Easy Steps : How To Connect Your Laptop To Your HD TV

Are you looking for ways to connect your Windows 8 and windows 7 computer to your HD TV?  If you are ,then your search ends here.

Many people have been searching on how to connect windows 8 , windows 7 computer to an television all across the web, even i keep getting mails where people asked  if they could connect their laptops or desktop PCs to their HD television . This is absolutely possible, Most Laptops, Desktop and HD TV that are been made these days have these feature installed, which means you can connect your windows computer with your HD TV with simple steps

Today in this post, I am going to show you exclusively how to connect a second display monitor (HD TV) to your PC and also how to switch the displays. meaning you can easily enjoy your Games, movies etc on your HD TV display.

For you to accomplish this task, all you need is Your PC (a desktop computer or laptop) with HDMI or VGA port , Your HD TV, And the HDMI or VGA cable, Then get ready to connect your TV and PC .

How to Connect your Windows 8 / Windows 7 PC to Your TV

1. Once you have gotten your HDMI or VGA cable ready, Now look out for the HDMI and VGA port on your PC as well as your Television. Most of these HD television comes with the HDMI port at the back and laptops have it at the side. This HDMI port makes connection of other devices to the tv not just he laptop easy. Such devices includes PS3, XBOX, Blu ray disc player or DVD player.

2. After you have located that, then insert the cable in the right spot on the HD TV and then PC. Once you have done that, then Go over to your Windows 8 /windows 7 desktop, Here we need to make some changed to the display.

3. Right click on the desktop and then click on “Screen Resolution” like it is below;

4. Now on that screen resolution page, Your TV should have been detected,there you will see the name of your TV listed on “Display” option. That means connection have been made successfully, But if the TV name is not listed , You can use the Detect button like it is below to detect from the screen resolution menu.

5. Now go over to the “Multiple Display” option and then select “Extend these displays ” or “Duplicate these displays” . Choosing the “Extend these displays ” Feature lets you extend the display of your PC screen but with the “Duplicate these displays ” it will create the duplicate screen of your Windows 8 / WIndows 7 desktop on your TV.

Thats all. Now your Windows 8 /windows 7 display should be showing on your HD television screen as your second monitor.

Best Way To Enjoy Your Windows 8 Experience

One of the biggest tech event last year was the launch of the new windows operating system which is the windows 8. The windows 8 launching was a bang!. Many individuals have already migrated to windows 8 few weeks after the launch while many are still in-love with the old OS base on individual choice.

Just like we have everything in life just like applications, they all have their own advantages and disadvantages so also the windows 8 is not an exception.

The windows 8 is an operating system that was designed with a full focus on the touch-interface and Internet-cloud interface which is highly in vogue in today’s tech world.
Even though its a thing in vogue many people already concluded that its too complicated to use while Microsoft explained that windows 8 is the simplest to use. If you are one of these finding things hard with windows 8, you can easily roll back to windows 7 but if you still want a way out on how to enhance and enjoy your windows 8 experience then this post is for you.
Windows 8 comes with great features and functionality, so here the best and unique ways to make you improve your Windows 8 experience;

1. Start Menu:

Since the windows 8 OS was released there have been lots of criticism toward Microsoft for not including the traditional iconic Start Menu. But even with this not coming as default it doesn’t mean you cannot get the old start up menu back on your windows 8. There are many third party apps that can help you accomplish this which include;

• StartIsBack: With this app, you can get the start button icon easily on your windows 8 PC, and not just that, it adds the search box as well as the similar jump lists with the windows 7 aero transparency.
• Pokki: I love this apps. It allows you to make your windows 8 computer boot to the Desktop directly. Pokki also allows you to disable the  blistering corners totally and also the ability to add widgets such as Facebook and Gmail to Pokki which allows you to easy get live status feed and email alerts on your desktop.
• StartMenu8: This works like Pokki too, it allows you to boot to the Desktop directly. You can as well remove the windows 8 sidebar display
• Classic Shell: This another great app that allows you to add back the start menu on your windows 8 computer.

