Our skin is the first barrier against infiltration of germs in our body. It is our body’s first line of defense against invaders. It is also a reflection of a healthy body because a glowing skin is a sign of a healthy body.

But there are times when our skin’s health conditions are being compromised and this can lead to infection.

What are the common causes of skin infection?
People who experience skin infections can be caused by several reasons. Some of these are germs, allergic reactions, skin irritation as well as skin trauma. It can spread widely by person to person contact or with items that the infected person has touched. A broken skin or open wound is definitely a cause for skin infection.

What are the symptoms of skin infection?
You may say that you are suffering from skin infection if you have the following symptoms:
rashes
warmth on the affected area
blisters
pain
swelling
soreness
lesions
itchiness
tenderness
inflamation of the skin
skin ulcers
presence of pus or other forms of discharge

What are the natural remedies for skin infections?
Here is a list of some of the most commonly practiced home remedies:

vinegar dilluted in water may help stop spread of infection by killing both fungus and bacteria
eating garlic and yogurt are both effective in boosting the immune system
Tea tree oil can be very effective topical treatment for both fungal and bacterial infections

For more information on skin infection and your many options for its remedy and treatment, please visit TopShop.NZ.com.

The New year is here, its time to say goobye to 2011 and hello to a new year full of hope and excitment.

We just wanted to say a big thank you for your custom in 2011 and we hope you will return and visit us again in 2012.

As always we are available 24/7 to serve your needs online and get the products you want delivered to your door.

Happy New Year!

From the Team At TopShopNz.com

Numerous studies revealed that regular intake of fish oil supplements can bring a lot of good benefits to a number of cases. Fish oils are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that are responsible for supporting a healthy cell membrane. 

The EPA and DHA form the building blocks in the brain and nervous system and these are responsible for supporting the optimum health of vital organs. However, these nutrients are not manufactured by the body so these are needed to be obtained through the food that we eat.

What are the sources of Omega-3 fatty acids?

• There are two main sources: food found in plants and fish; although the highest concentration can be acquired from fresh fish and fish oil.

• There are four main types of fatty acids: DHA, DPA and EPA are all found in oily fish while ALA is found in vegetable oils and green vegetables.

• The most common sources of these nutrients are: tuna, salmon, herring, sardines, cod, halibut, trout, shrimp and clam from seafood and kale, lettuce, chard and spinach from dark green leafy vegetables.

• It can also be obtained from nuts and seeds and the most popular is flax seed oil.

Who can mostly benefit from Omega-3 fatty acids?

Everyone who wants to maintain a healthy body should be thinking about their omega 3 intake and if they are getting the right quantities from their diet. It is an important part of a healthy diet. Individuals who May benefit from supporting omega 3 levels through supplementation are those with:

• People who have dry, scaly skin or those who are suffering from skin disorder called eczema.
• Individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD and those who are suffering from other forms of mental disorder such as schizophrenia and depression
• People who are suffering from arthritis, peptic ulcers or other forms of inflammation disorder
• Individuals with high blood pressure and heart disorder
• Pregnant women, especially those who are suffering from post-partum disorder

Not getting enough omega 3 fatty acids in your diet? Talk to us about your omega 3 supplement choices today.

Summer is the time to enjoy the weather, not only for adults who love to go to the beach, but also for children who just love to stay out-door and play with other kids. It can also be a time when our family is are exposed to all kinds of elements, including insect bites.

The beach and outdoor, in general, is a favorite hangout for all types of insects, which can either be considered as nuisance pests or vicious carriers of infections. In this case, we don’t want to leave ourselves and children preys to these pests; thus, the need to be prepared when the need arises.

Common insects that bite and their specific symptoms

Midges, mosquitoes and gnats

These insects when they bite cause small papules or lumps that form on your skin and these usually leave a very itching feeling. And if you are quite sensitive to insect bites, it is not far that you may develop blisters that are filled with fluid, called bullae and weals characterized by a circular type of blisters that is filled with fluid surrounding the bite area.

However, mosquito bites in tropical countries can be quite dangerous causing certain infectious diseases such as malaria and H-fever. These conditions can be fatal if not given immediate medical attention.

Sand fly and Horsefly

These types of flies only bite at your skin and then suck the droplets of blood. They hope to be able to fly away even before you take a glimpse of them to swat them. Although they have similar feeding habits, the horseflies, because of its size, can bite more painfully. They thrive in areas near the water so rivers and beach areas are common places you can find these.

