Health and Fitness, Exercise and Weight loss as a complete Journey

Ibuprofen and Other NSAIDs Kill 2,500 a Year in the UK

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 10:06:48 PDT

Ibuprofen and Other NSAIDs Kill 2,500 a Year

Monday, April 05, 2010 by: David Gutierrez, staff writer

(NaturalNews) As many as 2,500 people per year die in the United Kingdom each year from stomach bleeding, a well-known side effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen.

NSAIDs function by blocking the action of bodily chemicals known as prostaglandins, which produce inflammation in response to illness or injury. This causes a reduction in pain, inflammation and fever symptoms in those who take the drugs, and has made them among the most popular over-the-counter drugs in the world.

But prostaglandins also play important roles in protecting the stomach's lining from being corroded by its own digestive juices. This is why use of NSAIDs can cause ulcers and dangerous stomach bleeding, and are meant to be avoided by people at high risk of the conditions -- such as those with a prior history of stomach bleeding.

Medical guidelines also suggest that in people at above average risk of severe bleeds, such as those over the age of 65 or already taking another NSAID, NSAIDs be given only in conjunction with a prescription drug to protect the stomach lining. Yet in the United Kingdom, three-quarters of this population takes NSAIDs without a prescription for omeprazole, the favored anti-bleeding drug, says Dr. Mark Potter, writing in the London Times.

Potentially fatal stomach bleeds can set on without any prior warning symptoms.

Potter notes that while bleeding may be the most infamous NSAID risk, interfering with the body's prostaglandins can have other severe consequences. The chemicals also play an important role in ovulation and the implantation of fertilized eggs. As a consequence, NSAID use can interfere with conception and is not recommended in women who are trying to or already have become pregnant. When taken during pregnancy, NSAIDs can also delay and lengthen labor, and may interfere with the development of a child's respiratory or circulatory system, causing lifelong health problems.

NSAIDs also cause the body to retain fluids, which may lead to kidney damage. They also increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Sources for this story include: www.timesonline.co.uk

SPORTS DRINKS VS. WATER

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 22:46:16 PST

Image by jalexartis via Flickr

While heavily advertised, sport drinks are not always necessary for active adults. A moderate amount of plain water does the trick during most exercise.

You may find sports drinks useful if you engage in high-intensity endurance events lasting more than an hour.

Examples include long hikes, long-distance bike rides, marathons, or playing sports in the summer heat. In these cases, you may find that some drinks help prevent dehydration and replace needed nutrients.

DRINK YOUR TOMATO JUICE

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 20:33:53 PST

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TOMATO DRINK

For a healthy addition to a brunch or breakfast, combine ice, 1½ cups tomato juice, one celery stalk, one tablespoon lemon juice, and perhaps a dash of pepper and hot sauce. Blend until smooth. Garnish with another crisp celery stalk.

This refreshing drink is low in calories, a great source of many vitamins and counts toward your recommended three to five servings of veggies for the day!

If your doctor recommends that you limit sodium, consider using a low-sodium tomato juice. Not as good in taste, but you'll get the benefits and get use to it, in a short amount of time.

5 Foods You Should Eat Every Day - Part II

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:34:05 PDT

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5Foods You Should Eat Every Day - By Lisa Iwanycki

Power foods

They’re the foods that are so good for you, they not only make you stronger and more energized, but they can actually help prevent just about any illness.

Part I of this article, lists five foods that you should be eating daily. But there are more super foods you should be including in your everyday diet that you need to know about as well. The following five foods — coupled with the ones listed in
Part I — are some of the world’s healthiest items you should be consuming every day.

1. Chili Peppers

Main vitamin or nutrient: Capsaicin

If you’re an active guy, you want your body to be in top shape so you can get the highest level of performance when you’re busy functioning in full force. Capsaicin is a nutrient found in chili peppers that is a natural anti-inflammatory and helps improve circulation. Chili peppers literally clean your blood of mucus and toxins, making it easy for oxygen to be supplied to your cells, so this spicy beast will keep you in top shape for years to come. Also, contrary to popular belief that spicy peppers cause stomach ailments, chili peppers help fight off ulcers.

