Mila pre-soaked in liquid can help hydrate the colon, clean out the digestive system and assist with regular bowel movements.  The cleaner the colon, the easier it is for other healthy nutrients to absorb and be utilized by the body.

4) Increased Sustained Energy, Stamina and Endurance:  Mila is a super high complete protein source containing the full spectrum of essential amino acids which is not as easy to find in a whole plant source.  This protein combined with the vitamins, minerals, Omega-3’s  and powerful phytonutrients work together to boost energy and also increase endurance and stamina.  The gel forming property of Mila aids in slowing the conversion of carbohydrates to sugar and sustaining blood sugar levels which helps to extend endurance.  Chia seeds were a staple food of the Aztec warriors and were considered a “running food” by the Tarahumara Indians who would sometimes run 100 miles at once.

5) Healthy Heart:  Again it’s the magic of the Omega-3’s which help reduce blood pressure and risk of developing blood clots and the soluble fiber which help reduce “bad” cholesterol.

6) Healthy Aging:  Mila is loaded with antioxidants and phytonutrients helping to fight free radical damage from the environment which promotes premature aging.  It also helps flush toxins, boost immune system, improve skin, hair and nails, AND acts as a very powerful anti-inflammatory.  The Omega-3’s help relieve joint pain and muscle soreness while also helping to prevent disease.

What is so important about Omega-3’s?  

Omega-3’s are essential fatty acids that our bodies do not produce on their own, so we need to get them from food, and we need them every day to function optimally.  95% of people are very deficient in Omega-3’s - some symptoms may include fatigue, dry skin, poor memory, mood swings, joint pain, depression, heart problems, poor circulation etc.

Many researchers believe that low grade inflammation is the root of most disease including heart disease, diabetes, alzheimer’s, arthritis, cancer etc. Most diets have an over abundance of Omega-6’s which come from refined vegetable oils, processed foods and fast foods which are pro-inflammatory at those levels.  Omega-3’s in the proper ratio 3:1 (like Mila) act as a powerful anti-inflammatory.  It is generally recommended to reduce our Omega-6 intake and increase our Omega-3 intake until reaching a balance of 3:1 (Three Omega-3’s to one Omega-6).  Mila has the perfect balance of powerful Omega-3’s to 6’s in a highly absorbable plant based form that can help keep inflammation under control while also decreasing processed foods and increasing whole plant-based foods.

How much Mila is recommended daily?

Listen to your body.  Most people start out with one or two scoops per day (one scoop is 2 tablespoons) and see how they feel.  Some people with health imbalances or who want to lose weight may consume more until their body is back in balance.  Mila has no flavor and is easy to mix into foods adding a powerhouse of nutrients to your meals.  Try adding Mila to smoothies, dips and dressings, or check out Seed For Change for more recipe ideas.  If you have digestive problems, definitely start by soaking Mila in some form of liquid for 5 minutes or more before consuming for best results.  Stay hydrated!

Where do I purchase Mila and for how much?

For less than a cup of coffee or a bottle of water you can feed your body more nutrition per scoop than what some people estimate they are getting in one week’s worth of food on the Standard American Diet.  WOW.  If you are interested in Mila the Miracle Seed, click here:

Please feel free to reach out if you have any other questions or concerns.

Jennifer Bronsnick

Jennifer@Jenniferbronsnick.com

“Statements made in this publication have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Mila® is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” As with any weight management, supplementation program or lifestyle change, consult your healthcare provider before beginning any regimen, particularly if you have any known health concerns.

Interview with Shiela Cluff

We sat down with Shiela Cluff, fitness extraordinare and owner of the Oaks at Ojai. We were blown away by her lifestyle and her various achievements.

