Smoother Brown Skin with Dead Sea Salt

Dead Sea salt is a natural mineral found in the Dead Sea of Israel; it widely known for its ability to renew skin and provide therapeutic properties. Iodine salt differs greatly from the original Dead Sea salt; iodized salt, also known as table salt consists mostly of sodium and has a very small percentage of essential minerals. Dead Sea salt unlike iodized salt has a small percentage of sodium and contains several beneficial minerals such as, calcium, magnesium and potassium. Dead Sea salt may be used to treat several conditions: eczema, acne and psoriasis; the properties in Dead Sea salt remove dry skin cells and improve the complexion. Dead Sea salt also helps to relieve aching joints and sore muscles.

Relaxation

Place a handful of Dead Sea salt into a bathtub and fill it with warm water. Use your hands to incorporate the minerals into the water. Take your time to soak for an hour to experience the full benefits that Dead Sea salt has on the skin. While you are soaking take the water with the Dead Sea salt and massage your arms and any problem area in circular motions; aids in the removal of dead skin and helps to reveal a noticeable smoothness to the skin. Be gentle when massaging the Dead Sea salt into the skin to avoid irritating the skin. If you have sensitive skin mix a thick oil such as olive oil, grape seed oil or coconut oil with the salt for a smoother application.

Facial

When using the Dead Sea salt as a facial be sure to avoid the eye area since it the most sensitive area on the face. Dampen your skin before applying the Dead Sea salt and allow it to remain on the skin for several minutes— aids in drawing out the impurities and dirt from the skin surface. Rinse the Dead Sea salt from your face with lukewarm water and blot with a towel to dry. Avoid rubbing the skin with the towel as this may irritate the skin.

Authentic Dead Sea Salt

Dead Sea salt can be purchased online or at your local retail store. Pier1 carries a Dead Sea salt for under $ 20. The authentic Dead Sea salt is not pure white; it has an off white color and is full of minerals, on the contrary, the Dead Sea salt sold by some vendors and retailers is bleached and has little to no significant traces of minerals. When purchasing Dead Sea salts look for labels that read: Made in Israel or Dead Sea salt from the Dead Sea of Israel, this ensures you are purchasing a Dead Sea salt that has beneficial minerals and is free of bleaching agents and other fillers.

Stay Safe and Beautiful Inside and Out!!



Disclaimer: All information, tips, and product reviews on Blacknaturalbeauty.com is for information purposes only and should not be used to treat, cure, or replace medical advice from a licensed health care professional. Blacknaturalbeauty.com is not responsible for how you choose to use the information, tips and reviews on this site. Please contact your health care provider for all medical advice.

Gastric Bypass is it Worth Your Life?

Obesity rates continue to increase, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), Americans are at risk for morbid obesity more now than ever. Why is that? It is no secret that many Americans consume high caloric diets and choose foods that are convenient as opposed to healthy. After all, who wants to eat super foods such as wild berries, Quinoa, steel cut oats and other foods shown to aid in weight loss and other health benefits for breakfast or dinner? Well, certainly not the average American.

Just a Quick Fix

Convenience has caused many overweight Americans to seek a quick fix for their weight as opposed to working out, and improving their lifestyle through proven weight loss techniques; such as portion control, setting weight loss goals, and avoiding foods high in fat and calories. But, why should obese Americans implement exercise and healthy eating into their lifestyle when gastric bypass surgery has become the cure- all for so many obese Americans. Gastric bypass may provide a quick and often risky solution, but it does not deal with the root cause—it just covers up deeper issues; eating disorders, thyroid issues that may cause weight gain and other underlying health issues.

Appearance is Not Everything

There is a clear distinction between those who have had gastric bypass surgery and those who lose weight through a diet plan appropriate for their lifestyle. Those who have had gastric bypass surgery lose weight so rapidly that their facial features change dramatically; some look older and take on a very unhealthy appearance. Having encountered individuals who have undergone the procedure it is quite obvious that their appearance drastically changed and many times not for the better.

Gastric Bypass Risks

Remember to discuss risks and complications in detail with your health physician and and those closest to you so that you make an informed decision. Weight-loss is great, but not if the risks outweigh the benefits.

Some Possible complications of gastric bypass surgery include but are not limited to the following:

• Vitamin and mineral deficiency
• Dehydration
• Bowel Obstruction
• Gallstones
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
• Hernia at the incision site
• Bleeding stomach ulcer
• Intolerance to certain foods
• Kidney stones

Reference(s):
1. Online source, http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/index.html
2. Online source, http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/007199.htm

Stay healthy in 2010!