So if you have a weak stomach and a high level of stress in your life, add chili peppers to your diet to avoid painful stomach problems.Even more important is that chili peppers help prevent prostate cancer, a leading killer in cancer-related
deaths among men. So get the inside of your mouth fireproofed for this spicy number and keep your body ablaze.

Alternatives: Cayenne pepper, jalapeno peppers

2. Carrots

Main vitamin or nutrient: Beta-carotene and alpha-carotene

For hundreds of years, carrots have been thought to promote good vision, and modern researchers have proven this belief to be true. Carrots are especially good at improving night vision because the body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A,
which is absorbed by the retina. There, it is transformed into a pigment that aids night vision.

Consuming beta-carotene also prevents the eyes from getting cataracts. Think about it: If you eat your carrots now, you’ll be able to check out babes when you’re 95. Not a bad deal.

Carrots keep your cells communicating as well. Beta-carotene promotes cell-to-cell communication, which is good for tissue maintenance and repair. Good cell communication also prevents your cells from going wacko and getting cancerous on you. But beta-carotene isn’t the only cancer inhibitor in carrots: Scientists are finding that alpha-carotene is even better than beta-carotene at preventing tumor growth. Carrots are also good for your skin. Having a sufficient amount of beta-carotene in the body will protect it from common skin problems and diseases.

For example, if you’re in the sun a lot, carrots help protect the skin against the damage caused by UV rays. On the other hand, if you’re a workaholic and you don’t get enough sun, adding carrots to your daily diet will give your skin a nice tanned
look. The orange color in beta-carotene gets deposited under the skin. Eat your carrots daily, and you’ll impress the ladies with a healthy "outdoorsman" glow.

Alternatives: Sweet potatoes, winter squash

3. Kiwi Fruit

Main vitamin or nutrient: Vitamin C

If you travel a lot, sleep weird hours or are stressed out, chances are your immune system is low. Vitamin C is necessary for the healthy functioning of the immune system, and kiwis are higher in vitamin C than oranges or any other commonly known fruit.Not only is vitamin C the primary antioxidant that destroys free radicals
and helps lower the rate of certain types of illnesses, but consuming it daily can protect the body against respiratory problems, such as asthma or dry coughs.

Also, eating kiwifruit once a day can lower the risk of blood clots in the body, preventing heart attacks and strokes. In fact, kiwis can replace the daily aspirin people with heart problems are required to take, because they prevent clotting in
the vessels that supply the brain and heart with blood.

Alternatives: Oranges, papayas

4. Beans

Main vitamin or nutrient: Fiber and protein

Beans are high in fiber, which is beneficial for a number of reasons. Fiber is necessary for maintaining a healthy digestive system. It moves easily and quickly through the digestive tract, cleaning it and allowing it to function properly. Regular amounts of fiber in the diet have been shown to help ward off certain digestive illnesses, including irritable bowel syndrome and colon cancer.The fiber in beans also helps people maintain or lose weight. This is because high-fiber foods have a low glycemic index, which means that your blood sugar levels will not rise quickly after you eat them. Beans are a low-calorie food that will make you feel full and curb your cravings for higher-calorie foods. Blood sugar levels remain more stable when beans are included in meals, so they make an excellent choice for dieters.

Beans are also high in protein, which is the building block for skin tissue, hair, bones, nails, muscles, and blood. They are a great source of protein because, unlike meat, beans supply it without the cholesterol and fat. So eat your beans and build those lean muscles you’re after.

Alternatives: Tofu, peas, lentils

5. Dark Berries

Main vitamin or nutrient: Antioxidants

One benefit of consuming dark berries — such as blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, and raspberries — is that they keep your body clean by eliminating toxins and pollutants. The dark pigments in these super foods have a more powerful
amount of antioxidants than any other produce offered at the supermarket.

