Health Fitness Topics

Health Benefits of Fasting

2011-08-16T23:28:00.000-07:00

There has been much contention in the scientific field about whether or not fasting is beneficial to one's health. Fasting is an integral part of many of the major religions including Islam, Judaism and Christianity. Many are dubious as to whether the physiological effects are as beneficial as the spiritual promoted by these religions. There is a significant community of alternative healers who believe that fasting can do wonders for the human body. This paper will look at the arguments presented by these healers in an attempt to raise awareness of the possible physiological benefits that may result from fasting.

Fasting technically commences within the first twelve to twenty-four hours of the fast. A fast does not chemically begin until the carbohydrate stores in the body begin to be used as an energy source. The fast will continue as long as fat and carbohydrate stores are used for energy, as opposed to protein stores. Once protein stores begin to be depleted for energy (resulting in loss of muscle mass) a person is technically starving.

The benefits of fasting must be preceded by a look at the body's progression when deprived of food. Due to the lack of incoming energy, the body must turn to its own resources, a function called autolysis. Autolysis is the breaking down of fat stores in the body in order to produce energy. The liver is in charge of converting the fats into a chemical called a ketone body, "the metabolic substances acetoacetic acid and beta-hydroxybutyric acid", and then distributing these bodies throughout the body via the blood stream. "When this fat utilization occurs, free fatty acids are released into the blood stream and are used by the liver for energy." The less one eats, the more the body turns to these stored fats and creates these ketone bodies, the accumulation of which is referred to as ketosis.

Detoxification is the foremost argument presented by advocates of fasting. "Detoxification is a normal body process of eliminating or neutralizing toxins through the colon, liver, kidneys, lungs, lymph glands, and skin." This process is precipitated by fasting because when food is no longer entering the body, the body turns to fat reserves for energy. "Human fat is valued at 3,500 calories per pound," a number that would lead one to believe that surviving on one pound of fat every day would provide a body with enough energy to function normally. These fat reserves were created when excess glucose and carbohydrates were not used for energy or growth, not excreted, and therefore converted into fat.

When the fat reserves are used for energy during a fast, it releases the chemicals from the fatty acids into the system which are then eliminated through the aforementioned organs. Chemicals not found in food but absorbed from one's environment, such as DDT, are also stored in fat reserves that may be released during a fast. One fasting advocate tested his own urine, feces and sweat during an extended fast and found traces of DDT in each.

A second prescribed benefit of fasting is the healing process that begins in the body during a fast. During a fast energy is diverted away from the digestive system due to its lack of use and towards the metabolism and immune system. The healing process during a fast is precipitated by the body's search for energy sources. Abnormal growths within the body, tumors and the like, do not have the full support of the body's supplies and therefore are more susceptible to autolysis. Furthermore, "production of protein for replacement of damaged cells (protein synthesis) occurs more efficiently because fewer 'mistakes' are made by the DNA/RNA genetic controls which govern this process." A higher efficiency in protein synthesis results in healthier cells, tissues and organs. This is one reason that animals stop eating when they are wounded, and why humans lose hunger during influenza. Hunger has been proven absent in illnesses such as gastritis, tonsillitis and colds. Therefore, when one is fasting, the person is consciously diverting energy from the digestive system to the immune system.

In addition, there is a reduction in core body temperature. This is a direct result of the slower metabolic rate and general bodily functions. Following a drop in blood sugar level and using the reserves of glucose found in liver glycogen, the basal metabolic rate (BMR) is reduced in order to conserve as much energy within the body as can be provided. Growth hormones are also released during a fast, due to the greater efficiency in hormone production.

Finally, the most scientifically proven advantage to fasting is the feeling of rejuvenation and extended life expec-tancy. Part of this phenomenon is caused by a number of the benefits mentioned above. A slower metabolic rate, more efficient protein production, an improved immune system, and the increased production of hormones contributes to this long-term benefit of fasting. In addition to the Human Growth Hormone that is released more frequently during a fast, an anti-aging hormone is also produced more efficiently. "The only reliable way to extend the lifespan of a mammal is under-nutrition without malnutrition." A study was performed on earthworms that demonstrated the extension of life due to fasting. The experiment was performed in the 1930s by isolating one worm and putting it on a cycle of fasting and feeding. The isolated worm outlasted its relatives by 19 generations, while still maintaining its youthful physiological traits. The worm was able to survive on its own tissue for months. Once the size of the worm began to decrease, the scientists would resume feeding it at which point it showed great vigor and energy. "The life-span extension of these worms was the equivalent of keeping a man alive for 600 to 700 years."

In conclusion, it seems that there are many reasons to consider fasting as a benefit to one's health. The body rids itself of the toxins that have built up in our fat stores throughout the years.

The body heals itself, repairs all the damaged organs during a fast. And finally there is good evidence to show that regulated fasting contributes to longer life. However, many doctors warn against fasting for extended periods of time without supervision. There are still many doctors today who deny all of these points and claim that fasting is detrimental to one's health and have evidence to back their statements.

The idea of depriving a body of what society has come to view as so essential to our survival in order to heal continues to be a topic of controversy.

How to Eat Fruits

2011-06-24T00:26:00.001-07:00

We all think eating fruits means just buying fruits, cutting it and just popping it into our mouths.

It's not as easy as you think. It's important to know how and when to eat.

What is the correct way of eating fruits?

IT MEANS NOT EATING FRUITS AFTER YOUR MEALS!

FRUITS SHOULD BE EATEN ON AN EMPTY STOMACH.

If you eat fruit like that, it will play a major role to detoxify your system,

supplying you with a great deal of energy for weight loss and other life activities.

FRUIT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FOOD.

Let's say you eat two slices of bread and then a slice of fruit.

The slice of fruit is ready to go straight through the stomach into the intestines,

but it is prevented from doing so.

In the meantime the whole meal rots and ferments and turns to acid.

The minute the fruit comes into contact with the food in the stomach and digestive juices,

the entire mass of food begins to spoil....

So please eat your fruits on an empty stomach or before your meals!

You have heard people complaining — every time I eat watermelon I burp,

when I eat durian my stomach bloats up,

when I eat a banana I feel like running to the toilet, etc —

actually all this will not arise if you eat the fruit on an empty stomach.

The fruit mixes with the putrefying other food and produces gas and hence you will bloat!

Greying hair, balding, nervous outburst and dark circles under the eyes

all these will NOT happen if you take fruits on an empty stomach.

There is no such thing as some fruits, like orange and lemon are acidic, because all fruits become alkaline in our body, according to Dr. Herbert Shelton who did research on this matter. If you have mastered the correct way of eating fruits, you have the Secret of beauty, longevity, health, energy, happiness and normal weight.

When you need to drink fruit juice - drink only fresh fruit juice, NOT from the cans.

Don't even drink juice that has been heated up.

Don't eat cooked fruits because you don't get the nutrients at all.

You only get to taste. Cooking destroys all the vitamins.

But eating a whole fruit is better than drinking the juice.

If you should drink the juice, drink it mouthful by mouthful slowly,

because you must let it mix with your saliva before swallowing it.

You can go on a 3-day fruit fast to cleanse your body.

Just eat fruits and drink fruit juice throughout the 3 days

and you will be surprised when your friends tell you how radiant you look!

KIWI:

Tiny but mighty.

This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin E & fiber.

Its vitamin C content is twice that of an orange.

APPLE:

An apple a day keeps the doctor away?

Although an apple has a low vitamin C content,

it has antioxidants & flavonoids which enhances the activity of vitamin C

thereby helping to lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.

STRAWBERRY:

Protective Fruit.

Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power

among major fruits & protect the body from

cancer-causing, blood vessel-clogging free radicals.

ORANGE :

Sweetest medicine.

Taking 2-4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol,

prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessens the risk of colon cancer.

WATERMELON:

Coolest thirst quencher.

Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione,

which helps boost our immune system.

They are also a key source of lycopene — the cancer fighting oxidant.

Other nutrients found in watermelon are vitamin C & Potassium.

GUAVA & PAPAYA:

Top awards for vitamin C.

They are the clear winners for their high vitamin C content.

Guava is also rich in fiber, which helps prevent constipation.

Papaya is rich in carotene; this is good for your eyes.

Drinking Cold water after a meal = Cancer!

Can u believe this??

For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you.

It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal.

However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed.

It will slow down the digestion.

Once this 'sludge' reacts with the acid,

it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food.

It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer.

It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.

A serious note about heart attacks

HEART ATTACK PROCEDURE': (THIS IS NOT A JOKE!)

Women should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting.

Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line.

You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack.

Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms.

Sixty percent of people who have a heart attack while they are asleep do not wake up.

Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep.

Let's be careful and be aware.

The more we know the better chance we could survive.

A cardiologist says if everyone who gets this mail sends it to 10 people,

you can be sure that we'll save at least one life.

Urine Therapy for Health

2011-06-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

I haverecently heard of this ancient natural cure for almost every disease and it sounds rather odd. It’s called Uropathy which involves drinking your own urine for health benefits.

Just when I think I’ve heard it all I hear this. There several books about this healing process one is done by author Martha Christy titled “Your Own Perfect Medicine”. This therapy has been around for over 5,000 years. They use urine for healing cancer, heart disease, allergies, auto-immune diseases, diabetes, asthma, infertility, infections, wounds and on and on. Urine is a by-product of blood filtration, not waste filtration. Medically it is referred to as “plasma ultrafiltrate”. Nutrient-filled blood passes through the liver where toxins are removed to be excreted as solid waste. Eventually, this purified “clean” blood undergoes a filtering process in the kidneys, where excess water, salts, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, antibodies, urea, uric acid and other elements not usable at that time by the body are collected in the form of a purified, sterile, watery solution that is urine.

What can drinking your own urine actually do you might ask? When urine is taken back in the chemicals and nutrients in it act as natural vaccines, antibacterial, antiviral and anti carcinogenic agents as well as hormone balances and allergy relievers. Multiple sclerosis, colitis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, hepatitis, hyperactivity, pancreatic insufficiency, psoriasis, eczema, diabetes, herpes, mononucleosis, adrenal failure, allergies and so many other ailments have been relieved through use of this therapy.