Disclaimer: All information, tips, and product reviews on Blacknaturalbeauty.com is for information purposes only and should not be used to treat, cure, or replace medical advice from a licensed health care professional. Blacknaturalbeauty.com is not responsible for how you choose to use the information, tips and reviews on this site. Please contact your health care provider for all medical advice.

Questions and Answers on Micro Braids

Micros braids have received a bad rep; many women fear wearing micro braids and often ask, ‘Does micro braids break your hair off?’

The correct question would be, “Will micro braids break my hair off?”

Answer: That depends on the condition of your hair. The best way to determine if micro braids will help you retain your natural hair is to do a strand test—take a strand of your hair and stretch it to see if it pops back without breakage this is a good sign of that the hair is strong, however, if the strand instantly breaks your hair may be weak and need intense conditioning and moisture. Braids should never be used to cover up damaged hair—they will only wreak more havoc on your strands.

Question: How do I prepare for micro braids?

Answer: Wash your hair with a moisturizing shampoo, use a quality deep conditioner, and apply a glycerin based leave in conditioner—be sure to seal with unrefined Shea butter, virgin coconut oil or castor oil.

Question: How many times do I wash my hair while wearing micro braids?

Answer: It depends on how long you desire to keep the micro braids in; washing your hair once a month is not a sin when you are wearing braids as a matter of fact it makes perfect sense; the reason you are wearing braids is to avoid manipulating your natural hair—right? Cowashing (using conditioner in place of shampoo) can be done 1- 2 times per week or once every two weeks during the colder months.

Tip: When washing your hair in micro braids be sure not to manipulate the hair or the braids will tangle and be difficult to remove and it will cause breakage to the natural hair. Section the braids into four parts and place hair bands on each for easier access to your scalp. Apply the shampoo directly on the scalp and massage gently—rinse and apply your leave in conditioner. Allow the hair to air dry.

Question: How long should I leave micro braids in?

Answer: It depends on how fast your hair grows—some say no more than 2 months, but that is not true for everyone. Micro braids can be worn for 3 months without any breakage if they are maintained and the front hairline is rebraided at least every 4 to 6 weeks—the hairline is the most fragile and should be treated with extra care. Rebraiding the hairline also keeps your micros looking fresh. You will know when it is time to take your hair down the new growth is the best indicator.

Question: Will micro braids grow my hair faster?

Answer: That would be nice. But, the truth is micro braids do not grow your hair any faster than it would normally grow. It may seem like braids grow the hair faster, but, in reality they only help you retain your length-- giving you the impression that the hair is growing faster.

Question: Should I wrap my braids at night?

Answer: Yes. If possible, wrap your micro braids with a satin or silk bonnet; if bonnets are not your thing use a silk or satin pillow case to protect your natural hair while wearing braids.

Question: Should I use synthetic or human hair for my micro braids?

Answer: It depends on the look you want to achieve. If you are going to be curling the hair a lot use human hair; kanekalon can be curled on low settings 3 to 5 temperature any higher will cause the hair to burn. Use caution when using synthetic brand hair; it has the ability to dry the hair out and cause breakage, opt for Kanekalon or Toyokalon; this hair retains moisture; which is necessary for optimum hair retention and overall growth.

Stay tuned for more on Micro braids…




Disclaimer: All information, tips, and product reviews on Blacknaturalbeauty.com is for information purposes only and should not be used to treat, cure, or replace medical advice from a licensed health care professional. Blacknaturalbeauty.com is not responsible for how you choose to use the information, tips and reviews on this site. Please contact your health care provider for all medical advice.

Merry Christmas

Christmas is the most beautiful, peaceful and joyous time of the year; family, friends and holiday decor really set the atmosphere. Let's always remember to be grateful for each new day; forgive, love and live your life to the fullest this year and in the upcoming New Year 2010. Have yourself a Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year. May the Favor of God rest upon you and may you succeed in everything you put your hands to do.

Much Love!!

How to Reduce Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition caused by an over production of pigmentation by the skin cells. Several factors may contribute to hyperpigmentation, such as acne scars, excessive hormone estrogen levels, melasma; dark patches often found on pregnant women and allergic reactions from prescription drugs like benzyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Hyperpigmentation can often leave you feeling self conscious about your skin. There are many products on the market that promise to heal hyperpigmentation for African American skin, but often times these products don’t yield their promised results. The good news is that you can reduce hyperpigmentation through proper skin care.