Antioxidants in your food can save you from almost anything when it comes to your health, and this includes slowing down the aging process. The dye that is released
from the skin of this fruit is the most nutritious part because it is the richest in these age-defying, disease-fighting antioxidants.

Aside from keeping you looking and feeling young, antioxidants prevent illnesses and ailments that come with age. For one, dark berries lower bad cholesterol and they are more cardio-protective than wine — so eat your heart out, and your heart will thank you later. Another way they slow age-related diseases is by protecting your brain from memory-related problems, such as Alzheimer’s or loss of memory after a stroke.You can eat your way out of cancer, viruses and memory loss, and you
can seriously slow the aging process with these dark spurts of goodness, so add them to your power shakes or your cereal in the morning.

Alternatives: Plums, cherries, red wine

Eat Better, Feel Better, Look Better

The foods listed in this article — together with those I supplied you with in Part I — are power foods that you should be adding to your diet every day. If you follow my recommendations, you will feel stronger and more resilient, your doctor will be appreciative and impressed, and your girlfriend will notice a change in your energy levels. Added to all of that, your mirror will provide you with an improved look. Enjoy it and make it last.

STAY HEALTHY WITH GOOD ORAL HEALTH

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 10:04:39 PDT

Image by Getty Images via Daylife

Did you know that preventing periodontitis (the advanced form of gum disease that can cause tooth loss) is not only important for your oral health, but can also be an important step in maintaining overall health?

Researchers have found that periodontitis can be associated with other health problems such as cardiovascular disease, stroke and bacterial pneumonia. In most cases, good oral health can be maintained with good daily oral hygiene-brushing and flossing-and through regular visits with your dentist.

PREVENTING FOOD POISONING

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 13:47:20 PDT

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You cannot see or smell most of the bacteria that cause food poisoning. Under the right conditions, these same bacteria can double in number every 20 to 30 minutes!

Food is safest when you avoid conditions that allow bacteria to thrive. This is why it is important to wash, cook and store food appropriately. Don't leave food at room
temperature longer than two hours, use leftovers within three days, and when in doubt, throw it out.

THINK TWICE ABOUT TACO SALADS

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 11:54:25 PDT

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Don't let the word "salad" mislead you when dining out. According to our registered dietitian, some salads, like taco salads, often contain more calories and fat (from the fried shell, cheese and meat)compared with other menu items. A typical taco salad contains about 860 calories and 46 grams of fat. Instead, try a chicken soft taco. At
180 calories and 6 grams of fat each, it's a much leaner option.

Stanford Heart Network Tip. HOW MUCH FRUIT?

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 12:57:33 PDT

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How much fruit should you eat? Depending on your calorie needs,current government recommendations suggest eating between 1 and 2.5cups of fruit per day. What counts as a cup? A cup of fruit equals 1 cup of 100 percent fruit juice, 1/2 cup of dried fruit, 1 whole piece of most fresh fruits, or 1 cup of chopped fresh fruit or fruit packed
in water or its own juices.

Training On A Treadmill For More Than One Reason

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 17:41:07 PDT

Training On A Treadmill

Running on a treadmill is generally easier than running outside because there is less wind resistance and variation in terrain.

It makes no difference if the air quality is bad, or it's blazing hot. You can have your shade right there. And, anytime you want, just reach for that water bottle.

To get the same workout as you would outside, set the grade (incline) to 1 percent. This is especially helpful if you do some of your outdoor race training on a treadmill.

FAST-FOOD CHOICES

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:02:18 PDT

Eating four of these a week can cut your kidney-cancer risk in half.

Hint: You need to peel it.

During these tough economic times, many of us are choosing fast-food restaurants as a dining out option in place of higher-priced venues.

Fortunately, many fast-food restaurants have expanded their menus to include more healthful selections. When dining out, think about ordering entrées such as a regular-size hamburger or veggie burger,grilled chicken sandwiches, baked potatoes with light sour cream or salads with grilled chicken and light dressings.