But with such a taboo process it’s clear why many people don’t discuss nor use this alternative therapy for results. I guess it all depends on this one question. What would you do to cure your current illness or ailment?

So, how exactly do you drink your own urine? Well, the middle stream of fresh, warm, morning urine is the most potent, and drinking it mixed with freshly squeezed orange juice is probably the fastest way to accomplish this task, although it is best not to mix urine with other foods or drinks or to take it within an hour before or after eating.

Oral drops of fresh urine can be placed directly under the tongue. Urine therapists suggest their patients start with 5 drops of fresh morning urine on the first day, increase to 5 or 10 drops on the second day, and take 10 drops on the morning of the third day and the same amount that evening before going to bed.Self-urine may be used as eye drops and ear drops, in foot baths and even as effective enemas. Nose drops can help loosen mucus and clear up blocked nasal passages. Gargling with it is helpful for a sore throat, and inhaling it relieves sinus and respiratory congestion. Taken internally, it has a laxative and diuretic effect, as it cleanses the digestive tract. They also suggest it as an excellent cosmetic for moisturizing and healing skin blemishes, burns and scar tissue. However, for this usage, it is preferable to use urine that is 4 – 8 days old. The smell of ammonia in the old urine is not toxic but actually beneficial if used topically only, and not taken internally.

Who knew that drinking your urine could actually be good for you. There are so many unknown elements when it comes to our bodies and health. How far would you go to just feel better? This could be a new option.

way to Live Longer

2011-06-20T04:57:00.000-07:00

Ever since I was a child,I have always been creating thoughts from observation made and finding time to ponder on those thoughts until I get some satisfactory answers.

One of my most disturbing thoughts makes me ask these questions:Why do people of old live longer than those of our present generation?,Why do you hear of oldmen who “sleep in the lord”when dead while the usual case for a fifty or even forty-year-old man is he died of brief illness or fatal accident?,Why is it that in those days one can live as long as nine hundred(900) years while today nobody reaches three hundred years of age?

I have given it a lot of thoughts and I have come to realise that we humans contribute immersely to our shorter life span.Think about it,in those days there was nothing like automobiles,combustion engines e.t.c that releases pollutants like carbonmonoxide(CO), sulphur(IV)oxide gases to the atmosphere which when taken in every minute we breathe our air,causes slight or sometimes severe damages to the various parts of our body both internally and externally.

Modern drugs treat people’s illnesses but they always come with various side effects.In those days,these same illnesses could be treated with herbal medication with very little

or no side effects.

The advent of electricity and communication technology is not left out in this.If you mistakenly mishandle a working electrical gadget or a high tension wire with electricity flowing through it,you get shocked and you might die in the process.Do you know that your mobile phone emit radiation that can be harmful to you when making or receiveing phone calls.People of old didn’t need to go through all that which made them live longer. Shortage of time and space will not allow me to give details or even list these harzards because the list is endless.(oh! I forgot to mention nuclear energy disaster).

Now that you know these things or they have been brought to your mind,dont you think you need to have a rethink of some of the daily activities you do that might hamper long life.Minding the way you use your cell phone,I think,is a good idea because prolonging your life is a good idea.You should not just say because you have a lot of business calls,you use the phone anyhow.Afterall “What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his soul”-Jesus.One should always try to avoid contact with pollutants in the air trying not to breathe in any of those dangerous gases.The most efficient way of ensuring longevity is to take care of your health.There are various methods of maintaining very good health conditions.For instance ,waking up in the morning to have a nice glass of lime juice(on empty stomach of course) and go exercise.This works because lime contains citric acid which deactives those disease causing organisms in the body when they are not feeding ,hence the need to drink on empty stomach.Dieting is not left out in this.Avoiding red wine or meat,cholestro and other organically altered foods and drinks.It pays to always depend on natural foods that are cooked in ordinary ways.A very important point I want to talk about is we should try to reduce our over dependence on on modern medicine because of their side effects but focus on the use of herbs.Yes herbs.Do you know that some of the illnesses you complain about everyday can be cured perfectly with simple herbs?.Dont believe me then try this:I know that you depend on always for your frequent headaches despite its side effects,well add a level table spoon of salt to coconut juice,a quantity that come from three coconut ,drink all at once and see yourself getting in next few minutes.Are you having any type of pain?.Just sqeeze some paw-paw leaves with some water and filter it.Take one shot twice daily (morning and night) until the pain is gone.There are many illnesses that can be cured with herbs.May be in my next article I will talk about some of them.

Vegetables of Spring

2011-04-15T23:34:00.000-07:00

Flavors and health benefits

Asparagus, peas, beans, artichokes ... early vegetables are easy to cook and rich in fiber and vitamins. Recipes to enjoy!

The heyday announce the arrival of spring vegetables. It's time to enjoy their delicate flavors, but also their nutritional values. Here are some easy recipes to make meals to give a note of spring.

Asparagus: A true vegetable thinness
With 25 calories per 100 grams, the asparagus should be in the spring menus to find the line before step swimsuit! Its low calorie count is not her only asset, it is a source of various minerals (magnesium, potassium, iron, calcium) but low in sodium, making it a food diuretic that stimulates the activity of the kidneys. It is ideal as part of a detox treatment.

It should be eaten soon after purchase as it dehydrates quickly. It is kept in a cool, wrapped in a damp cloth to preserve its freshness up to 24 hours to enjoy all its benefits.

She cooked, preferably with steam to maintain its mineral wealth. It can be accompanied by a light sauce.

Recipe: fried green asparagus with parmesan
Cook the asparagus for 3 minutes in boiling salted water and sauté 2-3 minutes in olive oil over high heat, stirring regularly. Add pine nuts and parmesan and cook for 1 more minute and serve with Parmesan shavings.

The Artichoke: An excellent purifying
It drains the liver and gallbladder and cleanses the digestive system. It is also rich in minerals and low in calories.

It will keep 2-3 days in the crisper of the refrigerator. Small purple, meanwhile, should be eaten, preferably on the day of purchase.

Small purple are delicious stew prepared with tomatoes, white wine and herbs. The largest are eaten boiled or steamed with a sauce or dressing, lighter, a mustard sauce and chive cream cheese.

Recipes for artichokes

The bean: source of protein
It is interesting for its protein intake (5 g / 100 g) and fiber. But it also provides complex carbohydrates, carotenes and vitamin C.

Still in its shell, it keeps up to 4 days refrigerated.

It is excellent raw with salted butter and bread but you can also enjoy simmered with onions and parsley.

Recipe for baked beans, fresh

The sugar snap peas: delicate and tender
Even if, in fact, a pea picked before maturity, it is two times less calories than the pea (only 40 kcal per 100 g). However, it is rich in vitamins A, B, C and E, minerals and fiber making it a good food bowel. Finally, it is also richer in protein than other vegetables.

We must choose a bright green, it must be crisp. it will keep 2 to 3 days protected by plastic wrap.

It can be eaten very simply steamed with just a dab of butter. But it also lends itself to Fried, risottos, alone or mixed with other spring vegetables.

Physical Effects Overeating

2011-04-01T22:41:00.000-07:00

Say you're full after a meal is not just a metaphor, when you eat too much at once you are stretching your stomach beyond its normal capacity. When you sit down to eat, your stomach is the size of a fist. So look before you eat the food on your plate, and compare it with the size of your fist, then feet like the food that enters your stomach, if excessive, it expands like a balloon.

Extending the capacity of your stomach repeatedly through overeating not only causes considerable discomfort, but long-term commitment to your health. If you recognize any of these symptoms, you're probably eating too much at one sitting:

- Running out of breath after eating. Eating fast and much causes the stomach to distend, forcing him to go against the diaphragm and lungs. Your stomach can expand more than three times its size after a large meal, causing difficulty breathing until your stomach starts to shrink.

- Nausea. When you eat a lot, not all the food goes quickly into the stomach. This causes a kind of stuck in the esophagus and its consequence are those feelings of discomfort and nausea, less than ideal to finish a delicious meal.

- Acidity. Eating too much at once difficult for the valve on your stomach from closing properly, causing digestive fluids go into your esophagus and causing reflux. This condition causes severe discomfort, if it happens regularly it could damage the delicate tissue around the esophagus, in some cases this can lead to esophageal cancer.

- Eat food. It is common to feel sleepy after a big meal. While this is partly due to brain chemistry, the food coma is directly related to energy expenditure needed to digest food overdose. The stomach and intestines are forced to process and distribute all the nutrients they are receiving, this causes a large expenditure of energy that leaves the rest of your system in a state as eager to go to sleep.

It can be tempting sometimes eat a lot, especially at family parties or special occasions, but a little common sense can help you overcome and avoid all the symptoms mentioned above. Try drinking a glass of water before eating, so you feel full before and without causing the side effects of which we speak. And test your normal day to five or six small meals every three to four hours instead of two dishes fill three times a day.

With your ideal body there is a healthy and safe alternative to use the science of nutrition in your favor to achieve the changes you desire in your body permanently.

Natural Oils Remedies

2010-11-30T03:24:00.000-08:00

Remedial Oils for Better Living

A list of oils to use for better living and for certain illnesses.
Antiseptic wash for cuts and abrasions:

    * Lavender 5 drops
    * Eucalyptus 5 drops
    * Tea tree 5 drops
    * Carrier oil 2 teaspoons

Arthritis and rheumatism may be affected by many factors. Stress reduction and diet can reduce pain and help in the elimination of toxins in the bloodstream.