SEE THIS : How To Get Windows 7 Start Menu On Windows 8
Adding Start Menu without any add-on?
If you want to add the start menu on your Windows 8 PC without the use of any addon you can easily do this too by following the steps below:

• Enable -Show Hidden Files option.
• Right-click on Taskbar and then click on Toolbars and then click on the – New toolbar.
• Move to – C:Program DataMicrosoftWindows.
• Click on Start Menu and then choose- Select Folder.
• Once you have done this, then you will see a new Start Menu folder in the
• Program Folder with all your installed and in-built programs will be displayed there.

2. Ease of Access:

In-case you haven’t noticed this , the Windows 8 File Explorer, Task Manager and Control Panel are very much better when it comes to monitoring and controlling of your Windows 8 PC.This is something you should be glad you have in your PC. The Group Policy Editor as well is a very nice feature that allows you to modify your windows without the use of external apps.

3. Third party apps:

Even though there are great mail client such as Thunderbird and eM Client in the market that can give you some wonderful messaging experience on your windows 8 PC. There are as well other great apps that you can use for these same purpose. This is because the OS is mainly designed to function greatly with web programs and applications.

4. Windows 8 Keyboard shortcuts:

Windows 8 comes with lots f keyboard shortcuts, and these includes the following:

• “Windows” key to – Open the Start screen or you can also switch to the already opened Desktop.
• Windows key + D – To open Windows Desktop.
• Windows key + . – To pin or unpin Windows apps screen side.
• Windows key + X – To open the power user menu. This menu gives access to many power use features like Device Manager and Command Prompt.
• Windows key + C – To open Charms.
• Windows key + I – To open Settings, same as the Charms settings.
• Press and hold Windows key + Tab – To show open apps.
• Windows key + Print screen key – To create a screen shot. This will be routinely saved into the My Pictures folder.

READ MORE: Windows 8 Easy Shortcut Guide

5. Open two apps side by side:

Do you know that you can PIN different app side by side on your windows 8 screen? To do this;

• Just open any app, and then press Windows Key + .
• Once you do that, the app will then move over t the ill move the app to the right-hand side of the screen
• If you press this same keys, it will move the same app to the left side.
• If you press it 3 times in a row, it will make he app open in full screen.

Also if you intend opening another with the other app still running you can make use of the drag feature to pin the app you have opened to the lest or right side of the screen. You can do this my clicking on the top of the tile.

6. Pin your web page:

The default windows 8 browser which is the internet explorer 10 allows you to pin any webpage to the start screen.

7. Enhance battery life:

• Go over to the Control Panel >>  “Troubleshooting”.
• In the troubleshoot page you will see the “Improve power usage” in the System and Security column.
• Now click on “Improve power usage” to open Power troubleshooter.
• Click on – Next and you are done. This will automatically diagnose any battery problem with your system.

8. Start websites and apps right from Taskbar:

• Right-click on the – taskbar.
• Choose Toolbar’s and then click Address.
• Type short names of the apps (“calc” for calculator), or url of the website to launch the program you desire.

My Pen’s Up

Its obvious that many people currently using the Windows 8 do not know about many of this features the OS comes with and already thinking of downgrading. But if you follow the tips i have above you will surely enjoy your windows 8 PC.

How To Easily Downgrade Windows 8 Pro To Windows 7

Are you currently a windows 8 pro PC user and you wish for a way to downgrade your PC to the previous version of windows 8 which is windows 7?
Well there are many reasons to do this, many users do not find the usage of windows 8 easy, whereas Microsoft has shown us how easy a child can even show us how to use windows 8. Well the metro UI interface is an issue for some users.
So if you are having issues with windows 8 and wish to downgrade then you don’t have to search further. Here you will learn how to easily downgrade windows 8 to windows 7 yourself.
You should know that when you downgrade your windows 8 PC to windows 7 you can still keep your files.
The Downgrade process  is created for just cooperates and business, but as an individual that wants to downgrade you can also do that but it requires more procedures unlike the business and cooperate party.

