Celebs' Pre-Oscar Beauty Prep: More Botox this year, in more ways than you want to know

The Academy Awards are this weekend, and, in addition to writing acceptance speeches, planning elaborate outfits and coordinating their makeup and hair, the actresses who'll walk Sunday's red carpet (or, possibly, just be seen inside), have also been working on creating camera-ready skin—in some cases, for months.

While most A-list celebs won't cop to indulging in cosmetic procedures, the country's top dermatologists suggest that pre-awards-show work is more common than these women are letting on. In fact, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 2009 marks a 25 percent increase in requests for pre-Oscar non-surgical cosmetic procedures such as injectables (like Botox), lasers treatments, and peels. (Interestingly, the trend is not limited to the stars themselves—celeb spouses, and behind-the-scene people like agents, publicists, producers, cinematographers, musicians, and party hosts are also going in for a wrinkle-erasing needle here and there.)

"Actresses have the same problems with their faces that the rest of the world have," says Dr. David Goldberg, a Manhattan dermatologist who has treated top actresses pre-red carpet. "But even fine lines show up really well when you're under lights and in front of cameras."

Goldberg says that while peels and laser treatments are popular skincare services two months out, the most common face rejuvenator is Botox, which patients come in for two to three weeks before the show. And they come in for a lot of Botox, he explains, in places you might not imagine. Celebs now request the injections not only to create their weirdly smooth, waxen foreheads; but for areas like the the tip of the nose (Botox can slightly shorten its length, which makes for a more becoming profile) and in the nose's bridge to correct "bunny lines," the tiny wrinkles that show up when one scrunches the face.

Another sought-after pre-Oscars procedure is armpit Botox, which can keep a recipient from sweating for up to three months. "Awards shows make people incredibly nervous to the point that sometimes they sweat profusely," says Goldberg. "They need to be able to raise their arms in those gowns."

So who* exactly is going under the needle? Goldberg won't reveal his client list (we tried, believe us, we tried), but some dermatologists estimate 99 percent of Hollywood have at least sampled a cosmetic procedure.

"This is a group that is so crazed about wrinkles, so concerned with their profiles. They get nervous and they come in," says Goldberg.

*Last December, the world of tabloids started wondering if Angelina Jolie was "addicted to Botox." We don't know, but her forehead sure looks smooth.

*Nicole Kidman has denied ever having Botox injections. Hmmm.

By yahoo, shine.
oscars, botox, beauty, academy awards

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How to Take Care of Your Skin in This Freezing Weather?

Extreme weather might have played havoc with our day-to- day lives over the past few weeks, but it's been having an impact at a more personal level.

With freezing temperatures outside and central heating cranked up to the max, chapped lips, sore red patches and flaky skin have become a daily occurrence.

But what actually happens to our skin in weather like this?

'When it's very cold, there is less moisture in the environment,' says consultant dermatologist Dr Susan Mayou.

'This lack of moisture is compounded by wind, which blows moisture away from the skin, and central heating.'

In a dry environment, water is lost from the keratinocytes - or skin cells - leaving skin feeling sore and chapped. And don't assume that slathering on moisturiser gives skin a shot of water: sadly, it's not that simple.

'Moisturisers work in two ways, using two types of ingredient,' says Dr Mayou. 'There are humectants, such as hyaluronic acid and urea, and occlusives, such as paraffin.

'Humectants draw water from the lower levels of the skin - this comes from the water we drink - to rehydrate the upper levels of the skin, while occlusives have a barrier function to help lock in this moisture.'

Winter weather demands a moisturiser that's heavier on the occlusives than your normal everyday moisturiser, making it more of a balm than a cream.

Vaseline Intensive Rescue Relief & Repair Balm, is a heavyduty cream which helps dry skin repair itself within five days. But it has a high paraffin content, so skin can look shiny.

If you want something a bit lighter over which you can layer foundation, try Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Multi-Repair Cream.

Lips are particularly susceptible to cold weather and can take a greasier formulation than skin. Vaseline works wonders.

And don't forget your body. Garnier Skin Naturals Hydralock Moisturising Milk, contains a blend of glycerin, paraffin, urea and propylene glycol that leaves skin feeling soft but not sticky.

Ideally, prevention is better than cure, so you should use a barrier cream on your skin as soon as the forecasters are predicting a drop in the mercury.

One beauty editor friend simply won't go skiing without the protection of Dermalogica's Climate Control, which contains soothing, anti-bacterial extracts of lavender, shea butter, vitamin E and oats to help boost the skin's natural defences.

Oats are one of nature's brilliant dry skin remedies.

Ordinary oatmeal sprinkled into a bath, or stuffed in tights and used as a poultice on dry skin, is one of those old wives' remedies that really works.

Or you could try the incredible Aveeno range.

If your skin has got really dry and damaged, you might find that everything you put on it stings.

In this case, Dr Mayou advises buying 1 per cent hydrocortisone over the chemist's counter - choose the ointment rather than the cream as this doesn't contain any preservatives.

Guide to Winter Skin
LIPS can be the first part of the face to show an adverse reaction to cold weather, so use them as your early warning system. If your lips feel dry and damaged, treat them - and start preventative measures for the rest of your face.

The skin around the EYES is very thin, and when the air is cold and dry, you might well see an increase in fine lines in this area. Use a separate eye cream and apply it gently using your ring finger, without dragging the skin.

Because the CHEEKS are so exposed, they are susceptible to cold weather damage, especially if sun is also involved - when skiing for instance. Always wear high-factor sun protection.

Wearing a SCARF can exacerbate the problems caused by cold weather. As you breathe, condensation can form on the material and rub against your skin, so look for breathable materials that wick away moisture.

From dailymail.

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5 Myths about Muscle Building you Must Know

If you’ve been training and muscle building, here are 5 myths.

1. 12 Rep rule
Most weight training program include this much repetitions for gaining muscle. The truth is this approach places the muscles with not enough tension for effective muscle gain. High tension e.g. heavy weights provides muscle growth in which the muscle grows much larger, leading to the maximum gains in strength. Having longer tension time boosts the muscle size by generating the structures around the muscle fibers, improving endurance.

The standard prescription of eight to 12 repetitions provides a balance but by just using that program all of the time, you do not generate the greater tension levels that is provided by the heavier weights and lesser reps, and the longer tension achieved with lighter weights and more repetitions. Change the number of reps and adjust the weights to stimulate all types of muscle growth.

2. Three Set rule
The truth is there’s nothing wrong with three sets but then again there is nothing amazing about it either. The number of sets you perform should be base on your goals and not on a half-century old rule. The more repetitions you do on an exercise, the fewer sets you should do, and vice versa. This keeps the total number of repetitions done of an exercise equal.

