SLIM GURU

THINKING ABOUT A TUMMY TUCK ?

2011-04-03T10:49:00.000-07:00

Abdominoplasty, the medical term for what is commonly called a "tummy tuck," involves surgically removing excess skin and fat from the middle and lower part of the abdomen and sometimes tightening the abdominal muscles. The result is a flatter abdomen, and sometimes, a smaller waist, because the procedure corrects loose, sagging skin and excess fat. Any scars are usually located below the line of a swimsuit or underwear. A person's type of skin, overall health, weight and age can affect the outcome.

Both men and women get tummy tucks. The procedure is especially useful for women whose skin has stretched after more than one pregnancy. For people whose fat deposits are just on the lower part of the abdomen, a partial abdominoplasty or mini-tummy tuck may be an option.

Why Is It Needed?

Skin has a limit to which it can stretch and still return to normal. When it stretches beyond that point, due to pregnancy or a large weight gain followed by weight loss, the result is much like a balloon that has been blown up and deflated. The skin becomes stretched and crinkly and does not respond to exercise or diet.

While most people have a tummy tuck for cosmetic reasons, others have the surgery to correct weakened abdominal muscles that are causing medical problems, such as back pain. Doctors consider this operation to be reconstructive when it is medically necessary and mainly improves function. In these cases, health insurance may pay for part or all of the surgery.

Abdominoplasty is sometimes done in combination with liposuction to remove pockets of excess fat from specific areas of the body using a suction pump. A tummy tuck also can be combined with a hysterectomy or tubal ligation.

When Is This Surgery Helpful?

Abdominoplasty works best in people whose weight is fairly normal. A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss technique and is not suitable for obese people.

The surgery may help:

Women who have baggy folds of skin on the abdomen and/or weakened abdominal muscles after pregnancy
Men and women who have a large amount of fat and loose skin on the abdomen that will not go away with exercise or diet, and whose skin is not elastic enough to have liposuction
Older people, who due to age and being a little overweight, have sagging, loose skin on the abdomen or weakened abdominal muscles

Patients should wait to have this operation, if they:

Plan to lose a lot of weight
Want to get pregnant again

Patients should talk to their physician, if they have:

Diabetes or a history of blood clots
Heart or lung disease or other severe medical problems
Abdominal scars from past surgeries. Scars above the belly button could become more noticeable after a tummy tuck.

Facts About Abdominoplasty

Tummy tucks are among the five most popular cosmetic surgery procedures.
From 1997 to 2001, the number of tummy tucks performed increased by 72%.
A tummy tuck can be performed at the same time as other cosmetic surgery procedures or other general surgeries, such as hysterectomy.
A tummy tuck can result in a flatter abdomen.
How long the results of a tummy tuck last depend on the patient's age at the time of the operation, physical conditioning afterward, type of skin and any changes in weight.
The two most common types of tummy tuck are the full tummy tuck (requiring general anesthesia and a short hospital stay) and the mini tummy tuck, which may require only local anesthesia and can be done on an outpatient basis.
All surgeries carry risks, and patients should understand the benefits and risks of this procedure before undergoing a tummy tuck.
Not everyone is a good candidate for a tummy tuck.

Patients considering a tummy tuck should have realistic expectations about the procedures and have an initial consultation with an experienced physician who explains the risks as well as benefits of the procedure.

THE MAGNIFICIENT OLIVES

2011-04-03T09:37:00.000-07:00

Olives, one of the oldest foods known, are thought to have originated in Crete between 5000 and 7000 years ago. Their use quickly spread throughout Egypt, Greece, Palestine and Asia Minor. Olives have been a dietary staple since ancient times, bearing mention in the Bible, and included in art and history from the Greek and Egyptian cultures and played an important role in Greek mythology. Since ancient times, the olive tree has provided food, fuel, timber and medicine for many civilizations. It has also been regarded as a symbol of peace and wisdom. Olive oil has been consumed since 3000 BC. Olives were brought to America by the Spanish and Portuguese explorers during the 15th and 16th century. Franciscan missionaries introduced olives into California in the late 18th century. Today, much of the commercial cultivation of olives occurs in Spain, Italy, Greece, and Turkey.

Olives are fruits of the tree known as Olea europaea. Olea is the Latin word for oil, reflecting the olives very high fat content, of which 75% is oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that has been shown to lower blood cholesterol levels. Europaea reminds us that olives are native to the Mediterranean region of Europe. Olives cannot be eaten straight from the tree; they require special processing to reduce their intrinsic bitterness. These processing methods vary with the olive variety, region where they are cultivated and the desired taste, texture and colour. Some olives are picked green and unripe, while others are allowed to fully ripen on the tree to a black colour. Yet, not all of the black olives available begin with a black colour. Some processing methods expose unripe greens olives to the air, and the subsequent oxidation turns them a dark colour. In addition to the original colour of the olive, the colour is affected by fermentation and/or curing in oil, water, brine or salt.

