Allergy Prone? Easy On The Booze!

If you suffer from allergies, or it they run in the family, you might want to cut back on alcohol.


Asthma

Scientists at Spain's University of Santiago de Compostela have reported a link between even moderate alcohol consumption and the igE antibodies found in high levels in the blood of people prone to develop allergic illnesses, such as hay fever, asthma or eczema.

Healthy Honey

Honey may be even more beneficial than you think. In a recent study at the University of California, Davis, when researchers fed 25 people four or more tablespoons of buckwheat honey each day for 29 days, blood samples showed increased levels of compounds that help protect against cancer and heart disease.But you don't need that much honey to get a benefit, and buckwheat isn't the only variety to try.

In general, the darker the honey, the more antioxidants it has. Look for avocado and wild flower varieties.

Recipe Lime and Honey Dip:
1 package (225g) Neufchatel cream cheese, at room temperature1/2 cup plain low-fat yogurt2 tbs.honey2 tbs. low-fat (1% fat) milk1 tbs. lime juice1 tsp. vanilla1/8 tsp. ground mace or nutmeg1/4 tsp. grated lime rindIn a small bowl, with an electric mixer on high, beat Neufchatel cheese, yogurt, honey milk, lime juice, vanilla and mace until creamy. Stir in the lime rind. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour (will keep for two days).
Serve with an assortment of fresh fruits. Make about 1 1/2 cups.

Enjoy the recipe.Per 1 tbs. serving : 0.158 kilojoules, 3 g fat, 2 g saturated fat, 3 g carbohydrates.

8 Questions to Ask Before Joining Gym

1. Will i have an induction? This will ensure you know how to use the equipment safely and can make the most of the club.
   
2. What activities are on offer? If a treadmill is your idea of hell, you might fare better with aerobics classes. If you're competitive, see if there's a league table for squash or tennis.
   
3. What facilities are there? A sauna or creche might make all the difference.
   
4. When can i use them? Check the club's timetable works with yours. If you'll only visit during the daytime, ask about off-peak deals.
   
5. Does memberships let me use other clubs? Handy for travel.
   
6. Can i try before i buy? Many clubs offer a free trial day or short trial memberships.
   
7. Are there extra costs? Dose the fee cover the spa, lockers or towels?
   
8. What am i signing up to? How long is the commitment and notice period for cancellation?
   

Fitness Industry AssociationSource: Department of Food Science, University of lllinois.Women are more likely than men to eat food that has fallen on the floor.