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The Hills Style Quiz: Episode 3 “Better Off As Friends”

BellaSugarUK — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 07:00:00 -0700

Last night on The Hills, Lauren let Doug know that the spark between them just isn't there and that they'd be better off as friends. As for Spencer, he's still not happy about the friendship between Lauren and his sister Stephanie. While in New York, Whitney goes on a surprise date with a sexy male model. How closely were you watching the beauty and fashion choices of The Hills' ladies last night? Take my quiz to find out.

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Get the Inside Scoop on The Hills!

PopSugarUK — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 04:34:14 -0700

Last night in Los Angeles, the gang from The Hills shared some secrets about the show at their Paley Festival panel, as MTV UK announced Season Five premieres on our screens on 3rd May. Find out who said what and who wore what in my slideshow. Warning: the last slide contains a spoiler!
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Depression

FitSugar — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 17:34:54 -0700

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Depression is a mood disorder in which feelings of loss, anger, sadness, or frustration interfere with everyday life. Depression affects about 17 million Americans each year. It can be mild, moderate, or severe and occur as a single episode, recurring episodes, or chronic depression (lasting more than 2 years).

The primary types of depression include:

Major depression -- five or more symptoms must be present. An episode must last at least 2 weeks, but tends to continue for 20 weeks. (A mood disorder is classified as minor depression if less than five depressive symptoms are present for at least 2 weeks.)
Dysthymia-- a chronic, generally milder form of depression. Symptoms are similar to major depression but more mild in degree.
Atypical depression-- depression accompanied by unusual symptoms, such as hallucinations, delusions, and physical rigidity

Other common forms of depression include:

Postpartum depression-- experienced by 8 - 20% of women following delivery
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PDD)-- experienced by 3 - 8% of women. Depressive symptoms occur 1 week prior to menstruation and disappear following menstruation.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)-- experienced by 5% of adults, the majority of whom are women. It occurs during the fall-winter season and disappears during the spring-summer season.

Depression may also occur with mania (known as manic-depression or bipolar disorder). In this condition, moods cycle between mania and depression.

Signs and Symptoms

While it is normal for most people to feel "down in the dumps" on occasion, someone with major depression feels significantly depressed for a prolonged period of time, has difficulty enjoying acts that were once pleasurable, and experiences at least five of the following symptoms for 2 weeks or more:

Sleep disturbances -- at least 90% of people with depression have either insomnia (sleeplessness) or hypersomnia (excessive sleeping).
Significant change in appetite (often resulting in either weight loss or weight gain)
Fatigue and loss of energy
Feelings of worthlessness, self-hate, and inappropriate guilt
Extreme difficulty concentrating
Either agitation, restlessness, and irritability or inactivity and withdrawal
Recurring thoughts of death or suicide
Feelings of hopelessness

Although not generally considered to be defining characteristics of depression, many people with the condition report a lack of sex drive and sudden bursts of anger.

Causes

The causes of depression are complex and involve a combination of biologic, genetic, and environmental factors. People with depression may have abnormal levels of certain brain chemicals, including serotonin, acetylcholine, and catecholamines (such as dopamine). The following may alter the levels of these brain chemicals and contribute to development of depression:

Heredity -- a recently identified gene called SERT that regulates the brain chemical serotonin has been linked to depression.
Chronic stress (such as from loss, abuse, or deprivation in early childhood)
Amount of exposure to light
Sleep disturbances
Social isolation
Nutritional deficiencies
Serious medical conditions, such as heart attack or cancer
Certain medications, including those for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or irregular heartbeat

Risk Factors

Although depression is a condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, or gender, the following factors may increase your risk for an initial or recurrent episode of depression:

Prior episodes of depression
Family history of depression
Suicide attempt -- a previous attempt of suicide during a major depressive episode increases the likelihood of another episode of depression.
Female gender -- the incidence of depression appears to be greater in women than in men. Some researchers speculate, however, that women may simply report their symptoms more frequently than men, and that men may be more apt to mask their depressive symptoms with alcohol. Therefore, it is still unclear whether women truly have a greater risk for depression.
Young adulthood or middle age -- the highest occurrence of depression is between the ages of 25 - 44. The elderly are also at particular risk due to death of loved ones, physical illness, and loss of independence.
Stressful life events (such as the death of a loved one), particularly if the event occurs at a young age
Postpartum period
Chronic medical or psychological conditions, including autoimmune diseases (such as lupus), cancer, heart disease, chronic headaches, chronic pain, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and borderline personality disorder. Medical conditions that cause shifts in hormones, such as thyroid disorders or menopause, may also contribute to depression.
History of abuse (such as mental, physical, or sexual)
Lack of social support system (such as a network of close friends or family)
Current or past alcohol or drug abuse -- 25% of people with addictions have depression.

Diagnosis

If feelings of depression or any of the related symptoms are present, it is important to address them with a doctor or someone who can help direct care appropriately. Unfortunately, many people with depression tend to refrain from disclosing any or all of their symptoms in this setting. Occasionally, even when the symptoms are discussed during an appointment, a doctor may try to treat them individually, rather than recognizing the complete picture of depression. Working together with a primary care doctor is extremely important because they are often the health care providers who make a referral to a psychiatrist who, in turn, makes a definite diagnosis of depression. Proper diagnosis of depression is the first step toward proper treatment.

Only psychiatrists can prescribe medication, but psychologists and social workers, as well as psychiatrists, use psychotherapy as an important mode of treatment. These specialists will often administer a screening test, such as the Beck Depression Inventory or the Hamilton Rating Scale, which consists of about 20 questions that assess an individual's risk for depression. Even before these psychological screening tests, however, several blood tests will be performed to determine whether nutrient deficiencies or underlying medical conditions (such as a thyroid disorder) may be causing or contributing to depression.

Although the vast majority of people with depression are treated as outpatients, hospitalization is necessary for people who intend to, or do, attempt suicide, and may be necessary under other circumstances as well.

Preventive Care

The following steps can help prevent depression or decrease the chances of relapse:

Adequate sleep, regular exercise, and a balanced, healthy diet may help prevent depression and diminish symptoms of this mood disorder.
Mind-body techniques, such as biofeedback, meditation, and tai chi, are effective ways to prevent or reduce symptoms associated with depression.
Psychotherapy directed at coping skills generally helps prevent relapse.
Family therapy may prevent children or teens of depressed parents from becoming depressed later in life.
Compliance with the prescribed treatment regimen decreases the chance of relapse.

Treatment Approach

People with depression have several options for treatment, but a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressant medications is the regimen of choice, particularly for people with major depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy appears to be the most effective type of psychotherapy, particularly for adolescents and people with atypical or postpartum depression. As many as 90% of people with depression improve from a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressants. However, adverse side effects from certain medications make it difficult for many to take their medications. Some complementary and alternative therapies may be helpful in reducing the side effects from such medications, while other complementary and alternative therapies may actually diminish the symptoms of depression.

Lifestyle

Exercise

Studies have consistently shown that regular exercise (either aerobic or strength and flexibility training) significantly reduces depressive symptoms in people with mild to moderate depression and improves the mood of people with major depression. Some even suggest that exercise may be as effective as psychotherapy for people with mild-to-moderate depression, although additional research is needed. In the meantime, exercise can be used safely in conjunction with medication for those with depression.

Medications

Antidepressant medications are very effective; reports indicate that they are 90% successful in treating depression. In general, medications are taken for at least 4 - 6 months to assure complete and effective treatment. However, antidepressants often cause adverse side effects, making it difficult for some people to comply with taking their medications. Medications must not be stopped before first talking with a physician. Most antidepressants cause withdrawal symptoms if they are not discontinued slowly over time with guidance from a physician.

There are several classes of antidepressant medications, including:

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs increase the activity of a chemical in the brain called serotonin. Most health care providers will prescribe SSRIs before any other antidepressant medication for depression, in part because the side effects associated with SSRIs are generally fewer than for other classes of antidepressants. Typical side effects caused by SSRIs include stomach upset, weight gain or loss, drowsiness, sexual dysfunction (such as impotence, decreased libido, and diminished orgasm), headache, jaw grinding, and apathy. Very unusual side effects from this class of prescription drugs include extreme agitation, impulsivity, tremors, and insomnia. People who discontinue taking SSRIs due to side effects usually attribute their discontent to sexual dysfunction.