Some of the many available delicious varieties of olives include Moroccan oil-cured, Kalamata, Nicoise, Picholine and Manzanilla. In addition to varying in size and appearance, the flavour of olives spans the range from sour to smoky, from bitter to acidic. In addition to whole olives, you can often find them pitted.

Olives contain high amounts of monounsaturated fat and sodium, and moderately high amounts vitamin E, iron, copper and dietary fiber. One cup of olives - a little more than 130 g - contains 155 calories, about 130 of which come from fat. The serving contains about 10 g of monounsaturated fat, about 22% of the recommended daily allowance. A one-cup serving contains 4.44 mg of iron, about a quarter of the recommended daily intake, and about 17% of the daily recommended copper intake, 0.34 mg. The serving provides 4.3 g of dietary fiber, about 17% of what's recommended in a day, and 4.03 mg of vitamin E, about 20% of what's needed daily. Olives also contain small amounts of other nutrients, including protein, vitamin C, vitamin K, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, phenylalanine and methionine.

Health Benefits

The nutrients in olives provide a number of health benefits. The high levels of monounsaturated fat, which is sturdier than polyunsaturated fats, helps boost the strength of the body's cell outer membranes. The protection, along with the vitamin E and other antioxidants in olives, lowers the risk of cell damage and inflation. Stable cells can help prevent against a number of conditions, including cancer, heart attacks, strokes and gastrointestinal disorders. It also can help control conditions like asthma, arthritis and hot flashes brought on by menopause. Iron and copper, meanwhile, are necessary for the health of the blood and liver. Dietary fiber helps promote digestive health as well as lower cholesterol.

Varieties

Here are some of the more popular olive varieties:

• manzanilla: Spanish green olive, available unpitted and/or stuffed, lightly lye-cured then packed in salt and lactic acid brine

• picholine: French green olive, salt-brine cured, with subtle, lightly salty flavour, sometimes packed with citric acid as a preservative in the U.S.

• kalamata: Greek black olive, harvested fully ripe, deep purple, almond-shaped, brine-cured, rich and fruity flavour

• niçoise: French black olive, harvested fully ripe, small in size, rich, nutty, mellow flavour, high pit-to-meat ratio, often packed with herbs and stems intact

• liguria: Italian black olive, salt-brine cured, with a vibrant flavour, sometimes packed with stems

• ponentine: Italian black olive, salt-brine cured then packed in vinegar, mild in flavour

• gaeta: Italian black olive, dry-salt cured, then rubbed with oil, wrinkled in appearance, mild flavour, often packed with rosemary and other herbs

• lugano: Italian black olive, usually very salty, sometimes packed with olive leaves, popular at tastings

• sevillano: Californian, salt-brine cured and preserved with lactic acid, very crisp

Although all the various colours of olives are basically the same vegetable in different stages of ripeness, not all olives are created equal when it comes to nutritional value. Ripe, black olives are the healthiest, particularly those cured in water or with sea salt. Green, unripe olives do not have the same level of mineral content and also might be treated with lye. Canned black olives, beside the high sodium content, also lack the same nutritional punch as the jarred variety. Canned olives, in many cases, were not ripened naturally and instead got their dark colour from additives used during the canning process.

ARE YOU NUTS ABOUT NUTS ! ! !

2011-03-30T10:01:00.000-07:00

Nuts - power pack of some important nutrients, protein, Mono Saturated Fats, fiber, antioxidants, phosphorus, selenium etc. A bite sized, convenient, power snack-Natures perfect gift!

The nuts have many unique and healthy benefits. Vitamin E which is abundantly found in several nuts is a powerful antioxidant that can protect one from the damaging effects of free radicals. They can prevent chronic heart diseases and excessive weight gain in spite of being rich in fat. The secret lies in the fact that besides being rich in fats, they contain a large amount of protein and fiber. Both protein and fiber require more time to get digested than fat and carbohydrates and so eating a few nuts can work well to keep hunger at bay, partly because of their high protein and fat content and help to reduce excessive weight gain.