Things to know when Downgrading Windows 8 Pro To Windows 7

i have carefully prepared this tutorial on how you can easily accomplish this task, but there are few things you need to put into consideration before Downgrading your windows 8 to windows 7
1. You need to be sure that your windows PC supports windows 7 and its drivers.
2. Now you need to be sure you have a restore point for windows 8 installation which will enable you to then create a copy of the systems recovery drive on order for your to restore in case such need arises.

How To Downgrade Windows 8 to Windows 7

1. Now since you are on windows 8 PC , then you will be required to input the UEFI settings screen  in order for the legacy boot option to be enabled. (Please consult your PC manual if you are not sure on how to get to the UEFI settings ).
2. Now bring out your original windows 7 pro installation disc with the original license key, Microsoft already noted that if you are going to use a downloaded copy for file sharing sites then downgrading will not work because its meant for just business users.
3. Now you need to start the windows 7 installation just the way normal installation takes place, in the process you will be required to input the original license once installation completes, then you need to click on activate windows, if you get any failure message, then it only means one thing, your is already in use.
But
4. If it activates, then you need to press the start button then type in activate then call the number that will be displayed through that , you can now talk to the customer representative and explain to them that you are trying to downgrade your windows 8 pro PC to windows 7 which you fully have the right to do so.
To prove you are right, you will be required to produce your windows 8 pro key
5. Then you will be given an activation code which can only be used once. You will be required to input the code into the activation window, then your windows 7 professional will become live and activated.
In the case that you want to downgrade lots of computers, you can easily install your windows7 using the same windows 7 product key for all but you will be required to call the Microsoft customer representative to get the activation key.

So this is an easy guide that should put you through con how to downgrade windows 8 pro on your computer.

Review : Samsung Galaxy Gear Wrist Watch

 Samsung mobiles next launch, which is the smart wrist watch. The organization (Samsung) has arranged a media occasion to present its new variant Note III “Phablet” which is a cross of Phone and Tablet. On that day, The media wants Samsung to talk about the launch of the Galaxy Gear Smart watch. The Launching will be held in Berlin and New York. The organization has additionally wanted to have a pop-up store in Times Square. It might serve to give the watches better sales.

This sort of second screens for Smartphone is not a new idea though. A second generation smart watch was as of late presented by Sony. Apple additionally reported that the organization has wanted to deal with an iWatch. For Samsung likewise the thought is not by any stretch of the imagination new. The organization had presented its first smart watch phone in 1999. Till now the improvements of the watches are under customers’ desires. Experts say that Samsung is in the top position of selling Smartphone’s worldwide. Thus Samsung Galaxy Gear will be the incredible second screen for the Galaxy Phone users. The non Flexible screen might be the disadvantage for the Galaxy Gear Smart Watch.

Developers had wanted to have a square screen to have a high caliber OLED display which indicates the full range of shades. The display is around 2.5 inches. Also the Gadget runs with dual core processor 1.5GHz with better battery life. The resolution of Galaxy Gear is 320 x 320 .It will also come in five diverse colors like White, Black, Golden White, Yellow and Red.

The smart watch will come with Polaroid and tiny speakers in strap. The brilliant watch uses Bluetooth 4.0 LE. The inbuilt Bluetooth serves to connect your Smartphone effectively with your wrist watch. The point when the watch is moved towards your eye, the accelerometer switch on the device. The watch screen works with the ordinary touch as like mobile gadgets. The Nike Fuel band is utilized as a wearable strap.

The Galaxy Gear watch works with Android 4.1. The Samsung Galaxy Gear Wrist Watch  gets connected with the cell phones or tablets by using the watch manager application on the mobile devices. The app for smart savvy watch won’t be on Google play. It will be from the Samsung Application store. In the event that you require a Samsung Galaxy Gear watch then you may as well have a Samsung Galaxy smart phone or tablet.

As we all realize that the innovation of Samsung is all due to the impact of Apple company device. Samsung is in urge to start its smart watch before Apple’s iwatch. In the event that Samsung Galaxy fails in User Interface challenges or different issues of connecting the smart watch with mobile phone then Samsung will set up an Apple iwatch for more stupendous success.

Omate Truesmart watch

Omate Truesmart - a smartwatch with a built-in five megapixel camera - is set to go into production after hitting its crowdfunding target.

