Health & Fitness Information

Top 10 Most Effective Diets

2012-06-28T10:39:00.002-07:00

Do not waste time just maintain your health. Because the time never comes again. The time you have is a best for you and your health. People in this fast life do not give too much time for their health. Once any problem in the body occurs due to non care of health. It can be harm for you through out your life. You have hear about the sentence “Health is Wealth” that is reality of our life. If we have not good health then we can not enjoy our life fully. For long and healthy life, you should have to take a good care of your health. In old era the life of human was so long. The diet and take care of health was the main reason of it. Improperly diet taking can cause obesity, high blood pressure and number of complications in your body. Some times death can also bi occur. We are here providing the Top 10 Most Effective Diets list. By trying this you can improve your health.

10. Food combining

In proper digestion the food combination has a important role. This can cause faster digestion. Digestion is important factor in distribution of the food through out the body. The large particles are digested in the body and converted into smaller ones and into energy which is distributed through out the body instead of formation of conversion of it into fats.So take your food which is rich in carbohydrates ,separate from protein rich foods.

9. zone Diet

The aim of zone diet is the reduction of cellular inflammation that makes us gain weight. Zone diet focus on consuming calories from carbohydrates, protein and fat in a balanced diet. This also provides the eating tips, facts and advice on weight loss.

8. Dietary Approaches to stop hypertension

This diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low fatty dairy foods. The arm of this is to cut of foods that consists of high level of fats. These fats store in the body and can cause the blockage in regular flow of blood in the body. This plan advice the highly intake of fruits , potassium, vegetables, low fat dairy products and poorly intake of meat. It also included the lower intake of sugary foods. The high sugar in the body is harmful. By using the method you can improve your health.

7. Meal Replacement

The people who wants to reduce their weight the meal replacement is the best diet plan. It can help you to loss your weight so quickly. Take the replacement diet which has the similar healthier effect but low in calories. You can serve shakes of fruits and medically prescribed meal replacement drinks. This contains the required vitamins and minerals. The intake of evening food is excluded by the people but it is highly recommended you that you should take lesser amount of food in evening.

6. Detox Diet

This dietary plan is consists of such type of food which cause the detoxification in the body. In these days we are not taking a pure and healthy food. The food taken by us are full of unhealthy additives and other alcoholic drinks, and other preservatives that collectively having not good effect on the body. By using detox diet you can clean your internal system to flushing out all of toxins. It is a safe technique. Detox Diet include intake of sufficient amount of juices, herbal teas, vegetables and huge amount of water. You can gain a sudden weight loss with in a days.

5. Always drink water before meal

Water takes important part in our health. If you want a better digestion and healthy stomach then always drink water before you take your meal. It will be more effective and will enhance your digestion. It is hardly recommended you that do not drink water after meal. By using this plan you will see your stomach and digestion better.

4. Low Fat Diet

It is a type of diet that contains little fat, especially saturated fat and cholesterol. These can cause heart attack. In recent year the exact health benefits of a low fat diet have been debated. You will have to decrease the intake of food which has high level of fats, such as butter, oil. junk foods, chips, chocolates, sweets, red meats and cheeses. Intake of high level of salt is also harmful for your health. This diet plan result will be show in a few days.

3. The Anabolic Diet

The Anabolic Diet is a low carbohydrates diet that alternates with periods of high carbohydrates eating. It is recommended the restriction of carbohydrates consumption during weekdays and eating high amount of carbohydrates on weekends. In this plan you will consume a high fat, high protein and low-carbohydrates diet during the week. On Saturdays and Sundays eat a high carbohydrates ,low protein diet an moderate carbohydrates. If you want a healthy body then use this technique.

2. Drink Large Amount Of Water In The Morning

The advice providing to you for your better skin and health is drinking large amount of water early in the morning. When you wake up in the morning . Do not do any thing just get large amount of water and drink it. Drink water as much as possible . Make it your habit daily and you will see a good results from this practice. It is a good detoxification technique.

1. Must Eat Breakfast

If you want to live a strong and healthy even in your old age, you should eat your breakfast daily. Do not skip your breakfast in any condition. The breakfast is a important meal in a day. The energy is required for whole day. If you will skip your breakfast your stomach will be disturbed. People who are regular in eating their breakfast are more healthier in the old age than the people who skip this diet in early span of their life.

Your Guide to Baby Colds

2012-06-28T10:13:00.000-07:00

The average cold can last up to 10 days -- that's a long time of not feeling well for a baby! Here's how to survive and make the little one feel better, too.

Keep Them Hydrated

No matter your baby's age, it's essential to keep him well-hydrated when battling a cold. "A baby will usually want to nurse or take a bottle more frequently when sick because he needs that comfort," says Dr. William Sears, Associate Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine. For babies less than 4 months old, stick to just breast milk or formula. At 4 months, your baby can also have a little water, and at 6 months, he can start drinking watered-down juices.