Drugs classified as SSRIs include:

Fluoxetine
Sertraline
Paroxetine -- most likely in this class to cause sexual dysfunction
Fluvoxamine
Citalopram -- least likely in this class to cause sexual dysfunction

Another group of antidepressant medications (which are similar to SSRIs, but target other brain chemicals in addition to serotonin) may cause fewer negative sexual side effects. These include:

Bupropion -- should not be used if there is history of or risk for seizure
Nefazodone -- no sexual dysfunction reported. It begins to work very quickly and may cause a decrease in blood pressure when going from lying or sitting to standing.
Venlafaxine -- may impair sexual function and is not recommended in the elderly. It may improve quality of life more effectively than other antidepressants, but can cause irregular heart rhythm. Withdrawal from the medication is difficult.
Mirtazapine -- may be particularly effective if feelings of anxiety are also present. It helps with insomnia but may cause drowsiness, blurred vision, weight gain, and damage to production of cells in the bone marrow (very rare).
Maprotiline -- may cause dry mouth, drowsiness, sensitivity to the sun, and seizures

Tricyclic Antidepressants

Tricyclics increase the activity of the brain chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine. They are as effective as SSRIs, but are usually prescribed only to those who do not respond well to SSRIs because side effects are quite common and are usually less tolerable. Tricyclic antidepressants include:

Amitriptyline
Amoxapine -- increases risk of seizure in those who are prone to have a seizure
Clomipramine -- used for obsessive-compulsive disorder
Desipramine
Doxepin -- may help with insomnia
Imipramine -- may cause a rare lung disorder called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Nortriptyline -- less risk of irregular heart rhythm than others in this class
Protriptyline -- less drowsiness than others in this class and may even cause weight loss and sun sensitivity
Trimipramine -- high risk for irregular heart rhythm

Side effects of tricyclics may include:

Dry mouth
Blurred vision
Constipation
Sexual dysfunction
Weight gain
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Urinary urgency (a sense that one has to urinate even when the bladder is empty)
Drop in blood pressure when going from lying or sitting to standing (causes dizziness and lightheadedness)
Irregular heart rhythm

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)

MAOIs boost levels of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin in the brain. MAOIs are generally prescribed only when other antidepressants have not been effective, which may occur in people with atypical depression. People who take MAOIs may experience a sharp increase in blood pressure after consuming food or drink containing the amino acid tyramine (found in such foods as aged cheeses and red wine). MAOIs also negatively interact with other medications, including Ritalin (used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and pseudoephedrine (decongestant in many over-the-counter and prescription medications), and should not be taken with other classes of antidepressants.

MAOIs include:

Phenelzine -- should be avoided by people with a history of seizures or bipolar disorder (manic-depression)
Isocarboxazid -- side effects include drowsiness, sexual dysfunction, weakness, trembling, and blurred vision.
Tranylcypromine -- should not be used if there is any history of kidney disease or bipolar disorder

Surgery and Other Procedures

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) for depression is usually reserved for when all other therapies have been unsuccessful. In this procedure, a small electrical current induces a seizure lasting approximately 40 seconds. A muscle relaxant and mild sedative are administered prior to the procedure. ECT is generally repeated every 2 - 5 days for a total of six treatments. It may cause temporary confusion, memory impairment, headache, muscle aches, irregular heart rhythm, or nausea.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)-Guided Cingulotomy involves the application of an electrical current to a specific part of the brain. The MRI is used as a guide for an exact placement. Long-term improvement has been reported using this technique in over 50% of people with depression who have not responded to other treatment methods.

Nutrition and Dietary Supplements

A comprehensive treatment plan for depression may include a range of complementary and alternative therapies. Preliminary studies suggest that nutritional supplements may reduce the symptoms of some depression. Ask your team of health care providers about the best ways to incorporate these therapies into your overall treatment plan. Always tell your health care provider about the herbs and supplements you are using or considering using.

Following these nutritional tips may help reduce symptoms:

Try to eliminate potential food allergens, including dairy, wheat (gluten), corn, preservatives, and food additives. Your health care provider may want to test for food sensitivities.
Eat antioxidant foods, including fruits (such as blueberries, cherries, and tomatoes), and vegetables (such as squash and bell peppers).
Eat foods high in B-vitamins and calcium, such as almonds, beans, whole grains (if no allergy), dark leafy greens (such as spinach and kale), and sea vegetables such as kelp and dulce.
Avoid refined foods, such as white breads, pastas, and especially sugar.
Eat fewer red meats and more lean meats, cold-water fish, tofu (soy, if no allergy), or beans for protein.
Use healthy oils for cooking, such as olive oil or vegetable oil.
Reduce or eliminate trans-fatty acids, found in commercially baked goods such as cookies, crackers, cakes, French fries, onion rings, donuts, processed foods, and margarine.
Avoid coffee and other stimulants, alcohol, and tobacco.
Drink 6 - 8 glasses of filtered water daily.
Exercise at least 30 minutes daily, 5 days a week.

You my address nutritional deficiencies with the following supplements:

A multivitamin daily, containing the antioxidant vitamins A, C, E, the B-complex vitamins, and trace minerals such as magnesium, calcium, zinc, and selenium.
Omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil, one to two capsules or one tablespoonful oil one to three times daily, to help decrease inflammation and help with mental balance.
Vitamin C, 500 - 1000 mg one to three times daily, as an antioxidant and for immune support.
Coenzyme Q10, 100 - 200 mg at bedtime, for antioxidant, immune, and muscular support.
5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), 50 mg two to three times daily, for mood stabilization. Ask your health care provider about potential prescription interactions.
Probiotic supplement (containing Lactobacillus acidophilus and other species), 5 - 10 billion CFUs (colony forming units) a day, for maintenance of gastrointestinal and immune health. You should refrigerate your probiotic supplements for best results.
SAMe (s-adenosyl-L-methionine), 100 - 200 mg before breakfast daily, for mood improvement.
Dihydroepiandosterone (DHEA), start at 5 mg three times a day and work up to 100 mg per day for 7 - 12 months. It is recommended to use DHEA under the supervision of a qualified health care provider. If adverse effects develop, discontinue use.
L-theanine, 200 mg one to three times daily, for nervous system support.
Melatonin, 2 - 5 mg one hour before bedtime, for sleep and immune protection. Ask your health care provider about potential prescription interactions.

Herbs

Herbs are generally a safe way to strengthen and tone the body's systems. As with any therapy, you should work with your health care provider to get your problem diagnosed before starting any treatment. You may use herbs as dried extracts (capsules, powders, teas), glycerites (glycerine extracts), or tinctures (alcohol extracts). Unless otherwise indicated, you should make teas with 1 tsp. herb per cup of hot water. Steep covered 5 - 10 minutes for leaf or flowers, and 10 - 20 minutes for roots. Drink 2 - 4 cups per day. You may use tinctures alone or in combination as noted.

St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) standardized extract, 300 mg two to three times per day, for depression. Check with your health care provider if you are taking prescription medications.
Kava kava (Piper methysticum) standardized extract, 100 - 250 mg one to three times daily, as needed for symptoms of stress and anxiety. Talk with your health care provider before taking kava kava if you have an unhealthy liver.
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) standardized extract, 40 - 80 mg three times daily, for blood flow and depression.
Green tea ( Camellia sinensis) standardized extract, 250 - 500 mg daily, for antioxidant and general health effects. Use caffeine-free products. You may also prepare teas from the leaf of this herb.
Rhodiola ( Rhodiola rosea ) standardized extract, 100 - 600 mg daily, for antioxidant and anti-stress activity.

Acupuncture

Two randomized, controlled, clinical trials suggest that electroacupuncture may reduce symptoms of depression as effectively as amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant medication. Electroacupuncture involves the application of a small electrical current through acupuncture needles. Other studies suggest that acupuncture may be effective for people with mild depression and for those with depression related to a chronic medical illness. Further research is warranted in this area.

Homeopathy

Although very few studies have examined the effectiveness of specific homeopathic therapies, professional homeopaths may consider the following remedies to alleviate the symptoms of depression based on their knowledge and experience.

Before prescribing a remedy, homeopaths take into account a person’s constitutional type -- your physical, emotional, and intellectual makeup. An experienced homeopath assesses all of these factors when determining the most appropriate treatment for each individual. A few homeopathic remedies that may work for depression include:

Ignatia -- for a sudden sense of grief or disappointment following the death of a loved one, the end of a romantic relationship, or an unexpected loss of one's job
Natrum muriaticum -- for grief following the death of a loved one or sadness from the end of a romantic relationship

Massage and Physical Therapy

Studies of formerly depressed adolescent mothers, children hospitalized for depression, and women with eating disorders, suggest that massage decreases stress hormone levels, feelings of anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Giving massage may also be beneficial for people who are depressed. Elderly volunteers with depression showed notable improvement in their symptoms when they massaged infants.

Aromatherapy, or the use of essential oils in massage therapy, may also be of value as a supplemental treatment for depression. Theoretically, the smells of the oils elicit positive emotions through the limbic system (the area of the brain responsible for memories and emotions). However, the benefits of aromatherapy appear to be related to the relaxation effects of the treatment as well as to the recipient's belief that the treatment will be beneficial. Essential oils used during massage for depression are quite varied and include:

Lavender ( Lavandula officinalis)
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Orange (Citrus aurantium)
Sandalwood (Santalum album)
Lemon (Citrus limonis)
Jasmine (Jasminum spp.)
Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Mind-Body Medicine

Mind-body therapies and techniques that may be useful as a part of an overall treatment regimen for depression include:

Psychotherapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy in which individuals learn to identify and change distorted perceptions about themselves and adapt new behaviors to better cope with the world around them. This therapy is frequently considered the treatment of choice for people with mild-to-moderate depression, but it may not be recommended for those with severe depression. Studies of people with depression indicate that cognitive-behavioral therapy is at least as effective as tricyclic antidepressants. Compared to those treated with antidepressants, people treated with cognitive-behavioral therapy demonstrated similar, or better, results and lower relapse rates.