The device raised more than $100,000 (£63,760) of pledges on fundraising site Kickstarter, guaranteeing it will get the cash.
Another watch, Pebble, secured a record $10.2m via the funding site last year.
Omate's achievement comes ahead of the much-anticipated launch of a smartwatch from Samsung.
The South Korean firm has confirmed it is working on the product and has filed patents for possible designs.
It has not announced when it will unveil the product, but its next scheduled event is at Berlin's Ifa consumer tech show in a fortnight's time.

Working prototypes

Unlike many of the smartwatches already on the market, Omate says the Truesmart can be fitted with a micro-Sim card to make use of its 3G chip.
This will allow it to make voice calls and send social media messages without having to be paired with a smartphone or tablet - although that is also an option.

Other details announced by New York-based team include:

Omate says its watch will be able to run apps and make voice calls

• Google's Android 4.2.2 operating system will power it, allowing it to run apps including fitness activity trackers
• The touchscreen will be 1.5in (3.9cm)
• It will be water-resistant, allowing it to be worn while swimming, but not if diving
• It will offer GPS location support
• It can be operated via gesture controls
• Its 4 gigabytes of internal storage can be boosted by up to an additional 32GB using a microSD card

One of Omate's three co-founders told the BBC that the project had been in development for one-and-a-half years and that they already had a factory in Shenzhen, China ready to go into production.
"We already have working prototypes, but not the final design," said Nick Yap.
"Most of the functions are there but we still need to add voice and gesture controls.
"There will be a swipe-based touch function and another when you move, like Nintendo's Wii games control. For example you will be able to flick your wrist to show the clock."
He added that his company planned to make samples of the finished product next month and to ship the first watches to customers in October.

Hyetis intends to offer a Swiss-built smartwatch with a 41 megapixel camera

The planned retail price is $299 (£190)

Luxury smartwatch

Omate is not the only new firm teasing a camera-equipped smartwatch.
Earlier this month Geneva-based Hyetis announced plans for Crossbow - a product with a 41 megapixel camera in its side.
The developer said that it intended the device to be able to interact with iOS, Android and Windows 8 handsets and added it would cost $1,200.
It said that it intended to ship the product by the end of the year, although one tech journalist has suggested that may be an over-ambitious target.
"This strikes me as a start-up with a big idea," wrote Mike Elgan.
"I doubt they'll ship this year, and it's possible they may never ship. Still, it's an ambitious effort.
Tech consultancy Gartner predicts the global wearable computing market could be worth $10bn by 2016.

Google has already sent out test versions of Google Glass to developers

However, one of its analysts had doubts about the products being proposed by Omate and Hyetis.
"The whole point about the camera in Google Glass [eyewear] is that you can take a photo just by looking at somebody," said Carolina Milanesi.
"With these watches you'd have to position your hand and extend your arm to take a picture. The idea of including a lens seems like a gimmick and not something that people would want to use in that kind of way.
"But the idea of letting them be used underwater is a big thing because fitness trackers like the Nike Fuelband and the Jawbone Up can't currently go in the swimming pool."

Sell outs?

Pebble - whose smartwatch features an e-paper display to reduce power-use, but no camera - has been the most successful start-up of its kind so far.
The California-based firm revealed in July that it had received about 275,000 pre-orders for its device. The $150 product has since gone on sale at Best Buy stores in the US.

Pebble holds the record for the largest amount of money raised via Kickstarter

But Ms Milanesi said Gartner expected that it would be more established firms that would ultimately triumph in the sector.
"Pebble has helped kick off the whole idea, but I think for a lot of these companies it's about being bought out eventually or at least selling their assets.

"I think consumers are really looking for something from the key players - such as Samsung, Google and Apple - or maybe one of the established brands that already make watches."