3. Three to four exercises per group
The truth is this is a waste of time. Combined with twelve reps of three sets, the total number of reps amount to 144. If your doing this much reps for a muscle group your not doing enough. Instead of doing too many varieties of exercises, try doing 30 to 50 reps. That can be anywhere from 2 sets of 15 reps or 5 sets of 10 reps.

4. My knees, my toes
It is a gym folklore that you “should not let your knees go past your toes.” Truth is that leaning forward a little too much is more likely a cause of injury. In 2003, Memphis University researchers confirmed that knee stress was almost thirty percent higher when the knees are allowed to move beyond the toes during a squat.

But hip stress increased nearly 10 times or (1000 percent) when the forward movement of the knee was restricted. Because the squatters needed to lean their body forward and that forces the strain to transfer to the lower back.

Focus on your upper body position and less on the knee. Keep the torso in an upright position as much as possible when doing squats and lunges. These reduces the stress generated on the hips and back. To stay upright, before squatting, squeeze the shoulder blades together and hold them in that position; and then as you squat, keep the forearms 90 degree to the floor.

5. Lift weights, draw abs
The truth is the muscles work in groups to stabilize the spine, and the most important muscle group change depending on the type of exercise. The transverse abdominis is not always the most important muscle group. Actually, for most exercise, the body automatically activates the muscle group that are needed most for support of the spine. So if you focus only on the transverse abdominis, it can recruit wrong muscles and limit the right muscles. This increases the chance of injury, and reduces the weight that can be lifted.


From efitnessblog.

fitness, muscle, Muscle Building, myths, weight training

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how to lose weight effectively and safely

People who want to lose weight commonly, and first of all, think about reducing the amount of food they eat. This may be quite a solution but not exactly the best there is. In fact, depending on the amount you reduce in your food intake, it may even be dangerous to one’s health. So how does one lose weight effectively and safely? Here are some points one should consider when trying to lose weight:

Beware of the Crash Diets:
Most people think that trimming down the calories can alone shed off their unwanted excess. Probably this is because of the fad there is in advertising about low-calorie food products and beverages. What people don’t know is that this could be dangerous because when they decrease their calorie intake way to below the required levels, the body begins to digest the fats. Sounds good but it doesn’t actually. Burning fat requires a lot of energy. Since there is not much energy in the body to facilitate metabolism of fat, it will run at a very slow pace resulting to fatigue, illness and weak immune system.

Low-calorie diet is also compensated for by the body by burning muscle. People on this type of diet who revert back to their old eating habits end up gaining back some, if not all the weight they have shed off. This would consist mainly of fats. And since fats have more volume per mass than muscle, they end up having the same weight as before but more bulkier. In losing weight, one should keep in mind that they should lose excess body fats only.

However, one can try out eating small meals at more frequent intervals. This way the body will not think that it is being starved and will not store food as fat.

Eat Properly:
One may have considered junking the crash diet option but he should also not forget to watch what he is eating. Variety must always be considered so that one may be able to get the necessary nutrients from his diet.It is also healthier to eat food which are roasted, steamed or broiled rather than fried. It is also important to include a lot of fiber in the diet. Frequent rehydration is also necessary.

Pump Up lean Muscle Mass:
Muscles burn calories when they work; they even do so at rest. Unlike fats which just lie around, bulge around the pants and dangle beneath the sleeves, muscles burn calories all-day round. With this fact, one can start weight loss by increasing muscle mass. The more muscles, the less fat will be left. This is attainable starting with working out with resistance exercises.

Engaging in Aerobics:
Aerobics are not only good for the heart by increasing cardio-vascular endurance. Aerobics also help in increasing lean muscle mass while simultaneously decreasing excess body fat. Aside from these, aerobics make the metebolic process more efficient and its rate high, even after a long while. Imagine burning fat efficiently while driving along the freeway or even while watching television.

Extra “Push”:
Some people believe that smoking and caffeine can actually help in losing weight. This can perhaps be true; however, they do the body more harm than good because of their side-effects. For that extra “push”, one can try out taking food supplements. Afterall, 95% of these products out in the market actually does good.

On Taking Diet Pills:
Over-the-counter diet pills affect the amount of weight one loses as well as how long one keeps that amount of weight off. However, one must be wary of the side-effects of these diet pills. As such, one must faithfully follow the instructions provided for in the packaging. It is also prudent to consult the physician anyway before trying out these drugs and also to find out which type would be best for the individual.

Losing weight does not have to mean sacrifice and suffering. It actually means opening up to a more full and healthy life where one may not have to feel bad about himself having to look the way he does or not being able to do what he wants to do. Losing weight might entail a little adjustments plus the discomforts, but as the old saying goes, “no pain, no gain.” Besides fat, what has one got to lose anyway?

From efitnessblog.

best way to lose weight, effectively and safely, how to lose weight fast
Safe Weight Loss Pointers
fat loss, losing fat, losing weight, safe weight loss, safely, Weight Loss

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Best and Worst Teeth Whiteners

We'd all love to have gleaming white teeth, but we don't want to spend a big chunk of our beauty budget on an unpleasant whitening system that doesn't produce results. To help you navigate the ever-increasing number of teeth whiteners out there, we had 11 women test top products. Compare their reviews with their before-and-after charts, which reveal how much whiter their teeth got (or didn't get).


The Best:


Rembrandt Whitening Strips, $24.99


What it is: seven pairs of strips, one applied to top teeth and one applied to bottom teeth each day for 30 minutes
How long it takes: seven days
Pros: "There was no pain, discomfort or gum sensitivity. I was incredibly happy with the system as it was hassle-free, tasted like mint and gave great whitening results in a short time frame."
Cons: "The first treatment showed the most dramatic results. After that my teeth didn't change much. The only problem was that my mouth filled up with saliva. I didn't talk during the treatment but definitely was able to do everything else."

Last word: "This was the best kit I had ever used. I would use it again and recommend it to others."


Aquafresh White Trays, $36.99


What it is: pre-filled disposable trays that you wear for 45 minutes a day
How long it takes: three days
Pros: "The trays were disposable and pain-free, and you could go about your day as usual while they're working. Teeth were whiter by the third day, so I definitely saw results."
Cons: "One complaint: The gel filling in the trays tended to leak out and you had to spit out globs of it -- not pleasant."

Last word: "I would definitely use this kit again. It's cheap, showed results and was much easier (and covered more teeth!) than my usual Crest Whitestrips."


Supersmile Professional Whitening System, $33


What it is: a paste and gel that is brushed on teeth, a toothbrush, a mouth rinse and chewing gum for touchups
How long it takes: 10 days
Pros: "I had no sensitivity, which I have had with similar products (like Crest Whitestrips) and I noticed results within a day. After using the product for 10 days my tooth color [changed three and a half shades]."
Cons: None

Last word: "I would definitely use this product again. It was quick, easy, pain-free and a great kit for those who need to brighten up their smile."