Sheila Cluff, internationally-known fitness expert, owner, and founder of The Oaks at Ojai health and fitness destination spa is an inspiration because the 74-year-old mother of four and grandmother of seven lives and looks the lifestyle she teaches. The former star and host of her own fitness shows on NBC in New York and KABC in Southern California, Cluff has touched the lives of millions. Cluff was named “Woman of the Year” by the City of Hope Foundation. She is a founding member of the Committee of 200, an organization of preeminent businesswomen that capitalizes on the success, power and influence of women in the global economy and the first “Entrepreneur of the Year” recipient by IDEA, the world’s largest membership organization of health and fitness professionals. She is a former board member of the International Spa Association (ISPA) and a member of the College of Sports Medicine, Ojai Village Association, as well as Ojai Film Festival Board. Cluff was the recipient of the ISPA Visionary Award, demonstrating her astuteness and dedication to the industry, and the Eve Award presented by the Mannequins Auxiliary of Assistance League of Southern California for her philanthropy and commitment to community outreach. Additionally, in May 2002, SPA magazine recognized the graduate of Ottawa Teachers College as a pioneer of the American spa industry with a “Trailblazer” tribute.The former professional figure skater and high school physical education teacher is considered a fitness pioneer in the health and fitness industry among her peers. Cluff introduced “cardiovascular dance” to the world in the 1950s. Today, we know this groundbreaking exercise simply as “aerobics.” As a motivational speaker, the author of four books, producer of four fitness videos, and leader of more than 40 fitness and beauty cruises, Cluff personally helps participants attain individual power through healthful living. In addition, Cluff publishes the “Spa Update,” a newsletter with 50,000 circulation. After four decades of great success, Cluff still makes time to teach at least five classes per week at her popular California-based fitness destination spa and know her guests by name. In 2005 after a 45 year absence, she returned to figure skating as Mrs. Santa Clause in Holiday Magic on Ice and helped raise $6400 for Ventura County Foster Children. The past four years, Cluff competed in the Ice Skating Institute Adult Skating Championships and came in first in her age division for freestyle skating. More recently, Cluff has become a contributing author for Recovery Magazine, a publication designed to help those in recovery from physical or emotional difficulties by extending support and encouragement. As American Spa’s2008 Professional’s Choice Awards called her the “Most Influential Spa Leader,” she keeps on making philanthropic efforts. Most recently, she was the keynote speaker at the Go Red for Woman Luncheon to educate women across the country about heart-disease, since Cluff has spent decades transforming people’s lives by helping them make life-altering changes by adopting an easy-to-follow philosophy that combines healthy eating with an active lifestyle.

1. When I visited the Oaks at Ojai for a tour I was told that calories are limited to 1200 calories a day for guests. Why is this and do you feel guests lose a lot of weight with this strategy?

Some of our guests have requested that we restrict their calories, so our healthy menu consists of a healthy 1200 calories. We use no sugar, salt or white flour, nothing processed or frozen so people feel very satisfied with our program. In fact, they are amazed at how they can feel so full on this food plan. However, for those who have no desire to restrict their caloric intake and are coming to us strictly for our delicious healthy food and fitness, we encourage them to exercise their options at breakfast and take in additional calories through our healthy yogurt, oatmeal, hard boiled eggs, cottage cheese and homemade jams and toppings. Of course, anyone, regardless of their fitness and health goals, can take advantage of this option. Our whole philosophy about food is that food is necessary so we focus on quality not quantity, nutritional value and taste satisfaction. For the superb athlete or super fit individual that needs to take in more calories, we offer the athlete’s portion which can be up to a double regular portion. Weight loss depends on how much a person desires to lose and what their percentage of body fat is to lean muscle mass. As a rule of thumb, we do not like to see anyone lose more than 2 lbs. of true fat per week. If a person has a high percentage of body fat (over 25%), then that fat tends to retain fluid. Our plan helps to reduce fluid retention, so it’s not unusual to see a 6-7 lbs weight loss on the scale the first week. However, most of that will be fluid loss.

2. Can you tell us about the recent renovation?

We started our historic renovation four years ago. Our goal is to bring the entire property, with new technology, back to its original 1918 look. We have listened to our guests who have asked for suites and mini-suites, so we have created two large courtyard suites with living rooms, fireplaces, separate bedrooms, Jacuzzi tubs and private courtyards. Our mini-suites have Jacuzzi bathtubs, large bedrooms with queen size beds and large courtyards. In the main building itself, we have renovated all the rooms and have added private balconies to 50% of the rooms. We also want everyone to be able to afford the Oaks, so we’ve kept six rooms with small bathrooms and twin beds for the person who is on a budget. These two rooms have also been renovated with custom tile and other amenities.

