Thursday, September 29, 2016

Add These 7 Things To Water For The Ultimate Detox

detox-1

Every system in your body depends on water, so it’s imperative to stay hydrated. But if you want to up your game, why not add these seven ingredients to your water for the ultimate detox? You’ll not only stay hydrated, but you’ll be energized, flush toxins out, lose weight, reduce fatigue, aid digestion, keep your organs healthy and improve your mood. Now that’s a mouthful!

Why detox?

Let’s face it, your present state of health is the result of many years of chemical and toxin exposure, plus the choices you’ve made for your body, mind and spirit. As a result, you need gentle detoxification and rejuvenation from pollutants, prescription drugs and food preservatives. Detoxification cleans out the digestive system, encourages wellness and is important in the treatment of disease and health maintenance. The benefits of detoxification include better digestion and elimination, weight loss, improved immune system, improved skin tone and mental alertness.
For the ultimate detox, choose organic products and consume enough water to stay properly hydrated. For some, that may mean drinking six to eight glasses of filtered or healthy spring water daily. But generally, you should drink enough fluid so that you rarely feel thirsty and your urine is colorless or light yellow. Here are the top seven ingredients for a detox: 

1.Watermelon

watermelon-water
Not only is watermelon low in calories and incredibly hydrating for the body, but it also fights inflammation and free radical damage while providing anti-aging vitamins A and B. Watermelon also contains a high amount of lycopene, which is a certain type of carotenoid that’s responsible for watermelon’s deep red or pink color — and it’s also a powerful antioxidant. Studies show that lycopene may help prevent chronic diseases such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and hypertension.
Watermelon also provides potassium and magnesium, both important for detoxification, managing blood flow and hydration levels in the body. One of the more interesting features of watermelon is its rich supply of the amino acid citrulline. Citrulline is also great for the detoxification process because it helps the liver and kidneys filter out ammonia, a by-product of protein that damages the cells.

2. Lemon

Lemon contains ascorbic acid, which helps to detoxify the body, aid digestion and keeps skin glowing. It’s also an excellent source of vitamin C, which stimulates white blood cell production and boosts immune system function, says Dr. Josh Axe. Adding lemon to your detox water rejuvenates the skin, heals the body and boosts energy. It may also help you lose weight thanks to pectin, a type of fiber that helps you to feel full longer, according to research by the University of Southern California’s Department of Medicine. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon and then add a few more slices to give your detox water a little extra vitamin C. Fresh, organic lemons are critical, as they are known to provide the most enzymes for body’s detox.

3. Cucumber

Cucumbers are one of the great detoxifying foods because they support the digestive tract, including helping to cleanse the liver. The liver is the body’s main detoxifying organ, and cucumbers can help remove accumulated toxins and waste from the blood and gut. They’re also a natural diuretic food, which means they can help the body produce more urine to flush out toxins and waste, according to research. The end result is reduced bloating and uncomfortable water retention.

3. Apple cider vinegar

Vinegar can help kill pathogens, including bacteria, according to research by the University of North Carolina’s School of Medicine. But it also helps increase the metabolism and speeds up weight loss. In fact, ACV contains an organic acid called acetic acid that is shown to improve the metabolism. It also supports digestive function, thanks to enzymes and probiotics that also help fights acid reflux naturally.
Add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to your water to cleanse your liver and lymphatic system. It helps balance your body’s pH, and if your pH is out of whack, you could be experiencing heartburn, acid reflux, indigestion, weight gain, sluggish metabolism, mineral deficiencies, constipation, fatigue, brain fog, frequent urination, hypoglycemia, hormonal imbalances and sore muscles, says The Center For Advanced Heath.

4. Ginger

ginger-water
The medicinal benefits of ginger come from gingerol, the pungent oily resin that contains highly potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. For centuries, ginger has been the go-to herb for digestion troubles, nausea, flu and even the common cold. Ginger may also help lower the risk of infections and inhibit the growth of many different types of bacteria, making it effective against respiratory infections and inflammatory diseases in the gums such gingivitis and periodontitis. Ginger may also effectively manage pain. In fact, according to research, people with osteoarthritis of the knee who take ginger extract have less pain and require less pain medication.
Adding ginger to your detox water has many other benefits as well. Ginger warms the body, breaking down the accumulation of toxins in the organs.  Additionally, a study published by researchers at the Institute for Human Nutrition at Columbia University found that ginger made participants feel fuller after a meal and less likely to eat more later. Ginger also enhances thermogenesis and reduces feelings of hunger, meaning that ginger may play a significant role in weight management.

6. Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is a spicy powerhouse when it comes to detoxing your body, since heating the body makes the detoxification process more efficient. In fact, by simply adding cayenne to your detox water you can stimulate circulation and sweat out toxins. And that’s another important process of detoxification. But it not only cleanses your body, cayenne also provides health benefits that include aiding digestion, calming an upset stomach, soothing intestinal gas and stomach pain, and helping alleviate diarrhea and cramps.
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some studies even suggest that cayenne may help you lose weight and keep you satiated. However, more research is needed. Capsaicin is also being studied for the treatment of irregular heart rhythm and circulatory problems that relate to the heart. Capsaicin may even play a role in the treatment of certain cancers including colon, prostate and gastrointestinal cancers.

7. Aloe vera gel

aloe-vera-gel-water
Most people know aloe for its skin healing and beautifying benefits. Others use it exclusively for treating burns, sunburn, frostbite, psoriasis and cold sores. But did you know you can actually consume aloe vera? There is so much more you can do with this plant including treating osteoarthritis, bowel diseases, fever, itching and inflammation. Aloe vera produces two healing elements. The first is the gel, which comes from cells in the center of the leaf. The second is the latex that comes from the cells just beneath the leaf skin. It may also work as a natural remedy for asthma, stomach ulcers and diabetes. Use aloe latex as a natural treatment for depression, constipation, asthma and diabetes.
Aloe vera gel also has laxative and anti-inflammatory properties that help aid digestion, normalize pH balance, lessen yeast formation and encourage digestive bacteria, suggests Dr. Josh Axe. The enzymes present in aloe vera also help break down proteins into amino acids, fueling every cell in the body. This not only allows the cells to work properly but also boosts overall health. Adding aloe vera to detox drinks helps reduce inflammation, aid digestion and promote skin health.
— Katherine Marko

7 Secret Things Your Tongue Is Trying To Tell You

tongue

Next time someone sticks their tongue out at you, grab it and take a good long look. Not only will this scare the heck out of them, you’ll be getting an up-close and personal transcript of their health records. A growing body of evidence suggests that not only are our tongues good for tasting, moving bits of food around our mouths and projecting our disdain or defiance to the world, they’re also an efficient way to get a heads-up on what’s ailing you.

There’s probably been at least a few occasions in your life where you’ve seen something weird on your tongue while brushing your teeth before bed. Chances are you took a good long look, thought “that’s weird, I wonder what caused that,” shrugged, and thought nothing more of it.
But far from being just an inconsequential curiosity, variations in the color and texture of your tongue can actually provide an important glimpse into the state of your health. When you know what to look for, these variations can provide a clue as to whether you’re healthy or suffering from a serious condition which needs to be addressed. Such conditions can include diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, tooth or gum decay, or yeast infections. We’ve put together the seven most important signs to look out for on your tongue, and what they mean in tongue-talk.

1. Lumpy white tongue

sugar
If it looks like your tongue has a cottage cheese-like coating, you could have a yeast infection. This could mean anything from thrush to an oral yeast infection to a Candida albicans overgrowth in your gut.
Yeast infections or overgrowths are often linked to things like antibiotics, chronic stress, too much sugar and contraceptives. Antibiotics are particularly troublesome, with repeated use killing off not only the bad bacteria in your body, but the beneficial bacteria as well. With your beneficial bacteria populations wiped out in your gut and mouth, harmful bacteria can move in and take up residence.
Candida is perhaps the most famous opportunist following a bout of antibiotics, too much stress, an overload of sugar or continued contraceptive use. Candida is a naturally occurring yeast in your gut, and under normal conditions actually provides important functioning to your body like nutrient absorption and immune support. Antibiotics kill off bacteria but are often unable to affect candida, meaning it now has an expansive estate at its disposal to grow and put down roots throughout your gut. This results in autoimmune issues, constant sugar cravings, weight gain, hormonal imbalance and often a “cottage cheese tongue.”

2. Small white tongue patches

While we’re on the topic of weird white patterns on your tongue, keep your eye out for this one. Small white patches on the top or underside of your tongue could mean that something is directly irritating the inside of your mouth. These patches (provided they are painless) are caused by an excess growth of cells on your tongue and are often associated with smokers. If you find yourself within this group, look out! Those patches have a strong chance of developing into cancer. The solution? Stop smoking!
If you’re not a smoker, small white patches on your tongue could simply be due to your teeth rubbing against the surface of your tongue, or perhaps eating too much abrasive food like chips.