Listerine Whitening Quick Dissolving Strips, $26.99


What it is: strips that adhere to teeth and dissolve within a half hour
How long it takes: two weeks
Pros: "I found the strips easy to use. There was no pain or discomfort ... I started to notice a change in the color of teeth within four days."
Cons: "If I put the strips on incorrectly, they became unusable and began to dissolve immediately. The box claimed that the strips should dissolve within 5-10 minutes but it took about a half hour."

Last word: "I was very pleased with the results and felt the product delivered what it promised."


GoSMILE Go Travel, $39


What it is: small ampoules to brush on after eating, plus toothpaste and mouthwash for upkeep
How long it takes: for ongoing maintenance between more intense whitening kits
Pros: "The product was really easy to use -- the vials were so small you could keep them in your pocket. It was so quick ... the only thing to remember was to not to drink anything for 20 minutes after applying. The formula was gentle. I felt no pain or sensitivity."
Cons: "I noticed that my teeth were cleaner looking but not necessarily whiter."

Last word: "I would definitely use this again if I was out drinking red wine or coffee. It would be an easy way to get rid of stains on the go."


The Worst:


Sapphire Home Whitening, $250, from a dentist


What it is: supplies to make fitted mouth trays and whitener-filled syringes to fill the trays
How long it takes: Trays are worn for three minutes a day for two weeks.
Pros: "The product I loved. I especially liked the deep stain removal. It felt like I was really doing something to improve the color of my teeth. By the third day, I started seeing results."
Cons: "When I read the instructions for creating the whitening trays, I was totally lost. I gave up on them and used some trays I'd received from my dentist. This was a great system to use, but I would have quit the whole thing if I hadn't already had my own trays."

Last word: "I would definitely keep using the deep stain removal and the gel once in a while as needed. But I would recommend getting your own trays."


iWHITE Light Activated Teeth Whitening Kit, $44.99


What it is: whitener strips that slide into teeth trays plus a light to activate the product
How long it takes: 20 minutes each for top and bottom teeth for five days
Pros: "I liked the five-day, quick results and the easy-to-use whitener strips to secure in the tray."
Cons: "The tray was not comfortable to wear because I had to close my mouth around it. I had to whiten the top row of teeth at a separate time than the bottom, and my mouth got tired of holding the tray in place. Also, I had to lean over the sink because of all the saliva that would build up. One time I flossed before using and experienced major gum sensitivity."

Last word: "Overall, not bad results but not the most comfortable whitening experience."


Crest Whitestrips Daily Whitening + Tartar Protection, $24.99


What it is: pairs of strips that adhere to top and bottom teeth
How long it takes: five minutes a day for ongoing maintenance
Pros: "I had no discomfort in terms of tooth sensitivity ... the strips only needed to be in for five minutes, so wasn't a big deal. After just a day or two my teeth were bright again."
Cons: "The strips were very thin and flimsy, so I found them hard to work with. There was no way I could speak without the strips slipping off my teeth, folding in on themselves and becoming useless."

Last word: "This product was a quick way to touch up and brighten already white teeth."


GoSmile B1 Tooth Whitener, $89


What it is: whitener-filled ampoules that you brush on your teeth
How long it takes: twice a day for two minutes until desired whiteness is achieved
Pros: "I enjoyed the mess-free ampoules, which gave me control over where the whitener went. The sensitivity was negligible (and I have very sensitive teeth)."
Cons: "I wasn't sure that I had gotten as much of the whitener out of the ampoules as I was meant to -- a lot of it seemed to stay saturated in the brush. I worried it wouldn't stay on my teeth, so I didn't talk for 20 minutes after use, but it still seemed to wear off."

Last word: "I didn't notice the dramatic whitening results I was hoping for. No one said, 'What have you had done?' as the box said they might. I would not use this again because the price is too high for the benefit."


The Ones to Run from:


Rembrandt 2 Hour Whitening Kit, $24.99


What it is: teeth trays and gel ampoules to fill trays
How long it takes: Trays are worn for three 20-minute intervals over two hours.
Pros: "The instructions were easy to follow and the trays were comfy."
Cons: "Shortly after the two-hour routine, my teeth were screaming in pain."

Last word: "I wouldn't recommend this as a whitener ... it will leave your teeth too sore to eat solids."


Blush Professional Teeth Whitening System, $79.95


What it is: supplies to make fitted teeth trays and whitening gel to fill trays
How long it takes: Trays are worn for 45 minutes a day until desired whiteness is achieved
Pros: None. "Molding, wearing, taking out -- it was an all around bad experience."
Cons: "It was hard to use, difficult to fit, produced incredible drool and slid around my mouth if I wasn't sitting still. It also stung my teeth on the first use. In order to mold and cut the trays you had to boil water, dip the molds into the water then put directly onto your teeth. This is not fun for people with sensitive teeth -- boiling water with melting plastic against your teeth -- yuck!"

Last word: "I tried a few times, but I could not complete the test as the trays were horribly uncomfortable to wear."

By Sarah Carrillo, From totalbeauty.
teeth whitening, teeth whiteners, teeth bleaching, lipstick

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Top 12 Flat Irons (Plus One Awful Hair Straightener)

We think you should embrace your curls (like these curly-haired celebrities) but sometimes a girl's got to go sleek. We don't blame you but we do insist you use a good flat iron. A quality (but not necessarily expensive) straightener works quickly, damages hair less and gives strands a smooth, shiny finish. Bad flat irons? Well, they leave you a frizzy, damaged mess. Check out the irons TotalBeauty.com readers love (er, and one they hated).


No. 12: Revlon Tourmaline Heat Ionic Ceramic Straightener, $32.99













Rating: 9*
Why it's great: "If my hair could talk, it would continuously compliment itself. I never have a bad hair day after using this."


No. 11: Vidal Sassoon VS175 Studio Tools 1-1/2" Tourmaline/Solid Ceramic Professional Ceramic Straightener, $32.99













Rating: 9.1*
Why it's great: "Sleek, not bulky, easy to grip and does not burn hair or leave that burn smell. The price is borderline too high but you do get your money's worth and it lives up to every penny spent."

No. 10: TIGI Hardcore Straightening Irons, $79.99













Rating: 9.1*
Why it's great: "My hair is curly and hard to straighten [but] this straightening iron works great. It makes [my hair] board straight and the ceramic iron also keeps my hair shiny and healthy looking. The iron does get extremely hot and I have accidentally burned my fingertips a couple of times."


No. 9: CHI Turbo Ceramic Flat Iron, 1 Inch, $97.50













Rating: 9.2*
Why it's great: "I have pretty unruly hair. Until I discovered the Chi, it used to take me an hour to an hour and a half to get my hair straight, and it would only last until I went outside into the Florida humidity! Now it only takes me 15 to 20 minutes to get my hair lookin' good, and it lasts until I wash my hair again! Thank God for the Chi!"