Fleas

The flea’s bites can be characterized by groups forming lines or clusters. The most common places this insect bites are below the knee, commonly around the ankles. But if you are fond of holding your pets, you may also experience bites on your forearms.

People who are sensitive to flea bites may result to a condition called popular urticaria that is mainly seen through a number of itchy red lumps. Bullae may also develop.

Bedbugs

Bedbug bites are not usually painful. And if it is your first time to be bitten by these pesky bugs, you may not develop any symptoms. However, if you have already been exposed to its saliva, you may develop intensely irritating weals or lumps. You may usually find the bite marks on your face, neck, hands and arms.

Ticks

It may be the mildest form of insect bite you will ever experience. It usually is not painful and may only develop red lump on the specific spot that you were bitten. In rare cases, certain conditions may occur; such as: swelling, itchiness, blistering, and bruising.

In some instances, they may also carry a bacterial infection called Borrelia burgdorferi that leads to Lyme disease and if not treated immediately it can be fatal.

Preventive Measures

There is nothing better than taking all precautions to avoid being bitten by insects. Children are most susceptible to its adverse effects, so moms please take serious note of the following measures:

• Apply some insect repellants that are known for its efficacy http://www.topshopnz.com/InsectRepellant.html

• Make sure that you cover-up when outdoors, especially during sunrise or sunset when the insects are mostly present. Put on trousers and long sleeves as well as wear shoes.

• Be aware of any insect nests in your area. If you find any near your house, call for professional assistance to have it removed.

• Have your pets regularly checked and treated for fleas to avoid infestations.

• When you plan to camp, make sure that you look for a spot away from ponds and swamps as these are the common places where mosquitoes and horseflies hang around.

• Do not stay near flowering plants, where there is food being served and near compost or garbage area.

• Avoid using perfumes and other products that have strong scents. These are known attractors of insects.

Let your children make the most of summer and let them bask in the sun and enjoy the outdoors without getting sick due to insect bites.  If you would like to look at prevention products check out our insect repellant section http://www.topshopnz.com/InsectRepellant.html  if you have been bitten chick out our allergy bites and stinks section   http://www.topshopnz.com/AllergicBitesandstings.html

Hay fever can really take away the fun of spring and summer. If you have been constantly experiencing hayfever and allergy symptoms year after year, you may want to consider taking a natural remedy to help boost your immune system, which will assist in combating the symptoms of the allergy season.

Natural ways to help combat the symptoms of hay fever.

More B for Me:

Increase intake of green foods because these are known to be very rich in anti-oxidants, chlorophyll, B complex vitamins and enzymes. Wheatgrass is a naturally rich source of all the above and if taken regularly may help increase your immunity against the cruel effects of hay fever.

The power of Garlic:

Garlic is another potent gift from Mother Nature that is known to help boost the immune system. It is a powerful blood purifier and has great anti-fungal and anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. Increasing your intake of garlic will definitely support your body to fight colds, flu and even allergies.

Yummy Honey:

Honey is also a potent immunity booster. Taking natural raw honey all through-out the year will definitely aid in digesting starchy carbohydrates and contains powerful enzymes that stimulate the immune system in order to strengthen it when the need arises, such as combating hay fever signs.

Vitamin C:

An increased intake of Vitamin C, can be from 1-2 grams daily, has been a great help in dealing with hay fever. It is known to assists in strengthening the immune system and may increase our chances in fighting off the symptoms.

Onions:

Onion is a practical and very helpful immunity booster. It puts your immune system’s reaction to hay fever at bay through its natural chemical called quercetin. The great part about onion is that it can be easily added to all kinds of food: salad, soup, main course or even just as a side dish.

All of these natural remedies are available all-year round. Taking them regularly will definitely assist in dealing with hay fever symptoms when the season strikes. But you can also buy some of these in tablet form in your local pharmacy so go ahead and go to the nearest one and ask any of the friendly staff are willing to help you with your options.

If you love to travel but one of those who suffer from travel sickness, you may be interested to know that there are 7 secrets to get instant relief and need not go through the motion of the sickness. But before we proceed with this topic, these remedies might work even better if you are aware of the logic behind it and what actually causes motion sickness.

What is motion sickness and what causes it?