Other therapeutic approaches that may be applied by a psychiatrist, psychologist, or social worker include:

Psychodynamic psychotherapy -- based on Freud's theories about unresolved conflicts in childhood and depression as a grief process
Interpersonal therapy -- acknowledges childhood roots of depression, but focuses on current problems contributing to depression and is considered very effective treatment for depression
Supportive psychotherapy -- nonjudgmental advice, attention, and sympathy, and this approach may improve compliance with taking medication

Relaxation

One study suggests that relaxation techniques, such as yoga and tai chi, may improve symptoms of depression in people with mild depression.

Meditation

Some researchers believe that mindfulness meditation may prevent depression from recurring in people who once had the condition.

Other Considerations

Pregnancy

Postpartum depression is experienced by 8 - 20% of women following delivery.
The safety of SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressant medications during pregnancy remains uncertain. The physician will provide guidance regarding use or avoidance of antidepressants during pregnancy. The risks and benefits to the mother and the fetus must be weighed in each individual case in order to determine the most appropriate regimen during pregnancy. MAOIs cause birth defects and should be avoided during pregnancy.
Many of the dietary supplements and herbs mentioned here have not been tested for safety during pregnancy. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Warnings and Precautions

People with Parkinson's disease should avoid SSRIs.
People with coronary artery disease should avoid tricyclic antidepressants.
Several herbal remedies and supplements should not be combined with antidepressant medications. Be sure to inform your health care provider of all herbs and supplements you take to avoid adverse interactions.

Prognosis and Complications

Depression is a serious condition that can have a devastating effect on people's lives. It can directly and indirectly contribute to chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease and stroke, because depressed people with these conditions are less likely to engage in healthy behaviors (such as exercise) and more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors (such as smoking). Suicide is a significant factor in depression. About 15 % of people with a major depressive disorder commit suicide. Depression also significantly shortens the lifespan of the elderly and is associated with the development of memory impairment and dementia.

When left untreated, depression can last up to 2 years. Rates of recurrence are variable: 50% of people who have had one depressive episode will have a second major depressive disorder, 70% will have a third, and 90% will have a fourth. Symptoms of depression usually disappear after menopause in women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder or seasonal affective disorder. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available for people with depression, and the prognosis improves tremendously for those who seek treatment and comply with their regimen.

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Review Date:
11/6/2006
Reviewed By:
Ernest B. Hawkins, MS, BSPharm, RPh, Health Education Resources; and Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D., private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

A.D.A.M. Copyright

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What To Sky+: Sunday

PopSugarUK — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 14:00:00 -0800

BBC1 has Lark Rise To Candleford and A Short Stay in Switzerland
BBC2 has Explore
BBC3 has new series Bring Human
BBC4 has Mark Lawson Talks to Bill Bryson
ITV1 has Dancing On Ice
ITV2 has a new series of Supernatural
Ch4 has UnsignedAct: the Result, X-Men - the Last Stand, Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery and The Sunday Night Project
E4 has Lost Season Five plus Lost on Location and Lost: Season 5 Revealed
MTV has The Hills and Pete Doherty in 24 hours
Sky Family has Enchanted
Sky Classics has Breakfast at Tiffany's

Melatonin

FitSugar — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 17:35:26 -0700

Overview

Overview
Uses
Available Forms
How to Take It
Precautions
Possible Interactions
Supporting Research

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Overview

Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland in the brain that helps regulate other hormones and maintains the body's circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm is an internal 24-hour time-keeping system that plays a critical role in determining when we fall asleep and when we wake up. Darkness stimulates the production of melatonin while light suppresses its activity. Exposure to excessive light in the evening or too little light during the day can disrupt the body’s normal melatonin cycles. For example, jet lag, shift work, and poor vision can disrupt melatonin cycles. In addition, some experts claim that exposure to low-frequency electromagnetic fields (common in household appliances) may disrupt normal cycles and production of melatonin.

Melatonin also helps control the timing and release of female reproductive hormones. It helps determine when menstruation begins, the frequency and duration of menstrual cycles, and when menstruation ends (menopause).

Many researchers also believe that melatonin levels are related to the aging process. For example, young children have the highest levels of nighttime melatonin. Researchers believe these levels diminish as we age. In fact, the decline in melatonin may explain why many older adults have disrupted sleep patterns and tend to go to bed and wake up earlier than when they were younger. However, emerging research calls this theory into question.

In addition to its hormonal actions, melatonin has strong antioxidant effects. Preliminary evidence suggests that it may help strengthen the immune system.

If you are considering using melatonin supplements, talk to your doctor.

Uses

Insomnia

Studies suggest that melatonin supplements may help induce sleep in people with disrupted circadian rhythms (such as those suffering from jet lag or poor vision or those who work the night shift) and those with low melatonin levels (such as some elderly and individuals with schizophrenia). A review of clinical studies suggests that melatonin supplements may help prevent jet lag, particularly in people who cross five or more time zones.

A few clinical studies suggest that when taken for short periods of time (days to weeks) melatonin is significantly more effective than a placebo, or “dummy pill,” in decreasing the amount of time required to fall asleep, increasing the number of sleeping hours, and boosting daytime alertness.

Multiple human studies have measured the effects of melatonin supplements on sleep in healthy individuals. A wide range of doses has been used, often taken by mouth 30 - 60 minutes prior to sleep time. A study of 334 people aged 55 and older found that prolonged-release melatonin produced significant and clinically meaningful improvements in sleep quality, morning alertness, sleep onset latency, and quality of life in primary insomnia patients aged 55 years and over.

Osteoporosis

Melatonin has been shown to stimulate cells called osteoblasts that promote bone growth. Since melatonin levels may be lower in some older individuals such as postmenopausal women, current studies are investigating whether decreased melatonin levels contribute to the development of osteoporosis, and whether treatment with melatonin can help prevent this condition.

Menopause

Melatonin supplements may benefit menopausal women by promoting and sustaining sleep. Peri- or postmenopausal women who use melatonin supplements to regulate sleep patterns should do so only for a short period of time since long term effects are not known.

Depression

Clinical studies have found that melatonin may be useful in depression, especially associated with postmenopausal depression and anxiety. Other clinical studies show that people who suffer from major depression or panic disorder have low levels of melatonin. Healthy individuals with mild episodic depression and patients who have Seasonal Affective Disorder, (SAD -- a mild depression that correlates with fall and winter -- periods of light-phase shortening) also have lower than normal melatonin levels. Laboratory studies show that melatonin causes a surge in the chemical serotonin, which helps alleviate symptoms of depressive illness, including major and mild depression and SAD. Melatonin should be used with caution in people with depression and should be appropriately timed with light therapy and sleep-phase changes. Disruption of normal circadian rhythm by poorly timed melatonin administration may worsen depression.

Melatonin use along with certain anti-depressant medications can pose potential health risks and should only be used under direct supervision of a qualified doctor.

Benzodiazepine Withdrawal

Some clinical research has found that melatonin may assist with tapering or cessation of benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), or lorazepam (Ativan). Sleep quality was improved in those stopping benzodiazepine use. Although preliminary results are promising, further study is needed.

High Blood Pressure

Several controlled studies in patients with high blood pressure report small reductions blood pressure when taking melatonin by mouth (orally) or inhaled through the nose (intranasally). Better-designed research is necessary before a firm conclusion can be reached.

Breast Cancer

Several studies indicate that melatonin levels may be linked with breast cancer risk. For example, women with breast cancer tend to have lower levels of melatonin than those without the disease. In addition, laboratory experiments have found that low levels of melatonin stimulate the growth of certain types of breast cancer cells, while adding melatonin to these cells inhibits their growth. Preliminary laboratory and clinical evidence also suggests that melatonin may enhance the effects of some chemotherapy drugs used to treat breast cancer. In a study that included a small number of women with breast cancer, melatonin (administered 7 days before beginning chemotherapy) prevented the lowering of platelets in the blood. This is a common complication of chemotherapy, known as thrombocytopenia that can lead to bleeding.

In another study of a small group of women whose breast cancer was not improving with tamoxifen (a commonly used chemotherapy medication), adding melatonin caused tumors to modestly shrink in over 28% of the women. People with breast cancer who are considering taking melatonin supplements should consult their doctors before beginning supplementation.