No. 8: Rusk Professional STR8 Iron Infused with CTC Technology, $215.99













Rating: 9.3*
Why it's great: "This straightener will straighten your hair even if it's thick, curly, nappy, straight, damaged or short. Yes, it is expensive but it's worth every penny. It only takes a few seconds to heat up and is very convenient when you're short on time."


No. 7: Vidal Sassoon VS182 Gold Series Professional 2-1/4" High Heat Straightener, $25.49













Rating: 9.3*
Why it's great: "I have been using this straightener for years. My hair is incredibly thick and slightly coarse and I get great results with this iron. It heats up in no time and gets hot enough to work out kinks. I've tried friends' professional (expensive) irons before and I always end up going right back to my Vidal Sassoon!"


No. 6: CHI Wet to Dry Flat Iron, $148.95













Rating: 9.3*
Why it's great: "I was getting ready to go out one night when my hair decided it was going to be frizzy. I tried this product. It was a miracle -- my hair was slightly damp and even then [it] didn't burn. I [was] complemented on my hair several times that evening. So, even though it may seem expensive ladies, it is worth every penny!"


No. 5: ghd Original Ceramic Styling Iron 1 inch, $230













Rating: 9.4*
Why it's great: "This iron is absolutely AMAZING! I had to run my Sedu iron through each section of hair a couple of times before getting it straight but the ghd straightens hair with just one pass and leaves it super straight, shiny and healthy-looking, and the style lasts until you wash your hair. You can also make curls, waves and flips with this and it's easy. This has not damaged my hair and the difference between this iron and my Sedu iron (which I was happy with) are like night and day."


No. 4: Revlon Amber Waves Dual-Edge Straightener, $25.77













Rating: 9.5*
Why it's great: "My hair always frizzes, especially in the summer, and I have a natural curl/wave to my hair but this straightener really works! It even makes waves and curls if I want them. It works out the frizz, leaving my hair feeling soft and smooth. I love it and would certainly suggest others use it."


No. 3: Conair Infiniti 1" Straightener, $44.99













Rating: 9.5*
Why it's great: "I absolutely adore my Conair Infiniti flatiron. My hair is pretty frizzy, and used to take over an hour to straighten. With this iron it only takes about five minutes. My hair is left smooth and shiny, not dry and fried. My friends have paid over $200 for irons that aren't even half as good as this one."


No. 2: Sedu Ionic Ceramic Tourmaline Flat Iron (1 1/2"), $115.95













Rating: 9.5*
Why it's great: "WOW! I am amazed! I thought to myself, I could never finish my whole head (I have quite long hair) in 10 minutes! But I figured I would try. I smoothed it through the first strand and with ONE swipe, my hair was silky and shiny and BONE STRAIGHT in 5 minutes! My WHOLE head in 5 minutes! The only down side ... is that you [will] not be able to take your hands off your hair."


No. 1: CHI Wee Chi Farouk Hair Straightener, .5 Inch, $101.95













Rating: 9.5*
Why it's great: "I love this straightener. I have the thickest, coarsest hair of anyone I know, and yet [this] straightens it all in a matter of minutes. I can't live without it!"


And the one NOT to try: Conair Shiny Styles, $18













Rating: 2.3*
What you said: "I spent over two hours straightening my hair and it looked worse than when I started! I was super excited to use the different plates, but after seeing how my hair turned out from just straightening, I put it straight in the trash can."



The rating by TotalBeauty.com's members.
By Sarah Carrillo, From totalbeauty.

straight hair, hair straightener, flat iron, curly hair, chemical straightening

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Top tips on how to feel beautiful

THINK YOURSELF BEAUTIFUL!

Can you think yourself beautiful? According to Dr Linda Papadopoulos, one of Britain's top psychologists, the secret of natural beauty is all in the mind.
She has just launched her own skincare range, Psyderma, but believes we could avoid expensive treatments and products if we simply started thinking differently about the way we look.

1. LEARN HOW TO LOOK IN THE MIRROR

Women tend to underestimate how good they look when confronted with a mirror, but men don't seem to have this problem.

Next time you're standing in front of a mirror, look at your body as a whole, focusing on the entire package, and walk away keeping at least one positive aspect of your appearance in mind.

2. YOU ARE NOT IN COMPETITION WITH ANYONE BUT YOURSELF

One of the ways to make yourself feel less pretty than you are is by comparing yourself to other women. You are not in competition with anyone, so the more you try to emulate someone else's beauty, the less you will be able to explore and focus on your own.

3. PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESS CAN AFFECT YOUR SKIN

The skin and mind are closely linked, and a lot of research suggests that our state of mind affects how our skin cells work.

In addition, stress hormones can have a detrimental effect on the appearance and structure of the skin.

Stress affects our immune system, and low immunity means the skin's ability to repair itself is reduced, so if you want beautiful, healthy skin, you need to start with a beautiful, healthy mind.

4. KNOW HOW TO APPLY YOUR FACE CREAMS

Investing in yourself, your creativity, your work and your health is an important part of maintaining healthy self-esteem.

This is also true of your beauty regime. Focus on the smells, textures and way your skin feels when you care for it. By doing this, you will be sensitising not only your skin, but your mind, to make the most of the vitamins and nutrients in the products you use.

5. IF YOU FEEL GOOD, YOU LOOK GOOD

How many times when you are happy do people tell you that you glow and that you look good? The skin reacts to emotional feedback; it is connected to the central nervous system, so what you feel emotionally can affect your skin. Psychological stress reduces skin's effectiveness at repairing itself. People who worry tend to frown and the muscle movements create wrinkles. Stress also reduces skin immunity, and can exacerbate conditions such as eczema.

6. HAVE A NIGHT AND DAY RITUAL

We are creatures of habit, so if you have a structured beauty or health routine, you are more likely to stick to it. Regardless of how tired you feel, make your routine something you enjoy, not a chore. Spending a little time focusing on just yourself every day is good for you.

7. LEARN TO BREATHE

Breathing deeply floods your blood with oxygen, which helps get rid of toxins and maintains your health.

When we don't breathe correctly (such as shallow breathing), toxins pile up in our cells and we feel sluggish. Try some deep breathing exercises when you apply your creams in the morning and at night.

Take a deep breath and let it out in twice the time it takes for you to breathe in. You will feel instantly calmer, and help your skin get the oxygen it needs.

8. PROJECT THE HAPPINESS WITHIN

The way we feel affects the way we look. Happiness has a healing effect. It can improve the immune system, help the skin recover faster, reduce the risk of heart disease and even help us cope and battle illnesses.

Whatever affects your body, affects the skin. So invest in your happiness and project those positive feelings!



By Elsa Mcalonan, From dailymail.