Skip the high saturated fat add-ons such as cheese and bacon. Instead of fries
consider side salads, fruit, reduced-fat ice cream and low-fat milk to round out your meal.

Cut your kidney-cancer risk in half by eating

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 13:11:20 PDT

Eating four of these a week can cut your kidney-cancer risk in half. Hint: You need to peel it.

Yep, we're talking bananas. They're bursting with phenolic compounds that appear to thwart renal-cancer cells. And that's not all the monkey's favorite fruit brings to your body . . .

ACAI: MIRACLE BERRY OR SCAM?

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 08:36:33 PDT

The acai (ah-sigh-EE) berry is a South American fruit that looks like a grape. This little purple berry, moderately rich in antioxidants,has been touted as capable of doing everything from speeding weight loss to bolstering your immune system. But, health experts say that there is no scientific evidence supporting any of these health claims.

In reality, consumers are losing more money than weight as a result of acai Internet scams. Don't be fooled with "free" acai trials that can turn into inescapable credit card charges. Look for the Better Business Bureau (BBB) seal and click on it to confirm the offer's legitimacy.

MAY IS NATIONAL BIKE MONTH

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Sun, 10 May 2009 19:50:02 PDT

May is a great month to tune-up your bike (or consider investing in one) and get outside for a ride on the road or a trail. Cycling is an excellent aerobic exercise that can be enjoyed by the entire family.

Have you ever considered bicycling to work? This year, Bike-to-Work Week is May 11-15. Biking reduces your carbon footprint (your impact on the environment) and traffic congestion, while also burning calories and saving money.

BOOST FITNESS WITH INTERVAL TRAINING

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Wed, 06 May 2009 17:21:07 PDT

Interval training can be an effective way to boost your fitness level and burn more calories.

Try one-minute intervals of more intense exercise mixed into your regular aerobic exercise sessions. For example, walk at a moderate intensity for five minutes, and then do one minute at a faster pace. Repeat the cycle several times. Make sure
to include a proper warm up and cool down and check with your doctor before increasing your exercise.

HOW MUCH ALCOHOL IS TOO MUCH?

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 08:00:09 PDT

Stanford Heart Network Tip of the Day

*** Today's Tip: HOW MUCH ALCOHOL IS TOO MUCH?

April is National Alcohol Awareness Month. Did you know drinking alcohol can be beneficial or harmful, depending on your age and health status, and, of course, how much you drink? According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, men are at "low-risk" for serious problems if they consume no more than four standard-size alcoholic drinks on any day, totaling no more than 14 total drinks per
week.

For women, the limit is no more than three standard-size drinks on any day with a weekly limit of seven. Greater alcohol intake can indicate dependence on alcohol, which may benefit from medical help.

SUNSCREEN NOT FOR SUMMER ONLY

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:53:49 PDT

SUNSCREEN NOT FOR SUMMER ONLY

A picturesque winter wonderland is the perfect setting for a brisk outdoor walk.

Beware, however; a beautiful blanket of snow can intensify the sun's rays. Plan to use sunscreen to protect your exposed skin. Remember to cover your lips, too. And while you're at it, slip on a pair of sunglasses to ease the glare off the snow to improve vision and protect your eyes.

KNOW SUICIDE RISK FACTORS

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:47:53 PDT

KNOW SUICIDE RISK FACTORS

Do you know the risk factors for suicide? According to the National Institute of Mental Health, risk factors include a diagnosable mental or substance abuse disorder, family violence and very difficult life events. Studies show the best way to prevent suicide may be through early recognition and treatment of depression. If you or someone you know feels depressed and hopeless, seek help though your EAP, physician or mental health professional.

REALISTIC FITNESS GOALS LEAD TO SUCCESS

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:43:51 PDT

REALISTIC FITNESS GOALS LEAD TO SUCCESS

Do you expect too much when you try to start or increase your physical activity? Success often leads to more success, but very high goals often lead to frustration. Start slow and set realistic goals for yourself.