Two bath formulas to detoxify the body
# Lavender 3 drops
# Marjoram 2 drops
# Juniper 2 drops
# Petigrain 3 drops
Massage formulas for relief
# Cypress 3 drops
# Lavender 3 drops
# Carrier oil 2 teaspoons

Cellulite
is a combination of a build up of toxins and water retention in the fatty tissue. A comprehensive approach includes a cleansing diet and exercise, massage and the use of essential oils. For the cleansing diet see a nutritionist or naturopath. Improve your circulation with exercise. Massage with essential oils helps to reduce the fatty tissue by improving circulation and encouraging the elimination of water. Self massage is an excellent method.
# Juniper 5 drops
# Rosemary 5 drops
# Cypress 5 drops
# Carrier oil 3.5 teaspoons

Colds Need Rest
Nutritious food and a lot of hot liquids to drink. At the first sign of a cold, burn each of eucalyptus, pine and clove in a vaporizer. For a stuffed head and sore nose add the following to a vaporizer or bowl of hot water:
# Lavender 2 drops
# Eucalyptus 2 drops

Depression is a condition which can be relieved with some essential oil formulas. Depression and apathy can be soothed with:
# Rosemary 2 drops
# Petigrain 2 drops
# Bergamot 2 drops
# Carrier oil 2 teaspoons
Facial oil, a general cleanser
# Lavender 2 drops
# Petigrain 1 drop
# Carrier oil 3 teaspoons

PMS
Massage over abdomen between cycles.
# Lavender 2 drops
# Cypress 1 drop
# Sweet almond oil 1 teaspoon

Room freshener
Blend equal parts of Lavender and Bergamot in a vaporizer.

Skin
Acne lotion
# Lavender 2 drops
# Geranium 1 drop
# Tea tree 2 drops
# Sweet almond oil 3 teaspoons

Oily Skin
# Lavender 2 drops
# Geranium 1 drop
# Almond oil 2 teaspoons

Dry Skin
Your carrier or base oil will need to be more moisturizing.
# Lavender 2 drops
# Geranium 1 drop
# Sandalwood 1 drop
# Carrier oil 2 teaspoons

Mature Skin
Where the skin is dry, dull and less elastic with age, use a facial massage to stimulate circulation. Use a nourishing and rich carrier oil.
# Rose 2 drops
# Neroli 2 drops
# Frankincense 1 drop
# Carrier oil 2 teaspoons

Tiredness and irritability
Is relieved with the following burned in a vaporizer or used as a massage oil:
# Lavender 2 drops
# Petigrain 2 drops
# Rosewood 2 drops

Varicose veins should not be massage vigorously. Go to a medical practitioner for advice on exercise and diet. For a gentle massage to this area:
# Cypress 4 drops
# Geranium 2 drops
# Carrier oil 2 teaspoons

Fitness in Christmas

2010-11-09T01:53:00.001-08:00

Things to do in Wales to keep fit before Christmas.

Want to make January’s diet just a tiny bit easier? Start the activities before Christmas to try and take on the “Quality Streets” before you’ve even opened the tin.

Perhaps a Cycle ride would be a great time-passer for the weekend, so why not try the Taff Trail. It’s great for all the family and has lots of stops at cafes, woodland parks and castles.

The route follows the Taff valley using old railway lines, canals and forestry paths to link Cardiff Bay with the Brecon Beacons via Llandaff, Pontypridd and Merthyr Tydfil.
It is 55miles over all and really shows off Wales gorgeous scenery; it can be rode on a bike, a horse or simply walked.

Whether its rain or shine it’s good to get out and see the Welsh Countryside in its natural habitat and the adrenaline created will last for days – not only this but you will be cycling your way to fitness before anyone has even mentioned the dreaded “January Diets”.

If cycling doesn’t take your fancy then why not get the kids and the dogs in the car and take them down to the beach for the day – not only will they love running around with the fresh sea air rushing through their hair but you burn many more calories walking across sand than usual walking without even realising it. If you’ve got your partner with you as well it will feel extra special as there is nothing more romantic than strolls across the beach.

For extra Christmas fitness check out your local leisure centre and see if anything takes your fancy – maybe dance classes, swimming or football will come in handy for keeping off the extra christmas pounds.

what suites your health

2010-09-29T04:02:00.000-07:00

Very Very Important Tips 

Answer the phone by LEFT ear.

Do not drink coffee TWICE a day.

Do not take pills with COOL water.

Do not have HUGE meals after 5pm.

Reduce the amount of OILY food you consume.

Drink more WATER in the morning, less at night.

Keep your distance from hand phone CHARGERS.

Do not use headphones/earphone for LONG period of time.

Best sleeping time is from 10pm at night to 6am in the morning.

Do not lie down immediately after taking medicine before sleeping.

When battery is down to the LAST grid/bar, do not answer the phone as the radiation is 1000 times.

Here are some healthy tip for your smartness & physical fitness. 

Prevention is better than cure. 

HEALTHY JUICES 


Carrot + Ginger + Apple	Boost and cleanse our system.


Apple + Cucumber + Celery -	Prevent cancer, reduce cholesterol, and eliminate stomach upset and headache.


Tomato + Carrot + Apple -	Improve skin complexion and eliminate bad breath.


Bitter gou rd + Apple + Milk -	Avoid bad breath and reduce internal body heat.


Orange + Ginger + Cucumber -	Improve Skin texture and moisture and reduce body heat.


Pineapple + Apple + Watermelon -	To dispel excess salts, nourishes the bladder and kidney.


Apple + Cucumber + Kiwi -	To improve skin complexion.


Pear & Banana -	Regulates sugar content.


Carrot + Apple + Pear + Mango -	Clear body heat, counteracts toxicity, decreased blood pressure and fight oxidization .


Honeydew + Grape + Watermelon + Milk -	Rich in vitamin C + Vitamin B2 that increase cell activity and str engthen body immunity.


Papaya + Pineapple + Milk -	Rich in vitamin C, E, Iron. Improve skin complexion and metabolism.


Banana + Pineapple + Milk -	Rich in vitamin with nutritious and prevent constipation

Quite interesting!

Keep Walking..... 

Jus to check this out...... 

The Organs of your body have their sensory touches at the bottom of your foot, if you massage these points you will find relief from aches and pains as you can see the heart is on the left foot.

Typically they are shown as points and arrows to show which organ it connects to. 

It is indeed correct since the nerves connected to these organs terminate here. 

This is covered in great details in Acupressure studies or textbooks. 

God created our body so well that he thought of even this. He made us walk so that we will always be pressing these pressure points and thus keeping these organs activated at all times. 

So, keep walking... 

Did You Know? 

Blood type and Rh

How many people have it?

O + 40 %

   O - 7 %

   A + 34 %

   A - 6 %

   B + 8 %

   B - 1 %

   AB + 3 %

   AB - 1 %

Does Your Blood Type Reveal Your Personality?   

Accord ing to a Japanese institute that does research on blood types, there are certain personality traits that seem to match up with certain blood types. How do you rate? 

TYPE O You want to be a leader, and when you see something you want, you keep striving until you achieve your goal. You are a trend-setter, loyal, passionate, and self-confident. Your weaknesses include vanity and jealously and a tendency to be too competitive.

TYPE A You like harmony, peace and organization. You work well with others, and are sensitive, patient and affectionate. Among your weaknesses are stubbornness and an inability to relax.

TYPE B You're a rugged individualist, who's str aightforwa rd and likes to do things your own way.  Creative and flexible, you adapt easily to any situation. But your insistence on being independent can sometimes go too far and become a weakness.

TYPE AB Cool and controlled, you're generally well liked and always put people at ease. You're a natural entertainer who's tactful and fair. But you're standoffish, blunt, and have difficulty making decisions.

MOST IMPORTANT INFO NOW:

You Can Receive
If Your Type Is	O-	O+	B-	B+	A-	A+	AB-	AB+
AB+	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES	YES
AB-	YES		YES		YES	YES
A+	YES	YES			YES	YES
A-	YES				YES
B+	YES	YES	YES	YES
B-	YES		YES
O+	YES	YES
O-	YES

KNOW ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF HAVING FRUITS AND VEGETABLES  

Fruit	Benefit	Benefit	Benefit	Benefit	Benefit
apples	Protects your heart	prevents constipation	Blocks diarrhea	Improves lung capacity	Cushions joints
apricots	Combats cancer	Controls blood pressure	Saves your eyesight	Shields against Alzheimer's	Slows aging process
artichokes	Aids digestion	Lowers cholesterol	Protects your heart	Stabilizes blood sugar	Gua rd s against liver disease
avocados	Battles diabetes	Lowers cholesterol	Helps stops str okes	Controls blood pressure	Smoothes skin
bananas	Protects your heart	Quiets a cough	Strengthens bones	Controls blood pressure	Blocks diarrhea
beans	Prevents constipation	Helps hemorrhoids	Lowers cholesterol	Combats cancer	Stabilizes blood sugar
beets	Controls blood pressure	Combats cancer	Strengthens bones	Protects your heart	Aids weight loss
blueberries	Combats cancer	Protects your heart	Stabilizes blood sugar	Boosts memory	Prevents constipation
broccoli	Strengthens bones	Saves eyesight	Combats cancer	Protects your heart	Controls blood pressure
cabbage	Combats cancer	Prevents constipation	Promotes weight loss	Protects your heart	Helps hemorrhoids
cantaloupe	Saves eyesight	Controls blood pressure	Lowers cholesterol	Combats cancer	Supports immune system

DRINK WATER ON EMPTY STOMACH 

It is popular in Japan today to drink water immediately after waking up every morning. Furthermore, scientific tests have proven a its value. We publish below a description of use of water for our readers. For old and serious diseases as well as modern illnesses the water treatment had been found successful by a Japanese med ical society as a 100% cure for the following diseases:

Headache, body ache, heart system, arthritis, fast heart beat, epilepsy, excess fatness, bronchitis asthma, TB, meningitis, kidney and urine diseases, vomiting, ga str itis, diarrhea, piles, diabetes, constipation, all eye diseases, womb, cancer and ear nose and throat diseases. 

METHOD OF TREATMENT 

1. As you wake up in the morning before brushing teeth, drink 4 x 160ml glasses of water .....interesting 

2. Brush and clean the mouth but do not eat or drink anything for 45 minutes 

3. After 45 minutes you may eat and drink as normal. 

4. After 15 minutes of breakfast, lunch and dinner do not eat or drink anything for 2 hours 

5. Those who are old or sick and are unable to drink 4 glasses of water at the beginning may commence by taking little water and gradually increase it to 4 glasses per day. 

6. The above method of treatment will cure diseases of the sick and others can enjoy a healthy life. 

The following list gives the number of days of treatment required to cure/control/reduce main diseases: 

1. High Blood Pressure - 30 days 

2. Ga str ic - 10 days 

3. Diabetes - 30 days 

4. Constipation - 10 days 

5. Cancer - 180 days 

6. TB - 90 days 

7. Arthritis patients should follow the above treatment only for 3 days in the 1st week, and from 2nd week onwa rd s - daily. 