Many scientific studies have pointed out that these mono saturated fatty acids can provide protection against coronary heart diseases. Nuts are also recommended as part of the DASH ( Dietary approaches to stop hypertension) a dietary plan clinically proven to reduce blood pressure. The DASH diet is supported by national Heart, Lung and Blood institute and recommends 4 to 5 servings per week from its " Nuts, Seeds and Legumes" grouping.

Lets take a brief look at a few of our favorite nuts and all the healthy benefits they have to offer!!!

ALMONDS - A one ounce serving, approximately two table spoons is about 20 nuts loaded with 6.gms of protein, 160 calories, and 9.gms of mono saturated fats, magnesium and vitamin E. Helps to prevent coronary heart disease and cancer.strengthens bones and makes your skin glow.

BRAZIL NUTS - A one ounce serving is about 8 nuts packed with 4.gms of protein, 190 calories, 7.gms of mono saturated fats. Filled with Selenium, an antioxidant and phosphorus which strengthens bones, teeth and assists with energy metabolism.

CASHEWS - A one ounce serving is about18 nuts gives you 4.gms of protein, 160 calories and 8.gms of mono saturated fats. It is rich in Selenium, Magnesium, Phosphorus and Iron.Selenium can ensure proper functionality of immune system.

HAZEL NUTS - A one ounce serving is about 20 nuts and comes with 2.gms of protein, 200 calories and 17.gms of mono saturated fats. Helps to lower bad cholesterol in your body.

PEANUTS - Are not not actually a nut, but a legume, though often thought as a nut. A one ounce serving is approximately 28 nuts and packed with 7.gms of protein, 170 calories, 7.gms of mono saturated fats.It is a good source of vitamin B3 promoting healthy skin.

PISTACHIOS - A one ounce serving is about 45 nuts packed with 6.gms of protein, 160 calories and 7.gms of mono saturated fats.It is full of phosphorus, which protects from the oxidation of the free radicals.

WALNUTS - A one ounce serving is approximately about 14 halves, consists of 4.gms of protein, 190 calories and 2.5.gms of mono saturated fats. It is rich in Omega 3's which helps to reduce body fat and high cholesterol.

CHESTNUTS - Chest nuts are another popular class of nuts that contain a lot of vitamins including vitamin A, B1, B2 and C, which is essential for red blood cells, normal growth and development as well as reproduction.

PECAN NUTS - A study showed their naturally occurring antioxidants help reduce inflammation in the arteries.Eating pecan nuts can lower the risk of developing heart disease or cancer, say researchers

PINE NUTS - Pine nuts are high in antioxidants, which protect the body from free radical damage. They also serve as a natural appetite suppressant, because they contain polyunsaturated fat known as pinolenic acid. This stimulates the secretion of hormones that signal to the brain that the body is full so that it craves less food and is left feeling satisfied for a longer period of time.

Keep in mind that all these wonderful choices from nature needs to be consumed in moderation, one ounce of your choice daily. Some few ideas of how to get the best out of it. Nut butter make great spreads on crackers, bagels, pancakes. Chopped nuts make a great crunchy topping for fresh salads or in your morning cereals. Fish or chicken can be coated with crushed nuts instead of breading for added flavour. It is a great supplement of protein and mono saturated fats for vegetarians. So harvest the benefits of nuts by serving by adding it to your diet. it is worth calling it as natures perfect, wonderful, bite sized power packed gift!!!

THE KILLER DONER

2011-03-14T15:24:00.000-07:00

The doner is a post-pub favourite grease and salt being the main food groups craved by the squiffy. Yet, it also offers vegetables, protein and carbohydrates. Is the pitta pocket a wise dietary choice ???

The doner kebab is claimed to have been invented 40 years ago by Mr Mahmut Aygun, who left Turkey aged 16 to feed Berlin's migrant workers. Like the Earl of Sandwich before him, he realised that food on the go was at its handiest when stuffed into bread. Kebab meat - roast lamb and spices - is traditionally served with rice and salad on a plate, and its constituent parts are drawn from the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet.

But such a dish requires time, space and cutlery to eat. So in 1971 Mr Aygun tipped the meat, lettuce, tomatoes, onions and garlic dressing into a pitta pocket. the doner kebab - named after the Turkish word "dondurmek", meaning rotating roast - was born.The concept took off, and became a popular snack for anyone keen on portable eats - notably late-night revellers.

While Mr Aygun's restaurant prides itself on fresh ingredients and quality meat, the doner kebab's image has drifted decidedly downmarket.The hand-carved rotating roast that has been part of Turkish cuisine for nigh on a century has become tarnished by the mass-produced "elephant legs" - minced-up cuts of indeterminate meat - rotating in greasy takeaways up and down the UK.