3. Bright red tongue

This one has probably got you worried, considering it looks like you’ve eaten a whole punnet of strawberries or perhaps five beets in a row. A glossy, bright red tongue often signifies a vitamin deficiency, in particular iron or vitamin B12. These two vitamins are not only essential for a range of healthy functions in your body, they’re also required for the maturation of papillae on your tongue. If you’re lacking in iron or B12, the loss of those papillae means your tongue takes on a smooth, almost glossy texture.
While you shouldn’t experience any pain or discomfort, severe iron or B12 deficiency and the resulting smoothness of the tongue can make eating hot or spicy foods miserable. Basically, if you’ve got a notably red, smooth tongue, consult your doctor or get a comprehensive blood test to see whether you’re vitamin deficient. Vegetarians are particularly at risk, as a lot of our vitamin B12 and iron intake comes from red meat.

4. Tongue cracks

If you’ve noticed an increasing amount of “wrinkles” or deep grooves on your tongue, don’t fret. These tongue wrinkles, which remind me a little of glacial crevasses, are usually just a manifestation of age. Like your skin, your tongue degrades with time, and this is simply it’s own way of showing that wear and tear.
That being said, things can get a little dicey is you don’t keep things clean inside your mouth. Those same benign fissures can easily develop a fungal infection if you don’t make oral hygiene a priority, which can then lead to bad breath, pain, and possibly a burning sensation. All the more reason to brush your teeth, floss and clean your tongue on a regular basis.

5. Tongue ulcers

We’ve all had them and everyone seems to have a different theory as to why they appear. Even the experts don’t know for sure what they are and what specifically causes canker sores. They suspect, however, that these little devils are viral in nature and have ties to elevated stress levels. I’ve also long held the opinion that they spring up on the tongue and cheeks after eating too much sour fruit, particularly citrus.
There are a few things you can do to treat tongue canker sores, like rubbing baking soda on the affected area or rinsing your mouth with salty water. Otherwise, they should be gone within two weeks — any longer and you may have a bigger problem.

6. Permanent tongue lesions

While we’re on the subject of weird bumps on your tongue, if you see one of these guys, take a quick trip down to the doctor. Different from canker-sores or ulcers in that they don’t go away after two weeks, they should be checked immediately. Even if you’re unsure of whether it’s a canker sore or a potentially carcinogenic lesion, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and get an expert opinion.

7. Black tongue fuzz

coffee
It sounds a trifle disgusting, and it’s significance is a little gross as well: a tongue with visible black or brown hairs (or “fuzz”) means your oral hygiene leaves a lot to be desired. While it suggests that you should ramp up your tooth brushing and mouth washing routine a bit, experts state that it isn’t a cause for concern in and of itself.
Other things which can cause a black and hairy tongue include smoking and drinking a lot of coffee or dark teas. These can cause the papillae on your tongue to grow bacteria, which create that discolored look and lead to bad breath or weird tastes. Ditch the smoking or excessive hot drinks and work on your oral hygiene routine and it should go away.
Liivi Hess

Job Posting - Senior Policy Associate



Position Specifics

Position:  Senior Policy Associate                                              Salary Range: $67,000 – 75,000
                                                                                              
Business Unit:  Executive                                                             Department: Executive

Reports To:  President & CEO                                                    Posted:  September 27, 2016 – October  11, 2016

Role Summary

The Sr. Policy Associate engages key stakeholders at the local, state and national levels to develop and implement policy approaches to address and influence policy and political impact on the workforce development system.

This position will be responsible for the following duties:
  • Conduct research on local regional state and national best practices pertaining to workforce system related program operations and polices: make recommendations regarding adoption of appropriate policies and practices in Philadelphia.
  • Identify systems, agencies and organizations that Philadelphia Works should partner with in order to improve system performance; forge partnerships among these entities to enable the system to better address client needs.
  • Research, track and analyze pertinent legislative and administrative policies that impact Philadelphia Works; keep leadership abreast of federal and state policy changes and potential policy changes and advise on responses.
  • Identify internal and external operational concerns that can be remedied by policy clarification and/or development; elaborate policies and disseminate policy changes.
  • Serve as a link to the advocacy community and partner with appropriate advocates to promote policies and practices beneficial to Philadelphia Works, its subcontractors, clients and employers.
  • Prepare policy materials including policy reports, action alerts, talking points, issue briefs, letters, etc.
  • Archive information pertinent to the development of policy.
  • Act as a liaison representing Philadelphia Works with various public agencies
  • Collaborate with the Outreach and Engagement Manager in preparing senior staff who participates in external public policy activities such as speaking engagements.
  • Create and direct opportunities for stakeholders to participate in Philadelphia Works public policy activities.
  • Network with other Workforce Investment Boards and affiliated organizations interested in common issues.
  • Attend local and regional legislative sessions as necessary.
  • Perform other related job duties as assigned.