It usually happens to people whose inner ear is very sensitive and sends wrong signals to the brains. It clashes with the messages from the other sensory organs such as the eyes and the nerves. The brain may decide that the body is experiencing an illusion.  And because illusions are created by something unreal, the brain may order the body to release some toxins; in this case vomiting in order to release something from the stomach.

Revealing the 7 Secrets

Secret # 1 Convince your brain that what you are experiencing is real.

It is only logical to convince the brain that what you are experiencing is normal. You can achieve this by focusing your eyes on the horizon or if you can afford to lie down you may also look at the ceiling. These positions will confirm what your eyes see with what your body feels.

Secret # 2 Alter your state of mind through the use of acupressure

Have you heard of pressure bracelets or wrist bands that help to prevent the feeling of motion sickness? What this tiny thing does is it applies the right amount of pressure to the nerves that connects to the stomach and sends an interrupting signal even before nausea takes place.

 Secret # 3 Choosing the right place

If you will only choose where to sit, you can easily prevent this condition. So make sure that you will pick the sit in the area that experiences the smoothest ride where motion is least likely to be felt. If you are riding an airplane, the best seat is the aisle seat, if you are riding a train, the car toward the front and if you are simply riding the car, it is always best to sit on the front. And finally, if you are going on a cruise  ask for the cabin at the center of the ship.

Secret # 4 Stay on your seat

As much as possible, don’t move while in transit and if you must go somewhere try to wait for the specific mode of transportation to stop. This may be difficult especially if you need to answer the call of nature but it will definitely help you from worsening the effects motion sickness.

Secret # 5 Don’t read and if possible sleep your way through the trip

It may be a good idea to leave your reading to your destination. Reading will create an additional imbalance to your sensory system that is already being disturbed by the sheer experience of travelling. So the last thing that you want to do is to aggravate the situation.

Secret # 6 Eat moderately

It may be a good idea to have something in your stomach before proceeding with the trip. This will help keep the over production of acid to a minimum.

Secret # 7 Stay calm and enjoy the trip

Look forward to what you will do after the trip to get your mind off the trip itself. And once you get on that boat, car, airplane or train, stay as calm and relaxed as possible. Do some breathing exercises and think positive. You will notice that you will feel a lot better.

Be Prepared if you think you will experience motion sickness or travel sickness on your journey then check out our travel sickness section of our online catalogue.

LINK TO

http://www.topshopnz.com/TravelandSeaSickness.html

Cold sores are caused by the virus herpes simplex and they are very contagious. It is characterized by small, painful blisters that are filled with fluid. They normally appear on the lips, gums or even inside the mouth. You may experience pain or tingling sensation a few days before the actual cold sores break out.

Who are Most Susceptible in Getting Cold Sores?

• People who live in high altitude places or cold places
• People who may be having an impending illness such as colds, coughs or flu
• People who are in a lot of stress
• People who may be directly exposed to strong heat of the sun.
• Women having their monthly period

What are the Common Cure for Cold Sores?

Here are some of the more common remedy that can be applied or taken support the body to help ease the pain or aid in the reduction of virus growth.

Lysine taken as a supplementation or Ointment

It is recommended that Lysine supplements that may come in tablet forms be taken at high dosage during the episode of cold sores. A dosage of 1,000 mg. taken three times a day is found to help shorten the gestation period of cold sores. It normally lasts from 7 to 10 days.

Lemon Balm is another well-known support in healing cold sores. It has anti-viral properties that promote the healing of blisters and may reduce the appearance for as short as 5 days. And if used on a regular basis, it may help in decreasing the frequency of recurrence.

Propolis is also known as bee propolis was found to be an active fighter of herpes simplex 1 virus. Further studies are being conducted as to what form it is best to prevent cold sores.

Be responsible in looking for various ways to cure cold sores if you think you have it or if you frequently acquire the illness. This will help you ease your discomfort as well as assist to prevent its recurrence.

Buy  Coldsore Treatments Online From Top Shopping New Zealand. Ship Fast Overnight.

“Very fast service – very impressed. Thank you so much!”- Samantha, Palmerston North 04/01/11

“A very friendly, personal and efficient service. Not only did I receive a phone call regarding my order and other options available to me, the products arrived the following day and I also received follow up e-mails to check everything was in order.