This treatment method has no side effects, however at the commencement of treatment you may have to urinate a few times. 

It is better if we continue this and make this procedure as a routine work in our life. 

Drink Water and Stay healthy and Active. 

This makes sense .. The Chinese and Japanese drink hot tea with their meals ..not cold water. Maybe it is time we adopt their drinking habit while eating!!! Nothing to lose, everything to gain... 

For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you. 

It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed . It will slow down the digestion. 

Once this 'sludge' reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal. 

A serious note about heart attacks: Women should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting. 

Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line. 

You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack. 

Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms. 

60% of people who have a heart attack while they are asleep do not wake up. 

Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know, the better chance we could survive... 

A cardiologist says if everyone who gets this mail sends it to everyone they know, you can be sure that we'll save at least one life. 

Cholera remedies prevention

2010-09-13T01:58:00.000-07:00

Cholera is caused by Vibrio cholerae, the most feared epidemic diarrheal disease because of its severity. Dehydration and death can occur within hours of infection if not properly managed. Robert Koch discovered V cholerae in 1883 during an outbreak in Egypt. By definition cholera is an acute diarrheal disease that can, in a matter of hours, result in profound, rapidly progressive dehydration and death. Even though Cholera is treatable, in 2009, the World Health Organization states that reported cholera cases have remained relatively constant since 1995, varying from 100,000 to 300,000 cases per year, with Africa accounting for more than 94% of the total. There is no reason that cholera and other deadly water-related illnesses should exist anywhere in the world today. Lack of decent water, lack of decent sanitation, and the existence of extreme poverty are related problems that plague the Third World. Roughly 1.1 billion people in developing countries have inadequate access to water. 2.6 billion lack basic sanitation. Almost 2 in 3 people lacking access to clean water survive on less than $2 a day. And, 1 in 3 are living on less than $1 a day. More than 660 million people without sanitation live on less than $2 a day, and more than 385 million on less than $1 a day. The natural habitat of V. cholerae is coastal salt water and brackish estuaries, where the organism lives in close relation to plankton. Humans become infected incidentally but, once infected, can act as vehicles for spread. Ingestion of water contaminated by human feces is the most common means of acquisition of V. cholerae. Consumption of contaminated food can also contribute to spread. There is no known animal reservoir.

Mortality/Morbidity

If untreated, the disease rapidly results in dehydration and can result in death in more than 50% of infected individuals. The mortality rate is increased in pregnant women and children.

Presentation

After a 24- to 48-hour incubation period, symptoms begin with the sudden onset of painless watery diarrhea that may quickly become voluminous and is often followed by vomiting. The patient may experience accompanying abdominal cramps. Fever is typically absent. The diarrhea has a "rice water" appearance and a fishy odor.

Diagnosis

The clinical suspicion of cholera can be confirmed by the identification of V. cholerae in stool. Laboratory isolation of the organism requires the use of a selective medium. Monoclonal antibody-based diagnostic kits and methods based on the polymerase chain reaction and on DNA probes have been developed for detection of V. cholerae O1 and O139.

Treatment

Cholera is simple to treat; only the rapid and adequate replacement of fluids, electrolytes, and base is required. The mortality rate for appropriately treated disease is usually <1%. Fluid replacement may be given orally, but oral rehydration is not always feasible in the presence of significant vomiting. For the sake of simplicity, the WHO advises routine use of a single solution of oral rehydration salts (ORS) for diarrheal disease rather than encouraging attempts to choose among multiple formulations according to etiology. If available, rice-based ORS is considered superior to standard ORS in the treatment of cholera.

If prepackaged ORS is unavailable, a simple homemade alternative can be prepared by combining 5 g common salt (about 1 level teaspoon) with either 50 g precooked rice cereal or 40 g sucrose in 1 L of drinking water. In that case, potassium must be supplied separately (e.g., in orange juice or coconut water). In adults drugs used are tetracycline/ doxycycline/ciprofloxacin. In children erythromycin/azithromycin /furazolidone/ trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole can be used.

Prevention

Provision of safe water and facilities for sanitary disposal of feces, improved nutrition, and attention to food preparation and storage in the household can significantly reduce the incidence of cholera and other gastroenteritis illnesses. So drinking boiled water, through hand washing, proper washing of fruits and other eatables before eating, isolating and treating the affected cases, eating properly and well cooked food, apart from proper disposal of waste and excreta holds the key to control the out break.

Traditional killed cholera vaccine given intramuscularly provides limited efficacy due, at least in part, to its failure to induce a local immune response at the intestinal mucosal surface and not useful in non-immune patients. Two types of new oral cholera vaccines have been developed with protection rates of ~58% and 85% for Whole cell and BS. Protective efficacy rates for both vaccines declined to ~50% by 3 years after vaccine administration.

Conclusion

Cholera outbreak is characterized by the high number of cholera cases in those under 5 years of age. The expected contamination of water, aggregation of cases in areas far removed from main water projects, and the very low history of eating out of the home could lead to a conclusion that the outbreak could be most probably transmitted through the water. Cholera is a preventable disease and can be controlled. What can be learned from an outbreak is that intensive efforts are needed in our state to establish safe drinking-water and proper sanitation for all people; have laboratory and therapeutic needs available on the spot; and ensure year-round surveillance activities for early detection of cholera cases.

Drink for healthy and slim

2010-08-25T02:37:00.000-07:00

Adult human body consists of about 60% water, which meets the very important role in maintaining health and proper functioning of our body. Not without significance is the fact that a person deprived of fluid, can survive only a few days. It provides the environment changes and reactions occurring in the body, is a means to transport the substances involved in thermoregulation of the body, "moisturize from the inside" our skin, is part of the digestive juices: bile, pancreatic juice, intestinal juice, gastric juice, saliva.

You can continue to exchange the functions of water in the body, but it is important to remember that this is due to its content it is possible to maintain normal metabolism and, hence, faster, dropping pounds. Why is it important to provide enough fluid? Since the body loses water throughout the day along with faeces, sweat, exhaled air, especially in the urine. It must therefore be remembered that during the day we should drink about 2 liters of water. It is known, however, that value will fluctuate, depending on body temperature and ambient humidity levels and the state of physical activity.

The importance of proper irrigation of the body during weight loss
During weight loss, where there is a reduction in food intake, the body can run out of water, which has previously been supplied with food. Therefore, to avoid slowing down the metabolism and allow for efficient removal of unnecessary or harmful substances, it is proper hydration. Currently, the Internet or other sources so you can find. Shipping Calculator, calculates the required daily intake for each fluid.

You can also add that the water naturally reduces appetite by filling the stomach and giving the feeling of satiety. However, it is no room for extremism, for which too much is not healthy, and in this case, the excess fluid is especially dangerous because it can lead to partial or complete rinsing of mineral salts from the body, as the worst consequence is death. Consequently, I, as in all others, should exercise restraint.

It is important to remember not to drink while eating a meal. It is recommended to drink about 30 minutes before or after consumption, so as not to neutralize the digestive juices, and thus not to hamper the digestion of food. In addition, drink the liquid in such a situation "pushes" the food sections to continue the digestive tract, preventing the effective, efficient digestion.

WHAT TO DRINK?

Water
This option is for both weight loss and how weight loss does not seem to be, and is the best. Pure water does not provide any calories and is ideal to quench thirst. However, it must remember that the market offers different types of waters spring, mineral or medicinal.

Spring water is characterized by a low degree of mineralization (up to 500 mg / l minerals), has a delicate flavor and can drink it at will, just as the low-mineralized water (of course, common sense). Caution is needed in case of highly mineralized water (at least 1,000 mg / l) and curative waters. You should not drink them in large quantities, because one can harm any of the excess dissolved minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium. As regards the medicinal water, although they help in many medical problems, they should not be eaten on its own, only after consulting your doctor. The best so it will be spring water or low mineralized, preferably carbonated.

Carbonated water is water artificially saturated with carbon dioxide. Ongoing discussions on whether it is harmful or not, to our health, it is certain, however, that its adverse effects are primarily "artificial" feeling of thirst, because the "bubbles" in it fill the wall of the stomach. In addition, it contained carbon dioxide is not conducive to people with stomach ailments (eg, hyperacidity), because it can damage the lining of the stomach, such as contributing to the formation of ulcers.

Interesting fact: Every morning drink a glass of warm water on an empty stomach (cold may cause a shock to the body after waking), preferably with the addition of lemon. Then the water flow into the gastrointestinal tract, removing any excess mucus.

For a slimming: Drinking during the day with cold water, the body must consume more energy, burn calories and so to lead to heated.

Tea
Although there are many of its kind, the most important to drink it without sugar. Best for those wanting to lose kilograms and not only is green tea. It contains many antioxidants, which have been tried and helps remove toxins from the body. In addition, it contains the so-called. catechins increase the burning fat and reduce appetite. Beware of the so-called. slimming teas because they contain is often in its composition and substances with laxative and / or drainage, which can lead to deflection of the bowel.

Vegetable and Fruit Juices
They are low calorie and filling. May be a small meal replacement. In addition, they are included in numerous vitamins and elements needed body and fiber. With greater caution should be approached to fruit juices, as they often, although the label lies the inscription: "No added sugar, artificial sweeteners can include, other-without the sugar and artificial sweeteners, may have a large amount of simple sugar fructose, which As a result of biochemical changes in the body is transformed into glucose in the blood goes to form. If you have fruit juice, is squeezed from fresh fruits or those of the carton containing 100% fruit juice (no nectars or drinks), but you must reckon with the fact although they contain vitamins, fiber and minerals are in a much more calories than vegetable juices.

Milk Drinks
Are a source of valuable element: calcium. It plays an especially important role in maintaining an appropriate form of the skeletal system, but also promotes weight loss. We choose, however, drink a fat content of 2%, but not 0%, make it impossible for the absorption of vitamin D, which requires for the purpose of fat.

Coffee
Drinking 1-2 cups of coffee daily, preferably with the addition of skim milk, which neutralizes the oxalates contained in it, deliver the body to a dose of antioxidants, and energy. It is not indicated in patients with hypertension. Unfortunately does not work very condescending to the color of our teeth.