How To Easily Downgrade Windows 8 Pro To Windows 7

Are you currently a windows 8 pro PC user and you wish for a way to downgrade your PC to the previous version of windows 8 which is windows 7?
Well there are many reasons to do this, many users do not find the usage of windows 8 easy, whereas Microsoft has shown us how easy a child can even show us how to use windows 8. Well the metro UI interface is an issue for some users.
So if you are having issues with windows 8 and wish to downgrade then you don’t have to search further. Here you will learn how to easily downgrade windows 8 to windows 7 yourself.
You should know that when you downgrade your windows 8 PC to windows 7 you can still keep your files.
The Downgrade process  is created for just cooperates and business, but as an individual that wants to downgrade you can also do that but it requires more procedures unlike the business and cooperate party.

Things to know when Downgrading Windows 8 Pro To Windows 7

i have carefully prepared this tutorial on how you can easily accomplish this task, but there are few things you need to put into consideration before Downgrading your windows 8 to windows 7
1. You need to be sure that your windows PC supports windows 7 and its drivers.
2. Now you need to be sure you have a restore point for windows 8 installation which will enable you to then create a copy of the systems recovery drive on order for your to restore in case such need arises.

How To Downgrade Windows 8 to Windows 7

1. Now since you are on windows 8 PC , then you will be required to input the UEFI settings screen  in order for the legacy boot option to be enabled. (Please consult your PC manual if you are not sure on how to get to the UEFI settings ).
2. Now bring out your original windows 7 pro installation disc with the original license key, Microsoft already noted that if you are going to use a downloaded copy for file sharing sites then downgrading will not work because its meant for just business users.
3. Now you need to start the windows 7 installation just the way normal installation takes place, in the process you will be required to input the original license once installation completes, then you need to click on activate windows, if you get any failure message, then it only means one thing, your is already in use.
But
4. If it activates, then you need to press the start button then type in activate then call the number that will be displayed through that , you can now talk to the customer representative and explain to them that you are trying to downgrade your windows 8 pro PC to windows 7 which you fully have the right to do so.
To prove you are right, you will be required to produce your windows 8 pro key
5. Then you will be given an activation code which can only be used once. You will be required to input the code into the activation window, then your windows 7 professional will become live and activated.
In the case that you want to downgrade lots of computers, you can easily install your windows7 using the same windows 7 product key for all but you will be required to call the Microsoft customer representative to get the activation key.

So this is an easy guide that should put you through con how to downgrade windows 8 pro on your computer.

Reducing nervousness naturally

By Simply Supplements

Whether it’s public speaking, preparing for an exam, meeting new people, or being in a crowded place, we are all affected by nervousness from time to time. Though it is a natural sensation, there are steps that can be taken to reduce nervousness, such as regular exercise andnatural remedies.

What happens when you feel nervous?

When you are nervous, stress hormones are released into the body, meaning you may feel on edge and as though your mind is racing. Nervousness is a perfectly normal reaction, although if you feel nervous on a regular basis, it can start to play havoc with your day-to-day life.

Anxiety and nervousness can lead to fatigue, insomnia and sleepless night, and even depression. Here are some suggestions for reducing nerves naturally.

Breathe!

Practicing deep breathing techniques is one of the most tried and tested remedies for nerves. This provides an increased oxygen supply in the blood, which in turn improves brain and nervous system function. This allows the body to relax and ease nervous tension.

Try the ‘4-7-8’ breathing technique: breathe in to the count of four, hold your breath for the count of seven, and then exhale slowly for the count of eight.

Drink calming drinks

Herbal teas are a popular source of relief from nervousness and anxiety. Sleep Tight tea contains lavender, chamomile, and ginger, all of which are widely believed to offer relaxing qualities and relieve stress and nerves.

Calm yourself with oils

Essential oils are another popular home remedy for reducing nervousness. Try massaging a calming oil, such as lavender, into your hands to reducing feelings of anxiety and agitation.

Calming oils can also offer relief and relaxation when added to a warm bath, or when burned in an oil burner to provide a relaxing D.I.Y. aromatherapy setting.

Burn off energy

Exercising on a regular basis can help to reduce nervousness, as it releases serotonin in the brain. This chemical is responsible for increasing mood and a sense of well-being. Try to exercise for half an hour a day, at least five times a week.