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How to Look ten years younger with a new hair colour

Can you really knock ten years off your age with the right hair colour? According to Lisa Shepherd, the colour expert for the new series of Ten Years Younger, getting yourself out of a colour rut is guaranteed to update your look instantly. Here, she answers your ten most common hair colour problems.

1. WHAT'S THE WORST MISTAKE YOU CAN MAKE?

To try to maintain the hair colour you had when you were younger. As you age, your skin tone changes along with hair porosity and texture, therefore it is important that colour is readdressed every couple of years. It doesn't have to be dramatic, a few low lights or highlights can work wonders.

2. HOW CAN GREY HAIR LOOK YOUNGER?

I think a few well-placed highlights and a fresh cut can make a world of difference. The trick here is to get the highlights in the right colour. Helen Mirren is a great example, as her hair colour is perfect. If you add a brightener to grey, it will almost make the grey stronger, cleaner and more sparkly, which can give an instantly glamorous look.

3. CAN YOU EVER REVERT TO YOUR NATURAL COLOUR IF YOU ARE OVER 40?

Yes, but you have to be very careful to make sure it is soft in tone. The best way to achieve this is to take the base back towards the natural, then to weave through lots of light: this way you look like you have no grey at all. However, if this is too much upkeep for you, then opt for grey reduction, which is when the original base colour is combed through the hair, to simply reduce the amount of grey.

4. DOES HAIR NEED A DIFFERENT LEVEL OF CARE AS YOU GET OLDER?

Grey hair tends to be more wirey and coarse, so the best way to combat this is by colouring it, as it can add condition, tone and shine. Just make sure you get a super lightweight finishing product, and then even on the worst hair days you can smooth your locks down. I would also recommend trying products such as Frederic Fekkai Ageless Rejuvenating Shampoo, and Crème Luxe hair Treatment, (www.spacenk.com) to help replenish lost moisture and rehydrate locks.

5. ARE HOME HAIR COLOURANTS GOOD FOR COVERING GREY?

There are many brilliant at-home, DIY products, so I would say yes. Colour refreshers and root touch-ups have now become an essential part of the haircare industry. These are low-risk colour applications and therefore hair disasters can be kept to a minimum. The key is to stay realistic and not be too adventurous at home. For example, completely changing your look or attempting highlights is far harder to replicate at home. Be practical about what you can achieve, without professional training or expertise.



By Elsa Mcalonan, From dailymail.

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in UK: Surge in sale of blonde hair products as women beat the gloom of recession with lighter locks!

In a bid to beat the recession increasing numbers of women are hitting the bottle - the hair dye bottle that is.

According to celebrity hairdresser Andrew Barton there has been 67 per cent surge in the sales of his blonde hair products compared to this time last year.

The trend for blonde locks seems to stem from the need for women to cheer themselves up during the doom and gloom of the credit crunch, after all blondes are supposed to have more fun.

'I don't believe it is purely a coincidence that there's been a huge sales rise in blonde hair products during these tough financial times,' said Barton, the hair expert on Channel 4's Ten Years Younger.

'Many of my female clients say they feel more confident, more youthful and more attractive when they go blonde and they get more attention.

'With only 10 per cent of UK women having naturally blonde hair, choosing to be blonde must be more than about how you look.'

The feelings experienced by those with lighter hair were confirmed in the results of a survey regarding the perception of blondes.

The survey of 1,200 customers in Asda found blonde hair is associated with being extrovert and sexy and 90 per cent of male respondents said they believe blondes have more fun.

And it's not only hair colour that is transforming in the financial crisis.

Sales of white shirts have increased as office workers opt for a more sober look and budget High Street chain Peacocks recently announced record online sales of their £14 shift dress as women try to maintain a stylish workwear look on a budget.

The top 10 most popular blonde stereotypes revealed in the survey:

1. Extrovert

2. More sexy

3. Childlike ignorance

4. Make better girlfriends

5. Will kiss on a first date

6. More fun on a night out

7. More popular

8. Spontaneous

9. More wealthy

10. Dumb



By Eleanor Glover, From dailymail.

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How to Add some romance to your bedroom (decor)

Soft with an Edge



















An arch built into the original brick wall serves as a "canopy" of sorts for this iron bed. Pieces such as a small chandelier, dressing table, and chaise soften up the rustic brick wall.


Victorian Look



















With a luxurious mix of lustrous vintage fabrics and antiques, this room has been transformed into a Victorian fairy tale.


Big Bed



















A large bed – headboard and mattress – lets you nestle down into the blankets.


Escape from the World



















Decorated by Alexandra Stoddard , this bedroom is a cheery and rejuvenating oasis. A four-poster bed draped in springlike floral fabric creates a peaceful yet energizing escape from the world.


Casual Elegance



















This casual, layered look is a nod to classic American style. A lighthearted jumble of patterns, from denim and chambray blues to a bandanna-inspired paisley to ticking stripes, dresses a bed in a fresh twist on tried-and-true favorites.


Soft Neutrals



















Its plump pillows in blossom pink and bisque linen, and cushion in feather-toned linen, reinforce the same hues in the crisp printed sheets and vintage floral duvet cover.


Wall Decor



















Vintage dessert plates, 1950s reproduction Renoir prints, and a framed cross-stitch create a decorative border around a simple mirror.



From Yahoo Shine.
valentines day, sheets, romance, pink, decorating, beds, bedrooms

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How to Make your home safer, Practical steps

Real Simple researched the leading causes of home injuries -- from slips and falls to smoke and fires -- to compile this complete guide to minimizing domestic mishaps

Bedroom

Fire statistic: According to the National Fire Prevention Association, in 1999 almost half of all home fire deaths resulted from fires that were reported between 10 P.M. and 6 A.M.

• Since smoke can further hinder visibility, keep a rechargeable flashlight plugged in by your bedside to light your way or to signal firefighters. The Coleman Slimline Rechargeable Light (800-835-3278 for store locations) runs for five hours on a single charge.
• Place space heaters at least one yard from anything flammable. Turn them off when you're not in the room.
• If you live in a two-story dwelling, a rescue ladder that can attach to your windowsill adds another escape route during a fire.
• Make sure security bars on windows have quick-release mechanisms.
  

Childproofing

• Install window guards. They aren't a substitute for parental supervision, but they do provide reassurance.
• Check the crib. Make sure it meets safety standards. (Request a list of recalled products from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission at www.cpsc.gov.) Keep cords away from the crib. Keep the crib away from windows, if possible.
  

Bathroom
Slips, Trips, Falls

• For extra support getting in and out of a slippery shower, attach a grab bar to your shower wall, installing it into studs.
• If your tub has a slippery bottom, add nonskid decals. Make sure your bath mats are nonslip, with rubber backings.
• If standing in the shower is difficult, use a handheld shower and a shower seat to prevent injuries.
  