What to avoid?

Isotonic drinks
It is mainly for athletes or for those after a hard workout. Contain a large amount of electrolytes, but also glucose. They are high in calories.

Flavoured Water
Contain a large amount of additives: acidity regulators, sweeteners, preservatives often. They provide a fairly large amount of calories - 300 calories in a 1.5 liter bottle.

Soft Drinks
Calorie, unhealthy, with the addition of artificial sweeteners and other chemical additives.

Alcohol
It provides the most calories from all other drinks - about 1g 7kcal with alcohol. Interestingly, the calories derived from alcohol is quickly absorbed into the blood, hence for example, drinking beer and podjadajac at the sticks, or chips, or anything else, in the first place are absorbed calories from alcohol and only at the far end are derived from food. Often they are they will not even be przetrawieniu and deposited mostly in the stomach. Hence the myth is that "beer belly" arises from the beer.

Protect eyes from computer

2010-08-16T22:17:00.000-07:00

How to protect your eyes when working with computer

At home or at work people of all ages for several hours a day usually sit in front of the monitor screen. Some think that working with computer vision breaks. In fact it is not only deplorable as far as trying to spend some.

We must recognize that no computer is to blame for the deterioration of our eyesight, our disregard for elementary rules of hygiene when handling it.

First of all note that the display screen must be positioned slightly above the level of your eyes. This will be unloaded these groups eye muscles that are most intense in the normal direction of the eyes - down and forward.

Eyes get tired and sharp contrasts of light. Often the person in the office working with computer and the desk stand two strong lights aimed right at his face. Acute pain in the eyes, increased salzotechenie, headaches - all in this case is the result of improper organization of the workplace.

Before you sit down at the computer to check their lights work. The lamp, which stands on the desk, can be closed with a blue filter to approximate its maximum brightness to the brightness of the monitor screen. Good displays around the walls also are in blue.

Visual tension arises due to continuous operation without interruption. Every 40-45 minutes should be made exercises aimed at unloading the eye muscles. Already in ancient times doctors have recommended a variety of eye movements to improve circulation.

Experience during their holidays to do some simple exercises and you will immediately feel relief. Here are a few complex prescriptions of eye muscles.

Option 1

1. Tightly close and wide open eyes 6-7 times with a break for 30 seconds.

2. Look up, down, left, right chapter without pay.

3. Rotate your eyes in a circle: down, right, up, left, and in the opposite direction.

4. Fast blinking of eyelids for 1-2 minutes.

5. Close your eyelids and massage them with circular movements of the fingers 1 minute.

The exercises can be performed in a seated position, repeating each of them 2-3 times with a break of 1-2 minutes. The total duration of the exercises is 10 minutes. The second and third exercise can be made not only open but with closed eyes. The most important thing is to do them regularly and they will give the desired result.

Option 2

1. Sit down, sit back as the back of the chair, close your eyes, and put hands on hips. So sit 15-20 seconds.

2. Make a circular motion with his head in one direction, then the other. Repeat this 4-5 times. Massage your head with your fingers and neck.

3. Very eye squeeze for 4-6 seconds, then open them again for much. Repeat 5-7 times.

4. Tilt head to chest, then back to relax muscles that vrata.Pravete slowly 3-5 times.

5. Look ahead in the distance 3-4 seconds, then transfer your gaze to the tip of the nose and hold 3-4 seconds. Repeat 5-7 times.

6. Close your eyes and flesh of your fingers gently press the upper eyelid for 3-4 seconds. Remove your fingers and sit with my eyes closed 3-4 seconds. Repeat 4-5 times.

7. Place hands on waist and elbows move back and forth. Repeat 3-4 times.

8. Close your eyes and make circular movements with the eyeball. Every 4-5 seconds replace direction.

Option 3

1. Sit on a chair with his eyes and track how your finger slowly away from them at a distance of 50 cm, and then approaching. Repeat 80-10 times as changing hands.

2. Sit back, relax, then abruptly tense muscles of his whole body back and relax. The exercise should be done at least 3 times.

3. Sit back, place hands on back and take a deep breath. Then exhale slowly through the narrow stream for 5 seconds tensioning abdomen. Repeat 3-4 times.

4. Flash rapidly over 1-2 minutes.

5. Curved back and stretch, raising his hands up. Return to starting position.

6. Make movements with eyes open up and right, up, left, down, right, down, left. The duration of the exercise is 15-20 seconds.

Option 4

1. Sit upright, relax, put his hands on your head. Take a deep breath and firmly press the head to hands. This exercise is useful for strengthening the neck muscles.

2. Rotate the eyes, trying to see as much of his left hand, then the right. Repeat 5 times.

3. Sit upright laid hands on the seat of the chair lift and high shoulders. This exercise helps your figure better.

4. sitting on a chair, lift your feet together, and remove them upright. The exercise is to strengthen the abdominal muscles.

5. Close your eyelids, massage them with your fingers with a circular motion. Exercise improves circulation and relaxes the muscles of the eyes.

6. Slowly move the eyes from the floor on the ceiling and back. The head remains stationary.

7. Make slow circular movements with his eyes first one and then in another direction.

8. Make slow movements with the head left and right.

Check your eyesight at home

2010-08-16T04:09:00.000-07:00

If you suspect that there are problems in your vision before you contact a specialist, you yourself can do something about it. Found below test will answer some question, without any need to cancel interference ophthalmologist.

Answer "yes" or "no."
1. At the end of the day you feel tiredness in your eyes?
2. Are you feeling anxious about "burning" or "sand in the eyes?
3. Tears Do your eyes often?
4. Can you see red eyes?
5. Do you experience difficulty in focusing the eyes?
6. I sometimes appear disappear or mist in the eyes?
7. Does appear briefly double image?
8. Do you experience pain or heaviness in the temples in the eyes?

If you answered positively to questions 2-3, your eyes feel tired from the medium.
The positive response to question 4 or more indicates the presence of chronic fatigue of the eyes. To avoid a serious reduction in eyesight, you urgently need appropriate prophylaxis.

Visual acuity
This is the most important indicator of the condition of the visual system. To define it, write different letters of size 7x7 mm white sheet of paper and place it at eye level at a distance of 5 meters. If that distance distinguishes good characters, your visual acuity is 1.0. If you do not see good characters, determine the distance from which they will be visible to you. The distance in meters multiply by 0.2 (e.g. if the letters distinguish a distance of 4 meters, the sharpness of your vision will be 4h0, 2 = 0,8).

Binocular vision
One has binocular vision, i.e. image is perceived simultaneously by both eyes as a single image. Elementary functional test will help you determine his state of binocular vision. Look ahead to some point in the distance, then close your fingers slightly lower lid and watch what happens to the image.
If binocular vision is not impaired it at this time visual image splits and an image rises.
If the image is not splits, which means that function only eye over which you have not had pressure.

Angle field of vision
This is one segment of the space that is visible in the right eye view of the fixed point. For determining the outer limit of vision right eye focused look at the point at eye level. With left hand, close your eye and thumb of right hand lifted up the front and connect it with the point of focus. Remove the right hand toward the right temple, and keep focus with right eye point at right. Side vision right eye observe the situation on the thumb of his hand until his disappearance from the field of vision. If at this moment right arm is at right angles to the direction of gaze, the outer limit of the field of vision is within the norm. If the angle is smaller, the outer limit suites.

To check inner border of the same starting position (left eye is closed) outstretched right hand forward (thumb is raised up) head left to the nose. Look forward, but with the side of right eye vision watch the thumb of the hand to the disappearance of the field of vision. Once you do that, stop the movement of your hand and look to the right eye towards the nose. If, because of the barrier near the nose or you just do not see the finger, the inner border of the field of vision is normal. If the thumb is clearly visible, the inner boundary is suited.
The explanation is long, but the performance - relatively simple.

Intraocular pressure
Healthy human eye has a relatively constant intraocular pressure, which is governed by the magnitude of the inflow and the end of intraocular fluid. His exact figures can be understood in the Office of ophthalmology, where it is measured with special equipment - eye tonometer. This may be an important indicator determine independently. Naturally, this method does not claim absolute accuracy, but is suitable for initial self-examination. Press a finger over the eyelid of the eye to feel the degree of hardness. If your finger feels elastic ball which is slightly distorted by the action of pressure, your intraocular pressure is the norm. If you get rock hard, the pressure is increased, where the thumb does not feel any resistance, this is evidence of low intraocular pressure.

Age-related macular degeneration of the retina
In the elderly age-related macular degeneration of the retina is the cause of visual impairment. To open on time this pathology after the age of 60 years of age at least once week eyesight should be checked using a special test network.
Put network preferred reading distance. If you use glasses, place them. Close your left eye and right to see the point in the center of the network and answer the following questions:
1. Do you see all four corners of the network without his eyes from the point?
2. You look all the lines straight and continuous?
3. Do you see white spots appearing and disappearing at intersections?
Repeat the test with a closed right eye.
If all questions are answered positively - your eyes are fine. If your lines appear wavy or distorted, you should turn to an ophthalmologist for examination.

Threatens you cataract
The diaphragm is a simple device Shayner (among others created early in 1613), which can help us at home we can determine whether the risk of cataracts. Diaphragm may be prepared separately. For this purpose, take a small sheet of black paper or aluminum foil and using a needle to make two holes at a distance of 4-5 cm apart. Then the sheet is placed over the eyes open and is watching whatever is evenly lit surface. If you see two circles, where there are dark spots, this indicates the presence of organic haze of the optical environment of the eye, i.e. onset of cataract.

Home diagnosis is useful because it helps to find problems in time and take timely action. But it can not replace consultation with a specialist. If some of the proposed tests with you cause suspicion and anxiety, do not delay his visit to an ophthalmologist

Laughter a remedy

2010-06-01T05:01:00.000-07:00

Laughter is a great gift of nature. It gives exercises to our body muscles and promotes our health. Today’s fast life makes our life gloomy. Let us laugh to live.

Laughter is the greatest gift of mankind! It is a great boon to our health. Our health is greatly influenced by our mind. Illnesses of the mind are the main cause of many psychosomatic diseases. General depression of the mind leads to diseases. Laughter is the panacea for this tension and depression. When we laugh, certain nerves in the brain are triggered and our endocrine system secretes neurotransmitter hormone. This, in turn, releases the endorphine hormone, which is a natural painkiller and tranquilizer.

