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Q: Dr. Fine, which Aphrodisiacs do you, recommend if any?

A: Ever since the love goddess Aphrodite emerged from the sea we have sort out remedies to fuel desire. There is a vast aphrodisiac food list from almonds to wine. These foods and spices some of which are sexually suggestive have strong effects grounded in ritual, folklore, prophecy and culture. There is little scientific evidence to support these claims. For example dark chocolate does contain phenylethylamine and there is a scientific theory to suggest that phenylethylamine when released in the brain may be involved in sexual attraction and arousal but it is unlikely that any significant amounts would reach the brain when ingested orally.

The Aphrodisiac that I do recommend, a perfect paring for Valentines Day, that will enhance passion is genuine tender loving care and unconditional love.

Sex is a creative energy so put some thought into an intimate celebration. Seek inspiration from good memories and a commitment to the future. You may even wish to renew your vows and if your partner loves chocolate, by all means.

Dr Fine’s Recommendation for Valentines Day is to make  “A Valentines Day Resolution” instead of a New Years Resolution.

The New Year has traditionally been the signal for us to evaluate the past year and make plans for the next. As we reassess the disappointments of the past, the excitement of new possibilities for the future usually leads us to make our “New Years Resolutions”.

We typically vow to start our diets and loose weight. We absolutely will adhere to our exercise program and schedule. This year we will plan for the future by managing our finances with more care and we will address any career concerns. Spending quality time with our family will be a priority and of course we will enhance our spiritual enlightenment.

Perhaps this year on Valentines Day, we could embrace a more eclectic philosophy and decide to embrace our sexuality. After all, besides the obvious, sexual energy dramatically optimizes our body’s functions by strengthening our immune system. Sex relieves mild pain. It releases us from physical and mental tension, stress and anxiety. It helps promote good sleep. Sex elevates mood, increases self-esteem, fosters intimacy and improves relationships. Sex has long been the force that excites our bodies and touches our souls. It connects us mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Maybe this will be the year, on “Valentines Day” as a gift to ourselves and our loved one, we will resolve to make sex a priority, get in touch with our sexuality and not over look our sexual health.

JUVÉDERM® XC, a new formulation of JUVÉDERM® and the latest advancement in hyaluronic acid dermal fillers was approved just by the FDA this week. The new JUVÉDERM® XC formulation contains the local anesthetic lidocaine to provide you with enhanced comfort during and after treatment. In a blind study, 9 out of 10 patients reported less pain with JUVÉDERM XC. JUVÉDERM XC is now available at The MIAMI Institute.

Like most medical needs, selecting the right doctor is a very important decision. You want to choose a cosmetic dentist that you have a good rapport with, and can understand and provide the treatment outcome you’re looking for. Board –certified prosthodontist, Dr Todd B. Barsky is an Invisalign Preferred Provider. Dr Barsky has achieved a level of clinical training and experience in treating patients with the Invisalign system.  Preferred Providers have a level of experience and training you can trust. Look for this Preferred Provider 2010 designation when you go for your initial consultation at The MIAMI Institute.

Think women are the only ones who feel the pressure to look young? Think again.

According to data from the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) as well as surveys conducted in recent years, men are increasingly turning to Botox® to either maintain or restore their youthful good looks. For some, the need to look younger may stem from personal vanity or mid-life crises, but for many, studies show the need to iron out the wrinkles comes from the desire to get ahead in the workplace.

Many of those in industries dominated by younger professionals (i.e. advertising, electronic gaming, web design) feel pressured to look young in order to compete with the throngs of incoming professionals who are eager to take their place. They feel that the more youthful and attractive they look, the greater their marketability in the workplace and the better their chances are of staying in the game.

Botox® is a popular choice among men because it provides immediate results without recovery time. They can go in for an appointment during lunch or after work, and be back at work the next day.

A Nip Tuck Kind of Guy (PDF)