Prostate Cancer

Like breast cancer, studies show that people with prostate cancer have lower melatonin levels than men without the disease. Melatonin blocks the growth of prostate cancer cells in test tube studies. In one small-scale study, melatonin (when used in combination with conventional medical treatment) improved survival rates in 9 out of 14 patients with metastatic prostate cancer. Interestingly, since meditation may cause melatonin levels to rise it appears to be a valuable addition to the treatment of prostate cancer. More research is needed before doctors can make recommendations in this area.

Cancer-related Weight Loss

Weight loss and malnutrition are concerns for people with cancer. In one study of 100 people with advanced cancer, those who received melatonin supplements were less likely to lose weight than those who did not receive the supplements.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Melatonin levels are lower in patients with rheumatoid arthritis than in healthy individuals without arthritis. However, when arthritis patients were treated with the anti-inflammatory medication indomethacin, melatonin levels returned to normal. The chemical structure of melatonin resembles indomethacin, so researchers suspect that melatonin supplements may work similarly to this medication for people with rheumatoid arthritis. However, this theory has not been tested.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Although melatonin supplementation does not appear to improve the key behavioral symptoms of ADHD, it may be effective in managing sleep disturbances in children with this condition.

Heart Disease

Low blood levels of melatonin are associated with heart disease, but it is not clear whether melatonin levels are low in response to having heart disease or if low levels of melatonin cause people to develop this condition. In addition, several animal studies suggest that melatonin may protect the heart from the damaging effects of ischemia (decreased blood flow and oxygen that often leads to a heart attack). However, researchers are unclear whether melatonin supplements may help prevent or treat heart disease in people. More studies are needed before scientists can draw any conclusions.

Others Uses

Sunburn -- A few small clinical studies suggest that gels, lotions, or ointments containing melatonin may protect against redness (erythema) and other skin damage when used alone or in combination with topical vitamin E prior to exposure to UV radiation from the sun.
Epilepsy -- Preliminary clinical research suggests that melatonin reduces the number of seizures in certain animals and may reduce seizures in people with epilepsy. However, some researchers are concerned that melatonin (1 - 5 mg per day) may actually induce seizures, particularly in children with neurologic disorders. Since this research is in the early stages, some experts suggest that doctors should administer melatonin only to a select group of people who suffer from seizures that cannot be controlled by any other type of therapy.
Sarcoidosis -- Some doctors use melatonin to help treat sarcoidosis (a condition where fibrous tissue develops in the lungs and other tissues). A few clinical studies suggest that melatonin may be helpful for those who do not improve from conventional steroid treatment.
Schizophrenia -- Melatonin may be a useful short-term hypnotic for schizophrenic patients with insomnia. A clinical study found that melatonin significantly improved the quality and depth of nighttime sleep, reduced the number of nighttime awakenings, and increased the duration of sleep without producing a morning hangover. Melatonin also significantly reduced sleep-onset latency, heightened freshness on awakening, improved mood, and improved daytime functioning Melatonin may be a useful short-term hypnotic for schizophrenic patients with insomnia. Melatonin could be considered for patients in whom conventional hypnotic drug therapy or higher sedative antipsychotic drug doses may be problematic.

Available Forms

Melatonin is available as tablets, capsules, cream, and lozenges that dissolve under the tongue.

How to Take It

There is currently no recommended dose for melatonin supplements. Different people will have different responses to its effects. Lower doses appear to work better in people who are especially sensitive. Higher doses may cause anxiety and irritability.

The best approach for any condition is to begin with very low doses of melatonin. Keep the dose close to the amount that our bodies normally produce (< 0.3 mg per day). You should only use the lowest amount possible to achieve the desired effect. Your doctor can help you determine the most appropriate dose for your situation, including how to increase the amount, if needed.

Pediatric

Less than 0.3 mg/day. Although studies in children suggest that doses of 1 - 10 mg melatonin have little to no side effects, there is not enough information to clearly say that doses greater than 0.3 mg per day are safe in children under age 15. In fact, doses between 1 - 5 mg may cause seizures in this age group.

Adult

Insomnia: 3 mg 1 hour before bedtime is usually effective, although doses as low as 0.1 -0.3 mg may improve sleep for some people. If 3 mg per night is not effective after 3 days, try 5 - 6 mg 1 hour before bedtime. An effective dose should produce restful sleep with no daytime irritability or fatigue.
Jet lag: 0.5 - 5 mg of melatonin 1 hour prior to bedtime at final destination has been successful in several studies. Another approach that has been used clinically is 1 - 5 mg 1 hour before bedtime for 2 days prior to departure and for 2 - 3 days upon arrival at final destination.
Sarcoidosis: 20 mg per day for 4 - 12 months. Take melatonin to treat this specific health condition only under medical supervision. Do not take melatonin supplements long-term without consulting your doctor.
Depression: 0.125 mg twice in the late afternoon, each dose 4 hours apart (for example, 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.). People with depression tend to be particularly sensitive to the effects of melatonin -- meaning that a very low dose is generally enough to achieve the desired outcomes.

Precautions

Because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications, people should take dietary supplements only under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider.

Some people may experience vivid dreams or nightmares when they take melatonin. Overuse or incorrect use of melatonin may disrupt circadian rhythms. Melatonin can cause drowsiness if taken during the day. If you experience morning drowsiness after taking melatonin at night take a lower dose. Additional side effects include stomach cramps, dizziness, headache, irritability, decreased libido, breast enlargement in men (called gynecomastia), and decreased sperm count.

Pregnant or nursing women should not take melatonin as it could interfere with fertility.

Some studies show that melatonin supplements actually worsened symptoms of depression. For this reason, individuals with depression should consult their doctor before using melatonin supplements.

Although many researchers believe that melatonin levels diminish with age, emerging evidence has brought this theory into question. Since findings are inconsistent, people older than 65 years of age should consult their doctor before taking melatonin supplements, so blood levels of this hormone can be monitored appropriately.

Possible Interactions

If you are being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use melatonin without first discussing it with your health care provider.

Antidepressant medications -- In an animal study, melatonin supplements reduced the antidepressant effects of desipramine and fluoxetine. More research is needed to determine whether these effects would occur in people. In addition, fluoxetine (a member of a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs) has led to measurable depletion of melatonin in people.

Antipsychotic medications -- A common side effect of antipsychotic medications used to treat schizophrenia is a condition called tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder of the mouth characterized by a constant chewing motion and darting action of the tongue. In a study of 22 people with schizophrenia and tardive dyskinesia caused by antipsychotic medications, those who took melatonin supplements had significantly reduced mouth movements compared to those who did not take the supplements.

Benzodiazepines -- The combination of melatonin and triazolam (a benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders) improved sleep quality in one study. In addition, a few reports have suggested that melatonin supplements may help individuals stop using long-term benzodiazepine therapy. (Benzodiazepines are highly addictive.)

Blood pressure medications -- Melatonin may reduce the effectiveness of blood pressure medications like methoxamine and clonidine. In addition, medications in a class called calcium channel blockers (such as nifedipine, verapamil, diltiazem, amlodipine, nimodipine, felodipine, nisoldipine, and bepridil) may decrease melatonin levels.

Use of beta-blockers (another class of high blood pressure medications that includes propranolol, acebutolol, atenolol, labetolol, metoprolol, pindolol, nadolol, sotalol, and timolol) may reduce melatonin production in the body.

Blood-thinning medications, anticoagulants -- Melatonin may increase the risk of bleeding from anticoagulant medications such as warfarin.

Interleukin-2 -- In one study of 80 cancer patients, use of melatonin in conjunction with interleukin-2 led to more tumor regression and better survival rates than treatment with interleukin-2 alone.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) -- NSAIDs such as ibuprofen may reduce the levels of melatonin in the blood.

Steroids and immunosuppressant medications -- People should not take melatonin with corticosteroids or other medications used to suppress the immune system because the supplement may cause them to be ineffective.

Tamoxifen -- Preliminary research suggests that the combination of tamoxifen (a chemotherapy drug) and melatonin may benefit certain patients with breast and other cancers. More research is needed to confirm these results.

Other Substances -- Caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol can all diminish levels of melatonin in the body while cocaine and amphetamines may increase melatonin production.

Supporting Research

Acuna-Castroviejo D, Escames G, Rodriguez MI, Lopez LC. Melatonin role in the mitochondrial function. Front Biosci. 2007;12:947-63.

Altun A, Ugur-Altun B. Melatonin: therapeutic and clinical utilization. Int J Clin Pract. 2007;61(5):835-45.

Arendt J. Melatonin, circadian rhythms and sleep. New Engl J Med; 2000;343(15):1114-1116.

Attele AS, Xie JT, Yuan CS. Treatment of insomnia: an alternative approach.Altern Med Rev. 2000;5(3):249-259.

Barcelo E. Melatonin -- estrogen interactions in breast cancer. J of Pineal Res. 2005;38:217-222.

Barcelo E. melatonin and mammary cancer: a short review. Endocrine-Related Cancer. 2003;10:153-159.