Shocks

• Keep portable heaters out of the bathroom. Water and electricity don't mix.
• Disconnect appliances like hair dryers and curling irons after use, and stow them away only when they're cool.
  

Childproofing statistic: Nearly one-third of home drownings happen in tubs.

• Always supervise young children in the bath.
• Consider purchasing toilet locks if you have small children. (Safety 1st cover clamp toilet lock, $6, available at most hardware stores.)

Kitchen
Fire statistic: Cooking is the number one cause of home fires.

• Don't leave pots unattended on the stovetop.
• Turn the handles of pots and pans inward so you'll be less likely to knock simmering food off the stove.
• Keep a lid close to the stove to snuff out cooking fires. Don't use water, which can spread burning grease around the kitchen.
• Keep pot holders, towels, and other flammable items away from burners.
• Use only dry oven mitts -- wet ones are a scalding danger.
• In case of an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the oven door closed. If there's a microwave fire, keep the door closed and unplug the microwave.
  

Childproofing

• Attach safety latches to drawers containing knives, scissors, and sharp utensils. (Safety 1st cabinet and drawer latches, $3, available at most hardware stores.)
• Use appliance knob covers to keep kids from turning on stove burners.
• Install a safety cover on your garbage disposal to protect kids' hands.

From Yahoo Shine.

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How to prepare for an emergency in your home

Prevent a Household Gas Leak

• Care for your pipes. If you're excavating outdoors, don't dig until you have your utility company flag where the lines are. Don't use basement pipes to hang heavy items, and make sure the gas connections to your stovetop range and other gas appliances aren't fraying or cracked. By law, "gas pipes leading into a concealed area should be labeled gas, but this isn't always the case," says Bob Kordulak, a code secretary for the Plumbing- Heating-Cooling Contractors National Association. For extra peace of mind, you could install a natural-gas detector, which detects methane and propane gas leaks (ask your local utility company for recommendations). Still, your nose is your best system of detection.

• Make sure every family member knows the basic rule of gas safety: that anytime they smell an unmistakable rotten-egg odor or hear a hissing sound and can't immediately identify the source, they should get out of the house.

Prevent a Household Power Outage

• Limit the number of appliances plugged into any outlet. When you lose power in one part of the house, it's probably because your food processor, toaster, and microwave are sharing the same outlet and overloading the circuit.

• Back up computer files regularly. And consider buying extra batteries and a DC-to-AC auto adapter if you use a laptop computer. This will allow most laptops (12 volts or less) to be operated from the cigarette lighter of a vehicle.

• Know where to find the nearest flashlight. Store one in each bedroom. And avoid lighting candles, if possible, as they could cause a fire.

• Alert your power company to special needs. If somebody in your home relies on electrical medical equipment, call your power company now to let it know. Your home will be a priority when electricity is being restored.

Prevent Frozen Pipes in Your Home

• Remove garden hoses from their spigots and cut off the water supply to outdoor faucets before the frosty weather arrives. Leave the faucets turned on so the pipes are drained before winter.

• Insulate vulnerable pipes with heat tape or heat cable (sold in hardware stores). These may include uninsulated water supply lines anywhere heat doesn't reach, such as the garage, crawl spaces, or under cabinets.

• During freezing spells, regularly allow a trickle of water -- cold or hot -- to run through the pipes. Set the thermostat at 65 degrees, and open the cabinets under sinks to expose them to as much heat as possible. If you're leaving for an extended period during the winter, turn off the main water supply, set the thermostat at no lower than 55 degrees, and keep the cabinets open.

In Case of Home Fires: Monitor Smoke Alarms

• Install one on every level of the house and outside all sleep areas. Mount each unit on or just below the ceiling.

• Check the batteries once a month and replace them at least once a year, unless you have units powered by 10-year lithium batteries (these still require monthly checking). Some smoke alarms are connected to the household electrical system and may or may not have a battery backup. It's important to test these monthly, too. Regardless of the power source, buy new smoke alarms every 10 years.

• Keep alarms clean. Dust and debris can cause malfunctions, so vacuum or dust alarms regularly.

• Never disable an alarm when you get a false alarm. Newer detectors have hush buttons, so you won't have to compromise the alarm's power source just because you charred your toast.

From yahoo Shine.

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Economy Isn't Slowing Down Sex Lives

The sluggish economy might make sweethearts a little stingier when buying Valentine's Day gifts, but it hasn't slowed down their sex lives.
About 50% of people with partners say they'll spend less money on Valentine's Day, but 78% say the economy hasn't affected the amount of time they have for sex or the frequency this past year, a national Consumer Reports poll shows.

"People are certainly cutting back on expenditures, and that may mean less lavish dinners out and more stay-at-home dates that lead to a romantic evening," says Orly Avitzur, a neurologist and medical adviser for the magazine. "Sex can provide pleasure and boost mood while serving needs for intimacy and providing a calming effect."
In January, the magazine's National Research Center surveyed about 600 adults who reported being sexually active in 2008. The findings, reported on www.consumerreportshealth.org:

• 81% avoided or delayed having sex this past year. The most common reasons they gave: too tired, weren't feeling well, weren't in the mood.

• 45% said they had to plan a time for sex with their partner, and 7% said they used a printed or electronic calendar, PDA or smart phone to keep track.

• 20% said they had missed work to keep a planned time for sex; 21% said they had missed an outing with friends, and 15% said they had skipped an important event or appointment.

• 60% of men said they thought about sex at least once a day, compared with 19% of women.

• 66% of men and 58% of women said they were satisfied with their sex lives.

By NANCI HELLMICH,USA Today

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How to Become Closer to Your Family, Practical steps

be more closer to your family with this easy and Practical steps:

1. Try and eat meals together more often. Sit down properly at the table and have a proper meal, no take-away rubbish. Turn off the television and have a chat. Chat about your days, your feelings, your friends and just share thoughts together. Eat slowly and enjoy your food and company.

2. Go on more outings together. Visit a museum and discuss the artifacts. Go on a shopping trip, take a walk in the park. There are so many things to do and see, make sure that you do things as a family. If your kids love theme parks but you've never been as you hate them, take them on a special treat. It will make them love you more because they'll see that you did something special for them. Likewise, if you love galleries and your kids loathe them, take them once in a while. They might enjoy it as you can get special children's activities.

3. Help each other with daily tasks. Whether its homework or the washing up, help each other out with the tedious chores. You'll get them done quicker and they won't be quite so dull to do.

4. Start a New Family Tradition, things they love, things they want, that get them closer again.

5. Make time for siblings. They know you best, and they will tell you the whole truth, even when you don't want to hear it. As we grow up, our relationships with siblings may not be as strong as we think, but when you're older you may find yourself grateful for the work you put in now. Be supportive, encouraging and honest.

6. don't forget that your relationship with your family depends on both you and them.

just like that?
yes it's just simple and easy like that!

you need to thinking about it, and start do it....


from wikihow with some addition.

