Have You Got A Dog, Or Cat - Or Camel?

If you have got a dog (or another animal, be it cat, camel or whatever!) you might be interested to know that it was my dog, Sam, who introduced me to Aloe Vera.

Yes, he really did, with the help of my daughter Joanna who had found that drinking Forever Aloe Gel helped her IBS. When she noticed 8-year-old Sam's limbs stiffening and heard that his vet had pronounced him arthritic, she gave us a tub of this most unusual drink.

I was suspicious. How could the same Aloe drink help both Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Arthritis? Joanna said it was because of Aloe Vera's natural anti-inflammatory properties. She also said to swallow my skepticism and pour the Gel onto Sam's dinners.

So I did - and instead of subsequently refusing his food as I had suspected he (a finicky dog) would, Sam lapped it up with unusual enthusiasm. I was amazed - and all the more so by the improvements in him after about two weeks on his new diet.

Is There Any Better Breakfast Than Mine?

I simply had to share news of my breakfasts with you! (Are you asking why?) The thing is, I've recently discovered my perfect breakfast. It might not be yours, but let me explain why it's mine ...

Needing to lose weight after over-indulging on my Mexican holiday in January, while I was looking into ways and means I came up with Nutri-Lean. I already knew about this Aloe weightloss programme, of course, having been involved with Forever for years and years, but it had never occurred to me to replace my porridge with a delicious drink.

I don't especially like porridge (but ate it because it was 'good for me'), so the switch was no great sacrifice. I never expected, though, to love my new breakfasts as much as I do. They're such a treat that I can't believe I'm actually losing weight too (although it's a fact that I am)!

Why am I in such heaven when breakfasting? Well, the shake I make with Forever Lite Ultra (Vanilla flavor) + 10 ozs skimmed milk + a banana (that bit's optional; I've tried plain shakes, and once added an apple instead of the banana - and they're all great) is simply beyond delicious.

Now it might be that this is an over-the-top reaction peculiar to me as I'm a bit of an addict when it comes to coffee with froth on the top - or indeed anything that resembles frothy cream. But usually there's a downside to such treats. With my new breakfasts there simply isn't one - and they are giving me a nutritious blend of vitamins, minerals, proteins and carbohydrates while I lose weight.

Please don't wake me up if I'm only dreaming!

Give Your Face Skin A Real Treat!

I was reading my DAILY MAIL recently and this piece caught my eye:

'Hailed for its complexion-restoring properties, vitamin E, or tocopherol as it is usually listed on labels, has been shown to repair skin damage such as inflammation, scars and sunburn.

It is also a powerful antioxidant that can help strengthen the skin and fend off cell-damaging free radicals.

Some studies have shown it can boost the efficiency of other antioxidants, such as Vitamin C.'

I must say that none of that surprised me in the slightest as I've been a great fan of vitamin E ever since I was introduced to an incredible product - Alpha-E.

I doubt it's possible to give your skin (face skin in particular) a better treat than a periodic Aloe Scrub followed by the sheer luxury of Alpha-E.

Why do I love it so? Because my skin positively purrs as I treat it to this cocktail of antioxidants and vitamins A and C as well as E. There aren't words to do it justice. You'll really need to try it to see what I mean ...

Aloe Vera Detergent - Phosphorus-Free!

There used to be an advertisment on TV, with a catchy jingle that went like this - "All around the house, springclean with Flash!"

Well, I've no idea whether or not Flash still exists and I'm not too sure whether people still springclean. These days I think we simply fit in cleaning when we can.

Which is where MPD comes in. That stands for Multi-Purpose Detergent - and if ever an Aloe Vera detergent earned that accolade, this one certainly does!

I use mine for washing up (in the sink, not the dishwasher), my laundry, cleaning the car, windscreen wash, cleaning kitchen/bathroom surfaces, cleaning floors, toilets, paint brushes, paving stones and anything else that needs to shine or be brightened.

As MPD is biodegradable and environmentally friendly as well as phosphorus-free, I'm happy and so's my home and whole environment. Despite the fact that it effortlessly lifts grime, removes stains and cuts through grease, it's non-abrasive with a gentle formula that's kind to hands and clothes.

And it's economical, coming as it does in a 1.89 liter container that lasts for absolutely ages! Its final virtue, for me (and, I confidently expect, for you, too, once you've tried it) is that you need no other cleaners clogging up the cupboard under your sink.

Just the one bottle for all your household chores ...

Arginine Nitric Oxide - Why There's So Much Excitement About The 'Miracle Molecule'!

