Physical Conditions

Dental - The symptoms of Gingivitis

2008-01-18T18:01:00.000+08:00

The symptoms of Gingivitis include inflammation and swelling of the gums, bleeding and receding gums, and often pain. Gingivitis should not be left untreated as it can be the early stage of more serious periodontal diseases.
Gingivitis develops when plaque builds up around the gum line. Plaque forms when food particles and bacteria combine to harden and stick to the teeth. This causes the gums to become irritated and swell leaving more pockets to accumulate plaque. The gums then start to bleed and begin to recede leaving the roots of the teeth, and eventually the jawbone open to attack by plaque. If the disease is not stopped then loss of teeth and abscesses are likely to occur.
Causes of Gingivitis And What You Can Do to Help
* Poor brushing and flossing allows plaque to build up around the teeth irritating the gums. As this is the leading cause it should be the first to be corrected. Work with your dentist to develop a regular dental hygiene program.
* Too many soft foods in the diet do not give teeth and gums adequate exercise to stay healthy. Start eating a healthy, varied diet including lots of raw foods and foods that require plenty of chewing, avoid sticky, sweet foods. Chewing, as well as exercising your teeth and gums, also produces saliva that helps to protect the mouth from bacteria.
* Inadequate intake of certain vitamins and minerals can make gum disease more likely. These include Vitamin C, Beta Carotene, Folic Acid, Calcium and Bioflavonoids.
* Too much sugar in the diet is thought to be harmful to the gums. Experts believe that sugar feeds the bacteria that causes Gingivitis.
* Cut out soft drinks.; Soft drinks are a double problem as they contain excess phosphorous as well as sugar. Some scientists think that excess phosphorous robs the bones of Calcium potentially leading to osteoporosis. It is thought that the first bone to loose calcium is the jawbone and this can lead to the loss of teeth.
* Badly fitting fillings can irritate the surrounding gum. Experts also believe that silver/mercury fillings can leech out causing toxicity that can lead to Gingivitis. Have your dentist check your fillings.
* Smoking and excessive alcohol have been found to increase the chance of developing Gingivitis.
Nutritional Supplements Worth Considering:
* Vitamin C - 2000mg -; Important for the promotion of healing. In studies Vitamin C reduced gum bleeding and improved gum health. You can also make a mouthwash from the crystalline form of Vitamin C. Twice daily swish in mouth for 1 minute before swallowing
* Calcium - 1,500 mg - Helps prevent bone loss around gums
* Vitamin A, taken as Beta Carotene -25,000 - 50,000 IU;; (15 - 30 mg) Aids in the healing of gum tissue
* Folic Acid - Helps to reduce inflammation and infection.You can take this both as a supplement & also as a mouthwash.
* Zinc - Helps prevent infection and aids healing. Using the chewable tablets allows the zinc to come in direct contact with the gums. In a study this was found to reduce the growth of plaque.
* Vitamin E - 400 IU - Aids in the healing of gum tissue. It may also be helpful to open a Vitamin E Capsule & apply the oil directly onto sore gums
* Coenzyme Q10 -25 mg taken twice daily - Has been shown to aid in the treatment of gum disease.
Disclaimer: The information presented is for information purposes only. It is based on scientific studies or traditional usage. Consult a health care professional before using supplements or making any changes in prescribed medications. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
http://www.healthmaax.com
Symptoms Of Gingivitis is an informative article all of us should read and be aware of. Gingivitis is a primary concern of Dental Offices throughout. Very often than not, many Dental Professionals can diagnose a lot of health problems and recommend the appropriate health supplements/treatments during regular office visits. Some of the recommended supplements are found at http://www.healthmaax.com

Dental - Stop Toothache Pain

2008-01-17T22:00:00.000+08:00

In this article I would like to tell you how to stop toothache pain or at least relieve it a bit using some simple, quick home remedies.
You will most likely already have the materials needed to use these home remedies as they are all common household items, if you don't then don't worry as they are all very cheap and easy to get.
First of all, let me say that although these home remedies will usually help to ease the pain of toothache, they will usually not completely eliminate the problem you are having, a dental problem needs to be examined by a dentist, they will be able to advise you on the best course of action, so get in touch with one.
Here are some quick little remedies you can start using in no time...
Vanilla extract - This method is considered to be a good one and should help you to numb out the pain you are suffering from the toothache, you can either place some on a cotton ball and dab the tooth or you can simply swig some of it around your mouth for about 30 seconds.
Ice - This is, in my opinion, one of the best, simply because it is so easy to do and there aren't any "ingredients" for it, all you need is some ice. You can either place a small block of ice over the tooth or you can hold an ice pack against the side of your mouth the tooth is on.
Garlic - This is a pretty well known one, all you need to do is place a single clove of garlic with a little rock salt on the tooth and hold it there for a short period of time, you could also chew a clove of garlic each day.
These are just some of the simple home remedies you can use to stop toothache pain, there are other methods that you can use to relieve the pain so don't worry if you find that these particular ones don't help much.
Remember that you need to see a dentist if you are having any sort of dental problems, otherwise it may get worse and become more harmful.

Dental - Sensitive Teeth

2008-01-16T17:59:00.000+08:00

Sensitive Teeth - Causes and Solutions
People without sensitive teeth take many things for granted - a sip of hot coffee, a scoop of ice cream, a glass of cold water. For those of us with sensitive teeth, even the simple daily activities of eating and drinking can become painful and difficult.

What is the cause of sensitive teeth?
Inside every tooth is a soft, pulpy region which contains highly sensitive cells and nerve endings. Surrounding this pulp is a layer of dentin, a porous substance containing thousands of microscopic tubules. Finally, the tooth is protected by a layer of enamel, the hardest and toughest substance in the human body. When teeth are healthy, the enamel shields the nerves inside the teeth from outside sensation and allows you to ingest hot or cold foods without pain or discomfort.

When teeth become sensitive, it is a sign that this defensive layer of enamel has been compromised. There are a variety of ways this can happen. If you have a cavity, for example, acid formed by bacteria and decay has eaten into the enamel and exposed the porous dentin inside. Unlike enamel, dentin easily allows heat and cold pass through, resulting in painful sensations when you eat or drink. There are other ways for dentin to become exposed, including cracked or damaged teeth, a receding gumline, or the wearing down of enamel over time.

How can I treat my sensitive teeth?
Good brushing and flossing habits are a great place to start. Protecting your gums means that they can, in turn, protect the sensitive roots of your teeth. Proper oral cleaning also helps prevent cavities and tooth decay, both of which will weaken the enamel protecting your tooth. If your teeth are still sensitive, consult your dentist for advice. For example, he or she may recommend a special type of toothpaste designed to dull any sensation passing into your tooth, or apply fluoride solution to strengthen your tooth enamel. Your dentist will be able to diagnose the cause of your sensitive teeth and find a solution that is right for you.
If you need answers or solutions for your oral health questions, a dentist is the best person to ask.

Back Pain - How To Recover?

2008-01-15T19:56:00.000+08:00

If you suffer from persistent back pain, it may seem like there is no relief in sight. You suffer day in and day out. It has affected your home life, your job and even your sex life. Perhaps you've been to a doctor and he can't find anything wrong with you. This is probably the worst thing that happens to us knowing something is wrong even when the doctor can't find anything.

There may not be a permanent cure for your discomfort, but there are pain control or management programs that will help you deal with the situation. At one time, if you had this type of lingering pain, there wasn't much hope for it. Not only were there not the tests the doctors have available to them today, but they often had no cures.

You were often told there wasn't anything they could do about it and you just had to learn to live with it. Fortunately for all of us, a lot has advanced in the medical research department in learning about back disorders and developing treatment programs to help. Moreover, lasting back pain has at times been linked to depression and psychological problems.

Because of a severe backache, our daily lives are affected by physical limitations and lack of activity as well as depression, resulting in more psychological problems and more depression. When the psychological problems get worse, the overall pain gets worse and vice versa. It all becomes a cycle. With the help of system of medically supervised management, the suffering can be lessened if not eliminated in many cases.

Back pain can be very difficult to manage, depending on what the cause of it stems from. If there is an injury to the back, it can usually be cured or fixed with surgery. In some instances, however, the pain comes from stress, a pulled muscle that never heals or nerve damage of some kind. In each of these instances there are types of medical and exercise procedures that can help.
Overall relief from the pain is usually broken down into two categories: invasive or noninvasive. While both may work for your problem, your doctor may choose one over the other depending on what the cause of you pain is or he may try both kinds. Noninvasive pain control is usually physical therapy and supervised exercises. In many cases this is the best type of management for lasting back pain. It works very well for pulled or strained muscles and to strengthen muscles to keep future discomfort from reoccurring.

The invasive type of back pain management is medication or surgery. There are different kinds of medications the doctor may prescribe for your back pain. You may be given pain pills or muscle relaxants. The pain pills will help lessen the discomfort whereas the relaxants relax the muscles so they are not tight and stretched, which often is the cause of the pain.

Another form of medication the doctor may give you is injections to clear up the physical problems. Your doctor, after a thorough examination, will determine what the best and most effective kind of pain control program will work for you. Elimination or reduction of back pain takes time so be patient as your pain management program usually takes time to be fully effective.

Back Pain - Exercises

2008-01-14T21:52:00.000+08:00

For most people who begin experiencing back pain the most logical thing for them to do is lie down and apply either heat or cold compresses. This approach is ok for the short term but over the long haul you will need to strengthen the muscles in the back area if you want to get any kind of permanent relief. Back pain exercises are the best way to strengthen the area and prevent further pain from occurring.

Back pain exercises must be done in a controlled manner. If you are already experiencing back pain you will need to begin slowly and gradually work your way up to more strenuous exercises. If in doubt you can always check with your doctor or consult a trainer about the best exercises for you.

A good exercise training program can help minimize the risk of future back pain and damage. It can also help reduce the severity of pain which might occur in the future. Back pain exercises should be balanced in with a total body workout for the best all around results.

Stretching Gets Results
You do not have to have back pain to get the benefits of daily stretches. Muscles, tendons, and ligaments will tend to get stiff if not used regularly. Stretching each day will help keep your joints flexible and less susceptible to pain. Before you do any back pain exercises you should always start out with stretches to help loosen up the muscles. Failure to do this could result in serious back pain and even damage to the surrounding area.

Daily stretching can help keep the muscles pliable and possibly even prevent the onset of arthritis. You can do your daily stretching even on the days you do not exercise. A good time to do this is in the morning when you get out of bed. Your muscles have a tendency to get stiff and sore when you are sleeping. This is especially true as you get older. For people who suffer from chronic back pain they may find it will take several weeks before they can actually tell a difference in their level of pain.

Target Muscles For Back Pain Exercises
The hamstrings are located in the back of your leg and they carry a lot of weight. Being overweight causes extra strain in this area. Targeting exercises to the hamstring area will help decrease the stress which is placed on the back.
The piriformis is a group of muscles that run from the thigh to the lower part of the spine. If this muscle group tightens up it can cause severe pain which will run down the leg. Keeping this group of muscles pliable is absolutely necessary to help alleviate the severe pain which is sometimes referred to as sciatica.

Exercises To Consider
Back pain exercises are not any different from other exercises. They are designed to target muscles that will strengthen the area of the back. Low impact aerobics is a good form of exercise, especially for those who are experiencing pain. Low impact will not cause jarring of the spine and create further pain. Walking is a great way to get a low impact workout and get your heart rate up at the same time.

Water is another great way to strengthen muscles without causing undo stress or impact. The resistance of water is great for building muscle tone while at the same time providing aerobic exercise which is also great for the heart and lungs.

Strong gluteus muscles are very important to decreasing the stress which is associated with back pain. Back pain exercises should be targeted to providing strength in the abdomen and leg areas. If you are experiencing mild to moderate back pain you might try consulting a trainer or searching the internet for exercise options. People who have more serious pain which is being treated by physician should only do the exercises their physician recommends.

Back Pain - Treatment

2008-01-13T21:47:00.000+08:00

Over the years, there have been countless back pain treatments created for the sole purpose to give remedy. Some have just been recently introduced like the percutaneous neuromodulation therapy that recently received an FDA clearance or the chiropractric massage that dated back a thousand years ago in China.