The doner - whose inventor Mahmut Aygun has passed away at the ripe old age of 87 - has had much bad press of late, with reports of questionable meat and hygiene practices, and stratospheric salt and fat levels.

Last year food scientists for Hampshire county council found that doner kebabs were the fattiest takeaways. One contained 140g of fat, twice the maximum daily allowance for women, and the calorific equivalent to a wine glass of cooking oil. And 60% of the kebabs tested were high in trans fat, which raises cholesterol levels.

In common with other takeaway foods, a large doner kebab can contain up to half of one's daily calorie requirements in a single serving. People go for value for money. If they got a small portion, they would be disappointed and wouldn't go back to that kebab shop. So the takeaway industry is geared to deliver large portions.

Research by the UK's Food Standards Agency in 2006 found that 18.5% of doner takeaways posed a "significant" threat to public health, and 0.8% posed an "imminent" threat.And Trading Standards officers have found doners with up to 22% fat, and up to 12g of salt - that's two heaped teaspoons, double the recommended daily intake."But the majority of people who eat doner kebabs are somewhat inebriated and so are not best placed to make decisions about healthy eating," says Professor Langley-Evans. If questioned some of them dont even know the ingredients.In britain the doner takeaways are registered as restaurants so they are not bound by the law to give you the ingredients.

However, a survey of 76 councils across the country, which tested 490 kebabs, revealed that many contained worryingly large amounts of fat and salt, even before the addition of mayonnaise and other extras. Some kebabs sold as Halal - suitable for Muslims - were even found to contain pork, which is banned by the faith.

MIRACLE BERRY

2011-03-01T03:27:00.000-08:00

The miracle fruit, Synsepalum dulcificum, is native to West Africa and has been known to Westerners since the 18th century, when European explorer Chevalier des Marchais, who searched for many different fruits during a 1725 excursion and provided an account of its use there The cause of the reaction is a protein called miraculin, which binds with the taste buds and acts as a sweetness inducer when it comes in contact with acids, according to a scientist who has studied the fruit, Linda Bartoshuk at the University of Florida’s Center for Smell and Taste. Marchais noticed that local people picked the berry from shrubs and chewed it before meals and the fruit pulp is used to sweeten palm wine. Historically it was also used to improve the flavor of maize bread gone sour

For a time in the 1970s, US dieters could purchase a pill form of miraculin. It was at this time that the idea of the "miraculin party" was conceived. Recently, this phenomenon has enjoyed some revival in food-tasting events, referred to as "flavor-tripping parties" by some. The tasters consume sour and bitter foods, such as lemons, radishes, pickles, hot sauce, and beer, to experience the taste changes that occur.

The plant is a shrub that grows up to 20 feet (6.1 m) high in its native habitat, but does not usually grow higher than ten feet in cultivation. The plants first bear fruit after growing for approximately 2–3 years, and produce two crops per year, after the end of the rainy season. The seeds are about the size of coffee beans. Without the use of plant hormones or electricity, the seeds have a 24% sprouting success rate. It is an evergreen plant that produces small red berries, with flowers that are white and are produced for many months of the year.

Attempts have been made to create a commercial sweetener from the fruit, with an idea of developing this for diabetics. Fruit cultivators also report a small demand from cancer patients, because the fruit allegedly counteracts a metallic taste in the mouth that may be one of the many side effects of chemotherapy. This claim has not been researched scientifically, though in late 2008, an oncologist at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami, Florida, began a study and, by March 2009, had filed an investigational new drug application with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In Japan, miracle fruit is popular among diabetics and dieters.Shelf-life of the fresh fruit is only 2–3 days. Because miraculin is denatured by heating, for commercial use the pulp must be preserved without heating. Freeze-dried pulp is available in granules or in tablets, and has a shelf-life of 10 to 18 months.

But after chewing the fruit and rubbing the pulp against the tongue, the berry, known by a promising name "miracle fruit" or Synsepalum dulcificum -- releases a sweetening potency that alters the taste buds.For about 15 to 30 minutes, everything sour is sweet. Lemons lose their zing and taste like candy. Oranges become sickeningly sweet. Hot sauce that usually burns the tongue tastes like honey barbecue sauce that scorches as it trickles down the throat.

About five months ago, a Miami, Florida, hospital began studying whether the fruit's sweetening effects can restore the appetite of cancer patients whose chemotherapy treatments have left them with dulled taste buds.

"What happens in patients is the food tastes so metallic and bland, it becomes repulsive," said Dr. Mike Cusnir, a lead researcher on the project and oncologist at Mount Sinai Medical Center. "Most of the patients undergoing chemotherapy have weight loss. Then they cut further into their diet and then this furthers the weight loss. It causes malnutrition, decreased function of the body and electrolyte imbalance."