Use a gentle organic or natural glycerin based soap or cleanser. Glycerin

Apply pure vitamin e oil to the hyperpigmentation using a Q-tip to apply the oil; this should be applied to clean skin twice a day to help reduce hyperpigmentation. Vitamin e has been proven to have several health benefits; this includes but is not limited to reducing hyperpigmentation, reversing the signs of aging and diminishing fines line and wrinkles. Vitamin e contains antioxidants that protect the skin from sun damage which increases hyperpigmentation.

Glycolic acid peels can be used 1-2 per month to reduce hyperpigmentation. It is best to start with a lowest concentration 20% and gradually increase as your skin adjusts. Visit http://www.kaviskin.com/skincare/glycolic-acid-peels/   for more information about the benefits of glycolic acid.

Apply raw unrefined cocoa butter to the area where you want to reduce hyperpigmentation; not only is cocoa butter moisturizing it is also great for overall improvement of skin texture and tone—a must have. Unrefined African Shea butter is also another great natural alternative. Shea butter is known for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial for improving skin tone, firmness and overall health of the skin; start with a small amount if you have oily skin. These butters are effective when used consistently.

Natural ingredients are the best approach to reduce and eliminate hyperpigmentation; hydroquinone is a synthetic chemical that may cause health risks, for more information visit http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=64167


Disclaimer: All information, tips, and product reviews on Blacknaturalbeauty.com is for information purposes only and should not be used to treat, cure, or replace medical advice from a licensed health care professional. Blacknaturalbeauty.com is not responsible for how you choose to use the information, tips and reviews on this site. Please contact your health care provider for all medical advice.

How to Avoid Holiday Weight Gain and Stay Healthy

Many people are looking for ways to stay in shape and avoid gaining holiday weight with Christmas and New Years rapidly approaching. It really is no great revelation about ways you can avoid packing on the holiday weight—it is all about moderation and self control. We all know that folks down south enjoy making huge southern style meals every holiday; from the creamy oven-baked macaroni and cheese; the cornbread dressing (if you are from the south), collard greens with the fat back, buttered pound cake, sweet ( often times ridiculously too sweet), red velvet cake, sweet candied yams with marshmallow topping, buttered beans with way too much butter, fatty ham rubbed with more butter, and a long list of other calorie laden foods that cause added body fat and unwanted pounds.

Note: You do not and I repeat DO NOT need 2 cups of sugar and 1 stick of butter for one sweet potato pie— too much sugar and fat!! This is one of the reasons African Americans lead in obesity and diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), African Americans led the nation in obesity and diabetes in 2006 – 2008 ( the data for 2009 is not yet available). Obesity causes several health risks, such as high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and other cardiovascular diseases. For more information about obesity visit http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/trends.html#Race

Recently, a Caucasian celebrity was quoted for saying ‘Nothing tastes as good as thin feels.’ It caused a stir; however, it is true to some degree. Many people, the black community in particular only concern when cooking is taste rather than nourishment and well being. We were taught to eat what was set before us—this started back when slaves were given lard, parts of the meat that the slave owners did not consider edible, and other fatty foods that had little to no nutritional value.

If you review the statistical data on obesity you will notice many of the African Americans who are obese are low-income families who cannot afford the organic foods that are often in health food stores found in middle class majority white communities; instead the majority of black communities have fried chicken restaurants, liquor stores, cheap grocery stores that carry more processed foods filled with additives, preservatives, artificial flavors and Trans fatty acids or hydrogenated oils that are shown to cause cancer and other diseases. Why is that?

So what is the point? Change your mind about what you put into your mouth. You do not live to eat—you eat to live. You do not have to be rich to eat a healthy well-balanced meal during the holidays. It is all about your mind-set. Chittlins are not a delicacy they are the intestines of a pig and the fact that African Americans eat them as if they were shows the lack of understanding the black community has about health.

Eat foods that nourish your whole body. Everything should be done in moderation. The holidays are not an excuse to over eat for 3 months and wish away the pounds for the next 9 months only to repeat the same behavior again –that is a form of insanity –doing the same thing and expecting a different result.

It is okay to enjoy a nice down home cooked meal, but ask yourself is your diet worth diabetes, heart disease or the other diseases that can be avoided by eating wholesome foods. Try replacing white flour with pastry flour when making your pies, how about making your deserts from scratch instead of buying the premade desserts that have entirely too many calories, coloring, fat and saturated fat, not to mention the carbohydrates in those overly processed foods should be criminal.

Take care of your body and eat well every day.

Much Love

Disclaimer: All information, tips, and product reviews on Blacknaturalbeauty.com is for information purposes only and should not be used to treat, cure, or replace medical advice from a licensed health care professional. Blacknaturalbeauty.com is not responsible for how you choose to use the information, tips and reviews on this site. Please contact your health care provider for all medical advice.