If you have that relentless ache in your body, the initial thought is to visit a health specialist in order to get a diagnosis to the problem. That is one of the most safest back pain treatments because it is given by an expert in the field. Another issue to consider is that there are several medications that might be effective to this person but not to you. There lies the importance of consultation.

The majority of the conditions though can be done through moderate back pain treatments. There are also those that require an invasive approach or surgical operation particularly when it is so grave already. The relief wont be felt immediately instead, it will be after two weeks after the start of medication.

The techniques that have been used are very basic. There are physicians who will only oblige you to give an ample time of break from any strenuous activities. The more innovative is acapuncture which utilizes needles pinched in areas where you feel the twinge and gives that soothing effect.

An alternative is also to do your own research that allows you to understand the different back pain treatments. There are plenty of resources online that will reveal to you its own advantage and disadvantage. Being in control is the most important factor for it might be too much for your body to handle.

If ever your doctor cannot see any improvement, he or she will most likely prescribe you to take opioids, an opium containing substance produced naturally in the brain. It is just added to the medicine you have been taking and come in the form of codeines. Morphines are the more stronger kind of opioids.

Physical therapy is also another popular alternative. Yoga is an example which has now become highly commercialized because it does not just promote wellness but a healthy form of diet as well. There are some though that appear more passive than others. Getting a back massage and applying heat pads are the ones that generally work only for the first few weeks of a hasty trauma. Patients then begin to correct their posture and perform exercises. It is not for a long- term basis as compared to the surgical operations.

Psychological rehabilitation is one of the back pain treatments that practices careful and thorough procedure. There are actually some patients who end up being depressed due to the fact that they can be temporarily immobile. The condition also causes large amounts of stress because they can no longer enjoy their work. Psychologists help people cope up with through particular management methodologies

Back Pain - Dorn Spinal Therapy

2008-01-12T19:50:00.000+08:00

The Dorn Spinal Therapy is a gentle treatment for the spine and all joints. It starts with the checking of the leg length, as 80% of people have a difference in their leg length, often without knowing it. Any differences are balanced by easy exercises to bring the joints of the lower limbs back into their correct positions. Once the legs are balanced, the hip is the next area to check. It is examined for any twist or scoliotic appearance. Once the persons 'base' is balanced, the spine then gets examined.

"Displaced" vertebrae are brought back into place by the pressure of the thumb next to the spinal vertebrae. For this procedure to take place it is essential for the client to move their arm or leg in a swinging motion, depending on which area we work on. This movement relaxes the muscles so the vertebrae can move back into position.

With this therapy tendons and ligaments are not stretched or overstretched; they adapt after a very short time and support the muscles to keep the vertebrae in position.
The whole treatment is gentle and safe, no cracking or abrupt movements are used, just the thumb on a specific area. Many problems such as headaches, dizziness, ear or eye problems can be the result of nerve end pressure in the cervical area of the spine. By using this gentle massage technique these problems can be reduced. To work on the cervical area the head is gently turned whilst the therapist finds the displaced vertebrae and then massages it back into position.
In case of sore or uneven joints there are some easy exercises to reduce pain and move the joints into their correct positions.

The Breuss massage is a gentle and sensitive treatment for the spine which is combined with the Dorn Spinal Therapy. By gently stretching the spine the discs get decompressed which enables the St. John´s Wort oil, which is used in the massage, to penetrate into the system. Breuss uses the image of a sponge to explain the process. A sponge with a 50kg weight on becomes very thin. But by pouring water on the sponge when the weight is gone, which in our case would be when we rest, it grows back to its normal size. Similar happens to the discs. When they soak up the oil they expand and the distance between the vertebrae expands, allowing more flexibility for the spine.

The spine is not only the central "support organ" of the body but more important the protective coating for the bone marrow, the higher "command organ" for all functions of the organs, tissues, even each cell in the body. Pain, malfunction and tissue changes - not only in the back but also in every other body region - are often caused by an irritation of a spinal nerve. This means that e.g. a poor digestion can be related to a displaced vertebra in the corresponding area and therefor can be treated via the spine. Therefor it always is worth having doing a spinal check-up for any ailments that cannot be cured or before undergoing surgery. "sometimes it would be advisable to have the second thoracic vertebra checked before implanting a cardiac pacemaker" is one of Dieter Dorn´s humorous comments.

Dorn Spinal Therapists always check the leg length of their clients first and correct any difference with easy steps and simple home exercises to keep the corrections in place.
Work on the structural alignment of a body always happens in motion, which means that the client's cooperation is vital to the success of the treatment.

Why is the balancing of leg length differences so important?
When we walk on 2 different long legs the longer leg constantly impacts on the hip which ultimately results in a hip moving anterior, posterior or inferior. This change creates an unstable base for the spine and the foundation for a strong back is not given any more. As we all know the body has amazing abilities to compensate for imbalances but there will be that one day where it just can't cope anymore and the slightest wrong movement can have a massive impact, pain. And people wonder why, as they can't remember having done anything wrong.
Bringing the leg back in balance often can already resolve lower back pain and it certainly is a good start to help with the entire structure.

Why is the movement during the treatment so important?
The structure of our body is very clever and strongly designed to give us the possibility of doing what ever we do with our body. Yet the structure itself is at the same time quite flexible and that is where a Dorn Spinal Therapist works. We try to straighten out any imbalances by making use of this flexibility and by supporting the body's work with the movement. That means that by e.g. correcting an unbalanced hip we work with the rhythm of the movement that comes with swinging a leg like pendulum. With every back swing we move the hip and it doesn't take too many swings for the hip to realign.

Also when we look for any "deviated" vertebrae we use the movement of the client's body to massage the vertebrae back into the right position and it is easier for the vertebra to actually move back as the swinging creates little gaps in the spine which open the space for the vertebra. Yet at the same time, as the client always moves the opposite leg or arm from where the therapist is working, the muscles are working as well and create a natural barrier so the vertebra can never ever move too far.
And even the cervical alignment is easy to exercise as we there use the rotational movement of the head to create the loosening of the spine and realignment of vertebrae.
All in all Dorn Spinal Therapy is a very simple technique which fortunately shows great results and definitely gives hope to those who think they have tried everything and anyone opting for a more gentle way of treating back problems.
Barbara Simon is the owner of Back Care Solutions, a clinic specialised in Back Care, and an internationally aclaimed trainer for Dorn Spinal Therapy. She has been trained in Dorn Spinal Therapy back in Germany by the Master himself and introduced it to Australia in 2000 when she moved there. Now Barbara wants to spread the word around the world as the results she and her students achieve by applying Dorn Therapy are outstanding.

Back Pain - Cause and Treatment

2008-01-11T14:40:00.001+08:00

Back pain is not an uncommon complaint. In fact, four out of five adults will experience symptoms of lower back pain at least once in their lifetime. A complex structure, the back is made up of 33 vertebrae, more than 30 muscles, ligaments, multiple joints, and inter-vertebrae dics. With all of those muscles, joints, and discs, it's not surprising there are many ways in which these elements can become injured or affected.

Muscular strain is the most common cause of back pain. When an unexpected force, twist, or pull is applied to one or several muscles in the back, tears occur in the muscle. These muscle tears cause the pain felt in the back. Ligamentous sprains, or sprains to the ligaments is another common cause of back pain. This occurs when the back ligaments are stretched beyond their limit. These sprains can often coincide with muscular strains.

When the spinal nerves in the back are compressed at the point where they exit the spinal column, the result is a herniated disc. Repetitive vibratory motion, such as experienced by truck drivers or machine users, often leads to this condition. A sudden heavy loading of the back, as occurs with improper lifting, can also cause a herniated disc. Because the condition affects the nerve endings, a radicular type of back pain is felt at the site of injury, as well as along the course of the affected nerve. Sciatica, a condition resulting from the irritation of the sciatica nerve is also a type of radicular pain. As the largest nerve in the body, it runs from the lumbar spinal cord in the low back and extends through the buttock area to send nerve endings down the lower limb.

Another cause of back pain, spinal stenosis occurs more commonly in adults over 50 years old. The term refers to a narrowing of the spinal canal. Spinal stenosis has numerous causes including thickened ligaments along the spinal canal, bony spurs, and enlarged joint cartilage from arthritic changes. In many cases, the pain of this condition is made worse with extended periods of weight bearing or walking. Surgery is sometimes required to correct the disorder.

As with spinal stenosis, osteoporosis affects the joints in the spine and is also more common in people over 50 years of age. Considered a degenerative joint diseases, over time the cartilage begins to degenerate in the discs between the vertebrae and the joints in the spine. Without a cartilaginous cushion, the bones begin to rub against each other, which results in inflammation, swelling and stiffness. As the condition progresses, bone spurs develop and ligaments become thick, both of which result in spinal stenosis.

A common cause of back especially in women, osteoporosis is a disease characterized by progressive loss of bone density. As the bone tissue begins to thin, it becomes more susceptible to fractures or broken bones. Bones of the spine are especially affected with osteoporosis. Injury from falls and lifting heavy objects can result in painful vertebral compression fractures.

Fibromyalgia is also a common cause of chronic back pain. The rheumatic condition is characterized by widespread soft tissue pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and the presence of evenly distributed areas of tenderness. A presence of widespread pain and tenderness for at least three months in 11 or more of the 18 designated tender point sites is required in diagnosing this disorder.

Prevention is the first line of defense when it comes to protecting your back from injury. Injury prevention includes everything from proper seat positioning at work to stretching before performing strenuous exercises. Lower back stretches, which can be recommended by a physician or physical therapist, are a quick and effective way to keep the back muscles and joints limber. Performing simple stretches can help prevent back pain or provide pain relief from present back aches.

Strengthening exercises help to build strong muscles which provide joint stability. These exercises are also important after sustaining injuries that require resting affected muscles. Especially in cases of post-operative recovery, discomfort after surgery often leads to decreased use of the affected area which leads to stiffness and weakness. As a result, strengthening and stretching exercises in early rehabilitation helps to prevent this from occurring.

For those experiencing chronic lower back pain, it's important to first see your physician, who may refer you to a specialist or physical therapist. Physical therapy is very effective in treating lower back conditions and providing pain relief. A physical therapist may focus on decreasing pain with both passive and active therapy. Examples of passive therapy include heat/ice packs, ultrasound treatments, and TENS units. Active treatments include stretching, strengthening exercises, pain relief exercises, and low-impact aerobic conditioning.

Now available for home use to soothe the aches and pains associated with arthritis, psoriasis, tired joints and sore muscles from an active lifestyle. Thousands have benefited from the pain relieving power of these safe, natural, non-prescription treatments.

Anti Aging - Raw Food

2008-01-10T16:18:00.001+08:00

With all of the lotions, remedies, and shots available to reverse aging, there is one anti-aging skin care remedy that is easy to use, less expensive, and very effective: a raw food diet. For those who are new to this thought, this means eating fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, basically. In this article, I will explain some well known and lesser known anti-aging skin care nutrients that can reverse wrinkles, explain which raw foods are highest in these nutrients, and why it's best to get your skin care nutrition from living food.

There are several nutrients that you should have in your anti-aging arsenal: selenium for skin elasticity and tone, vitamin E internally and externally, vitamin C for collagen production, and vitamin A for tissue repair. Although water is not considered a food, good, clean water is most certainly a factor in facilitating youthful skin . Raw food sources for these nutrients and for the ones below can be found in the Chart Directory on my website. Here are several other, lesser known, great anti-aging skin care nutrients:
Vitamin F combats dry skin , is an oil your body needs, and is found in raw foods such as: flax oil, lecithin, and sunflower seeds, to name a few. This skin care nutrient's absorption is inhibited by the modern day diet high in saturated fats.

Potassium promotes youthful skin , and enough good cannot be said about this vital nutrient. Some raw foods that contain potassium are apricots, avocado, bananas, broccoli, cantaloupe, dates, dried fruits, nuts, parsley, peaches, seeds, and spinach. This is one of the most important anti-aging nutrients, and most people only get half or less of what they need!