Education/Professional Experience

Bachelor’s degree, Masters preferred, in political science, public policy or related field from an accredited college or university. Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in legislative or public policy analysis.

Or, any combination of education and experience determined to be acceptable.



Additional Eligibility Qualifications
·         Knowledge of federal , state and local policy and the regulatory environment in the State
·         Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
·         Ability to apply knowledge of workforce system and economic development to legislative and public policy analysis
·         Excellent organizational, analytical and prioritizing skills
·         Ability to work effectively with representatives from the business community, government organizations, stakeholders as well as board of directors, Sr. leadership and management
·         Strong attention to details
·         Capacity to synthesize information from multiple sources and generate summaries
·         Strong teamwork skills
·         Good judgment, solid business acumen and strong diplomacy skills
·         Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal skills
·         Ability to interact effectively with various levels of staff, management, government officials, and the public


Contact Information

Interested applicants should apply online at
www.philaworks.org  and click on
 “About Us” and then “Careers at Philadelphia Works


                                                    Equal Opportunity Employer/Program     
                            Alternate Formats, Auxiliary Aides and Services are available upon request

Job Posting - Senior Research Analyst



Position Specifics

Position:  Senior Research Analyst                                           Salary Range: $52,000 - $60,000
                                                                                              
Business Unit:  Research, Policy & Innovation                     Department: Research, Policy & Innovation

Reports To:  Chief Research Officer                                        Posted:  September 27, 2016 – October  11, 2016


Role Summary

The Senior Research Analyst provides support for research, data and analytic projects in the Department and support to flexible teams across the organization. This team-based position does in-depth reporting from program data, builds databases combining government and program sources, creates ad hoc reports and writes memos to answer research questions, provides analyses of data and data inputs for performance management, tracks and oversees the progress of pilot programs, automates data collection where possible and writes reports.   Other responsibilities include reporting and adding expert technical assistance in meetings and data visualization.

This position will be responsible for the following duties:
  1. Ensure effective use of labor market information by maintaining current labor market information for strategic planning, informing the delivery services, and making it available to internal and external audiences. Make data actionable for programs.
  2. Compile and report PA CareerLink®/Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act Performance metrics.
  3. Support all internal teams with data and other information as needed.
  4. Complete population, industry and occupational analyses in support of Board Committees and external partners in analyzing the needs of special populations and industries.
  5. Participate on evaluation research teams; gathering and analyzing program data, and writing evaluation reports.
  6. Work with community-based organizations with workforce- related programming to support their work.
  7. Provide Geographic Information Systems mapping and analysis of data to enhance the use of labor market information, analyze the demographic and industry composition of the region, and assist in the planning of service delivery.
  8. Complete detail-oriented analysis of data for accuracy.
  9. Track program progress along a timeline  in relation to other benchmarks
  10. Negotiate websites to capture data and other information in different formats
  11. Automate data collection and reporting in a SQL environment
  12. Build, combine  and maintain databases as required
  13. Write reports and memos as assigned
  14. Perform other job related duties as assigned.

Education/Professional Experience

Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Social Sciences, Statistics, Planning or Business Administration or a related field with 5 or more years of experience in data analysis, 1-2 years supervisory experience, and 3 or more years external relations/customer service. (Master’s degree preferred).

Or, any combination of education and experience determined to be acceptable.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications
·         Knowledge of research methodologies, basic inferential statistics, and application programming
·         Intermediate knowledge of SPSS or similar statistical software
·         Comfortable with management of large data sets
·         Customer service oriented
·         Ability to create  queries in a SQL environment
·         Ability to work independently and as a team member
·         Must be able to meet deadlines
·         Strong critical thinking and analytical skills
·         Intermediate skills in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, ACCESS and Power Point
·         Adherence to all guidelines for confidential  and secure data
·         Ability to effectively relate to people of diverse educational and cultural backgrounds, government agencies, public officials, and all levels of management and staff
·         Knowledge of CWDS and Ad Hoc reporting (preferred)
·         Knowledge of GIS, especially ArcView (preferred)


Contact Information

Interested applicants should apply online at
www.philaworks.org  and click on
 “About Us” and then “Careers at Philadelphia Works


Equal Opportunity Employer/Program
Alternate Formats, Auxiliary Aides and Services are available upon request