3. What inspired you to decide to create the Oaks at Ojai?

I started my fitness company in 1960. At that time we developed a plan called “Wellness in the Workplace” for business and industry, educational programs for school districts, fitness aboard cruise ships and a company that took people to all the spas of Europe called “Health Holidays”. At that time, the European spas were way ahead of the few US spas that even existed when it came to massage, facials, aromatherapy and relaxation. However, fitness was big in the US, as was healthy eating. So, I decided to combine the best of Europe and the best of the US and created The Oaks at Ojai.

4. You have a reputation for helping guests lose weight. What are some of your secrets?

I ask our guests to love their own bodies; accept their body type; set realistic goals; know that if they were born 5 ft. tall, there’s no wellness program in the world that going to make them 6 ft. tall. They are encouraged to set short term goals, i.e. six weeks walking with a buddy three times a week; once they have had success at that, add strength training, stretching and relaxation. Other suggestions are that they make time for fitness rather than make excuses for not having the time; get a buddy with the same fitness goals; and when dining out leave 1/3 of everything on their plate or take it home with them.

5. Do you have any recipes for the menus at the Oaks?

Yes, we have 3 cookbooks. I would be happy to send you the latest one, Healthy Cuisine for Singles & Doubles.

6. What is your secret to staying young and fit?

I truly believe that fitness enriches the quality of one’s life. Fitness has allowed me to continue to be a black diamond downhill skier. At age 70, after a 50 year absence, I returned to competitive figure skating and compete on a national and international level. This has brought me great joy and allowed me to raise money for various causes that I support. I think my ego gets in the way——I love clothes and I like to look good in them. I want to emphasize that there’s a difference between being slim and being fit. Even though I’m a size 0-2, I’m a very strong size 0-2.

7. What tips do you have for women in their early 80s to stay fit?

Recognize that the body changes. If you used to be a runner, now you may need to be a walker. If you have a little stiffening of the joints, then water exercise may be the best way for you to stay fit. Lift weights, but not more than 10 lbs. and do it sitting on a chair rather than standing. Walk, walk, walk. 8.

What tips do you have for the following age groups to stay fit and healthy:

20’s In the 20’s, decide on your favorite sport and play it on a regular basis;

30’s Continue to play your favorite sports, but because the muscles tend to atrophy as one becomes chronologically enriched, I would suggest additional core strength training and weight training;

40’s The 40-year-old may want to switch from running to walking. Because you may have more financial flexibility at this point in your life, you may want to commit to joining a gym and use your gym membership. If you have children, find a way to play and stay fit with them;

50’s I would say the 50’s would be similar to the 40’s, but you may have the luxury of taking more vacations. If you go on a cruise or stay in a hotel, make sure there are fitness facilities you can use. The 50’s is a good time to add massage to your routine because we are quite often under negative stress and massage is a great stress-buster. To prevent the development of wrinkles in the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s, have facials regularly and use a good sunscreen and facial moisturizer every day and night;

60’s Really let your body dictate what it likes and if a particular movement or activity like aerobic class, spinning, jogging or running a 10K seems to consistently cause pain or stiffness, switch to a less percussive form of fitness.

70’s Be kind to your joints—-walk or ride a bicycle. Even think about using a recumbent bicycle as it puts less stress on the joints than a Stairmaster. Water exercise is excellent for this age group and lots of stretching to avoid stiffness. 80’s and beyond Walking and more walking; continue your strength training, i.e. lifting weights and get lots of massages. Tips for all ages, 20 and up, always wear a good sun block when going outside; have facials at least twice a month if you can afford it; never go to bed with makeup on; exfoliate the skin each night and moisturize it. Pay particular attention to the face and the chest and make sure after a shower you moisturize the entire body. Wear fashion that fits your age group and you’ll look more attractive. Learn your body type and if you tend to be heavy in the hips focus on the upper torso with a great scarf or a piece of jewelry; if you have narrow shoulders wear shoulder pads; if you have a tiny waist capitalize on it; if you tend to be a little flat-chested wear ruffles in the upper torso or use today’s undergarments to balance your measurements.