Vitamin D is essential for healthy skin , mostly absorbed from our exposure to the sun. Shiitake mushrooms is one raw food source, and chlorella contains chlorophyll, which reduces our requirement for D. This is an overlooked anti-aging skin care nutrient, but important since it promotes absorption of other anti-aging nutrients, such as vitamins A and F. Recommended amount of sunlight is 5-10 minutes, 2 or 3 times/week.

Bioflavinoids are anti-aging skin care nutrients that prevent muscle degeneration, and affect the skin ; some raw food sources are: skin and pulp of fruits, apricots, blackberries, cherries, grapefruit, and peppers.

Paba is a skin care remedy that is used externally in reducing wrinkles, but is also beneficial when consumed. Some raw food sources are blackstrap molasses and wheat germ.
Pantothenic acid prevents premature aging and promotes wound healing, and is found in raw foods such as: broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, peas, royal jelly,spinach, walnuts, to name a few.
Biotin prevents grayish skin color and promotes cell growth, an integral factor in promoting youthful skin . Some raw food sources are: almonds, bananas, mushrooms, raisins, walnuts.
Vitamin B complex promotes healthy cells and prevents dry or rough skin , it is found in raw foods such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and green leafy vegetables.

Raw food is the best source for all of these anti-aging skin care nutrients except vitamin D for several reasons. First, I have found that many of the vitamins and minerals needed to help you absorb the nutrients needed to reverse or eliminate the aging of the skin , are already found in fresh raw foods. Secondly, one of the most important ones, potassium, is not in most store bought vitamins, and if it is, only a very small dosage is there. A diet high in raw foods is the only way to go to get your daily needs for potassium! Thirdly, many things we eat actually prevent absorption of these skin care nutrients: salt, sugar, coffee, saturated fats, and laxatives, to name some, and many times are eaten in place of the raw foods, so that the needed nutrients were never gotten in the first place.

In closing, raw foods provide so many wonderful benefits. One of the greatest benefits is healthy, youthful skin , described as "getting the glow", an effect achieved on a raw food diet rather quickly. I encourage you to take control of your health and reverse the aging process by going on raw foods!

Roxanne Vick is a SAHM of nine, and enjoys her good health, her children, and gardening. Visit her website and check out her quite comprehensive chart directory and raw food diet recipe book, and learn how you can take care of your most important asset, your health.

Anti Aging - Tai Chi

2008-01-09T15:15:00.001+08:00

Tai Chi improves overall fitness, coordination and agility. People who practice Tai Chi regularly tend to have good posture, flexibility and range of motion. They also tend to have more mental clarity and sleep more soundly at night. Tai Chi goes to the root of most health problems by relaxing the muscles and mind, aligning the spinal posture and balancing the energy systems that run through the body, providing them with life energy. As a profound self-improvement tool, Tai Chi is one of the most powerful, yet soothing things you can do for yourself. The magic of Tai Chi is found in the unique combination of movement, breathing and meditation.

MOVEMENT
Because Tai Chi involves all the major muscle groups, it improves agility, strength, flexibility, stamina, muscle tone and coordination. According to a 1996 National Institute on Aging study, Tai Chi's attention to balance can increase body awareness, reducing the incidence of falls up to 50 percent in elderly patients. One of every three adults 65 years or older falls each year, often with devastating results. Hip fractures are the seventh leading cause of death among older adults. If this could be reduced even by 10 percent, we would save over $1 billion a year, not to mention the pain and suffering of the patients and their families.

The postures of Tai Chi teach you how to move your body correctly, which helps you become conscious of your physical presence. So along with better balance, seniors are also less likely to lose mobility. Tai Chi rotates all the joints in the body, releasing any blocked energy, which could contribute to the aging process. It also stimulates the liquid systems of the body to keep joints and other tissues more supple, increase range of motion and reduce any symptoms of arthritis. The many movements performed by turning from the waist work as an internal massage. By stimulating the abdomen, these movements aid digestion and help relieve constipation and gastrointestinal conditions.

BREATHING
The deep breathing of Tai Chi regulates the respiratory system, helping to treat ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. Exhaling toxins from the lungs while inhaling fresh air increases lung capacity, stretches the muscles involved in breathing and releases tension. Symbolically, the exhaling and inhaling reminds you to let go of that which is no longer serving you and allow new abundance to enter your life.

MEDITATION
Research shows that taking time to slow down the mind and body is not only calming, but also enhances mental acuity and focus, reduces anxiety, and lowers blood pressure and heart rate. Tai Chi's meditative nature is also beneficial for the immune system and the central nervous system, which makes it especially good for people with a chronic illness, depression or any stress-related conditions. The quiet mindfulness of Tai Chi teaches you how to listen to your body, which helps you become aware of problems before they become acute. This same mindfulness can permeate all other aspects of your life, helping you find gratitude in each moment.

Anti Aging - Tips

2008-01-08T16:00:00.001+08:00

In order to avoid aging or adjust to the inevitable results of aging, here are some anti-aging tips that are believed to be effective:

1. Try to stick to a diet that is low in fat but high in complex carbohydrates.

2. Maintain your body's endurance and strength with regular exercise or a programmed workout.

3. As mush as possible, maximize your intake of antioxidants such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E that can be sourced from food supplements, vegetables, and fruits.

4. Wage an all out war against the sun's deadly rays. Protecting yourself from the sun's deadly and damaging rays is indeed one of the most effective ways to fight aging. Make sure that you apply complete sun protection with sunscreen and sun block with high SPF content.

5. To avoid prolonged exposure to the sun's rays, try not to go out outdoors during high-intensity hours- from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.-because this is the time when the sun's rays are most damaging.

6. Another way to protect yourself from the sun's deadly rays is by wearing protective clothing. By covering your skin with articles of clothing like long-sleeved shirts, long pants and wide-brimmed hats, you can keep your skin away from UV rays. Also, opt for fabrics that are can offer better protection form the sun.

7. Don't smoke. Or if you are a smoker, try to quit. Studies say that the nicotine derived from smoking greatly accelerates the skin's normal aging process.

8. Make sure that you take time to wash your skin gently. Cleaning your skin contributes to delayed aging. Aside from being an essential part of taking care of the skin, washing it can lessen the risk of having skin diseases from the pollutants in the environment. Try using warm water during baths and try to limit the time spent on bath time. Also, avoid strong soap that can lead to a dry skin and stop using products that contain irritating additives such as perfumes and dyes. If you're using make up, make sure that you remove it carefully after a day's work. Lastly, learn how to pat your skin dry gently to keep it moisturized.

9. Choose a gentle moisturize. Moisturizing regularly can help you maintain a youthful glow. By using moisturizers, you can help maintain the skin's natural moisture levels. Make sure that you choose a moisturizer that is suited for your specific skin type.

10. Learn the art of shaving gently and carefully. Although shaving is the most common means of removing unwanted hair, it doesn't have to be done on a daily basis. But if you shave often, make sure that you press a warm washcloth on the skin before shaving to soften the hair and apply a shaving cream, lotion, or gel before shaving to protect and lubricate the skin.

Anti Aging - Will Bangs Replace Botox?

2008-01-07T21:32:00.001+08:00

Ever wonder how your face will look in ten years? If so, there's a scary way to determine just how well those hidden muscles beneath the skin are holding up: Place a mirror flat on your vanity, bend over from the waist and as you peer at your face, slowly count to ten. See, I told you it could be scary.

Aging in the face is very subtle; the gradual loosening of muscles, the lack of collagen production, the formation of wrinkles and hollows will all become apparent as Mother Nature continues her march across our faces. Maybe you've noticed the vertical lines deepening, the horizontal lines firmly etching outwards to the temples and now crow's feet are firmly in place. This type of aging is all about lax muscles.

Just as you have seen changes in your upper arms, waist, tummy, hips and thighs, these same changes occur throughout the body and this includes the face. A lack of exercise can make our body look and feel older than our years.

We can cleverly camouflage certain body flaws but disguising an aging face is another matter.
What looks like aging to you? Is it environmental circumstances such as over exposure to the sun, wind and smog? Is it pursed lips? Does your skin look old because you didn't wash your face every night and now hormonal changes present their own dry skin challenges with fine lines turning into wrinkles? Maybe your face has become spongy and droopy; has it elongated and headed south?
Wearing sagging facial muscles is wearing the look of old.
Yes, this is aging at its worst and it is happening to everyone. For those of you over the age of 25, this is a stark reality. No matter what your age, you have choices to make regarding your good health and how you age gracefully.

Lots of professionals have jumped on the anti-aging bandwagon. Drug and pharmaceutical companies now provide physicians' lots of ammunition in the form of injections and skin care items using toxins, waxes, dyes, synthetics, etc.

The glossy magazines overflow with ads touting the latest and greatest skin care remedies that promise to tighten, lift and tone sagging skin. Maybe you have tried some of these products just hoping that one will actually change your facial appearance.

The choices are vast and varied. Some treatments and options are passive, others are aggressive and some are downright painful, risky and expensive.
If you love your body you have most likely decided that extreme measures are not for you. Maybe you have decided that wearing bangs is the best option. After all long bangs can disguise the lines and wrinkles or can they?

Botox came on the scene a few years ago with their very popular Botulinum A-Toxin injections that indeed paralyze and weaken injected muscles. The crippling of the muscles does result in smoothed foreheads and deters the look of crow's feet because the muscle movements are inhibited.

Even though relatively small amounts of this toxin are used, the body may or may not exhibit side effects but there are always side effects associated with every drug. There are those unlucky ones who do suffer certain physical consequences when allowing this toxin to be injected for cosmetic purposes such as overdose, misinjection, weakness, paralysis, and more
The FDA has approved Botox for certain uses but due to recent information regarding the safety aspect of this drug, a black box warning may be issued which means that if you decide to allow this toxin to be injected, you will be duly warned by the administering physician. Scary indeed!
If you decline to use paralyzing toxins what options other than bangs do you have to either disguise or stop the lines and wrinkles in the forehead?

What if you were given isometric exercises to thwart the ravages of forehead lines and wrinkles? Would you be interested in knowing there is a proven, natural way to correct facial sagging so that your face returns to a more youthful, contoured appearance?

When the forehead develops lines and wrinkles, it is because the broad, vertical frontalis muscle is losing its intrinsic tone; this muscle elongates and pushes downward into the eyebrow muscles and upper eye. This action creates compression as muscles pool into each other.

The entire face and the neck can become misshapen when the facial muscles no longer provide adequate support of the skin. Just like your body appreciates exercise to maintain its sleekness and form, the facial muscles also benefit from isometric movements.

This action of the exercise forces oxygenated blood to the tissues; from the inside out your face and neck will look more vibrant and alive in hardly any time at all while your muscles plump up and support your skin without harmful interventions.

Bangs? Well, only if they're in style but you'll no longer need to wear them to disguise your forehead when you use exercise to keep your face looking younger. Imagine surgery-like results without a knife, injection, inconvenience, expense or pain.

Cynthia Rowland is widely recognized as an expert in all natural facial fitness with over thirty years experience in health & beauty related fields. She has appeared on The View, NBC 4, Fit TV, HGTV and other popular shows. This author, speaker and television personality is leading the crusade to keep men and women looking vibrantly younger through natural techniques without spending their children's inheritance.

Anti Aging - Look Like 21 at 51

2008-01-07T07:15:00.001+08:00

Our obsession on aging has led some to go under surgery just to look younger.
I daresay that there's nothing wrong to wish for a more youthful appearance but not to the point of cutting your skin in half and end more messed up in the process.

Perhaps Hollywood poses the most number of people who go into almost-life threatening measures to look 20 to 30 years younger. In the most ironic situations, the media seems to glorify those who were able to beat aging and promote the surgeries which the celebrities went under.

The 50's is a point in life that most people tend to avoid as much as possible and try not to think about. But being in your 50's actually gives you more freedom. At this stage of your life, you have made milestones on your job, you have raised stable adults, and you are old enough to be wise and yet still young not to use canes when walking.