Bazil CW, Short D, Crispin D, Zheng W. Patients with intractable epilepsy have low melatonin, which increases following seizures. Neurology. 2000;55(11):1746-1748.

Bylesjo I, Forsgren L, Wetterberg L. Melatonin and epileptic seizures in patients with acute intermittent porphyria. Epileptic Disord. 2000;2(4):203-208.

Cornelissen G, Halberg F, Burioka N, Perfetto F, Tarquini R, Bakken EE. Do plasma melatonin concentrations decline with age? Am J Med. 2000;109(4):343-345.

Cos S, Sanchez-Barcelo EJ. Melatonin and mamary pathological growth. Frontiers Neuroendo. 2000;21:133-170.

Cos S, Sanchez-Barcelo EJ. Melatonin, experimental basis for a possible application in breast cancer prevention and treatment. Histo Histopath. 2000;15:637-647.

Eck-Enriquez K, Kiefer TL, Spriggs LL, Hill SM. Pathways through which a regimen of melatonin and retinoic acid induces apoptosis in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2000;61(3):229-239.

Gordon N. The therapeutics of melatonin: a paediatric perspective. Brain Dev. 2000;22(4):213-217.

Herxheimer A, Petrie KJ. Melatonin for preventing and treating jet lag. Cocharane Database Syst Rev. 2001;(1):CD001520.

Jacobson JS, Workman SB, Kronenberg F. Research on complementary/alternative medicine for patients with breast cancer: a review of the biomedical literature. J Clin Onc. 2000;18(3):668-683.

Kaneko S, Okumura K, Numaguchi Y, Matsui H, Murase K, Mokuno S, et al. Melatonin scavenges hydroxyl radical and protects isolated rat hearts from ischemic reperfusion injury. Life Sciences. 2000;67(2):101-112.

Lagneux C, Joyeux M, Demenge P, Ribuot C, Godin-Ribuot D. Protective effects of melatonin against ischemia-reperfusion injury in the isolated rat heart. Life Sciences. 2000;66(6):503-509.

Lewy AJ, Emens J, Jackman A, Yuhas K. Circadian uses of melatonin in humans. Chronobiol Int. 2006;23(1-2):403-12.

Low Dog T, Riley D, Carter T. Traditional and alternative therapies for breast cancer. Alt Ther. 2001;7(3):36-47.

Lusardi P, Piazza E, Fogari R. Cardiovascular effects of melatonin in hypertensive patients well controlled by nifedipine: a 24-hour study. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2000;49(5):423-7.

Malhotra S, Sawhney G, Pandhi P. The therapeutic potential of melatonin: a review of the science. Medscape General Medicine 2004;6(2).

Moretti RM, Marelli MM, Maggi R, Dondi D, Motta M, Limonta P. Antiproliferative action of melatonin on human prostate cancer LNCaP cells. Oncol Rep. 2000;7(2):347-351.

Nagtagaal JE, Laurant MW, Kerkhof GA, Smits MG, van der Meer YG, Coenen AM. Effects of melatonin on the quality of life in patients with delayed sleep phase syndrome. J Psychosom Res. 2000;48(1):45-50.

Peled N, Shorer Z, Peled E. Pillar G. Melatonin effect on seizures in children with severe neurologic deficit disorders. Epilepsia. 2001;42(9):1208-1210.

Piccirillo JF. Melatonin. Prog Brain Res. 2007;166:331-3.

Pillar G, Shahar E, Peled N, Ravid S, Lavie P, Etzioni A. Melatonin improves sleep-wake patterns in psychomotor retarded children. Pediatr Neurol. 2000;23(3):225-228.

Ram PT, Yuan L, Dai J, Kiefer T, Klotz DM, Spriggs LL, et al. Differential responsiveness of MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line stocks to the pineal hormone, melatonin. J Pineal Res. 2000;28(4):210-218.

Reiter RJ. Melatonin: clinical relevance. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2003;17(2):273-85.

Sack RL, Brandes RW, Kendall AR, Lewy AJ. Entrainment of free-running circadian rhythms by melatonin in blind people. N Engl J Med. 2000;343(15):1070-1077.

Schernhammer E, Hankinson S. Urinary melatonin levels and breast cancer risk. J Nat Canc Instit 2005;97(14):1084-1087.

Shamir E, Barak Y, Shalman I, Laudon M, Zisapel N, Tarrasch R, et al. Melatonin treatment for tardive dyskinesia: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. Arch Gen Psych. 2001;58(11):1049-1052.

Shamir E, Laudon M, Barak Y, Anis Y, Rotenberg V, Elizur A, et al. Melatonin improves sleep quality of patients with chronic schizophrenia. J Clin Psychiatry. 2000;61(5):373-377.

Smits MG, Nagtegaal EE, van der Heijden J, Coenen AM, Kerkhof GA. Melatonin for chronic sleep onset insomnia in children: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. J Child Neurol. 2001;16(2):86-92.

Stewart LS. Endogenous melatonin and epileptogenesis: facts and hypothesis. Int J Neurosci. 2001;107(1-2):77-85.

van Wijingaarden E, Savitz DA, Kleckner RC, Cai J, Loomis D. Exposure to electromagnetic fields and suicide among electric utility workers: a nested case-control study. West J Med. 2000;173;94-100.

Review Date:
11/30/2007
Reviewed By:
Ernest B. Hawkins, MS, BSPharm, RPh, Health Education Resources; and Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

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Bravo (Finally) Announces Top Chef 3 Contestants

YumSugar — Tue, 08 May 2007 17:53:46 -0700

On the heels of yesterday's random, miscellaneous Top Chef related news, comes official TC Season 3 news! Bravo TV has finally announced contestants and judges (don't worry, Padma's still the host). They've also let us in on this elusive mystery "special." As mentioned before, season 3 starts on Wednesday, June 13, but the June 6 special 4-Star All-Stars, which pits chefs from Season 1 and Season 2 against each other, sounds fantastic!

In addition to 15 new contestants, this season also has a new judge. That's right, Ted "Queer Eye" Allen is now officially a full-time TC judge! I don't know about you guys, but I am honestly excited about this - I love that guy. But enough of my blather, let's check out the contestants. To see the 15 hopeful contestants (8 guys and 7 ladies), read more

BRIAN
AGE: 34
HOMETOWN: Bend, Ore. currently resides in San Diego, Calif.
PROFESSION: Executive Chef, The Oceanaire Seafood Room
CULINARY EDUCATION: Western Culinary Institute
FAVORITE SIMPLE SUMMER RECIPE: Cold Beer, Cold Wine & Cold Seafood

A native of Oregon, Brian grew up inspired by his grandmother's cooking and by all the fresh seafood and produce the area offered. He soon set his sights on California, where he was recently voted 2007 Best Chef in San Diego for his work as Executive Chef at the Oceanaire Seafood Room. He's in constant competition with everyone in San Diego and makes it a point to do everything bigger and better in his restaurant. At the top of his game, Brian's high-energy makes him a whirlwind in the kitchen. Stay-tuned to see just how long he can live by his motto, "Love, peace and happiness."

CAMILLE
AGE: 34
HOMETOWN: Elizabeth, N.J. - currently resides in Brooklyn, N.Y.
PROFESSION: Owner/Chef, Paloma
CULINARY EDUCATION: Culinary School, Academy of Culinary Arts
FAVORITE SIMPLE SUMMER RECIPE: Mixed Greens Salad with Baby Grains

Camille hails from Puerto Rico, and is the proud owner of Paloma Restaurant in Brooklyn, New York. She incorporates Latin spice into her kitchen, and is all business when it comes to her cooking. Camille has a 5-year-old daughter, and attempts to stay positive and balanced by meditating with a 100-year-old Zen Master. She has worked in all aspects of the restaurant business, and often surprises people by her occupation. Camille says the world would be a better place if everyone knew how to cook.

CASEY
AGE: 29
HOMETOWN: Cedar Hills, Texas currently resides in Dallas, Texas
PROFESSION: Executive Chef, Shinsei Restaurant
CULINARY EDUCATION: Self-Taught
FAVORITE SIMPLE SUMMER RECIPE: Big Burgers

The executive chef at Shinsei Restaurant in Dallas, one of the most successful in the state, Casey's cuisine incorporates Asian and Mexican cultural influences. This rising star lives by her simple yet time-tested cooking philosophy - serve food that people want more of. Casey names tartare the most romantic dish because it's raw, risky, ice cold and delicious. Her outgoing and confident manner will "serve" her well in the competition.

CHRIS
AGE: 31
HOMETOWN: El Toro, Calif. currently resides in Venice, Calif.
PROFESSION: Private Chef
CULINARY EDUCATION: Associated Culinary Arts (CSCA)
FAVORITE SIMPLE SUMMER RECIPE: Marinated Tomatoes with Beef and Cheese

A true Californian at heart, Chris is a private chef who has worked for the likes of author and columnist Arianna Huffington and the Marciano Family of the Guess Corporation. An ex-volleyball player standing at 6'8" it seems everyone looks up to him. Chris is motivated to live life to the fullest having overcome testicular cancer. He has a competitive spirit and the utmost confidence in his culinary skills.