Shandell's 6 Layer Coconut Cake

 Are you ready for the most wonderful coconut cake? Good, because this recipe is amazingly delicious and it’s a family recipe. I was taught to cook by my late grandmother who was also an amazing cook; I took my grandmother's love for cooking and paired it with my mother's coconut cake for the ultimate 6 layered coconut cake recipe. At our house a soul food menu would not be complete without this 6 layered coconut cake. This is a show stopper for holidays or anytime you want to "wow" your guest. If you are a coconut lover you will appreciate the rich coconut flavor and decadence of this cake. So, without further ado: the ultimate 6 layer coconut cake!

Note: If you own a KitchenAid stand mixer this is the perfect time to use it; if you do not own a stand mixer you can still create this cake using a hand mixer. Bring all of your cold ingredients to room temperature prior to baking your cake.

Cake Ingredient List:
• 1 ¾ cups light brown sugar
• 2 sticks unsalted soften butter
• 3 eggs
• 6 eggs whites beaten to a stiff peak
• 2 tablespoons safflower oil
• 2 ¾ cups unbleached all purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup coconut milk
• ¼ cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon Madagascar vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• Extra flour for dusting pan
Icing Ingredient List:
• 2 (8-ounce) packages of soften cream cheese
• 1 stick unsalted soften butter
• 1 pound box confectioners' sugar
• 2 cups shredded organic or all natural coconut
• 1 cup toasted whole or crushed pecans
• 1 teaspoon pure coconut extract
Other Tools/Gadgets:
• Flat cake spatula
• Serrated cake knife
• 3 round nonstick 8 inch pans
• Cake pedestal
• Cake rack
• Cookie sheet

Preparation Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Separate the egg whites from the yolks; be sure that there are no yolks in the whites before whipping the egg whites to a stiff peak. Pour the egg whites into your mixer; using the whisk attachment whip the whites to a stiff peak.

Use your whisk attachment to cream the sugar, oil and butter; beat until light and fluffy about 8 to 10 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time and mix well after each addition.
Sift together flour, baking powder, cornstarch and salt.

Add the coconut milk in a bowl and whisk to incorporate the cream and liquid; pour in the buttermilk and add the vinegar and baking soda; mix well. Add flour mixture to the creamed mixture alternating with the coconut milk and buttermilk; end with the flour. Add the coconut and vanilla extract.

Fold in the egg whites using a lift and fold motion; be sure not to deflate the whites because it gives the cake a nice texture.

Grease your cake pan with the wrapper from your unsalted butter. Coat the pans with flour and tap off any excess flour.

Pour the cake batter into your round greased and floured pans. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the toothpick or butter knife you insert into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool.

Icing Directions

Using your wire whisk blend the softened cream cheese and butter together in a mixing bowl. Add the confectioner sugar and mix well. Add the teaspoon of coconut extract and mix on high speed. Place the icing in the refrigerator until the cake is cooled.

Cutting the Cake Layers
Place one cooled cake onto the cake pedestal. Using your serrated knife with your hand pressed on top of the cake make a slit into the middle of the cake. Continue to guide the cake with your hand pressed on top making a circular motion and allowing the knife to cut through the cake. Once you have cut the cake into two layers remove the cake and place it onto the cake rack.
Repeat the above steps until you have 6 layers.

Applying the Icing
Dip the flat cake spatula into the cooled cream cheese frosting and spread a thin layer of icing between each layer. Stack each layer as you go until you add the last layer. Clean your flat cake spatula with hot water and scoop a large amount of the icing onto the top of the cake. Using a circular motion gently glide the icing over the cake. Add the remaining icing to the cake and glide the spatula over the icing to cover all the sides of the cake. Once the cake is covered in icing, rinse your flat cake spatula in hot water once again and smooth out any imperfections in the icing.

Applying the Coconut and Pecans

Place the shredded coconut and pecans on your cookie sheet and toast in the oven for 4 to 6 minutes on 330 degrees or until the coconut is a pale tan color. Be sure not to burn the coconut and pecans.
Place the shredded lightly toasted coconut onto the sides and top of the cake by holding the cake pedestal over the cookie sheet to catch any coconut they may fall while you are applying it to the cake.
Once the coconut is applied evenly to the cake, add the whole pecans on the sides of the cake for presentation.

Enjoy!

Disclaimer: All information, tips, and product reviews on Blacknaturalbeauty.com is for information purposes only and should not be used to treat, cure, or replace medical advice from a licensed health care professional. Blacknaturalbeauty.com is not responsible for how you choose to use the information, tips and reviews on this site. Please contact your health care provider for all medical advice.