If you have the bucks to spend and you have been completely briefed on the repercussions of lying on the operating table to remove the lines and look like you've just completed college, then it's your decision. But with all the stories of surgeries going wrong and resulting to death, it might be worthy to look at ways on how to look like you haven't aged in ages.

1. Enroll in body and mind-enhancing exercises
Signing up for yoga, pilates and all those exercises that clear the mind and concentrate on easing your inner self. The main exercises focus on breathing freely and making sure that you know how to focus on one thing and one thing only. Multitasking has become one of our priorities as to accomplish more tasks once. This is not bad but tends to take away the moment of appreciating that beauty of one situation and concentrate on the stress of the millions of things that we have to do.

2. Pamper yourself on a luxury spa vacation
Most of our lines are caused by stress. Spas has evolved from being just a facility with rooms for backrubs to a place for wellness treatments as well as guidance on everything from nutrition to nurturing ourselves. Spots for luxury spas are booming like pimples on an oily skin and therefore there are a lot of choices and no excuse for you to make a reservation.

3. Appreciate and flaunt what you have
It might be easier said than done but it is actually simple to do. Take time to pause and look around you. At the tender age of 50, you're still alive with the average lifespan is declining. You still have a roof above your head and you still woke and read this post. All of us have problems to deal with so there's no reason to feel worst for ourselves.

4. Compare yourself with others
This may sound narcissistic but it works when viewed in an objective way. Take time to look at your yearbooks and compare yourself with someone there whom you still know up to know and see what edge you have over them. Knowing that someone is going through the same experience you have and yet looks kind of worst and help them in any way you can. Now, there's the redeeming value.

5. Do something spontaneous and safely outrageous
Doing something unplanned and yet most enjoyable is a way to feel good, and when you feel good, you look good. Operative word here is doing something that is SAFELY outrageous. Consider your health first. If you have diabetes and you want to go on a chocolate fest, then do some other thing.

6. Never underestimate the power of makeup
Putting on a little bit of blush or a concealer won't hurt and will definitely make you glamorously young. Go for the makeup that are chemically good for your skin. If the Ambush makeover team is on your neighborhood, then make yourself noticeable in the streets.

The key to looking like you just drank from the fountain of youth is to feel good about yourself. Sure, there are things that you did 20 years ago that you can't do now. But then again, there are things that you can do now that you weren't able to do back then. I am not against surgical enhancements, but I also see no harm in going the natural way.
I daresay that there's nothing wrong to wish for a more youthful appearance but not to the point of cutting your skin in half and end more messed up in the process.

Asthma - Non-Drug Approaches

2008-01-06T08:04:00.001+08:00

There are some non-drug asthma cure such as physical therapy. The asthmatic person's chronically impaired breathing patterns may create other physical problems: a rigid, stiff posture that can result air passage and musculature; a weak diaphragm that can result in rigid air passages and musculature, a weak diaphragm that results in less efficient breathing, the obstruction of air passages from excess mucus production. Physical therapy is sometimes used to combat these problems, and one of the most common physical therapy techniques is called postural drainage.

What is postural drainage?
It's a technique that uses gravity and percussion - gentle rapping on the chest - to loosen and eliminate thick, tenacious mucus. Generally performed by nurses and physical and respiratory therapists, postural drainage can be learned by family members and performed on an asthmatic person at home.

How is it done?
The asthmatic person sits or lies in one of nine different positions, depending upon where mucus has collected in her lungs. The mucus is loosened by gently clapping, or percussing, and then vibrating the chest with cupped hands. The goal is to enable the person with asthma to cough up mucus and mucus plugs that can lead to infection.

Postural drainage is performed only when a great deal of mucus is in the lungs. It is never done when the asthmatic person is in the midst of an asthma attack, because it could intensify breathing difficulties.

Are there other physical therapies to help people with asthma?
Breathing exercise can increase muscle strength and even help relax the person with asthma. Some breathing exercises encourage slow, deep and controlled inhalation through the nose. Their purpose is to combat the asthmatic person's tendency to pant or breathe shallowly through the mouth, which can make asthma worse. Physical or respiratory therapists can demonstrate the appropriate technique.

Asthma?

2008-01-05T07:01:00.002+08:00

Introduction:Constriction of the air way and increased mucosal discharge due to an altered allergic response causes obstruction of airflow leading to labored breathing this is known as Asthma. It is a very common disorder affecting children (Asthmatic Bronchitis) more than adults. An episode of Asthmatic attack may be mild and pass away quickly or at times may be severe and lasting longer requiring immediate medical help. Causes:The causes of Asthma are many fold and most often they are a combination of multiple factors triggering the Asthma attack.

Common causes of Asthma include:
Genetic/Hereditary and familial tendency - Allergens like Pollen and molds from grass, flowers and trees.
Environmental factors exposure to smoke, dust, pollution, petrol fumes, exposure to chemicals, strong perfumes, paints, varnishes, etc.
Mental stress- Infection of the lung, which can be bacterial, viral predisposes to asthma.
History of other allergic disorders or Asthma in parents predisposes a person to Asthma. - Childhood history of recurrent allergic respiratory infections is found in most asthmatic patients. Triggering Factors:Depending on his susceptibility, various factors work as triggers in inducing an asthmatic attack. Some common triggering factors are as given below:
Emotional stress is a known trigger factor for an asthmatic attack.
Over strenuous exercise.
Inhalation of cold air.
Climatic changes.
Certain drugs like aspirin, etc. Symptoms:All Asthma attacks may not have these symptoms and the symptoms of Asthma vary from one person to another. The intensity and duration of the symptoms also vary during each episode of Asthma.
Coughing:There may be cough, sometimes with phlegm. It is often worse at night or early in the morning thus making it difficult to sleep.
Wheezing: A whistling sound produced due to air passing through constricted air ways.
Chest tightness: Sensation as if something is squeezing the chest.
Shortness of breath: Mild to moderate shortness of breath and shortness and rapid breathing follow with a feeling of anxiety and sweating. The person is unable to lie down on the back. Usually the sufferer finds comfort in sitting bent forwards and near the windows. Homeopathic Treatment:Asthma in all age groups can be effectively treated with Homeopathic medicines. Conventionally it is treated with steroids and bronchodilators with temporary relief. Homeopathic medicines act at the deeper immune level. The allergic nature, genetic predisposition, stress, etc. all these factors are taken into consideration before prescribing an individualized constitutional medicine. The effective result being the medicines give relief from the existing symptoms like breathlessness, wheezing, cough, etc. The intensity, duration, and recurrence of the Asthmatic attacks can be controlled with Homeopathic medicines. Homeopathic medicines are not habit forming unlike steroids and bronchodilators. They can be used along with the conventional medicines and long term management with Homeopathic medicines help to over come the dependence on steroids and bronchodilators.Homeopathic medicines are safe and gentle; they do not have any adverse reaction. They can be given to patients of all age groups and even infants and pregnant and nursing mothers. Dos & Don'ts for Asthmatics:
Try to recognize the trigger factors that bring on your attack, so that you can avoid them. There are three steps to be taken when dealing with an allergy. Firstly, identify the cause or allergen Secondly, avoid it. Thirdly, if avoidance is impossible, treat the symptoms. Keep a diary and try to trace a pattern or relation between your allergic reaction and the allergen. E.g. Sneezing while doing housework could mean you are allergic to house dust.
In families with history of allergy (asthma, eczema), avoid artificial milk, eggs, cocoa, juices & wheat preparations till completion of 6 months in infants. Breastfeed your baby for the first 6 months to strengthen the immune system and avoid contact with allergens.
Avoid foods & drinks that are known to cause a problem such as vinegar, lemon juice, grapes, instant tea, corn syrup, fruit toppings, cold food & drink, canned vegetables, beer and wine.
Avoid smoke, pollution, dust as far as possible.
Take steps to deal with stress, anxiety and tension as these can influence the frequency and severity of symptoms.
Good nutrition, balanced diet, adequate rest and relaxation will be beneficial.
Yoga can help you by breathing exercises.
Ask your doctor regarding emergency medication to help you till you reach him. How to avoid Allergens:
Pollen: During Pollen season it is advisable avoid outdoors activities early in the morning as most Pollens are maximum before 10 am in most cases. Work indoors with proper ventilation and air conditioning. While driving you may role up the windows to avoid exposure to pollens.
Cold Drafts: Wear adequate protective clothing to prevent exposure to direct dry cold drafts. Breathing through nose ensures that the air you breathe in gets relatively warmed while passing along the passage and thus does not act as an irritant.
Smoke: Avoid cigarette smoke and other sources of smoke like fireplace, bonfires, bursting crackers, etc.
Pollution: Avoid staying or working in polluted areas, where you will be exposed to smog, dust, industrial dust and fumes, damp, etc.
Mold: Keep your environment (vents, air conditioners filters, etc) clean and dry to avoid mold growths. Scrub surfaces and thoroughly dry them to prevent moisture and mold growths. You may use a dehumidifier in the home and clean it every day.
Dust: Keep your surroundings dust free by cleaning with damp cloth and then drying the surfaces. Avoid using carpets, etc which can accumulate dust, mites, etc. Regularly vacuum such surfaces in absence of persons allergic to them to avoid triggering their ailment.
Dust Mites: Most often dust mites and bugs live in stuffed toys, carpets, mattresses, cloths, pillows, beddings, etc. It is necessary to clean them in hot water where ever possible and encase them in zipped allergen covers. Use dehumidifier and keep household humidity low.
Pet Dander: Avoid keeping pets. If you want to keep a pet it's best to restrict them to specific areas and prevent them from entering bedroom, etc. It is also good to wash the pet regularly.
Cockroaches: Take precautions and keep the house and environment clean to prevent breeding of cockroaches. Cockroach droppings and body parts can irritate asthma sufferers. Avoid use of chemicals and sprays for pest control.
Chemicals: Avoid going into rooms that are being painted or just painted. Do not use strong perfumes and chemical inhalants.
Food: Eat fresh unprocessed food. Check food labels for additives. Vitamin B complex and magnesium supplements may help.
Regular checkups: See a doctor regularly, to be monitored and seek help in case if a severe attack.
Speciality Clinic is an Online Homoeopathic Clinic. It offers effective Homeopathic treatment for various chronic and difficult cases.Speciality Clinic has been set up by Dr. Jawahar Shah M.D. (Hom), a senior Homeopath, who has been into Homoeopathic practice for more than 30 years. His expert opinion and treatment will now be accessible online so that anyone who needs it can benefit from it anytime and anywhere. An online protocol is specially designed to ensure that there is no communication gap and all the data required to prescribe is adequately collected and thus the patient gets the same benefit as meeting the Doctor personally.
Article Source:Dr._Jawahar_Shah

Allergies - Food Allergy Symptoms

2008-01-04T08:26:00.001+08:00

You just may notice that there are times when you eat a particular food item and you then experience some discomfort. You also just may notice that this occurrence is quite consistent to some extent already. But has it ever crossed your mind that the discomfort you feel whenever you take in this particular food item is already a food allergy? Because the occurrence of food allergy symptoms can differ from one person to another, there is then a need to know how to spot food allergy symptoms efficiently.

There are times when food allergy symptoms manifest themselves within minutes after the food item has been taken in. This makes spotting the food allergy much easier, and you can easily deduce which food item caused this particular allergy. However, you cannot discount the fact that it takes a few hours or so for food allergy symptoms to manifest themselves. Because of the time discrepancy, physicians even make the mistake of diagnosing the food allergy symptoms as symptoms of a completely different condition to begin with.

There is also the matter of food allergy symptoms being very different from one another. Some food allergy symptoms may be mild, while others may be severe. There are also some symptoms that bring just a minor sense of discomfort, while others can be life threatening at their occurrence. To illustrate clearly, a mild allergic reaction can be in the form of a simple rash on your arm, which fades out in a short time. A severe reaction, on the other hand, can be inflammation in the throat. This inflammation can swell to such a point where you would find it extremely difficult to breathe already.

Severe food allergies should be detected and addressed as soon as possible. If these are not addressed soon enough, these can lead to poor digestion, as well as the degradation of bodily functions. You would not want this to happen because this can lead to abnormal functioning of your bodily functions in time.