CLAY
AGE: 28
HOMETOWN: Northern Mississippi currently resides in Santa Barbara, Calif.
PROFESSION: Sous Chef, Santa Barbara University Club
CULINARY EDUCATION: Self-Taught

Clay says he is just a good ol' boy from Mississippi. Self-taught, Clay developed his skills from working his way up the ladder in various kitchens and truly feels he has an innate talent. Now living in Santa Barbara, he is a sous chef at the renowned Santa Barbara University Club. Clay has enjoyed bringing his southern style cooking to California and will definitely bring some different flavors and styles to the judge's table this third season.

DALE
AGE: 34
HOMETOWN: Chicago, Ill.
PROFESSION: Chef/Consultant
CULINARY EDUCATION: Self-Taught
SIGNATURE DISH/CUISINE: Croque Monsieur

Chicago native Dale has been a chef for six years, with plans underway to open his own restaurant. Whether he's cooking four-star meals, diving, or doing gymnastics, Dale's competitive edge is undeniable. He has created something he calls "flavor math," where the right number of spices can bring the perfect flavor and taste. He uses French American cultural influences in his cooking, and is serious about putting his skills to the ultimate test. He loves the fact that the other contestants could be "out-cooked by a queer." Dale will say what everyone else is thinking.

HOWIE
AGE: 31
HOMETOWN: Miami, Fla.
PROFESSION: Executive Chef
CULINARY EDUCATION: Self-Taught
FAVORITE SIMPLE SUMMER RECIPE: Seared Scallops with Chorizo and Corn Emulsion

A Miami native, Howie claims home-court advantage in this competition. A true chef at heart he can't help but let his passion come through in everything he does. Due to his father's early death, Howie was raised by women and has no problem communicating his feelings. A chef for 10 years, his culinary expertise is contemporary American, Asian, and Mediterranean cuisines. A "hurricane" in the kitchen, he loves to source the best products and let them speak for themselves.

HUNG
AGE: 29
HOMETOWN: Pittsfield, Mass. currently resides in Las Vegas, Nev.
PROFESSION: Sous Chef, Guy Savoy
CULINARY EDUCATION: A.O.S Culinary Arts, C.I.A
FAVORITE SIMPLE SUMMER RECIPE: Heirloom Tomatoes, Balsamic Vinegar, Basil, Mint & Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Hung works as the Executive Sous Chef at one of the most expensive restaurants in Las Vegas, Guy Savoy. Born in Vietnam and trained in classic French and Asian cuisine, he believes in cooking from the soul. Hung especially loves seafood because he says there are a million varieties and flavors to combine. He has traveled the world over learning different types of cuisines, and speaks four languages. He incorporates Asian, French and Spanish influences in his cooking. If he were a food, he says, "I would be spicy chili - it takes a while to get used to, but once you eat it you always come back for more."

JOEY
AGE: 29
HOMETOWN: Franklin Square, Long Island, N.Y. - currently resides in New York City
PROFESSION: Executive Chef, Caf Des Artistes EDUCATION: Peter Kump's New York Cooking School
SIGNATURE DISH: Caramelized Diver Sea Scallops with a Wild Mushroom and Truffle Risotto

A native New Yorker and four-star chef, Joey has worked at some of New York City's premiere restaurants - including Waters Edge, Jean Georges, Vong, and most currently Cafe de Artistes. His cooking is influenced by world cultures, and he loves to serve simple, light food always on a hot plate. Joey's intense passion and playful mentality make him a serious contender. His romantic self enjoys whipping up white chocolate and coconut-dipped strawberries with Veuve Clicquot Champagne - while his aggressive self lives by the motto - if you can't take the heat, get the f*** outta the kitchen.

LIA
AGE: 28
HOMETOWN: Tacoma, Wash. - currently resides in Brooklyn, N.Y.
PROFESSION: Executive Sous Chef, Jean Georges
CULINARY EDUCATION: Self-Taught
FAVORITE SIMPLE SUMMER RECIPE: Guacamole

Originally a literature major, Lia found her passion in cooking and never looked back. Currently the executive sous chef at Manhattan's elite Jean Georges restaurant, this self-taught, self-starter knew that to be the best - she had to train under the best. She has honed her skills at Jean Georges and now feels she is one of the top line cooks around. Living in New York, she has been influenced by many different types of food and calls her signature style eclectic. Lia feels it's key to always be proud of what you do.

MICAH
AGE: 33
HOMETOWN: South Africa currently resides in Boca Raton, Fla.
PROFESSION: Caterer/Owner, The Wandering Chef Caterers
CULINARY EDUCATION: Self-Taught
FAVORITE SIMPLE SUMMER RECIPE: Gazpacho Made from Sun-Almost-Ripened Tomatoes

A world-traveled single mother, Micah currently owns her own catering company. Best known for her eclectic world cuisine, her customers rave about her specialty - guava chili glazed lamb chop with passion fruit mint sauce. She thrives on usually being the only woman in the kitchen and loves when people underestimate her. For fun, she used to race sailboats and enjoys fishing if she can cook what she catches. An English Literature major, Micah was a restaurant reviewer and the editor of a boating magazine. She is currently at work on a children's book entitled "Silly Tilly Cooks Fusilli."

SANDEE
AGE: 39
HOMETOWN: Saint Simon's Islands, Ga. currently resides in Miami Beach, Fla.
PROFESSION: Executive Chef, Tantra
CULINARY EDUCATION: Self-Taught
FAVORITE SIMPLE SUMMER RECIPE: Grilled Watermelon

A Georgia native, Sandee specializes in southern soul food. Her signature dish is grilled hamachi collar with southern collard greens and soy sherry reduction with jalapeno corn bread. Enough said. Not a chef by trade, Sandee never attended Culinary School and has only worked at Tantra, a hot South Beach restaurant. Hired as a line cook, she has worked hard and studied just about every book around to become the Executive Chef. Since taking over the kitchen at Tantra, she has received 3-stars and rave reviews. Strong and independent, she is not a pushover. Sandee is aware that everyone will underestimate her, but she is adamant that while her opponents are playing it safe, she will work harder because she doesn't know any other way. Sandee says, "Dream as if you'll live forever, and live as if you'll die today."

SARA M.
AGE: 34
HOMETOWN: Kingston, Jamaica currently resides in Miami, Fla.
PROFESSION: Cheese Maker
CULINARY EDUCATION: AA Culinary Arts
FAVORITE CUISINE: Cheese

Sara M. grew up in Kingston Jamaica, and began her culinary career under Chef Mark Militello, one of the forefathers of New Florida cuisine. She then became the Sous Chef for Michelle Bernstein at Tantra in Miami, her second home. After a five-year stint as Chef de Cuisine at Ortanique in Miami, she left her comfort zone to discover her true passion for cheese. Sarah M. wants to bring cheese to her native land of Jamaica because she says there's a real need for good cheese there. She feels her passion and strong palate will shine through as she competes on her home turf. Time will tell if Sarah M. can hold true to her motto, "Do unto others as you would do unto yourself."

SARA N.
AGE: 25
HOMETOWN: Santa Monica, Calif. - currently resides in New York City
PROFESSION: Executive Sous Chef, Boucarou
CULINARY EDUCATION: Culinary Arts/Management Degree from the Institute of Culinary Education
SIGNATURE CUISINE: French-Asian Cuisine
FAVORITE SIMPLE SUMMER RECIPE: Grilled Soft Shelled Crab

A native of Santa Monica, California, Sara N. attacks everything she attempts with the utmost passion. After graduating at the top of her class from culinary school, Sara N. landed an internship at the upscale Per Se in New York City. She then had the opportunity to be the sous chef at Chef & Company and moved on to work as the Executive Chef at Stone Rose. Sarah N. attributes her fast rise in the restaurant industry to her innate cooking skills and ability to manage people. She excels at fine dining, corporate and private catering, and feels that food should be simple, seasonal and satisfying. She plans to beat out the competition by saying she'll either find a way or make one.

TRE
AGE: 30
HOMETOWN: Duncanville, Texas currently resides in Cedar Hills, Texas
PROFESSION: Chef de Cuisine, Abacus Restaurant
CULINARY EDUCATION: Self-Taught
SIGNATURE CUISINE: Contemporary Global Cuisine

A self-taught chef, Tre worked his way through the ranks to become the main chef at Abacus, one of the best restaurants in Dallas. The proud father of two, he remains extremely passionate about both his family and his food. It's all in the presentation for Tre, who considers the spoon his paintbrush. He lives by the motto "make it nice or make it twice." In great shape, he loves the gym almost as much as cooking. Sure to win over America with his beautiful plates and charming dimples, Tre is ready to be nationally recognized for his culinary abilities.