One of Cusnir's patients, Don Blechman, told him about the fruit after discovering it while he and his wife volunteered at a tropical fruit garden in Coral Gables, Florida."We didn't need it, but we thought it's wonderful and told a lot of people," said his wife, Terry Blechman. "If you can't eat because everything tastes bitter, and one berry gives you back your taste for a meal, what is it worth? It's worth everything."

Worth trying it!!!!

APHRODISIAC FOODS

2011-02-22T03:44:00.000-08:00

Stories and legends from the past have told us of various plants, spices and foods that seemed to act as sexual stimulants. Collectively these compounds, regardless of their sources are known as aphrodisiacs, after the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite. Many of these aphrodisiacs also have strong psychedelic effects and have been used in magic rituals to establish contacts with gods, spirits, ancestors, past and future, during shamanic healing sessions, for prophecy, and to heal many diseases.

Different Natural Aphrodisiacs And Their Effects

An aphrodisiac is a substance which increase sexual desire, though they work in many different ways to affect sexual desire and sexual performance. Sex drive in both men and women can be enhanced with herbs. Regardless of their validity, aphrodisiacs have plenty of evidence by happy users to support their claims. Even modern science has begun to discover the benefits of many of these aphrodisiacs on the human libido. However, careful research and great care should be taken before any sort of self-experimentation, some of these herbs and foods are very, very potent. This Central Asian spice is also a mild stimulant.

Asparagus – A classic in the aphrodisiac world, this succulent vegetable with its distinctive taste has a long history as an effective stimulant. Such were its reputed powers that in 19th century in France it was customary for a bridegroom’s last meal before his wedding to consist of at least three courses of hot asparagus.

Asafetida - can be eaten or burned as an incense and is considered the best aphrodisiac from Tibetan Medicine.

Ashwagandha - is considered the king of herbs and is also India's most potent hot plant. It is used equally by men and women, widely prescribed by physicians for adults with low libid and to improve sexual function.

Belladonna - Atropa Belladonna is known as Nightshade or the "witch's plant," The Greek Thessalian witches combine Belladonna root with wine to make powerful love drinks. Fresh berries are eaten, leaves smoked. However, an overdose will lead to death via respiratory paralysis.

Betel palm - Areca Catechu is a strong stimulant. Betel seeds are eaten, which contain alkaloids that have a stimulating effect on the entire body. Betel seed is a traditional aphrodisiac in Indian Ayurvedic medicine.

Borrachero - A strong inebriant from Columbia. An aphrodisiac decoctions is made from the fresh leaves. All parts of the plant contain highly active tropane alkaloids, with 80% scopolamine.

Celery - From a clinical standpoint, amongst aphrodisiac foods, it has been determined that celery contains androsterone. As a male hormone, androsterone possesses the ability to generate the arousal of sexual desires within women.

Calamus - A sexual stimulant in high doses, but also a skin irritant. Calamus oil can be added to tea or even better, a bath to promote erection.

Cardamom - A very sensual spice considered to have aphrodisiac properties. With a peculiar nature; it cools the body when it is hot, and warms it when it is cold. Cleopatra is said to have used cardamom in her baths.

Cayenne - Also known as capsicum, it plays a very large role in blood circulation. When cayenne is ingested, it dilates blood vessels. This allows increased blood flow throughout the body, especially in the major organs. The male reproductive organ benefits greatly from the ingestion of cayenne. It is a widely held belief that cayenne aids in longer lasting erections, with stronger ejaculations and more intense orgasms.

Cistanches - One of the more popular and more potent, yin-yang tonic herbs is found in many formulas designed to strengthen sexual function. Cistanches has been widely used to alter the fertility of both sexes. The ancient classics indicate that Cistanches increases both the flow of yang energy and blood flow to the genitals.

Chocholate - Eating chocolate causes the release of mood-boosting, stress-reducing serotonin. The sweet stuff also causes a release of phenylethylamine, which causes changes in blood pressure and blood-sugar levels leading to feelings of excitement. Just make sure to choose antioxidant-rich dark chocolate.

Oysters - contain a high level of zinc which is required in the production of testosterone. Testosterone has been used to increase sexual desire and function in both men and women. Oysters are a shellfish that is much more commonly available on the coasts.

Oats - This particular grain encourages the release of testosterone amongst men. An increase in male testosterone is significant in its correlation to aiding heightened libido.