Get rid of the caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant that increases the heart rate. This can lead to an increase in nervousness. Try to cut down or eliminate caffeine intake, and instead try drinking water or herbal teas.

Meditation

Meditation can be an effective way to ease your nerves, as it allows you to control racing thoughts and feelings. It also enables you to concentrate on your breathing, which can help with relaxation and calming nervousness.

Supplements to reduce nervousness

• Vitamin B Complex – The B vitamins are essential for nervous system function, and are thought to play a role in mood regulation. B vitamins are also important in the production of serotonin, known as the ‘feel-good’ chemical. Vitamin B complex is a popular remedy for nervousness.

• Calcium & Magnesium – Both calcium and magnesium are calming minerals, and may therefore help to ease and prevent nervous tension. It is believed that calcium and magnesium work together synergistically to relax the nervous system and combat tension and anxiety. 

• Vitamin C – A vital nutrient and antioxidant for nervous system function,vitamin C with bioflavonoids is thought to help with the reduction of stress and nervousness.

What situations make you nervous? Try our tips to calm yourself down the next time your nerves get the better of you.

Can your nails indicate problems with your health?

By Simply Supplements

The appearance of your nails can be an indicator of underlying health issues. Nail markings and deformities can be signs of bigger problems, such as nutritional deficiencies.

A healthy diet and some food supplements may help to improve general health issues that are displayed by the nails.

What should healthy nails look like?

Healthy nails should be white in colour, with a smooth surface.  The nail beds (the skin underneath the nail) should be pink. Discolouration or marks on the nails can be caused by a range of factors.

Deformities and markings

• Pitted nails (small depressions in the nails)
  A rippled or pitted surface on the nails could be an early sign of psoriasis or inflammatory arthritis. It may also be a pointer to a lack of protein, or deficiencies in vitamin C or folic acid.

Steps to take: Try adding more fruit and vegetables to your diet. Broccoli, peppers, and citrus fruits are all good sources of vitamin C.Folic acid can be found in leafy green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and asparagus. Folic acid supplements can also be taken to boost levels.

• Spoon nails
  Nails that are soft and appear to be scooped are known as spoon nails. The depression in the nail is normally big enough to hold a drop of liquid. This can be a sign of iron deficiency anaemia, while a vitamin B2 deficiency can also cause spoon nails.

Steps to take: Increase iron intake. Iron can be found in liver, meat, and beans, as well as in nutritional iron supplements.Milk, rice, and eggs provide a source of vitamin B2.

• Cracked or peeling nails
  Cracked nails caused by dryness and brittleness have been connected to thyroid problems, and may also be caused by insufficient stomach acid. If the cracking is accompanied by a yellow colour, it is more likely to be caused by a fungal infection. Deficiencies in vitamin A and calcium can also contribute to cracking and splitting of the nails.

Steps to take: The best food source of calcium is dairy products, though people who are dairy intolerant or watching their dairy intake may wish to take a supplement in order to get their recommended level. Leafy green vegetables also provide calcium.Cheese, yoghurt, and eggs provide levels of vitamin A, but can often be quite fattening. A cod liver oil supplement also provides excellent levels of vitamin A.

• Ridged nails
  Horizontal ridges that run the width of the nail may be caused by injury, or by thyroid problems. Severe stress may also be a cause, while a deficiency in B vitamins may be responsible.Vertical ridges (running the length of the nail) can be an indication that the body is not absorbing nutrients properly, or that you may be suffering from a kidney problem. An iron deficiency may also cause vertical ridges.

Steps to take: Eating from all of the food groups should provide the body with all of the B vitamins, but B vitamin deficiency is common in the UK. Supplementing with Vitamin B Complex can help to overcome this.

• White spots
  White marks on the nails may be caused by an injury such as a bang to the nail. White marks may also be an indication that you are deficient in zinc, an important mineral for immunity and skin, or calcium, which is vital for bone health.

Steps to take: Zinc can be found in meat, shellfish, and dairy products. However, some diets do not provide enough, so a zinc supplement can help to top up levels that are deficient.