Maybe with Arginine Nitric Oxide I'm straying a bit from my role in telling you (eventually!) all I know about Aloe ... but I reckon you'd want to be told about this 'Miracle Molecule'. Am I right - or wrong?

If I'm right, please read on. If I'm wrong - well, I'll try to do better tomorrow!

So why do scientists refer to L-Arginine as the 'Miracle Molecule'?

Because it's such an incredibly potent amino acid - and because our bodies convert L-Arginine into nitric oxide - a molecule that helps blood vessels relax and open wide for greater blood flow.

I don't suppose you need me to explain the advantages of relaxed and more open blood vessels, but in case you do here are a few relating to ARGI+ (L-Arginine & Vitamin Complex):

Greater blood flow may improve sexual function

Helps maintain a healthy blood pressure and cardiovascular system

ARGI+ contains an extract of red wine, which helps to reduce blood cholesterol levels

It increases muscle mass and strength, whilst reducing the amount of fatty tissue. A welcome benefit for sports men and women.

It's a marvelous daily supplement that supports better health throughout many systems of the body, delivering optimal performance.

There's plenty more, but I think by now you'll get my gist. No wonder there's such excitement about ARGI+'s potential!

So - did I do right in sharing my enthusiasm with you?

N.B. As with any new supplement, anyone with a heart or kidney condition, pregnant or taking medication should consult their GP prior to taking ARGI+.

Aloe Vera Toothgel - Yes, Again!

Ooops, I forgot to tell you in my Aloe Vera Toothgel blog of the other day that lots of Forever products have unexpected benefits and/or alternative uses.

And this toothgel is one of these. Believe it or not, if I feel a sore throat coming on I don't even consider a throat lozenge or syrup. No. I just go to my bathroom cabinet and remove my tube of Forever Bright Toothgel.

Then I squeeze some into my mouth - and swallow it, letting it rest in my throat where its Aloe and Bee Propolis (Nature's antibiotic) content soothes the soreness more or less instantly.

Now I'm not suggesting you invest in a tube of Forever Bright for the sake of your potential sore throat. I'm just mentioning what works for me so that you can see this toothgel's versatility.

Believe me, if it contained fluoride I would certainly not be swallowing it!

Aloe Vera Deodorant - Which Ingredients Are Missing?

I seem to be on a bit of a theme here, don't I? Yesterday I questioned what might be missing from a specific Aloe Vera Toothgel and today I've moved on to this Aloe Vera Deodorant.

On the face of it, we don't want ingredients in our toothgel and deodorant to be missing - or do we? Well, yes, sometimes I think we do! Aluminium salts and zirconium are found in most deodorants and anti-perspirants - but not in Forever's somewhat safer option.

Why is it considered safer? Please do your own research. Mine tells me that aluminium salts have been linked with breast cancer and zirconium with Alzheimer's. So who knowingly would want to put such chemicals under their armpits - especially after shaving?

I reckon that no-one would. Do you agree?

P.S. Did you work out the answer to yesterday's question? In case you didn't - it's fluoride.

Aloe Vera Toothgel - What's Missing From This One?

Here's a little puzzle for you. This Aloe Vera toothgel contains bee propolis (Nature's antibiotic) and Aloe and it nourishes, strengthens and protects teeth and gums.

So what doesn't it contain? (I'll tell you later!)

I used to suffer with sensitive teeth and that suffering has been a thing of the past since I began cleaning my teeth with gentle Forever Bright Toothgel.

As well as keeping my teeth clean and my gums nourished, it fights plaque and whitens without bleaching agents. Oh, and it has a great minty taste in a non-abrasive formula loved by both children and adults!

Okay, so it's bright green, but that only adds to the fun.

Have you guessed yet what's missing? No?

Well, then, I'll tell you tomorrow ...

Aloe Propolis Creme - why nurses, gardeners, engineers and others (including people prone to eczema and psoriasis) love it!

Aloe Propolis Creme is almost universally loved because it does so much more than simply moisturize and condition your skin. This rich, creamy blend of Aloe Vera, bee propolis (Nature's antibiotic), chamomile and comfrey also soothes irritated skin, leaving a protective barrier.

So are you beginning to see why this product makes such sense for people who frequently have their hands in water - or soil/manure - or grease?

The nurses among my customers simply swear by it (not, of course, that nurses actually swear!!), saying it saves their hands from the effects of washing and/or using hand-sanitizer umpteen times a day. Likewise gardeners, engineers etc for their own specific needs.