For example, unless you are already very active, don't set your new goal as 60 minutes of vigorous exercise every day. Instead consider starting with activities such as brisk walking for 10-15 minutes several days a week. By conquering smaller goals first, you are more likely to continue.

WINNING ISN'T EVERYTHING

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:41:50 PDT

WINNING ISN'T EVERYTHING

Is your child involved in sports? If so, it is likely that you already know how much emphasis can be placed on winning at all costs.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it's important for parents to focus on the value of kids' sports for fun and exercise, not only for winning. Unrelenting pressure to win can create excessive stress for young athletes, negatively impacting their health, wellness and even their performance.

HAND GELS-A GOOD ALTERNATIVE?

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:40:45 PDT

HAND GELS-A GOOD ALTERNATIVE?

During cold and flu season, washing your hands with soap and water is one of the best ways to prevent infection and illness. But, when soap and water are not available, alcohol-based hand gels are a good alternative. They are practical, and you can conveniently throw one in a purse, pocket or lunch bag. If you shake hands often, travel frequently or have small children, hand gels can be a simple way to help keep the whole family healthy.

EATING DISORDER AWARENESS WEEK

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:38:40 PDT

EATING DISORDER AWARENESS WEEK

In the United States, as many as 10 million females and 1 million males are fighting a potential life-threatening battle with an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia. Millions more are struggling with binge-eating disorder.

It's important to be aware of the dangers surrounding eating disorders and the need for early intervention and treatment. If you are affected-or know someone who is or may be-the National Eating Disorders Association provides messages of prevention,
hope and recovery. For information, visit www.nationaleatingdisorders.org.

OSTEOPOROSIS IN MEN

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:36:42 PDT

OSTEOPOROSIS IN MEN

Too many men think of osteoporosis (thinning bones) as a "woman's disease". However, 2 million men also have the condition. Another 12 million are at risk. Lifestyle choices such as not smoking, exercising and getting enough calcium and vitamin D can help.

Medications can also be used to treat men with bone loss. Ask your doctor if you need
to be tested and/or treated.

HOT PEPPERS AND SEA SALT?

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:34:34 PDT

ADDING SPICE WITH HOT PEPPERS

Chili peppers are a great way to add flavor to many meals. According to our registered dietitian, they are also a good source of vitamins A and C. The hottest peppers include anaheim, ancho, cayenne, casabel, habanero, jalapeno, and serano.

If you want to turn down the heat,simply remove the seeds and inner membranes before adding the peppers to your dish. But be careful to avoid burning your skin. Wear gloves or wash hands immediately after handling them, and avoid all contact with the eyes when you're touching peppers.

IS SEA SALT BETTER FOR YOU?

Sea salt or table salt,what's the difference? Ordinary table salt comes from salt mines and is usually refined until it is pure sodium chloride; whereas, sea salt is harvested from the sea and is typically less refined. But the sodium content of each is essentially the same.

One advantage of sea salt is that some people may use a little less because of its courser texture. As with any salt, use in moderation and aim for no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium in your diet daily..

LET FISH BE YOUR CUPID

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:31:22 PDT

LET FISH BE YOUR CUPID

Omega-3 fatty acids may not be words that evoke passion, but on this Valentine's Day, a serving of omega-3-rich fish is truly good for the heart-and can make a perfect headliner for a romantic meal.

All fish contain omega-3s, but they are more concentrated in fatty fish such as
salmon, mackerel, tuna, lake trout, herring and sardines.

The American Heart Association recommends eating fish, particularly fatty
fish, at least two times per week.

LOSE WEIGHT SAFELY

noreply@blogger.com (Eric Wo) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:29:58 PDT

LOSE WEIGHT SAFELY

If you're working on your New Year's resolution to lose weight, be sensible. Stay away from fad diets and other plans that promise quick weight loss. While you may lose weight initially, these strategies are not effective for long-term weight maintenance, and some can be unsafe. Professionals recommend a safe rate of weight loss of 1/2 to 2
pounds per week. Be patient as you practice new behaviors that support healthy eating and active living. In time, you will achieve your healthiest weight.