• Bitten or gnawed nails
  Though it may be nothing more than habit, nail biting can be a sign of anxiety and stress. It has also been linked to obsessive compulsive disorder. If you are unable to stop biting, it may be beneficial to see your doctor.

Steps to take:Take our test to find out whether or not you are stressed, and to learn how to overcome your tension.

Whilst a healthy diet can provide many of the essential nutrients for good health, changes in soil quality and mass production techniques mean that food in the UK is no longer as nutritious as it once was, so supplementation is often an option.

What are your nails telling you about your health?

Can your nails indicate problems with your health?

By Simply Supplements

The appearance of your nails can be an indicator of underlying health issues. Nail markings and deformities can be signs of bigger problems, such as nutritional deficiencies.

A healthy diet and some food supplements may help to improve general health issues that are displayed by the nails.

What should healthy nails look like?

Healthy nails should be white in colour, with a smooth surface.  The nail beds (the skin underneath the nail) should be pink. Discolouration or marks on the nails can be caused by a range of factors.

Deformities and markings

• Pitted nails (small depressions in the nails)
  A rippled or pitted surface on the nails could be an early sign of psoriasis or inflammatory arthritis. It may also be a pointer to a lack of protein, or deficiencies in vitamin C or folic acid.

Steps to take: Try adding more fruit and vegetables to your diet. Broccoli, peppers, and citrus fruits are all good sources of vitamin C.Folic acid can be found in leafy green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and asparagus. Folic acid supplements can also be taken to boost levels.

• Spoon nails
  Nails that are soft and appear to be scooped are known as spoon nails. The depression in the nail is normally big enough to hold a drop of liquid. This can be a sign of iron deficiency anaemia, while a vitamin B2 deficiency can also cause spoon nails.

Steps to take: Increase iron intake. Iron can be found in liver, meat, and beans, as well as in nutritional iron supplements.Milk, rice, and eggs provide a source of vitamin B2.

• Cracked or peeling nails
  Cracked nails caused by dryness and brittleness have been connected to thyroid problems, and may also be caused by insufficient stomach acid. If the cracking is accompanied by a yellow colour, it is more likely to be caused by a fungal infection. Deficiencies in vitamin A and calcium can also contribute to cracking and splitting of the nails.

Steps to take: The best food source of calcium is dairy products, though people who are dairy intolerant or watching their dairy intake may wish to take a supplement in order to get their recommended level. Leafy green vegetables also provide calcium.Cheese, yoghurt, and eggs provide levels of vitamin A, but can often be quite fattening. A cod liver oil supplement also provides excellent levels of vitamin A.

• Ridged nails
  Horizontal ridges that run the width of the nail may be caused by injury, or by thyroid problems. Severe stress may also be a cause, while a deficiency in B vitamins may be responsible.Vertical ridges (running the length of the nail) can be an indication that the body is not absorbing nutrients properly, or that you may be suffering from a kidney problem. An iron deficiency may also cause vertical ridges.

Steps to take: Eating from all of the food groups should provide the body with all of the B vitamins, but B vitamin deficiency is common in the UK. Supplementing with Vitamin B Complex can help to overcome this.

• White spots
  White marks on the nails may be caused by an injury such as a bang to the nail. White marks may also be an indication that you are deficient in zinc, an important mineral for immunity and skin, or calcium, which is vital for bone health.

Steps to take: Zinc can be found in meat, shellfish, and dairy products. However, some diets do not provide enough, so a zinc supplement can help to top up levels that are deficient.

• Bitten or gnawed nails
  Though it may be nothing more than habit, nail biting can be a sign of anxiety and stress. It has also been linked to obsessive compulsive disorder. If you are unable to stop biting, it may be beneficial to see your doctor.

Steps to take:Take our test to find out whether or not you are stressed, and to learn how to overcome your tension.

Whilst a healthy diet can provide many of the essential nutrients for good health, changes in soil quality and mass production techniques mean that food in the UK is no longer as nutritious as it once was, so supplementation is often an option.

What are your nails telling you about your health?

10 step plan to healthier skin

By Simply Supplements

Eating healthy food for better skin is one of the best ways to improve your complexion, but there are plenty of other steps you can take, while certain supplements for skin care can also help.