And Aloe Propolis Creme is hugely popular with eczema and psoriasis sufferers. Why do you think that is?

To help you guess, I'm offering a FREE sample of this special product to the first 10 people (UK only today, I'm afraid) to write in with their names and addresses.

Rockstar Energy Drink - Fabulous FAB!

Is fabulous FAB a rockstar energy drink? If it isn't, I think it certainly should be.

The thing is, it's new on the scene. It hasn't even quite reached the UK yet (I'll let you know the minute it does) but it's on its way and is already energizing the USA.

Its distinctive slimline red can is in itself a bit of a Forever Active Boost. And that's before you open it and get quickly refreshed as well as energized.

The other thing about FAB is that it gives immediate as well as long-term energy.

How does it do this?

Well, firstly it comes from Forever Living, who - let's face it - know a thing or three about nutrition and energy, and secondly just check out these ingredients:

natural guarana + ADX7 technology - a proprietary blend of adaptogenic herbs and nutrients.

So what do you think - does FAB potentially qualify as a rockstar energy drink, or doesn't it?!

N.B. Not recommended for children or pregnant women.

Aloe Weight Loss - Lose Weight and Stay in Shape!

What possible reason can I have for mentioning Aloe weight loss?

I expect you can guess. Yes – you’re quite correct! I need to shed some excess weight. Spending 3 weeks in Mexico last month led to too many temptations.

Not that I’m complaining. Mexico’s a fabulous place that I can’t wait to visit again. But next time I’ll be taking my Garcinia Plus and Forever Lean with me!

I can almost hear you asking why and my answer is that these wonderful supplements are part of a weight management process called NutriLean.

This is very effective, but don’t take my word for it as I might possibly be influenced by the fact that I’ve lost 5 lbs in the last 2 weeks. Best if you check out Aloe weight loss for yourself.

Aloe Vera Gelly - Better Than A Doctor In The House?

Is there a tube of Aloe Vera Gelly in your bathroom cabinet (or in your kitchen, or in your car)?
I always ensure that there’s one in mine. Why? Well, first let me explain just how carried away I sometimes get when asked about this particular product …
An acquaintance once stopped me in the street to ask whether I could recommend anything with high aloe content for general first aid. I launched straight into a description of Aloe Gelly’s many uses – my enthusiasm running away with me.
I still cringe when I think how I ended with the words “Personally, I think that having a tube of Gelly is better than having a doctor in the house!”
It was then that I remembered something I should never have forgotten in the first place: I was talking to a woman who had been married to a doctor, but who was now a widow.
I bet you can imagine how much I wished the earth would open and swallow me up. But fortunately the moment passed and I was quickly forgiven.
The incident taught me something, though, about being verbose – so if you want to know more you’ll need to click Aloe Vera Gelly.

Aloe Vera Products - All Around The House

Are there many aloe vera products in your home? I can hardly count how many there are in mine! I drink aloe daily, clean my teeth with it, shampoo and condition my hair, use an aloe lotion on my face ...

Before using the aloe lotion I wash with aloe liquid soap - oh, and once I've washed I ensure that I'm protected for the day with my aloe vera deodorant!

I bet that by now you're getting my general gist. The fact is, I simply love this stuff - and am far from being alone in my love of it.

No wonder, as - for example - my Aloe Ever-Shield Deodorant Stick contains no nasty aluminium salts or zirconium and can be used straight after shaving. It also won't stain clothes and lasts for simply ages.

Then there's my Aloe Lips - which is so much more than just a lip balm. I regard it as first aid in a stick - simply great for burns, bites and stings. I'll whisper the next bit ...

I've heard that some people find it helps with 'piles'. So I hope they buy two Aloe Lips - labeling one 'top' and one 'bottom' and keeping the second one in the fridge!

On that note, I think it's time to sign off for now about aloe vera products. Back soon!

Aloe Vera Cosmetics - Save Your Skin!

Hello again! Why am I writing today about aloe vera cosmetics? Well, I was rather alarmed by a newspaper feature last Saturday about the risk of skin damage through using make-up.

I don't know you (or your habits!) but if, like me, you're a woman who uses eye shadow then you'll probably be as shocked as I was to learn from experts that this is among the worst offenders in causing unsightly skin conditions.

The DAILY MAIL stated that the skin around the eyes is so sensitive that many women have allergic reactions to the strong chemicals in eye shadows, kohl pencils, mascaras and make-up remover.

This frequently leads to women having eczema or inflammation on their eyelids and nowhere else.