Laughter the Booster of our Body
The chemical process of laugher boosts our heart, body and mind. Improvement in the blood flow diffuses tension and promotes a feeling of well being that is very important to make our life pleasant. . It is fittingly said that laughing is like a restart function of the computer.

What Happens in our Brain When we Laugh
Scientists have proved that human mood is controlled by four types of waves. They are: alpha, beta, delta and theta. These brain waves have been identified as amplitude of waves in terms of cycles per second.

The alpha waves have a frequency of about eight to twelve cycles per second. These waves are associated with an alert state of mind and is accompanied by feelings of calmness , lack of tension and anxiety. The alpha waves occur intermittently when we are in the state of calmness and happiness. Laughter is the state of mind when our brain starts the production of alpha waves.

The beta waves have a frequency of about fifteen to twenty eight cycles per second. These beta waves tend to occur when an individual is attempting to solve a problem or is worrying about something.The delta waves have the frequency of about two to six cycles per second. They occur when an individual is sleeping or unconscious.The theta waves have a frequency of about five to seven cycles per second. These waves are produced when the person is feeling sleepy just before going to sleep.

Laughter is the Reliable Tool of the Educated
Educated people have realized the value of laughter . In many a place we find them forming laughter clubs to enable the members get a chance to laugh more and more.They gather in these places to motivate themselves to laugh by inducing laughter mimicries, telling jokes, reading humorous things and so on.

Laughter Clubs
Nowadays we can find laughter clubs to enable the busy people gather in one place and induce themselves in laughter. The members cooperate in merrymaking and producing healthy jokes. They feel a kind of relief like the steam released from a tight pressure cooker.

Enjoying a Joke is an Art
WE should understand the meaning of the joke, then only we can enjoy it. Hence the first thing we should keep in mind is that we should enjoy the joke wholeheartedly and we should not try to pick holes in the jokes or argue about it. A joke is a joke and it should be enjoyed. We shouldn’t spoil a joke which we may already know and break its suspense.

Another important thing is that we should encourage telling jokes. When a person is telling a joke, we should encourage him even if we may not find it funny.We should also remember that when a joke is repeated it loses its life. It is like eating cold or stale food!We know about the jesters in royal courts, who kept the court as well as the people in good moods. Telling joke is an art involving the magical power of using words.

Laughter for Health
Laughter is good for health.It keeps our lungs healthy. We have heard the adage, “Laughter is the best medicine.” In today’s fast life, not only adults, but also school going children tend to become the victims of depression, tension and phobias.

Researches have proved that laughter has the same workout power as the effects produced by aerobic exercises. Laughing involves the muscles into action and brings out the stagnated dirt in the lungs.

It is quite fitting to note the words of William Rostter, “Anyone who is without a sense of humor is at the mercy of others.” We should never forget the maxim that when we laugh, the whole world laughs with us and when we weep, we weep alone!

Stress and Immune System

2010-04-09T22:22:00.000-07:00

A very high number of serious diseases caused by stress are 80% and this is very significant. Increase in heart rate, blood pressure, blood glucose levels, adrenaline, cortical, free radicals and oxidative damage are the side effects of stress. You can raise the strength of the immune system by overcoming stress factors. In process of all this stress can disrupt the digestive balance.

Looking at is if you can increase the strength of immune systems, making things that make you happy, you are healthier. Immune cells spend most of my life circulates in the blood of these systems vessels. Immune optimistic people found the fee much better under stressful conditions than those with negative attitude. Chemotherapy affects many cells in your body.

No doubt, good nutrition is necessary for a healthy immune system and that means in practice a variety of healthy proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, vitamins, liquids, etc. your nutrition choices, and emotions you can have a major impact on your body's capacity to maintain energy levels and immune system.

In a small study, researchers found that moderate exercise (three or more times per week) increased the immune cells of women undergoing breast cancer treatment back to normal levels and also improve the mood of women and their ability to handle feels comfortable. A healthy immune system regulates our body healing process and protects it from infections and diseases. Premature aging and fatigue are just part of the problem with stress and your immune system. Sleep time when the body immune system and most of the repair and renovation. Tea drink wonders he has the ability to strengthen your immune system and fight off germs.

In the study, which examines the link between stress and the immune system known as psychoneuroimmunology? Several studies in this area indicate that physical and emotional stress can have good or bad effects on the immune system response. Autoimmune diseases result from this attack, but more frequently occurring examples include systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus), severe thyroid disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Auto immune diseases are very sensitive to any kind of stress and symptoms worsen over time. It is also interesting to note that many autoimmune diseases such as lupus disease and Grave’s appear more frequently in women than in men. A positive attitude, linking with other human beings, and minimizing stress all have a lot to do with immune system health, as well.

Protecting your immune system is a very important part of living longer, feeling younger and healthier? Healing process of a person is dependent on a healthy system, it also protects against infections & diseases. Stress influences our health so profoundly because of the way we affect the nervous and immune systems. Stress management should be a major concern for a healthy lifestyle. Consider the state of health for a moment and also the health of those who know. How to learn to deal with stress makes a huge difference in how healthy we are. Studies show that how a person deals with stress affects your health.

Brilliant mind

2010-03-24T22:35:00.000-07:00

Putting the brain seems to be fine art, which depends on our choices. We see then what to do and what to avoid to have a sharp mind and brilliant.

If you really want to train your brain, then forget sudoku and crosswords, but eating chocolate, you do a lot of sex and follow the example of Scandinavian people who eat meat and cold cuts for breakfast. Avoid this instead: soap opera, constantly complaining, whining people attend. These are some of the recommendations suggested by American researchers, Terry Home and Simon Wooton, to stimulate the brain to function optimally.

Everything depends on our choices
For years it was thought that the cognitive abilities of the brain were genetically determined, whereas it is now clear that depend on the choices of life: what we eat, drink, how we learn at school are all crucial factors. So people can make lifestyle choices that are not only able to prevent what is seen as an inevitable decline after 17 years, but also to steadily increase their cognitive abilities during the whole of their lives as adults.

Chocolate prevents aging and fats are healthy
Addition, these researchers sing the praises of the beneficial properties of chocolate, which contains useful substances such as magnesium, flavonoids and theobromine. The first is to oxygenate the brain, while others prevent aging. Eating a couple of cubes of chocolate a day finger cioccolatosarebbe then a real cure to stay young in body and mind.
What about fatty foods that are often banned from the diet? to work best the brain needs omega 3 and omega 6, found in fatty acids. Without them you may suffer loss of memory.

Laughter is good for the brain
Laughter is beneLa happiness and optimism help the brain that makes us give socialize, have a sense of humor, avoid those who are always complaining and negativity of life. This is the first step! But the authors warn not to relentlessly searching for the perfect happiness, much better known as Bliss: Body pleasure (pleasure of the body), laughter (laughter), Involvment (involvement), Satisfaction (satisfaction) and Sex (sex), all of which help the brain to think better.

Main
For those wishing to go into that can read Teach Yourself: Training Your Brain (or "Teach Yourself: train your brain"), which promises to become a best seller, if only for the sensational revelations. In the book, a collection of scientific articles, the two authors explain that the choices of life are crucial to keep in good shape mentally.

Stress diet

2010-03-22T23:01:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you can fight stress and fatigue from a healthy diet, just a menu made of protein, essential minerals such as iron, zinc and copper, and essential fatty acids, to get into a higher gear and be in better shape.

Minerals are essential to vitality and good humor
Tiredness, fatigue and increased susceptibility to ailments associated with colds, difficulty concentrating, nervousness and constant mood swings: all symptoms that often depend on a lack of essential minerals such as iron, zinc, copper, an essential mix can deeply nourish each tissue, enhance immunity and restore vitality and good humor. And to get your fill of minerals is sufficient to carefully choose the right foods.

Iron and copper have energy
Iron is essential to health and is found in foods in two distinct forms. Red meat and white, liver and fish and shellfish contain it in an easily assimilable and therefore are the best foods to consume. Iron Arm Ferropresente in eggs, milk and cheese is rather difficult to use and therefore less effective. The recommended ration of iron is 10 milligrams for adult men and 18 mg for women of childbearing age.

Although copper plays an essential role for the proper functioning of the body. Its action is important for the mineralization of the skeleton and the formation of red blood cells, as it is involved in iron metabolism and energy production. That is its lack causes fatigue and other symptoms similar to those caused by lack of iron. This mineral is present in meat, liver, nuts, mushrooms and vegetables.

Zinc for the immune
Present mainly in meat, fish, eggs, walnuts and oysters, zinc is a mineral that helps strengthen the body's defense system and increase resistance to attack by germs and bacteria. It is excellent to fight fatigue and acts positively on the nervous system. In addition regulates thyroid activity and slows the oxidation of tissues.

Foods that should always be
To keep fit, relieve stress and ailments caused by a immune systems, the table should never miss some foods.

* Eating the fish is a food pescel really important to feel on top both from the point of view of the line from the point of view-being. They are ideal fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, but all are valid. The shellfish are also an excellent source of minerals and B vitamins, essential for energy production.
* The nuts add good health and good taste thanks to the presence of minerals and vitamins. In addition it helps to fight cholesterol, high blood pressure and obesity.
* All vegetables are great to satisfy and reduce the absorption of fat and most are easily digestible, contrast also anemia and fatigue.

Rose Water

2010-03-22T03:59:00.000-07:00

In recent years we have experienced usauge of cosmetic products from natural sources. One of these products was the rose water as a function that has the skin tone for what would replace the traditional tonic.

It is an essence that is obtained for the secretion of rose petals. But the result is a liquid too strong to apply to the skin, for what usually is mixed with water. Coat is recommended for oily and normal skin, it tends to resect a bit '.

For that reason, avoid products with rose water having more on alcohol use among its ingredients. It is used after cleansing the skin, and before moisturizer. Help to complete the cleaning and closing the pores. Can be used daily.

Is a product recommended, both for its effectiveness as a ground for its price, it is a natural product that normally has no additional ingredients.