Sun Tips

Every time we go outdoors, we’re exposed to Ultraviolet (UV) rays and the repeated exposure builds over time. The delicate skin of babies and toddlers is particularly susceptible to sunburn and UV damage.

According to Dr. Ramzi W. Saad, Board Certified dermatologist and partner at South Shore Skin Center and Spa, “UV damage can happen at any age, but it begins to occur during childhood. The more frequent the exposure to Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays without protection, the greater the risk of developing melanoma or skin cancer as an adult. Parents and caregivers are responsible for protecting the very young, so knowing HOW to best protect them is key.”

The dermatologists at South Shore Skin Center and Spa provide the following expert advice to parents and caregivers for protecting the skin of very young children from harmful UVA/UVB rays from the sun (which are present even on cloudy days):

1. Apply a chemical-free sunscreen containing an SPF 30 or higher. Sunscreen may be applied to babies older than six months and toddlers. Look for products that are chemical free and have 10 percent micronized Zinc Oxide such as Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Baby SPF 30+ or Solbar Shield SPF 40.

2. Dress young children in sun protective clothing. Covering up the skin with clothing is one of the most effective ways of protecting the sensitive skin of babies and toddlers. Sun hats with wide brims and flaps to shade ears and neck, lightweight long sleeved shirts, sun rompers and swim bodysuits provide good coverage. Brands such as Coolibar offer 50+ UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing. Other sun protective clothing brands may be found online or at retailer REI.

3. Sunglasses help protect the delicate eye area. Skin cancer can develop anywhere on the body, including eyelids. Because sunscreen cannot be applied on or around the eyes, it’s important to shield the eye area from UV rays. For young children, opt for rubber or flexible frames and shatterproof lenses. To ensure that lenses provide UVA/UVB protection, look for the statement “100% UVA/UVB protection” label on the lense when making your purchase.

4. Seek shade. Shady areas not only offer some cool relief on a hot summer day, but some protection from UV rays.

5. Block UVA/UVB rays in babies younger than six months. Sunscreen should not be applied to babies younger than six months of age, yet exposed skin is left vulnerable without sunscreen. So, how do you protect your baby’s skin from UV rays? Follow tips 2, 3 and 4.

Dr. Saad continued, “As children become more independent, parents and caregivers have a greater challenge of ensuring their tweens and teens wear sunscreen every day, seek shade and wear protective clothing. That is one reason why it is imperative that children learn ‘sun safe’ habits at a very young age because they will have a better understanding of the importance of protecting their skin as they grow older.”

Melanoma is the most common cancer in young white women ages 25-29 and second only to breast cancer in women ages 30-34. New England has the highest concentration of melanoma cases in the United States.

“It cannot be stressed enough that one of the key ways to minimize melanoma mortality is to protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays, starting in early childhood,” noted Dr. Saad.

About South Shore Skin Center and Spa
South Shore Skin Center and Spa is one of Massachusetts’ most progressive dermatology practices offering a wide range of medical, surgical and cosmetic services.

Founded in 1984, South Shore Skin Center and Spa is a unique team of physicians, physician assistants, nurses, medical assistants, surgical assistants, and licensed estheticians who are all specialists in dermatology and share a passion for excellence and a commitment to providing the highest level of care to both children and adults in the greater Boston area. In addition to the medical dermatology office and Mohs Surgical Unit for skin cancer, South Shore Skin Center and Spa offers cosmetic dermatology treatments for wrinkles, age spots, acne scarring, birthmarks, hair removal, tattoos and more using the Fraxel re:store DUAL and Fraxel re:pair lasers, DEKA SmartXide DOT, Candela VBeam, Gentlelase, Gentle YAG, and Alex lasers. The practice also offers a full range of affordable anti-aging services including Botox, Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm and other wrinkle fillers; volumizers such as Radiesse and Sculptra; microdermabrasion; medical grade facials, micropeels and chemical peels.