It was suggested that the best way to retain moisture in the tissue around your eyes is not to use cosmetics every day - or at least not those that contain strong chemicals such as preservatives which strip away the natural defences and dry out the skin.

Which brings me to the aloe vera cosmetics that I now use daily - without fear of a bad reaction.

Formulated with aloe vera to protect and moisturize, plus antioxidant vitamins, herbs and marine extracts, there are tones to suit every skin tone and every mood.

There are even seven color-coded palettes of shades for eyes, cheeks, face and lips - perfectly suited to all skin types, including sensitive skin.

With all this aloe vera on offer, why would any woman run the risk of skin-damage?

Aloe - And Why The Flu and Cold Bugs Stay Away

Well, of course, I can't claim that I know this for certain - but I believe that the reason I seldom succumb to the bugs that keep afflicting others is simply the aloe vera that I drink daily!

Not just any brand of aloe, mind - it has to be Forever Living's. Why? Because in my view it is the 'Rolls-Royce' of aloe drinks - and that isn't just my opinion. Hear it from esteemed TV journalist Martyn Lewis and a distinguished doctor, too, via this link.

I gather that this drinking gel boosts my immune system on a daily basis, detoxifies my system, acts as a natural anti-inflammatory (keeping aches and pains at bay) and - what else? Oh yes, it gives me an internal spring-clean!

Is it this 'spring-clean' that helps put the spring in my step that I mentioned the other day? Who can say?

Aloe Vera DID put a spring in my step!

Hello again! If you read my last post you'll know how my dog benefited from his daily intake of Aloe Vera. And I told you that I'd let you know how I got on with this drink.

Well, in the beginning I only took it to keep Sam company. No, perhaps that's a slight inaccuracy! I was curious to see whether I would detect any difference in how I felt. The thing is, I already felt healthy. So how could drinking Forever's Aloe possibly help?

No question but that it helped my energy levels. About three weeks after starting on the drink (that sounds a bit suspicious, doesn't it?) I noticed that I had more energy than I knew what to do with. Sam quickly capitalized on this, taking me for ever longer walks and ensuring that we seldom returned home before he was ready.

The next thing I noticed was that my nails were less brittle than they had been and didn't chip easily. And my hair seemed thicker - and to need cutting more often. Was all this coincidental?

It could have been, had these developments not continued - standing the test of time. Then, as winter approached, I realized I was virtually the only person I knew without a cold or flu ...

I've now been drinking aloe vera for over ten years and found throughout that time that my energy levels have remained high and "bugs" of all kinds have virtually passed me by. Can that be a coincidence? Somehow I doubt it, don't you?

I feel great from my daily aloevera intake!

Is aloevera worthy of attention? You bet! I said yesterday that I'd be back soon - and wow, here I am, back! That's because I love my subject and would like the whole world to love it too. You see, aloe is special. How special?

Well, it can help our health. Isn't that plenty in itself? I had my first inkling of its powers over a decade ago when my dog's limbs stiffened up with arthritis. I was given a tub of aloevera gel and told to pour 60 mls daily on to his dinners. Can you imagine my astonishment (as I was a skeptic, back then!) when, within two weeks, Sam was frolicking like a spring lamb?

Yes, I was astonished - and at first put his new lease of life down to coincidence. Obviously an aloe drink couldn't work miracles ... could it? After all, aloe was 'just' a plant and none of the stuff his vet had given him had helped my Beardie. Vets surely knew better than anyone else about how to help pets.

Time went by and Sam's limbs continued to be rubbery instead of stiff. He was more like a puppy than an 'old man' of eight. And people noticed. They began asking questions, the chief one being "What's Sam on? He's like a different dog." This was soon followed with: "Can I have some? Would it help my Rottweiler's stiffness?"

Well, it did - and in the end even Sam's vet remarked on the change in him and wanted the aloevera for his other patients. Not long afterwards I was asked to write a feature for a national dog magazine. You can read it, if you wish, via this link.

Finally I decided to share Sam's daily aloe habit. No, my limbs weren't stiff like his had been - but I could do with a frolic! Would the aloe drink put a spring in my step as it had in Sam's? More on that in my next post ...

MY ALOE VERA

Hello - and a big welcome to my blog! Let's, together, explore some of the wonders of aloe vera. I expect you've heard of it. Most people have these days, haven't they? It has suddenly become a bit of a buzzword. There's a good reason for that, though. Actually, that's an understatement! There are plenty of reasons! We'll be going into some of those in my next posts. For today I simply wanted to say how glad I am to have your company ... and how much I'm looking forward to meeting up again very soon. Watch this space!