Health Myths

2010-03-10T01:15:00.000-08:00

Myth : Certain foods like grapefruit, celery or cabbage soup, can burn fat and make you lose weight.
Fact : NO food can burn fat. These foods are very low in calories with almost zero fat content. In addition, some of those foods may contain caffeine which might speed up the metabolism (the way your body uses energy or calories) for a short time, but they do not cause weight loss nor do they cause loss in fat mass.

Myth : Natural or herbal weight-loss products are safe and effective.
Fact : "Natural" or "Herbal" does not always mean safe, especially in health related products. These products are not usually scientifically tested to prove their safety and efficacy. So far there are no FDA regulations on these products to control their claims and commercialization.

Myth : Low-fat or fat-free means no calories. You can eat more foods if they are low fat or fat free.
Fact : Low fat or fat free does not mean calorie free. A low-fat or fat-free food is OFTEN lower in calories than the same size portion of the full-fat product. But many processed low-fat or fat-free foods have just as many calories as the full-fat version of the same food-or even MORE calories. Usually, when the fat is taken out, sugar and other carbohydrates are added in to keep the taste. This brings the low-fat version to usually the same caloric content as the regular full fat version. When shopping, make sure you read nutrition labels of the regular versus the low-fat product and compare the calories per serving size. Remember that weight comes down to calories, not fat!

Myth : Skipping meals is a good way to lose weight.
Fact : One popular approach used to lose weight is skipping a meal, usually breakfast. Many people think that by skipping a meal, they eat less food and therefore lose weight. Studies show that " people who skip breakfast and eat fewer times during the day tend to be heavier than people who eat a healthy breakfast and eat four or five times a day." This is partly due to the fact that when skipping a meal, you feel hungrier and tend to overeat at the next meal and pay less attention to your satiety cues. A better approach is to eat smaller frequent healthy meals and snacks to keep blood sugar balanced.

Myth : Eating after 8 p.m. causes weight gain.
Fact : It does not matter what time of day you eat. It is what and how much you eat and how much physical activity you do during the whole day that determines whether you gain, loses or maintains your weight. No matter when you eat, your body will store extra calories as fat.

Common Myths & FactsMyth : Sugar Causes Diabetes.
Fact : The most common nutrition myth is probably the misconception that sugar causes diabetes. If you have diabetes, you do need to watch your sugar and carbohydrate intake, to properly manage your blood sugar level. However, if you do not have diabetes, sugar intake will not cause diabetes. So far, a diet high in calories, being overweight and an inactive lifestyle are the main risk factors for diabetes.

Myth : All Fats are bad.
Fact : Fat is an essential part of the diet. Around 30% of total daily caloric intake comes from fat (with less than 10% coming from saturated fatty acids). Fats help nutrient absorption, nerve transmission and maintain cell membrane integrity just to name a few functions. However, when consumed in excessive amounts, fats contribute to weight gain, heart disease and certain types of cancers. Also, one must keep in mind that fats differ in their effect on the body. Some fats promote our health positively while some increase our risk for heart disease. The key is to replace bad fats with good fats (monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats) in our diet.

Myth : Medical tests are useful for the human body.
Fact : The medical community strongly advocates that regular tests of patients suffering from a particular illness is beneficial but contradictory to this they may actually pose a threat to a person's health. This stands true for almost all kinds of prevalent tests these days that are done for cancer or various other diseases. Some of these tests use radiations that may prove harmful for the human body and hence may damage various cell in the body including the cancerous cells. These days the treatment of a disease is focused more rather than the prevention, hence it is the money which talks and not the disease.

Common Myths & FactsMyth : High-protein/low-carbohydrate diets are a healthy way to lose weight.
Fact : The concept of high protein/low carbohydrates diets comes from the assumption that starches (carbohydrates) are fattening. This is a nutrition myth because starchy foods (bread, rice, cereals, beans, fruits and some vegetables) are low in fat and calories. They become high in fat and calories when eaten in large portion sizes or when covered with high-fat toppings like butter. In addition, the long-term health effects of a high-protein/low-carbohydrate diet are unknown. But getting most of the daily calories from high-protein foods like meat, eggs and cheese is not a balanced eating plan. These foods are usually increase fat consumption especially saturated fats which may raise heart disease risk. Also this kind of diet contains too few fruits, vegetables and whole grains, which may lead to constipation due to lack of dietary fiber and vitamins and minerals deficiencies. A well- balanced diet is still the best option for weight loss.

Myth : "Going vegetarian" means you are sure to lose weight and be healthier.
Fact : Research shows that people who follow a vegetarian eating plan, on average, eat fewer calories and less fat than non-vegetarians. They also tend to have lower body weights relative to their heights than non vegetarians. Choosing a vegetarian eating plan with a low fat content may be helpful for weight loss. But vegetarians-like non vegetarians-can't make food choices that contribute to weight gain, like eating large amounts of high-fat, high-calorie foods or foods with little or no nutritional value. The term vegetarian is not synonymous with health. Healthy nutrition comes down to choosing nutritious foods within the recommended amounts and limiting foods high in fat, sugar and calories. These facts hold true for those people who choose to include animal products into their diets as well as those who do not!

Myth : Vaccines prevent diseases and increase immunity.
Fact : The term immunity refers to the resistance of a person's body against diseases. Similarly immunization refers to the injection of foreign proteins to the human body of a particular kind in order to increase the immunity. Medical research has however proved that direct injection of such proteins makes the recipient more susceptible or affected to the diseases in future. Hence vaccines actually do exactly the opposite of what they should do.

Common Myths & FactsMyth : Fluoride Prevents Tooth Decay.
Fact : The highest selling tooth pastes these days seem to promote their product by saying that they contain fluoride which is useful in the prevention of tooth decay. However it is the biggest scientific fraud ever promoted by the government in order to sell products, as fluoride does not prevent tooth decay. Consuming fluoride is actually harmful for the health and human body. Consumption of large quantities of fluoride may be the cause of osteoporosis, cancer, auto immune diseases and also may cause disruption of DNA repair enzymes by 50%.

Memory Boosting Foods

2010-03-02T02:32:00.001-08:00

Childern of today are with all the emphasis on academic excellence, children feel the pressure to do their exams. This is when the brain is taxed stuff to a maximum of information in the shortest time. The supply of nutrients is of utmost importance for the students to perform well. Follow these diet guidelines to ensure optimum performance during the tests:

Kickstart breakfast
In order to avoid breakfast starch loading and sugary foods. They increase blood glucose levels by a sudden crisis that makes you sleepy followed. Since the brain is stable blood sugar, fiber-rich foods such as broken wheat porridge, wholemeal bread sandwich, paratha cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, eggs, toast and cereal with milk is recommended required.

Brain-friendly food
The brain needs certain fats for proper functioning. Omega-3 fatty acids improve brain function significantly protected by promoting memory, alertness and attention span, and also the brain from the effects of aging. Get your daily updates of omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed, walnuts, tofu and fish.

Memory fats
Phospholipids are fats known to increase memory and attention. Of all the phospholipids - acetylcholine, choline and dimethylaminoethanol are the most important. They reduce anxiety, improve attention and promote learning. Egg yolks, organ meats and seafood are also good for the brain.

You can also beat exam stress with B complex, vitamin C and zinc. Fresh fruits and vegetables such as amla or gooseberry, green pepper, kiwi, broccoli, strawberries, mushrooms, soy and whole grains are rich in vitamins. B-complex supplements with zinc to increase immunity and coupled energy levels.

Proteins
Proteins maintain the brain cells and help in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, or messengers of the brain essential for your child to keep awake. Meals must be at least one source of protein - dairy, eggs, whole pulses and dals, fish and lean meat.

Hydration
Keep yourself well hydrated keeps the brain awake and focused. Make sure that you are at least two liters of water daily. Sip of water at frequent intervals.

Hypertrophy of Prostate

2010-02-23T01:57:00.000-08:00

Among old age related diseases enlargement of prostate gland is one that concerns only men. This enlargement of prostate gland is called 'Benign Hypertrophy of Prostate' of BHP.The treatment for enlarged prostate is surgery and removal of gland. The mild enlargement can be managed with certain precautions and help of homoeopathy.

What is prostate?
Prostate is a king gland in males. It is called 'Porash' or purasth granthi' in Hindi. With middle or old age, the prostate gets enlarged. Prostate is the gland situated at the base of bladder. From bladder there is a passage for urine to pass. This passage is called urethra. The prostate gland surrounds urethra. It produces a fluid that mixes with semen to make up part of the seminal fluid. When it is enlarged its weight becomes more than 50 gms. Enlargement is that of middle lobe and if the posterior lobe is affected, it is prostate cancer.

When symptoms of enlargement of prostate are ignored, there are adverse effects on the bladder, urethra, ureters, kidneys and sexual organs. With constriction of passage in the urethra, some of the urine is left in the bladder. This urine stagnates and its residues settle down on the walls of bladder. This condition makes the wall of bladder thick which in turn may make stones (calculi). With obstruction of urine, the urethra becomes elongated. Elongation means compression of canal. When flow of urine is obstructed partially, there has to be back pressure on ureters which are dilated. The sphincter mechanism around ureters gets defective. The back pressure of urine is called hydronephrosis. The urine ascends in the ureters and damages the renal route.

Causes of enlargement
Natural rigidity of old age: In old age most of people suffer from rigidity of joints. There are people who have enlarged prostate but no rigidity of joints, etc.

Postponing urination: Some people are in the habit of postponing urination when travelling or in the public places. Stopping urine voluntarily exerts pressure on the walls of bladder which becomes thick. This thickness extends to starting region of urethra over which prostate is surrounded.

Hormones imbalance: Two testicular hormones govern the prostate, one is male androgenic and the other is female estrogen. The adrenal gland supplements them. Male hormone supply diminishes with the old age while supply of estrogen does not decrease proportionately. This is imbalance of hormones.

Management of BHP
If the weight of prostate is less than 50 gms, it is observed that prostate enlargement can be controlled and urine routine becomes normal. First of all make it a habit to go for urination before taking a bath and after taking lunch or dinner. Never postpone the urge for urination. When there is feeling about urine left in the bladder, keep standing. Wait for a few minutes. Now try to empty the bladder again. Practice this three to four times daily and conduct this routine for at least seven days. You will find that bladder muscles are toned and accustomed with release of urine. If there is no relief, consult a doctor.

