August 5th is International Beer Day & National Oyster Day!
International Beer Day:
Beer drinkers rejoice—it’s International Beer Day! Founded in 2007, this international holiday was created to celebrate the production, consumption, and enjoyment of beer. Did you know that beer may have been invented before bread? That’s right—legend has it that our prehistoric ancestors brewed the first beer from grain before they baked the first loaf of bread! Whether or not this story is true, sources up to 6,000 years old have documented the creation of beer in Mesopotamia. Talk about an ancient art! Today, many varieties of beer exist across the globe. In fact, beer is the third most popular beverage in the world, behind water and tea. That’s why in some countries, you’ll find beer vending machines! On this day, expect to find beer specials and events at bars, restaurants, and breweries across the world! Raise your glass for International Beer Day!
Beer Beauty:
Since the time of the Egyptians, many women use beer in order to rehydrate the skin and to also reduce the risk of skin conditions. Studies have shown that the yeast that is responsible for creating that yummy froth can help improve the skin condition of those who are suffering from acne. It does its job by slowing down sebum production. It also has properties that fight off the acne-causing bacteria. The yeast that is found in beer contains pantothenic acid and B vitamins that help in keeping the skin smooth and supple. It also helps in maintaining the skin’s pH level. Hops is another component in beer making; helps slow down aging by affecting neopterin and tryptophan production, which are substances that show the telltale signs of inflammation. Who knew that beer can give you more than just hangovers? The beauty benefits of beer can definitely give you all the nourishment that your skin needs. Try using these masks now and see for yourself.
Beer Facial Recipes
Beer &Strawberry Mask:
Who says strawberries are only good for champagne? This mask not only nourishes your skin, it also minimizes the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads due to the anti-oxidant properties found in strawberries. In a mixer, blend two or three strawberries along with a few drops of beer. Blend them together until they form a smooth paste. Apply this mixture on your face and neck area and leave it on for about 20-25 minutes or until it partially dries. Rinse with water and pat dry.
Beer, Lemon, Honey, & Olive Oil Mask:
This mixture is great for those who have oily skin and also for those who have blemishes on the skin. It has lightening properties that will help make your skin clean and clear. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, honey, lemon juice and a few drops of beer. Apply this mixture on your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. This mask is great to use before heading the shower. You will definitely see great results afterwards.
Beer, Almond Extract & Egg White Mask:
This mask instantly revives tired skin and it will also give you such a beautiful glow that people would be dying to know your secret. In a bowl, slightly beat an egg white and mix in a few drops of beer and a little bit of almond extract. Apply this mixture on your face for 10-15 minutes until it dries. Rinse with water and pat dry.
Oyster Day:
There are over 100 species of true oysters and traditionally they are named after the body of water or bay in which they are grown and are known by a myriad of names such as Wellfleet’s, Kumamoto and La Saint Simon. The mollusks take on the characteristics of the water in which they live. This impacts their flavor and texture so that tastes can range from sweet to salty to buttery and metallic, with texture running firm to soft and gooey to chewy. Some oysters have hints of seaweed, mineral flavor and hints of melon and mushrooms. The main difference between East Coat and West Coast oysters is East Coast ones are smaller, milder in flavor and saltier, while West Coast varieties are creamy and sweet. The largest oyster-producing body of water is located in Chesapeake Bay on the east coast of the U.S. Large beds of edible oysters are also found in Japan and Australia.
Beauty & Oysters:
The active components such as antioxidants and zinc found in seafood are very helpful in keeping a clear, smooth 
and glowing skin. Oysters and salmon are the richest sources of these two components. Omega-3 helps to reduce skin aging factors such as inflammation and dryness. Zinc can give you a clear skin free from acne by regulating the production of sebum. It helps to slouch off dead skin, gives your skin a natural glow, & faster hair growth.
Oysters = Aphrodisiac?
When Aphrodite, the goddess of love, rose from the sea on an oyster shell that pretty much clinched the notion that oysters would be forever associated with love and libido. Recently, a team of American and Italian researchers found some truth in the ancient Greek myth. After analyzing oysters, the researchers concluded they were rich in rare amino acids that trigger increased levels of sex hormones.