So what do you guys think, you have any favorites? I think these guys look tough, experienced and fierce. I don't have a favorite yet (that usually doesn't happen until about episode 3), but I have a special place for Sara M., the lady is a cheese maker!

Source: The Futon Critic
Images Courtesy of Bravo TV

Acne

FitSugar — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 17:34:56 -0700

Overview

Signs and Symptoms
What Causes It?
Risk Factors
What to Expect at Your Provider's Office
Treatment Options
Other Considerations
Supporting Research

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Acne is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by clogged pores, blackheads, and pimples. The oil glands, or sebaceous glands, are connected to hair follicles and release a substance known as sebum that lubricates hair and skin. Usually, sebum travels up the hair follicle and out onto your skin. But when the sebaceous glands produce too much oil and combine with dead skin cells, the follicles become blocked and inflamed. The nose, forehead, cheeks, chin, back, and trunk are the areas acne most often affects. Between 17 - 45 million people have acne, making it the most common skin disease in the United States. While it tends to last longer in women, men are more likely to get acne and tend to have more severe cases. Acne is most common in adolescents, and it generally disappears by age 30. Although it is not a serious health threat, severe acne can be painful and may cause permanent scarring, which can be upsetting for people who suffer from the condition.

Signs and Symptoms

There are several types of acne lesions:

Closed comedone (whitehead) -- a clogged follicle. Whiteheads usually appear on the skin as small, round, white bumps.
Open comedone (blackhead) -- a plugged follicle that opens and turns dark at the surface of the skin. Blackheads do not indicate the presence of dirt.
Papules -- inflamed lesions that appear as small, pink bumps on the skin.
Pustules (pimples) -- inflamed pus-filled lesions that are red at the base.
Cysts and nodules -- large, inflamed, pus-filled lesions deep under the skin that can cause pain and scarring.

Lesions can cause scars ranging from small, depressed pits to large elevated blemishes, depending on the severity of the acne and the person's skin type.

What Causes It?

Acne is caused by the combination of too much sebum and a buildup of dead skin cells, but no one knows what trigger the overproduction of sebum. During adolescence, rising hormone levels are thought to be a factor. The increased sebum blocks hair follicles, and small bacteria-filled cysts called comedones form. If these comedones do not rupture, they develop into whiteheads or blackheads. When comedones rupture, the inflammation can spread into the surrounding area. Papules, pustules, cysts, and nodules are types of inflammatory lesions.

Risk Factors

The following may cause or worsen acne:

Family history of acne
Using oily cosmetic or hair products containing vegetable or animal fats
Hormonal changes common during adolescence, pregnancy, or menstruation (acne tends to flare up 2 - 7 days before menstruation begins)
Certain medications such as corticosteroids, androgens, oral contraceptives, lithium, halogens, isoniazid, phenytoin, phenobarbital, and high levels of iodine (such as from kelp)
Sweating and friction on your skin, caused by headbands, back packs, bicycle helmets, or tight collars
Squeezing and picking comedones

What to Expect at Your Provider's Office

Acne is rarely a serious health problem, and general practitioners and internists can treat most people with mild-to-moderate forms of acne. People with more severe cases are often referred to a dermatologist. Your doctor will take a complete medical history that includes questions about skin care, cosmetic use, and diet; factors that trigger flare-ups; medication use; and prior treatment. Your doctor will also examine your face, chest, back, and other areas for blemishes, lesions, and scars.

Treatment Options

Treatments for acne involves lessening sebum production, helping the skin shed dead cells so they don't build up, and preventing bacteria from accumulating. The following self-care techniques may be helpful:

Wash skin once or twice a day with a mild cleanser. Washing more frequently, scrubbing skin, or using facial masks can make acne worse.
Use oil-free skin care products and cosmetics. Look for products that say "water-based" or "non-comedogenic."
Try over-the-counter lotions containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
People with mild cases of acne may improve symptoms with herbs, Ayurveda, or homeopathy. Expect to use medications or complementary and alternative remedies for at least 6 - 8 weeks before seeing a noticeable improvement in symptoms.

Drug Therapies

Topical

Your doctor may also prescribe topical medications to treat acne. The most commonly used include:

Retinoids (tretinoin or Retin-A, adapalene or Differin, and tazarotene or Tazorac) -- are medications derived from vitamin A that work by unclogging pores and reducing inflammation. Side effects may include redness, peeling, and photosensitivity (high risk of sunburn). Most retinoids are applied at night and should not be applied at the same time as benzoyl peroxide (with the exception of adapalene). Pregnant women should not use topical retinoids during pregnancy.
Antibiotics -- work by killing bacteria and reducing inflammation. Topical antibiotics such as clindamycin or erythromycin are available in prescription form and may be used to treat mild-to-moderate acne.
Benzoyl peroxide -- Benzoyl peroxide is also available in prescription form.

Your doctor may recommend a combination of topical medications, such as benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin.

Oral

Your doctor may prescribe oral (taken by mouth) antibiotics either alone or in addition to topical medications for moderate-to-severe acne. For those with severe, inflammatory acne that does not improve with other medications, an oral retinoid called isotretinoin may be prescribed.

Antibiotics -- work by killing bacteria and reducing inflammation. Commonly prescribed oral antibiotics include doxycycline, minocycline, and tetracycline. Antibiotics taken by mouth should not be used during pregnancy or by children under 9.
Isotretinoin (Accutane) -- doctors aren't sure exactly how isotretinoin works, although it may reduce the production of sebum. It is usually prescribed for people with severe, inflammatory acne that does not improve with other medications. Isotretinoin is taken twice a day for 20 weeks. It causes severe birth defects and must not be used by pregnant women or those who may become pregnant. In fact, in the U.S. women who take isotretinoin are required to undergo regular pregnancy tests and take some form of prescription birth control.

Some women may be prescribed birth control pills that seem to reduce acne.

Surgery and Other Procedures

Surgery or other procedures can help improve the appearance of skin scarred by acne. Chemical peeling (where a chemical solution is applied to the skin that causes it to blister and eventually peel off) can reduce minor scars, while dermabrasion (a procedure that uses a rapidly rotating brush to remove the top layers of skin) can help more severe scarring. Laser resurfacing uses pulses of light to remove the top layer of skin and reduce scarring.

Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Nutrition

Although some people with acne report that certain drinks and foods (particularly nuts) make their symptoms worse, there is no scientific evidence that any food (even chocolate) affects acne. It is possible that food allergies may play a role in adult acne, and people may want to avoid foods that appear to aggravate their symptoms. Some doctors may suggest a low glycemic diet, which helps keep blood sugar stable and under control.

Zinc (30 mg two times per day for a month, then 30 mg per day) -- Several studies indicate that the mineral zinc may reduce the effects of acne. However, high doses of zinc can cause anemia, vomiting, and immune system suppression. It also interacts with tetracycline, which is often prescribed for acne. For these reasons, talk to your doctor before taking zinc.
Niacinamide (as a 4% topical gel) -- One study found that applying a 4% niacinamide gel to the skin two times per day for two months significantly improved acne symptoms. However, the study lacked a placebo, so it is hard to tell exactly how effective niacinamide might be.
L-carnitine -- Researchers in Greece showed that, among a large group of people, mild side effects from isotretinoin (dry skin, chapped lips, dry eyes, and nosebleeds caused by dry nose) improved when taking L-carnitine compared to those who took a placebo.
Vitamin A -- has many of the same properties as the retinoid drugs, but often with fewer side effects. Few studies have been done on vitamin A and acne, however. Too much vitamin A can be toxic, so talk to your doctor to determine the right dose for you, and only take higher doses of vitamin A under a doctor's supervision. Do not take extra vitamin A if you are pregnant or have liver disease.

Herbs

Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternafolia, 5% gel) -- Applied topically, tea tree oil may help reduce bacteria on the skin, lessening inflammation and improving symptoms. One study compared the effectiveness of tea tree oil gel with benzoyl peroxide lotion in 119 people with mild-to-moderate acne. People in both groups improved, and the people using tea tree oil reported less side effects (including stinging, itching, burning, and dryness) than those using benzoyl peroxide.

Guggul (Commiphora mukul, dose equivalent to 25 mg guggulsterones or about 500 mg of guggul two times per day) -- In one study, taking guggul orally had the same effect as taking tetracycline. Guggul should not be taken by pregnant or nursing women. Guggul may have estrogen-like effects, and should not be taken by anyone with a history or family history of hormone-related cancers, including prostate cancer and breast or ovarian cancer. In addition, the herb may interact with anticoagulants (blood-thinning medications), tamoxifen, and birth control pills containing estrogen, as well as herbs that have estrogen-like effects (such as black cohosh, licorice, soy, and others). People who take these herbs or drugs should not take guggul.