Pine Nuts - Pine nuts have more protein than any other nut. Besides providing protein to help increase stamina, pine nuts are heavy in healthful monosaturated fats, zinc and other nutrients that are linked with increased sexual desire.

Spices - The right spices not only heat things up on the tongue, but also in the bedroom. Chili pepper and ginger help improve circulation and hot spices like cayenne, curry and cumin help warm the body. The intoxicating aromas of exotic spices help infuse romance into the atmosphere. If you’re enjoying what you see, smell, touch, hear and taste then you’re sensual. Spices often score 4 out of 5 here.

Natural aphrodisiacs go back through the history of the written word and passed from generation to generation of the spoken word. What is true that all the of natural aphrodisiacs listed here have differing effects on the human body and may not work for everyone. However, its always fun trying.

THE NATUROPATH

2011-02-16T05:40:00.000-08:00

Hippocrates (c.460 - c.370 BC) was the Greek

physician who is now considered as a Father of the Western Medicine. He maintained that the body could heal itself with the aid of natural cures, such as a good diet.

Although the term 'Naturopathy' was not adopted until the end of the 19th century, this system of medicine dates back to Hippocrates, whose recommendations more than 2000 years ago included the maxim 'Let food be your medicine and let your medicine be your food'.

In the 19th and early 20th century, pioneers such as Stanley Lief in England, Max Bircher-Benner in Switzerland, and Henry Lindlahr in the United States, all ran residential clinics at which patients were able to fast and undergo physical therapy and water treatments to tackle a wide variety of ailments. These forerunners of modern scientific naturopathy were determined advocates of diets low in fats, salt and refined foods-diets that are now widely endorsed by health experts around the world.

Naturopathy is a system of health care that uses natural measures, particularly diet, to restore and promote your body's self healing processes. Taking a holistic approach, a naturopath is able to identify and treat the causes of illness. Naturopaths may advise or apply treatments that differ from those of conventional medicine, but are, nevertheless, complimentary to the services available from your doctor. Instead of relying on drugs, naturopaths use various therapies to capitalise on the body's natural healing ability. Dietary therapy, Fasting, Hydrotherapy, Massage and Osteopathy-one or several of these therapies may be used to treat an individuals ailment.

Naturopaths treat a wide range of illness, both acute and chronic, as well as infections. For acute illnesses, such as colds, coughs and gastroenteritis, the naturopaths will suggest safe and effective ways of relieving the symptoms without the need to resort to antibiotics or other suppressive drugs. The naturopaths will apply similar treatments to alleviate chronic illnesses , such as rheumatism, arthritis, and asthma.

If you want to take personal responsibility for your health and prefer to use natural treatments whenever possible, you might decide to seek the advice of a naturopath. The naturopath tailors his or her advice to your individual needs and will usually suggest modifications to your diet for a few days, in conjunction with other treatments such as herbal remedies.The naturopath is trained in basic medical sciences, such as anatomy, physiology and diagnosis. This training enables him or her to carry out a full medical examination and to use information gained from the initial consultation not only for normal diagnostic purposes but also to asses your vitality and potential for better health.

You may consult a naturopath without a referral from a medical practitioner, although it is preferable that your doctor should know that you are seeking such advice.

VEGETARIANISM

2011-02-16T03:12:00.000-08:00

"Nothing will benefit human health and increases chances for survival of life on earth as much as the evolution to a vegetarian diet" - Albert Eienstein -

By definition, Vegetarianism prohibits the consumption of Meat or Fish, but some diets are more restrictive than others.

There are different types of Vegetarians:

Demi or Semi Vegetarians eat Fish, and sometimes Chicken, but not red Meat.
Ovo-Lacto-Vegetarians include Milk and Eggs in their diet but no Meat or Fish.
Lacto Vegetarians have Milk and Yogurt, as well as Cheese made with Vegetarian rennet, but no Meat, Fish or Eggs.
Vegans do not eat any animal products at all, banning Meat, Fish, Milk, and Eggs from their diets.
Fruitarians exclude Pulses and Cereals from the diet as well as all food of animal origin. Fruitarians eat only Fruit, Honey, Nuts and Nut oils.
Macrobiotic followers have a diet consisting of ten different levels, which become progressively more restrictive. At first, animal foods are excluded, then Fruit and Vegetables as well. At the final 'purist' level only brown rice is eaten.

In the United Kingdom, about 2.5 million people call themselves vegetarians. In the United States, the number of people making this claim is about 12.4 million and in Germany about 2.9 million people say they do not eat meat. On the whole vegetarians tend to follow current healthy eating guidelines.

