Vigour – Health and Sports Nutrition

Evening primrose is a wildflower that belongs to the Onagraceae family of plants. The oil of this herbaceous plant offers amazing health benefits to consumers. The oil is present in the seeds and is high in GLA (gamma linolenic acid), LA (linoleic acid) and other essential fatty acids. GLA and LA are health promoting omega-6 fatty acids.

Evening primrose oil makes an effective home remedy for treating respiratory infections and an upset gastrointestinal tract. It helps reduce the symptoms such as itchiness and redness associated with certain skin conditions such as dermatitis and eczema. It helps reduce the pain and inflammation of joints in arthritis patients. Moreover, the consumption of evening primrose oil is effective in conditions like asthma, multiple sclerosis, cardiovascular problems especially high cholesterol levels and atherosclerosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, ADHD, Raynaud’s disease, breast cysts and even breast cancer. The use of evening primrose oil is also beneficial for treating premenstrual syndrome and menopausal symptoms.

You can also use a supplement that makes use of primrose oil in its formulation. Natures Aid Evening Primrose Oil 500mg is a popular brand on the market that contains omega-6 and gamma linolenic acid in its formulation. These essential fatty acids play a vital role in almost every part of your body including cardiovascular system, digestive system, immune system and nervous system. Including this supplement in your diet on a regular basis helps improve your immune system and boost your learning ability. Take 1-2 capsules per day with food up to a maximum of 12.

Moist and glowing skin is taken as a symbol of youth and beauty. In fact, a clear skin is a reflection of your inner health. However, if your skin is dry, scaly or pale, you need to practice following tips to enhance your outer beauty and appearance by maintaining a youthful and healthy skin.

First and foremost, you should drink 8 to 10 glasses of water every day. Water is a natural detoxifier which helps eliminate those harmful toxins which have negative effects on your internal health as well as skin.

Secondly, you should consume those diets which are rich in linoleic acid. It is beneficial to the health of your skin and helps maintain its youthful glow. Foods such as avocados, seeds, nuts and sunflower oil make natural dietary sources of linoleic acid.

If you are on a weight-loss program, then make sure that you avoid repeated bouts of weight regain and loss. It is important to keep in your mind that frequent weight cycling can lead to the development of stretch marks, premature wrinkling and sagging of your skin.

Make sure that you consume at least 1800 calories daily. You should avoid consumption of fatty acids especially if you have an oily skin. Make sure that you consume recommended numbers of calories from raw vegetables, fresh fruits, fortified cereals, whole grain breads, cooked peas and dried beans. It is also important that you include at least 5 servings of lean meat such as chicken and fish in your dietary routine per week.

Another wonderful idea to keep your skin youthful and healthy is to include antioxidants-rich foods in your daily dietary routine. Vitamins C and E are natural antioxidants which help reduce symptoms of premature aging and destroy harmful free radicals within your body as well. Make sure that you consume oranges, grapes and strawberries for vitamin C, wheat germ and avocados for vitamin E, and apricots and green leafy vegetables for the beta carotene. Some fruits such as peach, cherry and apple enhance the beauty of your skin due to their natural ingredients.

It is also a good idea to drink fresh fruit juices on a daily basis. Moreover, make sure that you use a sunscreen lotion and wear a P-cap or hat in the sunlight. Always wash your face with lukewarm water and do not use a beauty soap to clean your face time and again. Nearly all beauty soaps contain chemicals which make your face skin look dry and rough especially if you have a dry skin. Apply a moisturiser on your face after washing.

A daily dose of a multivitamin supplement that contains antioxidants, vitamins and minerals should also be included in your dietary routine. Seven Seas Multibionta 50+ Probiotic Multivitamins makes a wonderful gift for people over 50 years of age as it is a complete multivitamin supplement with minerals and herbs. It contains TriBion Harmonis that supports a healthy digestive and immune system. Moreover, antioxidants like vitamins C and E keep your skin healthy, youthful and beautiful even after 50.