If you want to know how to spot food allergy symptoms, you can actually try conducting an elimination diet, and keeping a food diary of your own. On your diary, you can note down all the food items you take in each day, and the allergic symptoms that these might cause. With this list, you can then start eliminating the harmful food items on your list off your diet. Of course, you should consult your physician regarding this endeavor. Your doctor can very much give you useful tips and pointers on how to do this more effectively.

Asthma - Signs And Symptoms

2008-01-02T22:51:00.001+08:00

The symptoms of asthma vary from person to person and range from mild to severe. For some, an asthma attack or flare-up can be life-threatening.

Typical symptoms include shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing and wheezing. But not all people experience these symptoms. In some, the only symptom may be a chronic cough, especially at night or after exercising.

These normally begin within minutes of exposure to triggers such as allergens or environmental irritants, cold air and certain medications and may last for a few minutes. More serious episodes may last for hours or even days. These flare-ups can occur at any time but often strike during the early morning hours. Nocturnal asthma may begin two to three hours after you sleep and may cause you to wake up gasping for breath.

Others experience restlessness during sleep, fatigue, an itchy or scratchy throat, itchy or watery eyes, and nasal and sinus congestion.
Asthmatics wheeze and cough because their airways are inflamed and filled with mucus. This makes it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. That's the reason why asthmatics find it hard to breathe. These symptoms are caused by the body's over-reaction to normally harmless substances like pollen, sudden weather changes, or indoor and outdoor airborne allergens.

While wheezing (a musical whistling sound during breathing) is one of the symptoms of asthma, not all asthmatics wheeze. In fact, some people don't have any symptoms and may not be aware that they have asthma. They may just feel tired most of the time, lack energy or seem to run out of breath easily. In most children, cough is the only symptom of asthma.

To help your doctor diagnose asthma, take note of your symptoms and tell your doctor about them. Observe when they occur, what you were doing at that time, how long they lasted as well as other pertinent information.
If your symptoms follow exposure to certain asthma triggers and occur at night or after exercise, you probably have asthma, more so if you have a family history of the disease. This will be confirmed through breathing and allergy tests or other laboratory tests.
Your doctor will also check how well you respond to asthma medications, especially short-acting bronchodilators that quickly relieve asthma attacks. To prevent further attacks, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medicines that stop inflammation and mucus production.

Since obesity is bad for asthmatics, keep your weight down to a healthy level. You can do this with the help of Zyroxin, a safe and natural supplement that will maximize your weight loss through its unique fat-burning ingredients.

Asthma - Causes...

2008-01-02T09:54:00.001+08:00

This is due to indoor pollutants found in homes with fireplaces or in those heated with gas, wood, coal, and kerosene units. Other indoor allergens are household products like paint, paint thinner, and room deodorizers as well as personal hygiene products such as spray deodorants, hair sprays, talcum powder, cosmetics, and perfumes. If you have asthma, avoid these substances or look for other ways of improving your appearance that won't give you asthma.

Tobacco smoking as well as passive smoking, whether indoors or outdoors, is a known asthma trigger since it irritates and inflames the airways. Of the two, secondhand or sidestream smoke (the smoke inhaled by non-smokers) is hotter and more toxic than the smoke inhaled by the tobacco user. If you're smoking, quit. It may be hard at first but the rewards are great. If you're not smoking, don't start.

Your job is another source of asthma. Occupational asthma is caused by constant exposure to allergens in the workplace that a person is sensitive to. Experts say there at least 200 triggers in the workplace. The usual victims are carpenters, bakers, beauticians, electricians, farmers, gardeners, printers, and hospital workers.

Certain medicines can also trigger asthma. The usual culprits are aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naprosyn. Mild asthma may be caused by medications for high blood pressure (such as beta blockers), glaucoma, migraine or heart, thyroid or liver conditions. Avoid these medications if possible or ask your doctor for safer substitutes.

Allergic reactions to food are rare but they sometimes happen. Asthma symptoms may follow the intake of sulfites, monosodium glutamate (MSG) and tartrazine.
Sulfites like potassium and sodium meta-bisulfite, sulfur dioxide, sodium sulfite, sodium and potassium bisulfite, are used to eliminate bacteria, preserve freshness and brightness, and prevent spoilage. They are used on fresh fruits and vegetables, dried fruits, processed potatoes, shrimp, wines, and baked products. Unfortunately, they can cause asthma in a small number of sensitive individuals.

MSG is a flavor enhancer found in oriental food products, frozen food, canned meats, soups, seasoning, and sauce mixes. It also goes by the name of hydrolyzed vegetable protein, hydrolyzed plant protein, and natural flavorings. It can trigger asthma symptoms in some people.

Tartrazine, on the other hand, is a yellow dye used in many yellow and yellow/orange packaged foods, beverages, cakes, candies, vitamins and medicines. It brightens the appearance of these products but can also induce asthma attacks in certain people who are also allergic to aspirin.
Did you know that your favorite wine can cause asthma? Read about it in the fifth part of our series.

Allergies - Causes and Remedies

2007-12-31T06:39:00.000+08:00

An allergy is said to be a condition in which any part of the body is un-naturally sensitive to external elements like dust, pollen, temperature difference, chemicals, sound, light etc.
The reaction of the body is the result of our immune system alerted about the presence of external factors.
It is to be noted that external factors are not the reason of allergies. Many people are exposed to dust, smoke, quick temperature changes etc. Only the persons who are allergic react strongly to the external factors.
Some children are born with allergies, while most allergies are acquired over time.
Sometimes the allergens are easily avoided. Certain food items, chemicals etc come under this category. There are times when the person is accidentally or compulsorily exposed to the allergens.
The root cause of allergies lies in the food habits of a person. A person taking food items that are not easily digested and absorbed by the body compromises on the effective utilization of the food he or she eats. Incomplete digestion of food causes accumulation of bodily waste called ama in different parts of the body. This ama turns toxic and is called amavisha.
This amavisha reduces immune capacity of a person and causes the person to respond strongly to external stimuli like dust, pollen and changes in climate in a violent manner.
In fact the allergens react with the toxic wastes of the body. This strong reaction is what we call allergy and the stimulants that cause the reaction - allergens.
Ayurvedic body cleansing therapies like panchakarma, specialized massage therapies etc are the best solutions for allergies.
If the bodily wastes are accumulated on skin, an allergen can cause rashes and inflammations. With digestive system, it can lead to diarrhea. With respiratory system, it causes mucus.
Here are a few quick tips to fight allergy
Since food is the starting point, one needs to take a critical look at his or her daily diet.
Avoid cold food items. Cold food items are hard to digest. Eat warm food items. Too hot food items are also not good.
Eat food items that are easily digestible. Replace meat with seafood.
Don't eat stored or refrigerated food. Prepare food before the meals time only. Don't keep the food in refrigerator to be used on the following day.
Include spices like turmeric, coriander, ginger, fennel, etc in your food. These spices have detoxifying effects.
Don't eat after sunset. The body has a natural cleansing process starting from midnight and lasting through mid day. Don't interfere with this cleaning process. Eating after 10 pm will cause accumulation of more bodily wastes.
Practicing yoga can help. Different yoga meditation postures and pranayama techniques have good detoxification capabilities built in.

Allergies - Get Rid Now...

2007-12-30T13:19:00.000+08:00

People have different reactions to a wide variety of things. Some people may develop hives when eating seafood, while others catch colds when exposed to dust and pollen. There are also individuals who are allergic to almost anything, while there are some who are very lucky because they do not display adverse reactions to most common allergens.
Basically, an allergy is your defense system's reaction to ordinary things that surround you. Thus, you are developing rashes when you eat shrimps, for example, because your immune system thinks that such food is harmful for you.
If you are one of those who are bugged and bothered by a wide variety of allergic reactions to even the most common things, then you know how hard and annoying it is to experience allergic reactions. But if you do not ever want to experience having rashes, hives, cough and colds due to allergens, then you should read and follow the tips below:
Know What Triggers Your Allergic Attack
One of the first things you need to discover is the thing that causes your allergic reactions. If you keep sneezing when you are near a dog, then you might be allergic to dog dander. You should also pay attention to what you are eating so you will know if certain types of food give you adverse reactions. The most common allergens include pollen, insect stings, medicines, pet dander, food, dust mites and even mold spores.
A faster way to know what causes your sneezing and other allergic reactions is taking an allergy skin test. However, for people who have severe skin disorders or those who take certain medications, taking skin test for allergies is not usually advised because it might trigger a serious reaction that could be even more harmful.
Keep Away From Things That Trigger Your Attack
The most sensible approach to preventing an allergic reaction is to stay away from allergens, or the things that cause such reactions. If you are allergic to dust, then you should always keep your place clean. If you know that you are going to a place where it is dusty and dirty, you should arm yourself with a cloth to cover and protect your nose and mouth so you won't be able to inhale harmful substances.
You should also ask for the help of your friends and family in combating your allergy woes. If you have food allergies, it would be advisable to tell your family and friends right away so that they will not be serving meals or snacks that contain whatever it is that gives you adverse reactions. Reading the labels of food that you buy from the grocery or supermarket is also very important.
If you are still unsure what is causing your sneezing and cough, then it might be a good idea to keep away from furry pets, such as dogs, cats, mice, and guinea pigs. Be content about taking care of fishes and turtles just to be on the safe side.
Do The Detox
One alternative therapy for getting rid of some allergic reactions is through detoxification programs. Many alternative practitioners believe that most allergic reactions are due to proliferation of wastes and toxins inside the gut and intestines. This is particularly true for people who develop allergies during adulthood.
There are many ways to do colon and digestive system cleansing. One is by getting into the raw food diet, wherein you are only allowed to eat uncooked food, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. Some cleansing programs require people to just drink fruit juices and salt water
If you think you cannot stick to detox programs that give you very limited options on what to eat and consume, then you can just buy colon-cleansing products available in the market; these products also provide the same cleansing effect. One detox program that a lot of people are using is Colpurin. This product does not only cleanse your gut, but also revitalizes and restores your cells and tissues

Allergies - Visine

2007-12-28T20:43:00.000+08:00

Sometimes our eyes water as a reaction to excessive smoke in a room but once you have left the room it can clear up, if it doesn't then your eyes may be watering as the result of an allergic reaction. You can have an allergic reaction to all kinds of things, including smoke, pollen, seasonal changes and pet allergies. If you do think that you have an allergy that is affecting your eye then you might want to try Visine for allergies as many sufferers have found this to be effective.
Symptoms of an allergy
When you suffer from an allergy that affects your eyes this can often be felt in one or more of the following ways:
Itching at the corners of the eye and around it
Tearing or involuntary watering of the eye
Soreness - can be a direct result of the allergy or if you rub your eyes
Swelling and sensitivity to light - if these two things occur then you should consult a doctor.
Sometimes a cold compress can relieve itching around your eyes and may reduce and swelling that is beginning to take place. Alternatively it is well worth looking at Visine for allergies as it is especially designed to treat the sensitive eye areas - they manufacture a range of eye drops that are designed to deal with many different forms of eye allergy.
Seasonal Allergies
Are you one of the many people who suffer from seasonal allergies, i.e. allergies that only make themselves felt at certain times of the year? You may, like many others suffer from what is commonly known as hay fever - an allergy and reaction to the amount of pollen in the air. One of the problems with this type of allergy, particularly if you are susceptible to grass, is that they mix with other allergens and worsen the symptoms.
Symptoms often start with itchy eyes and can also involve sneezing; as well as tearing and swelling. Your doctor may prescribe antihistamines but you will need to take care when using these as they do not agree with everyone.
If you know when your seasonal allergies are likely to start then you should be able to take some precautions to avoid having to use antihistamines. It is well worth looking at some of the natural products that are around now - Visine for allergies is very good at reducing redness and minor swelling; although if this worsens then you should consult a practitioner.

Ance - Cause?

