We know that most individuals surviving cancer will try many complementary and alternative options to lengthen their lives. But did you know that studies have shown that women surviving breast cancer can double their survival time if they are involved in a close, intimate support network?

These and many other studies confirm fact that healthier relationships lead to better health, emotionally, physically and spiritually. Most of us did not learn effective interpersonal skills at home. So why do so few individuals consider relationship skills training right from start, before stress becomes chronic? Probably because we haven’t been made aware of facts.

The good news is that anyone can improve their relationships through learning simple skills including active or reflective listening, conflict resolution, behavioral changes, and thought management, among others. If you want less stress, and more fun and fulfillment in your life, consider exploring options for relationship skill building. Whether relationship is past or present, personal or professional, you can make it better and get healthier in process.

Pat Swan, M.S., CMFT: Life & Relationship Coach, Speaker, Trainer, Author of “Watch Out! Your Relationships Can Be Hazardous To Your Health.” www.RelationshipSkillville.com. Subscribe to my FREE ezine “The Skillville Scoop”. Mail to pat@patswan.com

She went on to say, "I have to have my chocolate. I would rather starve myself all day than to give up my chocolate."

Studies have shown that chocolate consumption is healthy because of its polyphenol and anti-oxidant properties. "Chocolate is a mild stimulant and mood elevator."1 It tastes good too. In fact, chocolate is delicious. According to a study at Shippensburg University in Pennsylvania, five out eight women crave sweets. The most prevalent craving being craving of chocolate.2

Mrs. A would be functioning at a more efficient level by replacing candy bar with a protein bar. The craving for chocolate and sweets disappears or is at least diminished when blood sugar level is kept high. That is accomplished by eating protein foods - NOT sugar foods.

What Mrs. A didn’t realize is that when a craving becomes so intense that you think you can’t live without it, it’s become an addiction.

Many women crave chocolate every month during either PMS of their menstrual cycle. In addition to a blood sugar level, this craving could also be result of a nutritional deficiency. Many "chocolate-addicts" crave chocolate because of a chromium and magnesium deficiency.

Chromium helps stabilize blood sugar levels and makes better use of insulin. This action lessens urge to indulge in those delicious tempting morsels of chocolate.

Another supplement that helps to naturally suppress chocolate and sugar cravings is amino acid L-Glutamine. Glutamine is known as essential "non-essential amino acid." It is known to alleviate hypoglycemia.

In summary, chocolate and other sweets can become an addiction for these reasons: 1. Low Blood Sugar Levels 2. Nutritional Deficiency

Supplements that help curb craving: 1. Chromium 2. L-Glutamine

The best way to curb craving: 1. Add Protein Foods to Your Meals 2. Eat Protein Foods for Your Snacks 3. Take Supplements ____________________ References

1. Zand, Janet, Allen J. Spreen, James B. LaValle. Smart Medicine for Healthier Living. New York, Garden City Park. Avery Publishing Company. 1999 p. 449

2. Studenmund, Gabrielle. Fitness Magazine May 2001. "Retrain Your Appetite" G & H USA Publishing, A Garner and Jahr Company. New York, N. Y. p. 55