Skin reflects your health

Taking care of your body is important for healthy skin. The skin can also be a good indicator of your general health; it can reflect any nutritional deficiencies or underlying conditions that you may be suffering from.

Follow our 10 step plan for healthy skin.

Step 1- Drink up

Drink plenty of water (6-8 glasses a day) to ensure that your skin is sufficiently hydrated. When the skin is dehydrated, the skin may become dry and wrinkled. As a tastier alternative to plain water, try herbal Daily Cleanze tea, which also offers antioxidant properties that may help to improve the health of the skin.

Step 2: Stub it out

Smoking can prevent the skin from getting enough oxygen, leading it to become discoloured through a lack of adequate nutrition. The chemicals within cigarettes also contribute to the breakdown of collagen, the substance which gives skin its elasticity and firmness. As a result, skin may sag and wrinkle more easily. Tobacco can also stain the fingers an unsightly yellow colour. By giving up smoking, you can reduce the ill effects that the habit has on the skin.

Step 3: Love your liver

Like smoking, excessive alcohol intake can also impact on your skin. Alcohol can restrict the access of essential vitamins and nutrients to the skin, and also dehydrates the body, which can cause dry skin. Over time, excessive drinking can cause unsightly skin issues such as rosacea, a condition that is identifiable by a blushing of the skin. Reduce the amount you drink in order to improve the health of your skin.

Step 4: Food for better skin

Try to consume plenty of fruit and vegetables (5-6 portions per day), as these offer high antioxidant properties. These can help to rid the body of harmful free radical particles that may damage the skin. Also try to consume low-fat dairy products; these provide good levels of vitamin A, a vital nutrient for skin health.

Nutrition experts also recommend consuming 2-3 portions of oily fish (such as salmon or mackerel) per week, as these provide essential fatty acids that promote good skin health by fighting inflammatory conditions like dermatitis.

Step 5: Reduce bad fats

Though some fats, such as those in oily fish, are good for the skin, other types of fat can be bad for you.

Saturated fats (found in dairy products like cheese and butter) are okay to consume in moderation, but should form no more than 11% of your total daily fat allowance. This is because saturated fats are inflammatory, which can cause uneven skin tone, redness, spots, and blemishes.

Trans fats, those created to increase shelf life of produce, are even worse for us because they raise levels of ‘bad’ cholesterol. This can lead to a clogging or hardening of the arteries, meaning that blood circulation is negatively affected. This lack of circulation prevents the skin from getting an adequate blood supply, and deprives it of receiving the essential nutrients it needs. To improve skin health, try to eliminate trans fats from your diet.

Step 6: Beware of the sun

A little sun exposure is actually good for us; the skin uses the sunlight to produce vitamin D, a vital nutrient for bone health. However, overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can harm the skin through sunburn. Over a longer period of time, too much sun can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.

When in the sun, remember to wear a sun lotion with a high sun protection factor (SPF), and limit exposure during the most intense hours (11am-3pm).

Step 7: Look after your stomach

Digestion is important to the skin’s appearance. A poor diet or food intolerances can present themselves in the shape of acne breakouts, rashes, or flushing of the skin. Try adding a probiotic supplement such as DigestiWell Plus to your diet, to increase the friendly bacteria in your system and aid digestion.

Step 8: Take evening primrose oil

Evening primrose oil is one of the most common supplements for skin. It contains the omega 6 fatty acid GLA which is thought to help reduce dryness and itchiness. Evening primrose oil is therefore often taken by people who suffer from dry skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.

Step 9: Zinc

Zinc is an essential trace element that can help to boost the immune system, helping the body to guard against infection and illness which may cause skin conditions. Zinc is also vital to the production of new skin cells, and is therefore thought to be important in repairing damaged skin. Taking a zinc supplement can help to boost levels in the body, and may be beneficial if you suffer from poor skin.

Step 10: Check your tolerance

Certain foods can cause an allergy in some people, one of the symptoms of which may be an itchy rash on the skin. If you believe you may have had an allergic reaction, consult your doctor who may provide an allergy test to identify which food is the cause.