Ayurvedic medicine -- Ayurvedic medicine may help improve symptoms, although further studies are needed. In one study, a combination of ginger (zingiber officinale), Holarrhena antidysenterica, and Embelia ribes reduced the number of inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions. In another study, combined oral and topical use of Aloe barbadensis, Azardirachta indica, turmeric (Curcuma longa), Hemidesmus indicus, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia arjuna, and ashwagandha (Withania somnifera ) also reduced the number of lesions.

Homeopathy

There have been few studies examining the effectiveness of specific homeopathic remedies. Professional homeopaths, however, may recommend one or more of the following treatments for acne based on their knowledge and clinical experience. Before prescribing a remedy, homeopaths take into account a person's constitutional type. In homeopathic terms, a person's constitution is his or her physical, emotional, and intellectual makeup. An experienced homeopath assesses all of these factors when determining the most appropriate remedy for a particular individual.

Belladonna -- for people who experience flushes of heat to the face or who have inflamed pustular acne that improves with cold applications
Calendula -- for skin conditions involving pustules or blisters
Hepar sulphur -- for painful, pus-filled acne
Kali bromatum -- for deep acne, especially on the forehead, in persons who are chilled and nervous
Silicea -- for pustules or pit-forming acne

Other Considerations

Pregnancy

Pregnant women should avoid all retinoids (those either taken by mouth or applied to the skin), isotretinoin, and the antibiotics tetracycline, minocycline, and doxycycline because they can be harmful to the fetus. The antibiotic erythromycin (in both forms applied to the skin and taken by mouth) is safe to use during pregnancy.

Prognosis and Complications

Acne is not a serious health threat, but severe acne can be painful, emotionally upsetting, and may cause permanent scarring. Squeezing lesions can rupture comedones and cause inflammation. Infants with acne have an increased risk of developing acne in adolescence. Symptoms generally diminish after adolescence and disappear by age 30. However, the incidence of adult acne, especially in women, seems to be increasing and is not unusual in women in their 30s and 40s.

Supporting Research

Bassett IB, Pannowits DL, Barneston RSC. A comparative study of tea-tree oil versus benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne. Med J Aust. 1990;153:455-458.

Brown DJ, Dattner AM. Phytotherapeutic approaches to common dermatologic conditions. Arch Dermtol. 1998;134:1401-1404.

Darmstadt GL. Acne vulgaris. In: Behrman RE, Kliefman RM, and Jenson HB, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 16th ed. Philadelphia, PA: W.B. Saunders Company; 2000: 2047-2051.

Dreno B, Amblard P, Agache P, Sirot S, Litoux P. Low doses of zinc gluconate for inflammatory acne. Acta Derm Venereol. 1989;69:541-543.

Dreno B, Trossaert M, Boiteau HL, Litoux P. Zinc salts effects on granulocyte zinc concentration and chemotaxis in acne patients. Acta Dermatol Venereol. 1992;72:250-252.

Ernst E, Huntley A. Tea tree oil: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials. Forsch Komplementärmed. 2000;7:17-20.

Enshaieh S, Jooya A, Siadat AH, Iraji F. The efficacy of 5% topical tea tree oil gel in mild to moderate acne vulgaris: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2007 Jan-Feb;73(1):22-5.

Georgala S, Schulpis KH, Georgala C, Michas T. L-carnitine supplementation in patients with cystic acne on isotretinoin therapy. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 1999;13(3):205-209.

Gfesser M, Worret WI. Seasonal variations in the severity of acne vulgaris. Int J Dermatol. 1996;35(2):116-117.

Gold MH. Acne and PDT: new techniques with lasers and light sources. Lasers Med Sci. 2007 Jan 16; (Epub ahead of print).

Jansen T, Plewig G. Advances and perspectives in acne therapy. Eur J Med Res. 1997;2:321-334.

Jonas WB, Jacobs J. Healing with Homeopathy: The Doctors' Guide. New York, NY: Warner Books; 1996: 227-230.

Krowchuk DP. Treating acne. A practical guide. Med Clin North Am. 2000;84(4):811-828.

Kubo I, Muroi H, Kubo A. Naturally occurring antiacne agents. J Nat Prod. 1994;57(1):9-17.

Lucky AW, Biro FM, Simbartl LA, Morrison JA, Sorg NW. Predictors of severity of acne vulgaris in young adolescent girls: results from a five-year longitudinal study. J Pediatr. 1997;13(1):5.

Lucky AW, Cullen SI, Jarratt MT. Comparative efficacy and safety of two 0.025% tretinoin gel: results from a multicenter double-blind, parallel study. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1998; 38(4): S17–23.

Meynadier J. Efficacy and safety study of two zinc gluconate regimens in the treatment of inflammatory acne. Eur J Dermatol. 2000;10:269-273.

Papageorgiou PP, Chu AC. Chloroxylenol and zinc oxide containing cream (Nels cream®) vs. 5% benzoyl peroxide cream in the treatment of acne vulgaris. A double-blind, randomized, controlled trial. Clin and Exp Dermatol. 2000;25:16-20.

Paranjpe P, Kulkarni PH. Comparative efficacy of four Ayurvedic formulations in the treatment of acne vulgaris: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical evaluation. J Ethnopharm. 1995;49:127-132.

Raman A, Weir U, Bloomfield SF. Antimicrobial effects of tea-tree oil and its major components on Staphylococcus aureus, Staph. epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes. Letters in Applied Microbiol. 1995;21:242-245.

Swerlick RA, Lawley TJ. Eczema, psoriasis, cutaneous infections, acne, and other common skin disorders. In: Fauci AS, Braunwald E, Isselbacher KJ, et al, eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 14th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 1998:303-304.

Thappa DM, Dogra J. Nodulocystic acne: oral gugulipid versus tetracycline. J Dermatol. 1994;21:729-31.

Thiboutot D. New treatments and therapeutic strategies for acne. Arch Fam Med. 2000;9:179-187.

Ullman D. The Consumer's Guide to Homeopathy. New York, NY: Penguin Putnam; 1995: 185-186.

Whang KK, Lee M. The principle of a three-staged operation in the surgery of acne scars. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1999; 40(1): 95–97.

Whitmore, SL. Common problems of the skin. In: Barker LR, Burton JR, Zieve PD. Principals of Ambulatory Medicine. 5th ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams & Wilkins; 1999: 1511.

Review Date:
3/18/2007
Reviewed By:
Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D., private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Sugar Bits - After Madonna Rumors, A Rod's Wife Moves On

PopSugar — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 09:30:41 -0700

With rumors swirling of an affair between Madonna and NY Yankee Alex Rodriguez, his wife Cynthia has reportedly moved in with Lenny Kravitz in Paris. Lenny denies any romantic involvement, but he did admit that she's staying at his home in the French capital. - NY Daily News
An ex-Miramax employee is writing a tell all book exposing the practices of Harvey and Bob Weinstein using documents compiled over the last 15 years. - Page Six
A jury heard the opening arguments in Christie Brinkley's divorce trial yesterday, in which her ex-husband, Peter Cook, admitted to spending up to $3,000 a month on Internet porn and paying $300,000 to his 18-year-old mistress to keep their affair hidden. - AP
Rocker Ryan Adams confirmed his split from girlfriend Mandy Moore, even though he thinks she is, "one of those genuinely sweet angelic people you wish to meet your whole life." - OK Magazine
Tatum O'Neal pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of disorderly conduct following her arrest last month for trying to buy cocaine and crack in NYC. In exchange for her plea, she must attend two-and-a-half days of drug treatment classes and pay a fine of $95. - AP
Tori Spelling is set to appear on the upcoming Beverly Hills, 90210 later in the first season, after she has time to recuperate from the recent birth of her daughter. - People

Source

Gearing Up For The Hills With Party Tops!

FabSugar — Sun, 12 Aug 2007 07:22:22 -0700

I'm telling the truth when I say I am not an avid watcher of The Hills. But, I will admit to some "background TV" of the show, and stopping mid-action to tune in. I swear that is the whole truth and nothing but the truth so help me God. With my testimony out of the way, who will be tuning in for the premiere of The Hills, Season 3 on Monday?

One part of this guilty pleasure I do pay attention to is the clothes. With these girls' wealth, fame and bods it's no surprise they are into fashion. Oh, and those Teen Vogue internships may have something to do with it too. These gals may not be the most fashion forward or eccentric, but they know their It bags, designer denim and party tops, as pointed out by this week's Life & Style. Here are my picks for some fun party tops to try on, Hills style.

P.S. I threw some cute lower-priced items in for good measure.

Minyoung Silk Top, $168	Anna Sui Printed Top, $220
Geren Ford Print One Strap Top, $317	Vanitas Liberty Top in Green Print, $187
Alloy FLUTTER NECK TEE, $23	French Connection metal top, on sale for $50 (originally $118)
bebe Mesh Leopard Print Turtleneck Tunic, $84	C&C 'Pandora' Print Top, $68
Graham & Spencer Printed Silk Tank, on sale for $94 (originally $187)	Derek Lam�Tops, Batwing top