The types of food eaten by vegetarians can be organised and grouped into five groups like the

"Food Pyramid". For a well balanced diet choose foods from the different groups in the daily proportions recommended here. This eating plan may be adapted for Vegans , who should select greater quantities of food from the protein (peas, beans) and carbohydrate (bread, pasta etc.,) groups.

Vegetables are a rich source of the Antioxidants that may help to prevent cancer. The High Fibre intake among vegetarians is considered to be another factor in lowering their risk of colon cancer. Eating a vegetarian diet may help to relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, according to Dr Jens Kjeldsen-Kragh of the Institute of Immunology and Rheumatology at the National Hospital, Oslo, Norway. Citing these studies and many others, researchers now believe that vegetarianism may promote longevity. But their diet may not be the only reason why vegetarians are healthier than Meat eaters. Vegetarians tend also to live 'healthier' lives - Smoking and drinking alcohol less and exercising more.

With all these health benefits, it is little wonder that Vegetarianism is becoming increasingly popular.But to be a healthy vegetarian, you need a balanced diet. It is not enough just to stop eating animal flesh and consume a few high-protein foods, such as Cheese, instead. With a little planning , you can make nourishing meals using a variety of fresh foods. An inexpensive alternative to meat, textured vegetable protein (TVP) is made from soya beans. After soaking TVP can be cooked in a variety of ways- try combining it with nuts and pulses in casseroles and roasts or use it to make vegetarian burgers.

Some people believe that a vegetarian diet does not offer an adequate supply of vitamins and minerals. But by eating a variety of foods vegetarians should get all the nutrients they need. However it is recommended very safe to consult your doctor or your Nutritionists before you make any decisions. A Nutritionist will discuss any nutritional worries or problems that affect your everyday eating habits. He or she will assess your current eating pattern and check for any deficiency or imbalance and will then be able to advise you on how to improve your diet or to follow a different way of living healthily.

This article is for information purpose only, not intend to condemn any form of eating patterns. Before practice anything professional consultation is advised.

FEAR OF FOOD - CIBOPHOBIA

2011-02-13T15:20:00.000-08:00

After all as human beings we need food to sustain our lives. It provides us with the required nourishment that is vital to our health and longevity. The Western culture has become increasingly fixated on leanness. The dirty secret of the beauty and the entertainment industries is that many models and actresses go to dangerous extremes to achieve size zero as advocated by today’s demanding fashion industry. Today’s magazines, TV shows, Celebrate actresses and models fear food because of the society’s pressure to maintain an unrealistic body shape. The truth is that the society seems to reward the very thin.

Identity issues and self-esteem problems are common among today’s younger generation. Comparing yourself with those figures can be the first domino to fall in the development of Cibophobia, which can trigger various health problems, Psychological issues and emotional upheaval.

FEAR OF FOOD – CIBOPHOBIA is a complicated phobia, which can spiral into an obsession. It is very common around these days and people with this problem sometimes mistakenly thought to suffer from Anorexia, a dangerous eating disorder. The difference between cibophobia and anorexia is that the sufferer of the former fears the effect of food on their body image and the sufferer of the later actually fears the food itself.

There are many reasons for this Cibophobia, some of them are food allergy like nuts, dairy products, wheat, seafood etc., but the big trigger for the fear of food is related to Weight. Someone who fear obesity or simply being a little overweight may possibly become phobic about food and could suffer from body dimorphic disorder, which is when a person is excessively concerned about their appearance because they imagine there is a deficit of some kind, like not enough muscles, too thin, too overweight etc.

It is quite hard to recognize the many signs of Cibophobia in today’s health obsessed world. Many people with Cibophobia is extremely concerned with expiration dates. The social stigma of Cibophobia can be devastating as well. Humans are extremely conscious of unusual behaviors, making it difficult to hide any increasing eating patterns. You may feel uncomfortable in social situations such as holiday gatherings, where it could be rude not to accept food. Being surrounded by the object of your phobia might cause you to cry, shake or experience a wide range of physical symptoms. Untreated Cibophobia often worsens causing increasingly obsessive behaviors. Overtime you might severely restrict your diet jeopardizing your health. You may choose to go hungry rather than eating, which might lead to weakness, dizziness and irritability.

It is very important to seek treatment from a qualified mental health professional. The most common and effective treatment is cognitive behavioral therapy, in which you will learn to change both your beliefs and your behaviors regarding food’s other forms of treatments are Hypnosis and several forms of talk therapy which can help to create positive relationship with food and help to overcome the fear of food.