South Shore Skin Center and Spa is located at One Scobee Circle, Unit 3, in Plymouth, Mass. (508) 747-0711 and at 223 Chief Justice Cushing Highway, Suite 202, in Cohasset, Mass. (781) 383-3340. For more information, visit the website at www.southshoreskincenter.com.

Study Finds Liposuction Doesn’t Keep Fat Gone

Liposuction is the most popular plastic surgery procedure in the United States, with over 450,000 people undergoing the fat-removing surgery every year. The before and after pictures make it look like the unwanted fat completely disappears, leaving the patient free of saddlebags or spare tires. But a recent liposuction study by researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine found the fat returns within a year, and in unexpected new places. Venus Bodywork, a San Francisco med spa, says this study raises questions about the value-or lack thereof-of liposuction, an expensive and potentially dangerous procedure.

The study by University of Colorado School of Medicine researchers was the first randomized study of liposuction results ever conducted. A group of non-obese women with fatty deposits on their lower abdomens, hips or thighs underwent liposuction, and were measured at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year. The results showed that within the year, all of the fat came back, but in new areas: mainly in the upper abdomen, and around the shoulders and triceps.

“Women considering liposuction should factor this study in to their decision,” says Venus Bodywork owner Miria Kutcher.

All liposuction patients will experience pain and swelling, and will have to take a few days off work. While most operations do not cause major problems, liposuction does carry the risk of serious complications including allergic reactions, infections, blood clots, irregular shape, extra skin, dimpling, scars, and thrombophlebitis (swollen veins).

“Liposuction is an invasive procedure, and can result in complications,” Kutcher notes. “Some women have considered it worth the risks because they thought the results were permanent, but now we know this is not the case.”

Kutcher recommends that people considering liposuction explore other methods of fat removal first. Venus Bodywork offers a number of affordable liposuction alternatives, including sophisticated machines that dissolve and dislodge fatty deposits, body wraps, and skin-firming body scrubs. All of their procedures are non-invasive and do not come with the side-effects risks associated with liposuction.

Endermologie, for example, is a cellulite-reducing machine that rolls the skin, stimulating cells, increasing circulation and eliminating fatty deposits. Dermosonic is a dual-modality machine that uses a combination of ultrasound warming and vacuum-pressure massage to loosen and disburse stubborn fat. These methods feel more like a massage than a medical procedure. Either of these machines can be combined with Heccus, a Brazilian machine that uses ultrasound to stimulate inner “fatty” skin layers and encourage lymphatic drainage.

Venus Bodywork also offers fast visible results with body wraps, including Cryotherapy, a cold skin-firming wrap; Sudatonic, a detoxifying wrap that uses infrared heat therapy, and all-natural slimming and skin-hydrating wraps.

These fat reduction methods and others from Venus Bodywork, including skin-toning body scrubs, can be combined for extra effectiveness.

For more information about liposuction alternatives, or any of Venus Bodywork’s products or services, call them at (415) 227-4322, view them on the web at www.venusbodywork.com or visit them at 862 Folsom Street in San Francisco by appointment.

About Venus Bodywork
Venus Bodywork was founded in 2004 and is a non-traditional spa that specializes in non-invasive weight loss and body shaping treatments from around the world. The med spa offers the women of San Francisco liposuction alternatives and weight loss treatments that produce equally impressive results at a fraction of the cost, risk, and without causing down time. Venus also offers skin care solutions and specialized waxing.

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2011/07/02/prweb8618293.DTL#ixzz1R0rRP0MV

Spa at Home

Here’s what you need:

1 cup brown sugar
1 cup raw oatmeal
1 cup olive oil

Mix all the ingredients together and then apply on dry skin, using your hands. Step into the shower and rinse off. Your skin will be like butter

Source: http://elev8.com/beauty-fashion/elev8-staff/how-to-get-that-spa-glow-at-home/