2007-12-27T21:35:00.000+08:00

Acne is a disorder that is caused by the sebaceous gland of the skin. This gland is more commonly known as the hair follicle. The skin is covered with these tiny openings. The only exceptions to this are the bottom of the feet, the palms of the hand, the top of the feet, and the lower part of the lips. The chest, upper part of the neck, and the face are the parts of the body with the most sebaceous glands on them. This is what causes acne to be more common in these areas.
Sebum is secreted by the sebaceous glands. This substance is what is responsible for the hair and skin staying soft and moisturized. When an individual is in the teens or pubescent years, these glands are larger than normal and the amount of sebum produced is being controlled by the large amounts of hormones in the body. Once the individual makes it to around twenty years of age, the amount of secretion will begin to go down as the hormone levels regulate themselves.
There is a bacterial substance on the skin that is medically known as Propionibacterium acnes. This is what causes acne to arise on the skin. This bacteria grows and thrives on the sebum. During the years of puberty, the propionibacterium acnes bacteria are at its highest level because the sebum level is also high. Individuals who have acne have an overgrowth of the bacteria in the sebaceous glands than those who do not suffer from acne.
When the bacteria are present, the white blood cells are also present in the gland. The white blood cells are damaging to the follicle wall and this brings the sebum and bacteria into the dermis layer of the skin. The bacteria can also activate the fatty acids in the body and cause further irritation to the gland. The gland swells from this activity and what causes acne to appear.
Normal glands will produce sebum that will join with exfoliating cells of the skin and this will make the gland full. The gland will then let these ingredients out causing the face to feel oily. If nothing is in the way to hinder this process, the skin stays in balance with the correct moisture it needs and stays strong and healthy. When the sebum and cells in the gland are not able to come out as they should, the skin gets dry in spots and the result of the clogged gland is a blackhead or whitehead. There is no known reason for this occurrence but it is what causes acne to be a problem.

Ance - Remove Acne Scars?

2007-12-26T20:28:00.000+08:00

There are several ways on removing acne scars. The appearance of acne starts during puberty when the body actively produces hormones that causes too much sebum in the skin. This skin stage may pass but it would definitely leave marks to haunt your appearance forever. Treating acne scars can be done through natural inexpensive ways and dermatological procedures that would probably cost a lot. However, acne scar treatment still depends on the mildness and severity of the scar.
Below are some of the techniques on removing acne scars naturally:
1. Hydration is the key. It has been proven that water is one of the best natural methods to remove acne scars and prevent acne breakouts. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water or more helps your skin to shed those unwanted dead skin cells.
2. A lot of people are recommending the use Vitamin E capsule for those scars. You might apply it topically to the affected area by pricking a spot in the capsule and apply the oil to the scar. Another option is to take it orally to have that cell renewal from the inside.
3. Rosehip seed oil is also an effective remedy on removing acne scars. This is an anti-ageing and anti-wrinkling agent that helps the skin to regenerate. Massage it on the scar twice a day.
4. Eating a balance diet may help in removing acne scars. The more nutritious foods you include in your meal, the faster the scar will heal. It helps in building the skin cells and gives a healthy skin glow as well.
5. Combine rose water and paste of sandal wood and apply it on the spot where the scars are. Leave it overnight then rinse with cold water the next day.
Aside from the natural ways of removing acne scars, there are also dermatological procedures that would definitely give you a much faster result. However, pregnancy and other health conditions may hinder your want to undergo these procedures. Here are some of the hi-tech methods can remove acne scars effectively.
6. Nowadays, not only certified dermatologists do a dermabrasion but facial salons as well. Dermabrasion is the removal of the top skin layer using a machine that chafes off the skin. Once the skin heals, the top layer will then have a smoother and clearer appearance.
7. Laser resurfacing is one of the most affordable anti-scar treatments available. It simply uses a high-energy light that would remove the fine scars and even prevent wrinkles.
8. You may also have a chemical peel procedure. This is just like dermabrasion. The only difference is that the top layer of the skin is peeled off using chemicals not machines. This is not a very advisable procedure for all since some people may have allergic reactions to the chemicals.
With all the available choices for treatment, you surely would not have an excuse as to why your acne scar is still obvious. It's your choice whether you would opt for the natural way or the dermatological procedure on how to remove acne scars.

Ance - Solution

2007-12-25T18:22:00.000+08:00

There are hundreds of different products for acne. There are cleansers and creams, there are lotions and soap. Everywhere you look, on television, on the internet, you will find a million products. There are so many things! Below are some tips for figuring out what the right solution is when trying to win the fight against acne.
In the line of skin care products, there are hundreds of possibilities for acne treatment. Finding the right solution to your problem comes down to knowledge of the best products that work. When searching for a cleanser or cream, it is important to remember the type of active ingredients commonly found in acne creams that are the most effective. There are two main solutions. The first is known as Benzoyl Peroxide. This is a great solution because it helps to keep pores clean. The other is Salicylic Acid, which kills bacteria inside of the pores. These are both effective on mild and moderate acne and a cream with 2% of either is usually a great solution. If your acne happens to be more severe, finding a cream with the maximum dosage of 10% is a far more likely solution, and this should be discussed with a dermatologist to be sure that it is both safe and effective for the acne at hand.
The type of acne solution you chose however should depend mainly on your skin type. If you tend to be oily skinned look toward bottles and creams that contain alcohol as an active ingredient. This will help to dry out some of the oil in the skin, leading to less sebum production the pores. Creams, foams, and gels can also be used for normal to oily skin. Though the creams do offer more moisterization, and should be avoided by those with oily skin. If you skin tends to be on the dry side, an ointment would be the best solution as the ointments can be a little greasy and are not good for those who have plenty of oil in their skin, even if skin is on the normal side.
Follow these guidelines and hopefully a solution can be found to help combat your acne. If you have trouble knowing what your skin type is or knowing what will work for you, it is best to contact a dermatologist who can answer these questions as well as many others. Know your skin and figure out your solution.

Ance - Problem

2007-12-24T17:06:00.000+08:00

Acne is a condition that is common and can affect people from their teens throughout adulthood. Acne can lead to severe scarring for reasons that are not fully understood. The severity of scarring is different with each person, sometimes leading to disfiguring and permanent scars. The term "scarring" refers to permanent texture changes in the skin due to damaged collagen from inflammation. Scars are formed at the location of an injury to tissue, which is caused by the bodies inflammatory response to sebum, dead cells and bacteria in the plugged sebaceous follicle.
Some people are more susceptible to acne scarring, suffering from severe inflammatory acne, occurring deep within the skin, or even from more superficial inflamed lesions. Acne scarring is also described by several patients as a discoloration of their skin, even months after the acne lesion has healed.
The life history of acne scarring is not well understood. Some people obtain scars that stay with them for a lifetime with little to no change, whereas others are able to see a degree of remodeling as the acne scars reduce in size over time. Acne scarring can be devastating for people who suffer from it, which can lead to immediate treatment to remove or diminish the scarring effects. It is hard to gauge how extensive and deep the scars will be, or what is the best method to prevent and treat acne scarring before it happens.
There are several different types of acne scarring including; ice pick scarring, atrophic scarring and hypertrophic scarring. Ice pick scars are usually small deep pitted scars with steep jagged edges. Atrophic scars are smaller and soft, and over time change color and reduce in size. Hypertrophic scars are thick and lumpy and sit above the surface of the skin, much more common on the back and chest.
Acne scarring can be treated early in its course, by reducing the amount of inflammation in order to prevent permanent damage. Since the severity of scarring is different with each person, any person who tends to scar easy should be under the care of a dermatologist.

HEARING - Sources Of Information On Hearing Aids

2007-03-04T20:21:00.000+08:00

As we know that it is useless to get inappropriate information related to any requisite query for hearing aids devices. However there are different sources for having reliable information for hearing loss problems. Among such sources, newspapers, pamphlets, suggestions of experts and Internet play a pivotal role for getting the information on hearing aids and the solution of hearing loss problems.

Role Of The Audiologist
Physicians and doctors provide professional and excellent guidance about hearing devices, their types, and often also the brands available. They are nice source of information on hearing aids. As a common course of events, the audiologist starts with trying to comprehend the main root cause of loss of audibility, its nature and then take the appropriate decision for remedy of the problem of the patient. They also give patience, tips in form of broachers having relevant material to their questions. In case they do not have the up to date information on hearing aids with regards to brands etc, they guide you well enough to get the required information.

Special Clinics For Information On Hearing Aids
In this regard, local governments have adopted different measures for spreading awareness and knowledge regarding the usage of hearing aid devices. For this purpose helpful advices and information on hearing aids are available from different medical stores and clinics free of cost. These clinics provide opportunity for the user to try on different hearing devices and measure his/her comfort with different models, thus providing practical first hand experience with usage of such devices. Health workers in cities and villages play an important role in spreading the essential information on hearing aids, their usage and benefits.

Role Of Consumer Protection Offices
Many welfare agencies are doing a good job making aware the communities in different villages about their common problems. Consumer Protection Offices have up to date information on hearing aids, their usage and the related queries. For the awareness purpose several free booklets and pamphlets are also available in such offices.

The World Wide Web
As is the purpose on the World Wide Web, it provides countless information on hearing aids and the companies dealing with such devices. Manufacturing companies make available their product guidelines and all related information on hearing aids. The website of department of consumer affairs has information on hearing aids available in downloadable format as well as for online consultation. The extensive range covers from user guides till legal groundings. So people can also get information related to their legal rights for handling hearing loss problems. An interesting aspect of online browsing is that one can also get the information on hearing aids from the users who are using such devices, so one gets first customer response which can help making a good decision regarding the device one needs.

Alzheimer''s Disease

2007-02-20T21:30:00.000+08:00

Alzheimer''s Disease (AD) is a terrible disease. It destroys your mind, leaving your family to suffer with your slowly dying body. Whatever your life expectancy at the time, a diagnosis of AD cuts it in half. The average patient spends the last 8 years of his "life" in a care facility and dies not knowing his own name...

There is no cure, but we are learning more and more about AD. There is a genetic link, but it is not absolute, only a predisposition to the disease, as it is with diabetes and heart disease. If AD hit someone in your family, it is more likely to someday hit you, but environmental elements make a huge difference...

So much so that while one sibling (even a twin) may contract AD, another, with a different lifestyle, may not. The evidence strongly suggests that by taking proper steps for Alzheimer's prevention you have an excellent chance of avoiding the disease completely, whatever your genetic factors.

It is still not known for sure whether the beta amyloid plaques and tau protein tangles in the brain, the hallmark of AD, are causes of the disease or results of it. But we do know that they start to form years, decades, before the first symptoms appear. So any Alzheimer's prevention steps you take should start early.

Alzheimer's disease researchers are working feverishly to develop a cure for AD. But it is likely that any "cure" for AD will be found in Alzheimer's prevention. No cure is likely to restore dead brain cells or the memories they contained. The most that can be hoped for is to stop the progression of AD. If an eventual cure is going to help you, you will need to have enough viable brain cells left, when the cure becomes available, to be salvageable! Thus Alzheimer's prevention now becomes critical.

O.K. So what can you do? How can you make Alzheimer's prevention work for you?
First off, look to your circulation and general health. What's good for your heart is generally also good for your brain. So watch your diet, control your weight, control your blood pressure and cholesterol levels and exercise regularly.

Secondly, get good nutrition and plenty of the nutrients needed. We used to think (many still do) that vitamins, etc. are only needed in low levels to prevent disease. Now we are beginning to understand that long-term low levels may constitute a chronic deprivation of these essential nutrients.

This chronic deprivation seems to lead to slower developing ailments such as heart disease, diabetes and AD. For example, high levels of the toxic protein homocystein in the blood is strongly linked to both heart disease and AD. Homocystein levels can be reduced easily with enough B-vitamins and cofactors.

The cost of enough B-vitamins, etc. to control the homocystein concentration is trivial. A few cents a day. No one tells you about it because they don't know. Or maybe because they can't make any money selling you such a cheap solution to Alzheimer's prevention!

Third (and most important), make it a point to be well informed. It's your body, it's your life. No one else cares as much as you do. As the owner and operator of one human body (that comes with a lifetime guarantee but no operator's manual!) its maintenance and care are up to you.