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How to Tell Your Boyfriend Something He Doesn't Want to Hear

sometimes you may want to tell your boyfriend something that he Doesn't to listen to!
how you can do this Without hurting his feelings as much as possible.
let's find out,

How to Tell Your Boyfriend Something He Doesn't Want to Hear

Steps:

1. Know your boyfriend's mood and current state of mind.
2. Tell him that you need to tell him something unpleasant and that he might not want to hear it.
3. Tell him how important it is for you to tell him this.
4. Then tell him the matter fully.
5. Let him know you are telling him because you care about him, not to make him angry.
   

Tips:

• Make sure of his mood when you talk to him.

• Think of the consequences and be ready to face them. (very important step)

• Know how to treat him when he needs help from the topic.

• Be nice about it. If you're mean, he'll be even more angry with you and it could hurt the relationship.

Warnings:

• He might get angry at you at the first point whether it has anything to deal with you or not.

• It may affect your relationship for a while, but eventually everything will be cleared.

From wikihow.

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Worst Foods In America 2009

Can an appetizer with the caloric equivalent of 13 Krispy Kreme doughnuts be justified? No. The 2,710-calorie Awesome Blossom has been purged from Chili's menu--maybe the fat-drenched appetizer couldn't withstand the scrutiny of being named one of the worst foods in America last year.

The deep-fried onion wasn't the only thing to withdraw from this year's race--seven other items from 2008's lineup have been removed from menus. Three gut bombs remain, but we found 17 more deplorable dishes worthy of spots on our "worst" list. For now, be sure to avoid them--but here's to hoping these are 20 foods we won't see on restaurant menus next year.


20. Worst Breakfast Sandwich: Hardee's Monster Biscuit


















710 calories
51 g fat (17 g saturated)
2,250 mg sodium
37 g carbohydrates

When they say "Monster," they mean it. This 700-calorie behemoth should be enough to scare anyone: It contains nearly a full day's worth of sodium and saturated fat. Instead, try the Sunrise Croissant with Bacon. It's not exactly diet-friendly, but if you're stuck at Hardee's, it's a way to escape without too much damage.

Eat This Instead!
Hardee's Sunrise Croissant with Bacon

450 calories
29 g fat (12 g saturated)
900 mg sodium
28 g carbs



19. Worst Supermarket Meal: Marie Callender's Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pot Pie


















1,060 calories
64 g fat (24 g saturated fat)
1,440 mg sodium

Marie Callender's perpetrates the ultimate sleight of hand here: the nutrition information says this medium-size entrée has two servings, but honestly, when have you ever split a potpie? Lard-strewn pastry tops and cream-based fillings are the lowest common denominators of the nutritionally nefarious potpie, and this one, with an ingredient list that reads like an O-Chem final, beats out dozens of horrendous iterations to earn this special place on our list.

Eat This Instead!
Marie Callender's Oven Baked Chicken (369 g)

320 calories
12 g fat (3 g saturated)
990 mg sodium



18. Worst "Healthy" Sandwich: Blimpie Veggie Supreme (12")

















1,106 calories
56 g fat (33 g saturated fat)
2,831 mg sodium
96 g carbohydrates

Sure, a Veggie Supreme sandwich sounds healthy, but this foot-long comes with three different kinds of cheese, and it's drenched in oil.

Eat This Instead!
Grilled Chicken Sub (6" regular) and Seafood Salad

456 calories
10 g fat (2 g saturated fat)
1,260 mg sodium



17. Worst Kids' Meal: Chili's Pepper Pals Country-Fried Chicken Crispers with Ranch Dressing and Homestyle Fries


















1,110 calories
82 g fat (15 g saturated)
1,980 mg sodium
56 g carbohydrates

Most kids, if given the choice, would live on chicken fingers for the duration of their adolescent lives. If those chicken fingers happened to come from Chili's, it might be a pretty short life. A moderately active 8-year-old boy should eat around 1,600 calories a day. This single meal plows through 75 percent of that allotment. So unless he plans to eat carrots and celery sticks for the rest of the day (and we know he doesn't), find a healthier chicken alternative.

Eat This Instead!
Pepper Pals Grilled Chicken Platter with Cinnamon Apples

350 calories
11 g fat (3 g saturated)
870 mg sodium
38 g carbohydrates



16. Worst Fast-Food Chicken Meal: Dairy Queen 6-Piece Chicken Strip Basket


















1,270 calories
67 g fat (11 g saturated fat)
2,910 mg sodium

The strips deliver more grams of fat than four DQ Homestyle Burgers, and nearly 300 more calories than a Large Strawberry CheeseQuake Blizzard.

Eat This Instead!
Grilled Chicken Salad with Fat-Free Italian Dressing

280 calories
11 g fat (5 g saturated)
1,550 mg sodium



15. Worst Salad: T.G.I. Fridays Pecan Crusted Chicken Salad


















1,360 calories
Fat: unknown (The company refuses to disclose the nutritional content of the food they're serving you.)
Sodium: unknown

Turns out Friday's monster salads aren't much better than their burgers. Six out of the seven we analyzed topped out with more than 900 calories, which means that lunchtime can be the start of something big--namely, your belly.

Eat This Instead!
Cobb Salad

590 calories
Fat: unknown (The company refuses to disclose the nutritional content of the food they're serving you.)
Sodium: unknown



14. Worst Breakfast: Bob Evans Stacked and Stuffed Caramel Banana Pecan Hotcakes


















1,543 calories
77 g fat (26 g saturated; 9 g trans)
2,259 mg sodium
198 g carbs
109 g sugars

It's not a good sign when it takes you nearly five seconds to spit out the name of your breakfast. This bad boy packs in more than 75 percent of your calories for the day, along with more sugar and fat than nine glazed Dunkin' Donuts, and nearly as much sodium as five Bloody Marys. That's why it's back on our list of the 20 Worst Foods in America again this year.

Eat This Instead!
3 Scrambled Egg Beaters with 2 slices of bacon and fresh fruit

314 calories
19.5 g fat (5 g saturated)
700 mg sodium
21 g carbs
18 g sugars



13. Worst Fish Entrée: On the Border Dos XX Fish Tacos with Chipotle Sauce and Refried Beans and Rice














2,440 calories
159 g fat (36 g saturated)
184 g carbohydrates
5,390 mg sodium

Fish is normally a wise, lower-calorie meat option than heavy burgers or steaks, but these tacos defy that logic. There's only three of them in this dish, but together they account for the caloric equivalent of 43 Chicken McNuggets. Add the carbohydrate-loaded refried beans and Mexican rice, and you're looking at over a full day's worth of calories in one sitting.