Homoeopathy

There are a set of medicines for enlargement of prostate and the most important used are Sabal serr-Q, Ferrum Picrata 3x, and Thuja.

Myths About Nutrition

2010-02-16T22:25:00.001-08:00

Now that health concerns have become universal, we’ve been flooded with information about what to eat and what to avoid. Often, the news leaves us confused. Since this isn’t a good situation to be in, we decided to clear up the bewilderment.

Drink milk every day: Many of us believe that a glass of milk a day will keep us healthy. But according to Dr Atul Bhasin, consultant, internal medicine, B L Kapur Memorial Hospital, Delhi, you don’t need to drink milk after the age of one. “All the benefits of milk are available if you eat a balanced diet, including green vegetables and soya protein,” says Dr Bhasin. “As for calcium, sunlight is a good option.”

Small and frequent meals: Have six small meals at intervals during the day, we are told, to boost metabolism and aid digestion. But does it work? Yes, says Brunch columnist Dr Shikha Sharma. “The basic principle is that the more food you put into your body, the harder your body works to digest it,” she explains. “However, the body has a clever way to handle too much food – it puts the excess into storage. Translation: fat. But smaller, more frequent meals kickstart your metabolism, allowing the body to burn calories at a constant rate.” But eating small, frequent meals does not mean snacking on oily or junk food. Satisfy your hunger with dahi, fruit, nimboo paani or juice.

Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day: It is never a bad idea to keep well-hydrated, explains Dr Bhasin, especially if you drink a lot of tea or coffee. Caffeine and aerated drinks are dehydrating, so it makes sense to substitute them with water. If you’re tired, cranky, hungry or light-headed, water will help instantly.

Too much rice can make you fat: Rice is a simple carbohydrate that we are told to avoid. “Although rice in itself is not very fattening, it doesn’t fill you the way a chapati does, so you tend to feel hungry sooner,” explains Jyoti Arora, head, nutrition and dietetics, Artemis Health Institute, Delhi. “This is why you tend to eat it in excess.” But rice should not be avoided altogether. Its starch contains minerals and vitamins, so do not overwash it before cooking. Switch to brown rice, and eat it with whole pulses, vegetables and salad to add fibre.

Don’t mix fish and dairy: Certain communities believe mixing seafood and dairy leads to problems. But, says Dr Bhasin, there is no evidence for this. Don’t drink milk after eating papaya: “This is true as having milk after papaya can lead to diarrhea,” says Jyoti Arora. However, if you are constipated, a nighttime meal of papaya followed by a glass of milk can help.

Eating raw cabbage leads to worms: True, if the cabbage hasn’t been washed well. But this applies to all vegetables, raw or cooked. “Wash them well in normal water,” says Dr Bhasin.

Avoid dahi if you have a cold: No need, says Dr Bhasin. But to avoid risk, eat your dahi at room temperature, adds Jyoti Arora. Every morning, eat a few almonds that have been soaked overnight: Yes. “Almonds are a source of minerals and vitamins. You can soak them, but eat them with their skins on,” says Jyoti Arora.

Do not buy cut fruit from a street vendor: “You can’t be sure how long the vendor has kept the fruit in the open, or of the water it was washed in,” says Dr Bhasin. So buy whole fruit and cut it yourself.

Healthy Low Cholesterol Diet

2010-01-29T22:07:00.000-08:00

Healthy diet, regular workouts, reducing cholesterol in daily meals, health freaks try all to lose calories.Cholesterol is not bad as one makes out to be. It is essential for the smooth functioning of the body, as the body uses it to protect nerves, make cell tissues and produce some hormones. But extra cholesterol is dangerous.

“Our liver is responsible for making cholesterol, which the liver sources from the food we eat, such as nuts, eggs, meat and dairy products. However, when there is a high intake of fatty foods, it results in the increase of cholesterol in the blood,” said nutritionist Shilp Behl.

The extra cholesterol from the blood is stored in the arteries, where it builds up causing the arteries to narrow, harden and finally blocking it.
According to surveys it has been found that cholesterol can be effectively managed with a few lifestyle changes such a good dietary intake and regular exercise.

According to leading food dieticians, an adult diet should include the following:
o 2½ cups of vegetables
o 2 cups of fruits
o 3 cups fat-free or low-fat dairy products

Nutritious food is often labelled as bland or tasteless. But the following sample diets for lowering cholesterol will definitely make you change your mind.

Healthy pasta:
In a large pot, boil water, add pasta and cook, stirring occasionally. Stir in spinach in the last 2 to 3 minutes and drain. In a small bowl, combine milk and flour, until smooth. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat, add garlic and cook for a while. Add the flour mixture and cook it over low flame, stirring constantly, until it thickens. Make sure no lumps are formed. Add beans, vinegar, salt and pepper, the drained pasta and spinach. Cook stirring, until the pasta has been completely coated. Remove from heat; add low calorie cheese, and stir until it melts. Serve immediately, with whole wheat bread.

Chicken and rice soup:
Heat oil in a large pot over medium to high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until they soften and begin to brown. Add pieces of boiled chicken to it and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted. Add little corn flour, tomatoes and rice; bring to a boil, and reduce heat to low. Cover and cook in low flame until the rice is almost tender. Season with pepper, and serve hot.One of the primary goals of a low-cholesterol diet is to limit the amount of fat and sodium intake. Besides these, sugar, red meat and alcohol consumption should also be reduced. It is imperative to have a low cholesterol diet plan chalked out by a professional dietician, to avoid any cholesterol-related health complications.

“Having a diet that has less cholesterol will also make you feel less dizzy as it is only energy that you intake and not additional fats,” said a diet expert.

Health Benefits of Water

2009-10-31T01:11:00.000-07:00

How much water to drink every day? A simple question with a very difficult answer.It is not easy to assess what is the standard requirement of water for an individual. It is subjective of many factors like weight, climate and activity levels.

Our body is made up of 60 per cent of water. Every day a normal person loses water through breath, sweat, urine and bowel movement. This water needs to be replenished or replaced.
To generalize '8 x 8 rule' - drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day (about 2 liters). It can also be modified as 'drink eight 8-ounce glasses of fluid a day' as all fluids count toward the daily total requirement. Though this is not supported by any scientific evidence, many people use this basic rule as a guideline for how much water and other fluids to drink. Another easy way to calculate is -
Divide your weight (in kilograms) by 30 (ex. somebody weighing 70 kg is going to need 2.3 liters/day)

Healthy reasons to drink adequte water:
Weight loss. Water is one of the best ways to lose weight. It replaces high-calorie drinks like soda and juice and alcohol with a drink that doesn't have any calories. But it's also a great appetite suppressant and often when we think we're hungry, we're actually just thirsty.

Water has no fat, no calories, no carbs, no sugar.
Healthy Heart: Drinking a good amount of water could lower your risk of a heart attack.
Energy. If you're thirsty, you're already dehydrated which can lead to fatigue, muscle weakness, dizziness and other symptoms. So it's a source of instant energy. Hot or humid weather can make a person sweat and require additional intake of fluid. Heated indoor air also can cause your skin to lose moisture during winters. Further, altitudes greater than 2,500 metres (8,200 feet) may trigger increased urination and more rapid breathing, which use up more of your fluid reserves

Dehydration commonly causes Headache: Often when we have a headache it's simply a matter of not drinking enough water.

Pregnancy or breast-feeding: Women who are expecting or breast-feeding need additional fluids to stay hydrated. Large amounts of fluid are lost especially when nursing.

Healthy skin: Drinking water can clear up your skin and people often report a healthy glow after drinking water. It doesn't happen overnight, but consistent consumption of water has good effects on the skin.

Digestive problems: The digestive system needs a good amount of water to digest food properly.Often water can help cure acidity problems, and water along with fibre can cure constipation.

Cleansing: Water is used by the body to help flush out toxins and waste products from the body.

Healing: It has been shown that proper water intake promotes healing processes.Drinking water helps to exercise harder. Dehydration severely hampers physical activities and slows you down. Exercise requires additional water, so be sure to hydrate before, during and after exercise.

Cancer risk: Drinking healthy amount of water has also been found to reduce the risk of colon cancer by 45 per cent. Drinking lots of water can also reduce the risk of bladder cancer by 50 per cent and also reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Beyond the tap: Other sources of water
On average, food provides about 20 per cent of total water intake, while the remaining 80 per cent comes from water and beverages of all kinds. For example, many fruits and vegetables such as watermelon and cucumbers are nearly 100 per cent water by weight. Beverages such as milk, buttermilk and juice are also comprised mostly of water. Even beer, wine and caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea or soda can contribute, but these should not be a major portion of your daily total fluid intake. Water is one of your best bets because it's calorie-free, inexpensive and readily available.

Remember:
-To carry a bottle of water everywhere
-keep a glass/bottle of water handy on your desk while working
-Drink enough water while exercising

benefit and risk of drugs

2009-10-27T05:15:00.000-07:00

Since a physician is trained to recognize and understand the clinical data regarding a drug's benefits and risks, it is the physician who is better qualified to decide whether the benefits outweigh the risks.

I totally agree with Sonit. If patients were allowed to make this assessment for themselves what would be the point in the prescription system?

Associate Professor at McGill University Health Centre
It is a little bit more difficult than that. Who does decide? I would say that each step that a drug has to go through to reach the patient has its own decider. During the drug development it is the company that decides that pursuing the development might be worth it, and ultimately the regulatory institution (i.e., FDA) that will say yes or no. Finally the physician will decide whether or not the risk is worth the prescription considering the potential benefit but at the end of the day, the patient, with his/her own perception of what benefit and risk are, will decide to comply to the prescription or not. And for the same physician and the same patients, the preception will also vary depending on the disease that is being addressed. Now, who is right and who is wrong, I leave it to the philosophers...

Thank you Laurent, for bringing all this info with which I agree
I would like to add that in practice, patients as less standardized that in clinical trials where they are selected based on specific criterias.

Facing somehow different profiles in real practice, Company medical department is involved, then the physician, than the patient who may have the choices between different treatment options based on a clear information, eventually helped by a person in case of need (translator, parents, wife/husband, etc..)