Celebrity Question!

Emmy Rossum wants to know…
Are there any natural products that will make my lashes grow?

The most effective lash enhancers (like prescription-only Latisse) contain chemicals. However, a drop of sweet almond oil “will keep lashes soft and flexible so they appear thicker,” says L.A. dermatologist Jessica Wu. Put a dot on your index finger and run it from root to tip, then blot any excess.

Example: AURA CACIA ORGANICS Sweet Almond Oil, starting at $5.93.

Today is…

SPARKLY YELLOW DAY!

#pass it on 

Swanson Health Tip #2

PRObiotics vs. PREbiotics: What’s the difference?

We’ve been hearing about probiotics for a while now and whether you get yours from a nutritional health supplement, yogurt, health drinks or some other food source, chances are you’re on board with this concept. But what’s this new push for prebiotics? They’re showing up in health bars, cereals and more. Prebiotics are not microbes, but rather a type of soluble fiber that feeds the good bacteria in your gut. Prebiotics are often labeled as inulin or chicory root extract on labels.

Experts say when you get 5-8 grams of prebiotics in a day, they boost your good bacteria. They’re also suspected to increase calcium absorption, protect against traveler’s diarrhea and support colon health, but these claims are not fully researched yet. Probiotics have been studied longer so they have more research to back their claims for supporting digestion and easing irregularity. Your best bet is to find what works best for you and your body.

Source: Good Housekeeping

Swanson Health Tip #1

Make Your Own Power-Packed Pesto

There’s no fresh-food scent that screams summer like basil. The heady aroma of basil is a staple in Italian cuisine and this versatile herb is loaded with beneficial vitamins to boot. Usually pesto recipes include pine nuts or almonds, but try this twist for a new flavor — organic pistachios.

Combine 1/2 cup raw pistachio nuts, 2 cups fresh basil leaves and 2 cloves of garlic in a food processor. Once that is mixed well, add 1/2 cup olive oil while continuing to blend. Add 2/3 cup grated parmesan cheese and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Process until well blended. Serve with pasta, on pizza or as a healthy spread for whole wheat crackers. Bring out the fresh taste of summer next winter by freezing your pesto. Pack fresh pesto in freezer-safe containers and cover the top with a thin layer of olive oil to seal out the oxygen. This will keep your pesto from turning brown.

Source: Family Circle

Read past tips at Swanson Health Product’s Daily Tips Blog.