Much appreciated and a pleasure to deal with.”
Jennie Cooper, Millers Flat, 31/12/10

Lysine acts as nutritional support for cold sores, herpes and shingles, Mouth ulcers, healthy clear skin and lips and general skin healing support for damaged skin. Lysine can be taken safely long term to prevent the recurrence of herpes infections.

Kordels Agewise Lysine 1000mg High Potency Lysine Fomula

Kordels High Potency Lysine Formula contains 1000mg of lysine. Lysine aids in the production of antibodies, hormones and enzymes plus helps in collagen formation and tissue repair. Lysine has been reported to aid in the management of cold sores caused by herpes simplexs by interfering with the ability of the virus to reproduce.

“How Can Lysine Help?”

• Helps reduce the incidence of cold sore infections by helping to restrict the growth and development of virus involved.
• To assist in relieving the pain and itching of herpes and shingles infections.
• Helps maintain healthy skin and mucous membranes.
• Essential amino acid for the formation of collagen needed for healthy skin and other proteins.

What is herpes?

Herpes is a particular type of virus. There are several different species of the herpes virus: e.g.

• Herpes Simplex which causes cold sores on the lips and on the genitals;
• Herpes Zoster which causes shingles, a painful nerve disease;
• Epstein Barr Virus which causes chronic fatigue syndrome;
• Varicella Zoster virus which causes chickenpox. In many cases these viral attacks involve deterioration of the skin or mucous membranes in some way

How long does it take for Lysine to work?

This depends on the length of the infection and the strength of the lysine supplement  you are taking. For acute infections, lysine may start to take effect in a few days, for long term problems, lysine will need to be taken regularly for up to 6 weeks before results are apparent.

Kordels Lysine 1000mg 60 Pack

Optifast Diet Soup

Eating healthy is an important part of weight loss. The most important weight loss lesson is to BE PREPARED.

Most unhealthy snacking occurs because we are busy, on the go, and do not have “time to make something healthy”. This is why we need to have healthy calorie controlled meals on hand to make sure we do not fall off the weight loss wagon.

Winter Savings

During the chilly winter months Optifast Chicken Soup is a great meal replacement option which not only tastes great but can save you money. Because you are only eating Optifast products in the early stages you are not spending extra money on snacks and eating out so some people actually save money on their normal grocery bill.

“How Do I Make Optifast Chicken Soup?”

Simply Dissolve one sachet in 200ml of water and stir until dissolved. If you want more soup or a subtler flavour simply dilute with more hot water. You can also make this in the microwave with cold water on high for one minute or make it on a stove top stirring while cooking.

Optifast Soup

Make it your own!

You can also add your 2 cups of allowed vegetables to your soup to make a delicious and healthy chicken and vegetable soup.

Try optifast Chicken Soup today- NOTE: Also comes in Optifast Mixed Vegetable Soup Flavour

Learn more about Optifast Products

Clinicians Neptune Krill Oil – A Major Breakthrough In Omega 3 capsules.

Do you ever ask “mirror mirror on the wall… which is the purest fish oil source of them all? “  When choosing your omega 3 supplements you want to take note of two things SOURCE of the fish oil and the STRENGTH of the fish oil.

SOURCE: We all know about the dangers of mercury in our fish… but what about our fish oil. Neptune krill oil is sourced from the artic making it one of natures most pure sources of krill oil as it is far away from man made contamination.

STRENGTH: I often look around local supermarkets and pharmacies and see bulk bins of reduced fish oil - this seems like a great deal – then on close inspection I see that the fish oil is poor quality or of a low percentage so pay half as much but have to take twice as much to get the benefits.

Finding this hard to swallow? Make a Sensible Choice for your family!

There is no getting away from the fact that regular Omega 3 capsules are large and difficult to swallow for many people. As a busy mother it is frustrating to know the benefits omega 3 can give to your growing children yet them not be able to swallow the capsules.

Neptune Krill Oil

Here’s a secret: krill oil capsules are small in comparison, much easier for children to swallow and becuase of their unique qualities much more powerful .

The unique properties of Neptune krill oil means you can get all the benefits of omega 3 yet only take 1 or 2 capsules daily.

Just think about getting powerful antioxidants including including vitamin A, E and astaxanthin (a carotenoid-like substance) into your children’s diet. To think that krill oil has 47 times the antioxidant potential of regular fish oils.

Learn more about Neptune Krill Oil

Buy Neptune Krill Oil Now