Eat This Instead!
Pica Shrimp Tacos

490 calories
5 g fat (1 g saturated)
78 g carbohydrates
1,650 mg sodium



12. Worst Dessert: Romano's Macaroni Grill Dessert Ravioli


















1,630 calories
74 g fat
33 g saturated fat
1150 mg sodium
223 g carbohydrates

Would you eat a Quarter Pounder for dessert? How about four? That's how many it takes to match to calorie-load of this decadent dish. It's the quickest way to ruin what may have been a sensible dinner.

Eat This Instead!
Italian Sorbetto with Biscotti

330 calories
4 g fat
0 g saturated fat
80 mg sodium
71 g carbohydrates



11. Worst Surf and Turf: T.G.I. Friday's NY Strip & Shrimp


















1,660 calories
(no other nutritional information available)

Diversity on your plate is usually a good thing, but not with this entrée. It has more calories than three Big Macs. Add variety with healthy sides like a house salad or Friday's broccoli instead.

Eat This Instead!
Half Rack of Ribs

500 calories
18 g fat
650 mg sodium



10. Worst Chinese Entrée: P.F. Chang's Tam's Noodles


















1, 678 calories
93 g fat (17 g saturated fat)

You'd have to eat 42 Krispy Kreme Glazed Doughnut Holes to match the fat content in these noodles.

Eat This Instead!
Ginger Chicken and Broccoli

660 calories
26 g fat (3.5 g saturated fat)
45 g carbohydrates



9. Worst Mexican Entrée: Chili's Buffalo Chicken Fajitas with The Works (Ranch Dressing, Guacamole, Sour Cream, Cheese, and Pico de Gallo + 4 tortillas)


















1,730 calories
117 g fat (31 g saturated fat)
5,690 mg sodium

Here are a few offenders to choke on: fried chicken, Buffalo sauce, blue cheese, ranch dressing, and sour cream. All make this the sodium equivalent of single-handedly downing three and a half baskets of Chili's bottomless tostada chips or eating 3 ½ pounds of salted peanuts. Add rice and beans, and you've just ordered 3 days' worth of sodium and an entire day of calories.

Eat This Instead!
Chicken Fajita Pita

450 calories
17 g fat (3 g saturated fat)
1,750 mg sodium



8. Worst Burger: Chili's Smokehouse Bacon Triple-The-Cheese Big Mouth Burger with Jalapeno Ranch Dressing


















2,040 calories
150 g fat (53 g saturated)
110 g protein
4,900 mg sodium

You know this burger's in trouble when it takes more than 20 syllables just to identify it. If you think the name's a mouthful, just wait until the burger hits the table. You'll be face to face with two-and-a-half day's worth of fat-a full third of which is saturated. To do that much damage with roasted sirloin, you'd have to eat about eight 6-ounce steaks. It's nearly three days' worth of saturated fat.

Eat This Instead!
Old Timer Burger on a Whole Wheat Bun

420 calories
27 g fat (10 g saturated fat)
670 mg sodium



7. Worst Sandwich: Quizno's Tuna Melt (large)


















2,090 calories
175 g fat (31 g saturated fat, 2.5 g trans fats)
2,190 mg sodium

This sandwich puts tuna's healthy reputation on the line. A large homemade sandwich would likely provide one-fourth of the calories.

Eat This Instead!
Small Honey Bourbon Chicken on Wheat Bread

310 calories
4 g fat (1 g saturated fat)
920 mg sodium



6. Worst Chicken Entrée: Romano's Macaroni Grill Primo Chicken Parmesan


















2,220 calories
148 g fat (53 g saturated fat)
4,440 mg sodium
126 g carbohydrates

"Primo" refers to something that's the greatest of its kind. Sure, if the ranking is based on the ability to deliver unnecessary calories and fat-this glorified chicken breast is great at that.

Eat This Instead!
Pollo Magro

330 calories
5 g fat (1 g saturated fat)
770 mg sodium



5. Worst Ribs: Outback Steakhouse Baby Back Ribs (full rack)


















2,260 calories
(no other nutritional information available)

Let's be honest: Ribs are rarely served alone on a plate. When you add a sweet potato and Outback's Classic Wedge salad, this meal is a 3,340-calorie blowout.

Eat This Instead!
Prime Minister's Prime Rib with Fresh Veggies and Sweet Potato

730 calories
39 g fat
65 g carbohydrates



4. Worst Pizza: Uno Chicago Grill Chicago Classic Deep Dish Pizza


















2,310 calories
162 g fat
123 g carbohydrates
4,470 mg sodium
A horrific 228 percent of your daily allowance of fat and 167 percent of your daily sodium intake.

Eat This Instead!
Cheese and Tomato Flatbread Pizza (individual) and a House Side Salad with Fat-Free Vinaigrette

755 calories
30 g fat (17 g saturated fat)
1,815 mg sodium



3. Worst Starter: Uno Chicago Grill Pizza Skins (full order)


















2,400 calories
155 g fat (50 g saturated)
3,600 mg sodium

This appetizer is like eating a Large Domino's Hand-Tossed Sausage Pizza! Would you ever think of saying to a waiter: "Why don't you start us off with a large meat pizza?" If you're ordering for a party of more than 5 it might be OK, but for smaller groups, it's tilting toward gluttony gone wild. Order the Thai Vegetable Pot Stickers instead-the only item carrying fewer than 800 calories.

Eat This Instead!
Chicken Lettuce Wraps

390 calories
21 g fat (3 g saturated)
960 mg sodium



2. Worst Pasta: Romano's Macaroni Grill Spaghetti and Meatballs with Meat Sauce


















2,430 calories
128 g fat
207 g carbs
5,290 mg sodium

With three times your recommended daily intake of saturated fat and two days' worth of salt, these ain't your mama's meatballs (at least we hope not).
This dish debuted on last year's list, but there's no other pasta that delivers this bad of a blow.

Eat This Instead!
Simple Salmon

590 calories
40 g fat (6 g saturated fat)
1,390 mg sodium



1. The Worst Food in America: Baskin Robbins Large Chocolate Oreo Shake


















2,600 calories
135 g fat (59 g saturated fat, 2.5 g trans fats)
263 g sugars
1,700 mg sodium

We didn't think anything could be worse than Baskin Robbins' 2008 bombshell, the Heath Bar Shake. After all, it had more sugar (266 grams) than 20 bowls of Froot Loops, more calories (2,310) than 11 actual Heath Bars, and more ingredients (73) than you'll find in most chemist labs.

Rather than coming to their senses and removing it from the menu, they did themselves one worse and introduced this caloric catastrophe. It's soiled with more than a day's worth of calories and three days worth of saturated fat, and, worst of all, usually takes less than 10 minutes to sip through a straw.

Eat This Instead! (and ask for two spoons)
2-Scoop Hot fudge Sundae, Chocolate and Vanilla

530 calories
29 g fat (19 g saturated fat)
52 g sugars




by Men's Health, from aolhealth.

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