This matter is much too important to be left in the hands of others. Others who, while they may be sympathetic, have their own different concerns and different agendas. For them it's a living. For you, it's a matter of life and death! Alzheimer's prevention for your body is your responsibility.

For more information About Alzheimer's prevention and what you can do about it, follow the links below...
For more information about Alzheimers disease research and Alzheimers prevention, visit: Alzheimers Prevention
To learn more about Alzheimer's and how to prevent it, visit: Alzheimers Disease Research

Downs Syndrome

2007-02-17T19:35:00.000+08:00

It's unfortunate that many people today just don't have the proper understanding of Downs Syndrome and what exactly this means. Some make wrong assumptions about those with this condition, their abilities, and their intelligence level. It's true that many with Downs Syndrome have typically lower than average cognitive abilities, but only a very small percentage of those with this condition are impaired enough to need constant supervision or to keep them from functioning on their own.

The actual condition itself is caused by a disorder of the chromosomes, with all or part of an extra twenty-first chromosome. There are some physical characteristics that are common among those with Downs Syndrome, including almond-shaped eyes caused by a fold in the eyelids. Some also have a particular type of crease on the hands, shorter limbs than average, poorer muscle tone than average, and a protruding tongue. Those with Downs Syndrome are often easy to spot because of these physical characteristics, but rarely do any of those with this condition have physical abnormalities that would keep him or her from functioning in normal circumstances. There is also an increased risk for heart defects, acid reflux disease, ear infection, sleep apnea, and often thyroid disease or disorders. Other than these conditions, those with Downs Syndrome rarely have any type of severe physical limitations or concerns.

This condition is different for everyone that has it in severity and limitations. However, most of those with Downs Syndrome are able to be integrated into public schools, sports, and the workplace. They may have certain limitations when it comes to their understanding of complex concepts but typically can handle money and a budget, manage their own apartment or home, and can also care for a baby when needed. The majority of those with this condition can care for themselves and their family as well as anyone else.

It's very shortsighted to assume that anyone with Downs Syndrome is severely disabled or unable to function or make decisions on his or her own. Again, this condition affects each patient differently, but the vast majority is just as functioning as anyone else.

Some years ago there was a very popular television series that revolved around a young man with Downs Syndrome, his family, and his schooling. They portrayed how successful he was in fitting in with other classmates, making decisions about his own activities, and even in running for class president. The TV series was very realistic about his limitations as well, but was an honest portrayal of what it's like to have this condition. Anyone with Downs Syndrome should be considered as capable and functioning as anyone else, and should be given every chance to succeed.

DO NOT GIVE CALCIUM SUPPLEMENTS. It is believed that large unused quantifies of calcium inn the downs syndrome fetus was a major contributing factor in causing the health related problems. Common Vitamins and over the counter products may help with Downs Syndrome.
Boron is known as the calcium helper and assists calcium absorption and utilization in the body.
Vitamin E promotes the natural body healing mechanism and oxygen to the heart and other muscles in the body. In addition it improves circulation.

Ginkgo is needed for the proper functioning of the vascular system and for improving blood circulation to the brain.

Vitamin B is known to help maintain the normal vasodilatation.

Amino Acid helps regulate growth, digestion and maintaining the body's immune system.

Oat Bran helps to regulate blood glucose levels, aids in lowering cholesterol, and helps in the removal of toxins.

Vitamin C is essential for defending the body against pollution and infections and enhances the immune system.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

Diabetes - Can Make You Blind?

2007-02-14T21:22:00.000+08:00

Millions of people with diabetes are in danger of going blind unless they seek medical help. This is because of diabetic retinopathy, a common complication of diabetes.

Diabetic retinopathy is caused by poorly controlled blood sugar levels that weaken small blood vessels in the retina (the innermost layer of the eye). Over time, this results in progressive vision loss or even blindness. In America alone, diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in adults aged 20 to 74 years old.

There are two types: nonproliferative or background retinopathy and proliferative retinopathy. In the former, small capillaries in the retina break and leak, distorting or blurring vision. Proliferative retinopathy affects 2 to 5 percent of all diabetics and is the most serious form of the disease. Here, new blood vessels grow over the retina and may bleed, leading to progressive vision loss or blindness.

Unfortunately, there is a low awareness about the disease. In some Asian countries, this is compounded by the lack of ophthalmologists who can give patients a comprehensive medical eye examination.

To prevent further complications of the disease, it is recommended that steps be done to control your diabetes. Have an annual eye examination every year after diabetes is diagnosed.
For those who already have the disease, laser photocoagulation may help. This is a painless procedure in which a laser beam is aimed through the eye to destroy abnormal blood vessels and stop them from leaking.

Your ophthalmologist may also prescribe medications to strengthen the fragile capillaries, improve micro-circulation, and prevent thrombosis. To strengthen your body, take Immunitril - your first line of defense in maintaining a healthy immune system. For details, visit http://www.bodestore.com/immunitril.html.

Diabetes - Diet

2007-02-10T14:19:00.000+08:00

Most people have the misconception that if you have diabetes you need to follow a strict diet plan. However, contrary to what most people believe, having diabetes needn't restrict your diet choices. An ideal diabetes diet needs to include an assortment of foods in moderate quantities. Here are a few pointers to help you create your own diabetes planner.

Follow the natural path
When you have diabetes, the ultimate aim of your diet plan should be to reduce the fat content and enhance the nutrients in the food. That can be accomplished if you use a specialized diabetes carb counter to count the calories in your meals and also including plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as whole grains.

Meal times
Many people tend to eat at odd times which can disrupt the natural digestive process of the body. Hence people with diabetes need to set regular timelines for meals and snacks. While a certain amount of diabetes carb counting does help to reduce the calorie intake, it is not the only thing that will aid you in a healthy eating endeavour. Eating at regular times every day of the week, month and year is what will help manage diabetes better. Keep a reminder, an alarm - basically do whatever you need to remember your meal times.

Carbohydrate counting
Since carbohydrates contribute to the overall sugar levels in the body, it helps to keep track of the amount of carbohydrates you are ingesting in your meals. You can make use of a regular diabetes carb counter to keep effective track. Typically it is the foods that have a high glycemic index that are dangerous as they raise blood sugar rapidly. However that doesn't necessarily mean that the low glycemic foods are a healthy option all the time.

The substitution method
One effective way to cut down on the amount of carbohydrates you consume and to avoid an overload of a particular nutrient is by using an exchange mechanism. So you could try substituting a potato with beans or corn as they cut down on the starch levels. You could take help from a dietician to chart out a diabetes planner to help you manage your meal plans.

Creativity goes a long way
Whoever said that healthy food is boring didn't know what he or she was talking about! With a little imagination and creativity you can transform some of the most mundane vegetables into tasty treats. Since your diabetes diet will need to include a rich range of vegetables and grains, you might need to look up some interesting recipes to try.

Diabetes - Information

2007-02-05T21:18:00.000+08:00

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with diabetes, the first thing you should do is to find out as much information about the disease as possible. Although there is no cure for diabetes, proper treatment and lifestyle choices can make it easy to live with diabetes and allow someone with this condition to live a long, full life.

Only a doctor can diagnose your diabetes. It is often diagnosed when someone feels poorly. They might even faint or feel very sick for a long period of time. There might be frequent visits to the bathroom and excessive thirst. Some people develop a cold and clammy feeling and might think that they are having a heart attack. A blood test will indicate a problem with the glucose levels and the doctor will want to do more tests. Extensive blood work is needed in order to confirm a diagnosis of diabetes.

Diabetes Type II has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. The disease is linked to obesity and diets rich in simple carbohydrates. It can also be an inherited condition. Most diabetics have a first degree relative with the disease. Age also plays a factor and many people are diagnosed with diabetes after the age of 65.

With diabetes type II, the body does not produce enough insulin needed to break down glucose. It remains in the blood system and causes the kidneys to work hard to eliminate the waste. If untreated, the kidneys will eventually fail.

It is important to treat diabetes as soon as you are diagnosed. Depending on your history and blood sugar levels, the doctor will prescribe either oral medication or insulin. Many diabetics dislike taking insulin, although this is the most effective treatment for the disease. Insulin pumps can provide the body with insulin without having to take a shot every day.

There are various medications available to treat diabetes and the doctor will usually prescribe a combination of pills. The dosage may need to be adjusted until the blood glucose levels are under control. It is important to monitor the blood glucose levels at all times, but especially when you are first diagnosed so that you can make sure you are on the proper dosage of medication.

Once your blood glucose levels are under control, you will have to continue to monitor these levels a few times a day. Most diabetics test their blood sugars at least three times a day. This requires a meter, a lancet pen, lancets and testing strips. Supplies can be costly, but most insurance companies will cover some of the costs. There are some places online that will bill your insurance company directly and send you the supplies at a discount, even if you have Medicare. Once you understand the different diabetic supplies that you need, it is a good idea to shop around for the best price on supplies.

You will have to see the doctor a few times a year during the first year to make sure that your blood sugar levels are under control. He or she will want to do blood tests. The big mistake that most diabetics make is that they refuse to acknowledge the disease and do not see their doctor regularly. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with diabetes, make sure that regular visits to the physician are scheduled.

Diabetes can be a scary diagnosis, but this is a disease that you can live with and control, as long as you follow the advice of your doctor

Diabetes - Symptoms

2007-02-01T21:15:00.000+08:00

There are certain tell tale signs that someone has diabetes. Symptoms of diabetes vary from person to person but the most common are excessive thirst and frequent urination. This is because the kidneys are not functioning properly. Your body is not providing enough insulin needed to break down glucose in your blood. It is causing your kidneys to go into overdrive.

Other symptoms of diabetes can be blurred vision. Diabetes affects the nerves and organs in the body and just about every part of the body can be affected Blurred vision is a common symptom of diabetes, especially when it is accompanied by lightheadedness. This can also be a symptom of other diseases, so it is important that these symptoms be checked out by a doctor.

Pain in the back is another symptom of diabetes. This is caused by kidneys overacting. The pain will be a dull ache in the kidneys. This can also be caused by a number of different conditions, including a kidney infection, so it is important for a doctor to rule out other potential causes.
Dizziness or fainting spells can be symptoms of diabetes. Generally, a diabetic will feel very unwell, particularly in hot weather. This can feel similar to flu like symptoms. Again, other potential causes must be ruled out.

Protein in the urine can also be a symptom of diabetes. If you have frothy urine, it can mean many different things, but you should check your blood sugar levels for diabetes. Frothy urine can also be caused by the use of certain substances such as alcohol and tobacco, some illegal drugs and even certain foods. This is not a direct symptom of diabetes, but anyone with frothy urine that occurs all of the time should have their blood sugar levels tested.

Another symptom of diabetes is a sore that will not heal. Diabetics have a problem with sores. They do not heal like healthy individuals. This is the reason why diabetics have to be careful about getting cuts as they can get infected and even turn into gangrene. This is the reason why so many diabetics lose their feet and legs as they get older. A sore that will not heal should be checked out by your doctor.

Foot problems, such as athletes foot, are also a symptom of diabetes. Although athletes foot is a common condition, if it is accompanied by other symptoms of diabetes, diabetes should be ruled out.

Nausea after eating sweets is another common symptom of diabetes. This is usually one of the first symptoms and should signal you to lay off the sweets. This is usually a symptom of pre diabetes, which is a condition before the disease actually strikes and one which is reversible. If you have nausea after eating sweets, have your blood sugar level tested.

Your doctor can test your blood sugar level or you can do it yourself. Glucose level monitors are available both in the drugstore and online. You can generally get a kit for less than $100 and keep it to monitor your blood sugar. If diabetes runs in your family or you are concerned about getting this disease, keeping a blood glucose kit that includes a monitor, lancets and testing strips is not a bad idea. Take a look at the drugstore or at online stores for some good deals on these kits.

Only a doctor can diagnose diabetes. If you are concerned about this condition or feel you have these symptoms as described, see your doctor and have yourself tested.

Diabetes - Herbal Treatment

2007-01-27T21:13:00.001+08:00

Diabetes has been recognized by western medicine since the early 1800's as being one of the most prevalent and controllable conditions affecting a large portion of the population. However, Asian cultures have recognized this fact much earlier and and have developed and been using herbal treatments for diabetes for centuries. These treatments are widely regarded as effective, even today.