WATER THERAPY

2011-02-11T18:32:00.000-08:00

Water, though has no taste, no colour, no odour, cannot be defined, art relished while ever mysterious. Not necessary to life, but rather life itself. Though fillest us with a gratification that exceeds the delight of the senses - Antoine De Saint-Exupery

The therapeutic use of water has been recorded in ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman civilizations. This practice has been cited in the ancient medicinal Ayurveda practice of India. There are records in England that societies have been formed in the 18th century to promote the dietic and medicinal use of water. In the modern world it is widely practised in Japan, India and China.

The use of water to cure diseases is generally called as water therapy or hydrotherapy. It is an undeniable fact that water is essential for life and it helps to remove toxins from our body and by consuming ordinary drinking water by the right method or as a therapy purifies the human body.

In our body mucousal folds are present in the colon and intestines, which produces new fresh blood. The water therapy helps to clean the colons and activates the mucousal folds to absorb nutrients from the food we eat in a more effective manner.

Some of the major benefits of water therapy or hydrotherapy are weight loss, relief from constipation, eliminate toxins, keeps skin glowing, help to fight wrinkles and known to get rid of stress, bad breath, hypertension, stomach acidity, digestion problems, head ache, gastritis, diarrhea, piles, diabetes type 2, menstrual disorders, fast heartbeat, migraine, arthritis, dehydration, kidney problems and urinal infections. Scientific evidences have proven its value.

The advocates of water therapy claims that application of this method will cause multiple bowel movements, until the body adjust to the increased amount of fluids.

THE THERAPY

Early in the morning as you wake up, without even brushing your teeth drink 1.5 litres of water, i.e, 5 to 6 glasses. Neither any drinks nor any solid food of any sort should be taken within one hour before and after drinking the water and it needs to be observed very strictly. 1.5 litres is generally considered to be harmless and between a litre to one and half litre is commonly ingested. It is not that very easy to drink that amount of water at a stretch so as a beginner you can take 2 min breaks between glasses at the initial stage and gradually reduce the break and can be achieved without a break. you will feel the need to urinate few times which is normal. Try to relax after the session. After couple of sessions you will notice what kind of miracle this water can do.

Please note that the ability to consume excessive water differs from person to person, so if its your habit to consume very less water in your everyday life, you should seek professional medical advice before engaging in such therapy. Even though drinking 1.5 litres is considered to be harmless, excessive consumption of water can lead to water intoxication, which might require urgent medical attention as it is dangerous and can damage the brain. If you are used to consume reasonable amount of water then its absolutely fine to enjoy the benefits of water therapy.

I am quite happy to share this information which I have gathered online, so practice it cautiously and enjoy the benefits of water therapy and please feel free to post your comments and your experience.

IMPORTANCE OF BREAKFAST

2011-02-10T12:19:00.000-08:00

From the bitterness of disease man learns the sweetness of Health, says a Catalan proverb.

Every single word is absolutely true, because we only realise the importance of living healthily once we fall ill. In today's world the eating trend,busy working style,work stress,lack of exercise and junk food has caused severe damage physically and emotionally, which has resulted in obesity.

People spend millions of dollars in health tablets, therapies and gadgets to lose weight.Here below is some useful tips which would help to loose weight and live a healthy lifestyle.In this article i am going to stress the importance of breakfast

Overall health can be achieved through a combination of physical, mental, emotional and social well-being, which together is commonly referred as health triangle.by maintaining a good balanced diet and a systematic lifestyle required results can be achieved by anyone.

Breakfast is really the most important meal of the day than any other meal whether or not you are trying to loose weight.Breakfast is the fuel that keeps your body running throughout your day.Skipping your breakfast at the beginning of your day would leave your body with no energy after a long nights sleep.The more you wait to have your breakfast, the more your blood sugar level is going to go down and you may feel nauseous or light headed and may as well develop stomach ulcers.

Your body regularly needs a constant supply of glucose and other nutrients to keep your brain and nervous system in a full functional order. So skipping your breakfast deprives you of the nutrients you need to keep your day to day abilities.Not skipping your breakfast helps you not to binge eat, because you will naturally feel very hungry at your lunch time if you skip your breakfast.

Another important thing is it helps to loose weight. People misunderstand that they would loose weight if they skip their breakfast , but your body does not work that way, if you skip your main meal and take long time for your meal your body goes into starvation mode .so your metabolism switches in to a mode it will start to conserve calories.Apparently by skipping your breakfast instead of losing weight you will gain weight.

So never skip your breakfast, plan ahead and have something for your breakfast and enjoy your whole day.

The whole idea of this article is to inspire others to live a healthy and a happy life.