It must firstly be recognized that most of the herbal treatment for diabetes are not recommended for those requiring insulin treatment. This is because the majority of the herbs being used have proven effective in helping to restore the body's ability to control the blood sugar level by boosting the effectiveness of the body's own insulin. If the body is not producing insulin there is nothing to boost and, research suggests, the use of these herbal treatments will not have the needed effect.

This has obviously produced the skeptics who claim that the proponents of herbal medication are in the business simply for the money and find argument against the use of herbs in medicine. Conversely, the herbalists claim is that since the drug companies cannot patent herbs and other herbal treatments for diabetes, they cannot make money from their use therefore they condemn them as ineffective.

There Is Still No Cure For This Treatable Disease
Despite decades of research there is no known cure for diabetes and none is on the horizon. It is essentially the body's inability to regulate the amount of blood sugar in the system. While in many cases medicine to help dissolve and reduce the blood sugar offers dramatic improvement, it is still necessary for some patients to require insulin injections to keep it under control. Owing to the lack of research,There are few arguments that indicate that herbal treatments for diabetes may not be effective.

As most herbal treatments for diabetes are shown to improve the reduction of blood sugar levels by helping insulin do its job, it stands to reason that for those who's bodies don't produce insulin herbal treatment cannot provide that help.

Possibly one of the best ways a person with diabetes can help himself or herself is through a proper nutritional diet, regular exercise and monitoring their blood sugar level. Fortunately, testing equipment is readily available and is typically done through blood samples with many home testing kits offering accurate readings and can be done numerous times throughout the day.

As soon as a person is diagnosed with diabetes, and their doctor starts them on a prescription regimen they should not eliminate the medicine in favor of a herbal treatment for diabetes without consulting their physician. It is very important that They increase the monitoring of their blood sugar level and notify their doctor of any change, good or bad.

Many diabetes sufferers can dramatically improve their blood sugar levels and consequently improve their overall wellbeing by cutting out the fatty, sweet elements of their diets by eating more fresh fruits and vegetables and getting into a regular routine of exercise.

DIABETES - TYPE 2 DIABETES

2007-01-21T21:09:00.000+08:00

Type 2 diabetes is getting increasingly common in developed countries. Other developing countries are seeing a fast emerging trend of the disease. Diabetes type 2 is caused by insulin deficiency and hyperglycemia. Although this disease is more common in adults over 40, it is increasingly seen in young teenagers and even children. This worrying trend is linked to the rising rates of obesity as well as inactivity.

MAJOR RISK FACTORS FOR TYPE 2 DIABETES
Here are some of the major risk factors for type 2 diabetes:
1) Age - As people age, the chances of getting diabetes type 2 is considerably higher. So for those who are older than 45 years, they are at a higher risk of getting the disease.

2) Overweight - Being overweight is another strong risk factor especially the person is heavier in the center.

3) Genetic factors - Having someone with diabetes in the family puts you at a higher risk.

4) Certain ethnic groups such as such as native americans, african americans, Latino americans, pacific islanders and Asian individuals who are at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

5) People with high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels are at higher risk for type 2 diabetes.

6) Women at risk - women who have had a big baby of more than 9lbs are at higher risk of having type 2 diabetes. Other risk factors include women who had gestational diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome, irregular menstrual cycles and developing facial hair.
Of all these common risk factors, the most common are those who have family history as well as those who are gaining weight in the middle.

HOW TO CONTROL TYPE 2 DIABETES
Diabetes can be one of the hardest diseases to treat as it does not go away. It is always there with you, day in and day out. It will affect your daily life in what you do and what you eat. You have to be always conscious of your blood sugar as you can’t let it go too high to avoid complications. The next best thing you can do to help yourself is to control the disease.

The main cause of type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance and insulin deficiency. So the first thing you want to do is to help reduce the resistance of insulin. Exercising and losing weight can help reducing resistance to insulin and thus control type 2 diabetes. The other way is using pills which your doctor will recommend to you. However,due to the advance technology as well as rising awareness of using alternative way to treat type 2 diabetes, herbal and natural supplements are increasingly popular.

Here are a few of the natural/alternative herbs which have worked for many diabetics:
1. Bitter melon has long been regarded as the natural cure for diabetes. This fruit is known for its abilities to regulate blood glucose level. In fact, bitter melon is recommended by the Dept of Philippines as one of the best herbal medicines for managing diabetes.

2. Gymnema sylvestre is a herb native to the tropical forests of southern and central India where it has been used as a naturopathic treatment for diabetes for nearly two millennia. This herb has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels when used for an extended period of time. The active ingredient is thought to be gurmenic acid which has structure similar to saccharose. Extracts of Gymnema is not only claimed to curb sweet tooths but also for treatment of as varied problems as hyperglycemia, obesity, high cholesterol levels, anemia and digestion.

3. Cassia (Cinnamomum aromaticum or Chinese cinnamon) is a close relative to cinnamon. In fact, when cinnamon is said to be beneficial for diabetes, it is actually cassia, a less delicate version of the true cinnamon. A 2003 study published in the DiabetesCare journal followed Type 2 diabetics ingesting 1, 3 or 6 grams of cassia daily. Those taking 6 grams shows changes after 20 days, and those taking lesser doses showed changes after 40 days. Regardless of the amount of cassia taken, they reduced their mean fasting serum glucose levels 18–29%, their triglyceride levels 23–30%, their LDL cholesterol 7–27%, and their total cholesterol 12–26%, over others taking placebos. The effects, which may even be produced by brewing a tea from cassia bark, may also be beneficial for non-diabetics to prevent and control elevated glucose and blood lipid levels.

4. Chromium - Starting in the 1960s reports have shown that Chromium helps cells respond properly to naturally produced insulin. Current estimates show that 90% of Americans are lacking in this essential mineral nutrient.

5. Helps to improve circulation in the little capillaries in the hands and feet. Also valuable in balancing the digestion and strengthening the immune system.

6. Mulberry leaves is know to effectively help regulate blood sugar levels. Drink as tea can help to reduce absorption of sugar and carbohydrates. It is also a good source of antioxidants, vitamin C and carotene.

Beside these, there are others less known herbs for controlling diabetes. These herbs when combine together in the right balance can be very powerful in helping you manage diabetes. However, it is important to research on these supplements to ensure they indeed do what they claim. ProvenHealthCare.com provides informative reviews and articles on alternative methods of controlling diabetes.

It is not a doubt that more people are seeking natural and alternative treatments for their conditions. However, with so many choices in the market, choosing the right one for your condition is not easy. ProvenHealthCare.com provide reviews and information on these natural treatments so that you can make an informed decision to choose the best for yourself.

Diabetes - Inject Insulin

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When teaching your patient how to inject insulin, give her the following instructions:

Assemble all equipment. Then wash your hands with warm water and soap.
If you're using intermediate-acting or long-acting insulin, gently roll the bottle between your hands. Never shake the bottle. If you're using regular insulin, skip this step.

Clean the top of the bottle with alcohol. let it dry so that you don't inadvertently introduce alcohol into the insulin.

Inject an amount of air into the bottle equal to the amount of insulin to be drawn up.
If you're mixing more than one type of insulin, draw up the regular insulin first. Be sure to draw up the proper amount of insulin. If you see air bubbles in the syringe, gently tap it with your finger and push lightly on the plunger.

Clean the injection site with alcohol or warm water. If you use alcohol, let it dry before injecting the insulin.

Spread the skin at the injection site. Smoothly inject the needle at a 90-degree angle.
Withdraw the needle and immediately apply pressure to the injection site with a cotton ball or alcohol swab. Don't massage the area.

Discard the needle in a puncture-resistant container, such as a coffee can.

Sodium
The American Diabetes Association recommendations for sodium, less than 3,000 mg per day, are no more restrictive than is common for the general population. Patients with diabetes who also have hypertension should ingest no more than 2,400 mg of sodium per day.

Common Caloric Sweeteners
Sweeteners are classified as caloric or noncaloric. Sucrose, fructose, and alcohol sugars are the most common caloric sweeteners. Caloric sweet- eners are no longer banned from the diets of patients with diabetes. But if your patient consumes sucrose or fructose, she must exchange it for another carbohydrate. Just like other sources of carbohydrate, sucrose and fructose provide 4 calories per gram. However, your patient shouldn't consume more than 5% of her daily

carbohydrate calories in the form of caloric sweeteners.

Sugars in alcohol-sorbitol, xylitol, and mannitol-have little effect on blood glucose levels. Your patient shouldn't include them when calculating the carbohydrate content of foods. She also shouldn't use them to treat hypoglycemia.

Patients with diabetes may eat all the noncaloric sweeteners currently approved for use in the United States- aspartame, acesulfame K, and saccharin. They contain virtually no calories and have a negligible effect on blood glucose.

Diabetes.

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Diabetes Mellitus is an inherited disease which occurs when the Islands of Langerhans on the pancreas are unable to produce enough protein and insulin to process the carbohydrates (sugars and starches) we eat. The sugar stays in the blood until it spills over into the kidneys and then is output in the urine. Symptoms of the disease include extreme thirst, excessive urination, constant hunger, loss of weight, itching around the groin, marked fatigue, changes in vision, and slow healing of cuts and scratches.

There are many diseases and conditions that cause irritation and pain to the sufferer, and certainly diabetes is one of them. Having to constantly test your sugar, give yourself injections, and tailor your diet can be difficult and frustrating, and at times even painful. It's very tempting for those who have been dealing with this condition for some time to want to sneak that sweet treat or to skip testing their sugar like they should. But why worry about your diabetes? Why keep such good track of it? What's the harm in having just a nibble of dessert or going that one time without testing?

If your doctor hasn't already frightened you enough with horror stories of what diabetes can do to you if left untreated, remind yourself that this disease can cause blindness, heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, impotence, and loss of toes or even feet to amputation because of gangrene.

Bear in mind that you don't need to be a very old person to suffer these consequences of diabetes. It's not uncommon for those who have been diagnosed for only a short time to experience complications, many of which require hospitalization, because of ignoring the risk or not following their self-treatment regimen properly. It also doesn't take that long for these symptoms to appear if one neglects the proper care of diabetes. Because insulin is so important to the system and because blood sugar affects so many parts of our system, neglecting the care and treatment of diabetes for even one day can have very serious, long-term consequences.

The bad news is that diabetes is one the rise in the U.S. and other parts of the world as well; many doctors attribute this to obesity and the lifestyle choices and habits that bring this condition on. The good news is that doctors are learning new ways of treating diabetes every single day. Many patients are now using a small pump that keeps administering their medication on a regular basis so that they can forego injections. These medications are also being greatly improved upon as well.

However, the bottom line is that much of diabetes prevention and management is still going to rest in the hands of the patient. If your diet and lack of exercise is keeping you overweight, then keep in mind that these same habits and lifestyle choices are going to make you more prone to this disease. If you're overweight because you eat a lot of sweets, you're going to be wreaking havoc on your blood sugar and making your pancreas shift into overdrive.
Some people are more genetically disposed to diabetes but others still have the power to prevent it, and certainly it's worth all the time, effort, and discomfort that you go through in order to treat it properly if you do already have it.

Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with diabetes such as Potassium, Oat Bran, Magnesium, Chromium Picolinate, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Exercise.
Potassium is used by the pancreas during insulin release.
Oat Bran contains fiber which helps to regulate blood glucose levels.
Magnesium is necessary for blood clotting and proper insulin function.
Chromium Picolinate plays a vital role in sensitizing the body's tissues to the insulin and enhances glucose metabolism which will result in suppressing cravings for sweet foods. It is also responsible for regulating the efficient metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and protein.
Vitamin E accelerates wound healing and aids in the functioning of the immune system.
Vitamin C can help the atherosclerotic condition of diabetic arteries while at the same time fight infection and aiding in the healing of the skin of the foot.
Exercise is also very important in controlling diabetes, because exercise burns sugar just like insulin. Exercise every day if possible; however, be careful to consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.
Always consult your doctor before using this information.
This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.