Treat a Fever

Acetaminophen may be used to treat a fever if your baby is 4 months old or older, says Rhya Strifling, M.D., a mom and pediatrician at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. Just be sure to consult your pharmacist or pediatrician about the correct dosage and make sure you are using the dosing for infant drops and not child drops. And if your baby is 3 months old or younger and has a fever, you should contact your pediatrician immediately.

Use a "Nose Hose"

Even adults have a hard time sleeping with a stuffy nose -- now imagine you're a baby who can't even blow your nose for relief! Dr. Sears recommends using a nasal aspirator and saline nasal spray before your baby eats and goes to sleep to clear the nose and to loosen the drainage in the back of the throat. "Babies under 1 typically don't breathe through their mouths very well, so when the nose is clogged, it is truly uncomfortable for them," Dr. Sears.

Run a Humidifier

A cool mist humidifier in your baby's room during nap time and at night can help with the cough by moistening the dry winter air, says Dr. Strifling. Adding a one or two drops of menthol, eucalyptus, or pine oil to a vaporizer might also help your baby feel less congested (you can get these oils at any health-food store). Also, be sure not to have the heat turned up too high, which can worsen Baby's congestion. Instead, keep your home at a comfortable 72-74 degrees in the winter months.

Create a Steam Room

You can help ease your child's congestion by running the hot water in the shower and sitting in the bathroom for about 15 minutes while the steam fills the room, says Dr. Sears. The heat from the steam loosens up the mucus in Baby's nose and chest and relieves the stuffiness.

Skip OTC Treatments

Most over-the-counter cough and cold medicines (aside from acetaminophen and ibuprofen) are not recommended for children under the age of 6 according to the AAP. "Usually antibiotics are not needed, unless the congestion develops into an ear infection or pneumonia," says Dr. Strifling. "If your baby has fever for more than three or four days, or you feel like his symptoms are getting worse rather than better, than it might be time to visit your pediatrician."Elevate the Head
Sleeping at a slight incline might help relieve your baby's postnasal drip. You can do this by placing a couple of towels between the head of the mattress. Never use pillows to prop up your baby since they're suffocation hazards, and don't prop up the whole crib or bassinet since it can tip over. If elevating the mattress makes you nervous, you can always let the baby sleep in his car seat in a semi-upright position

Elevate the Head

Sleeping at a slight incline might help relieve your baby's postnasal drip. You can do this by placing a couple of towels between the head of the mattress. Never use pillows to prop up your baby since they're suffocation hazards, and don't prop up the whole crib or bassinet since it can tip over. If elevating the mattress makes you nervous, you can always let the baby sleep in his car seat in a semi-upright position.

Wash Your Hands

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 80 percent of all infectious diseases are transmitted through the hands. "It's crucial that anyone handling the baby keeps their hands clean," Dr. Sears says. "And also remember to clean children's hands with baby wipes -- especially once they start putting everything in their mouths." Also be sure your baby's hands are completely dry to ensure the alcohol from the wipe is not ingested.

Recognizing the Symptoms

If your baby had a clear, runny discharge from his nose that becomes thick and discolored, accompanied by a fever, and if he's doing a lot of crying and pulling and/or hitting his ears, contact your doctor, says Dr. Bud Zukow, co-author of Baby: An Owner's Manual. "You may be looking at your baby's first middle-ear infection," he says. "Always take into consideration how the whole child looks in addition to identifying his symptoms."

10 Foods for Fabulous Abs

2012-06-28T10:12:00.003-07:00

1. Yogurt is magic for the tum. Nutritionist Rania Batayneh recommends yogurt, “The probiotic bacteria in most yogurts help keep your digestive system healthy, which translates into a lower incidence of gas, bloating, and constipation, which can keep your tummy looking flat." Ideally go for the plain-flavoured yogurts, that don’t contain added sugars.

2. Switch to whole grain. The body shows a decreased insulin response to whole grain as compared to refined carbohydrate like rice and white bread. So replace those meals of white rice and milk bread with whole grains like lentils, brown rice, and whole wheat bread for a trimmer waistline.

3. Stock up on cruciferous veggies like broccoli, brussels sprouts, asparagus, peppers, and yellow beans. They contain folate, beta-carotene, calcium, magnesium, and fiber, and are rich in vitamins A, C, and K.

4. Olive Oil: Mono-unsaturated fats like those found in olive oil, work to reduce belly fat and don’t increase calorie intake.

5. Apple cider vinegar: New research indicates that 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar (ideally mixed with a glass of water), consumed daily over a period of 12 weeks, works to lower body weight and reduce belly fat. This is attributed to vinegar's acetic acid, which is believed to pump out proteins that break down fat.

6. Green tea contains certain chemicals called polyphenols and catechins that boost metabolism and help burn fat. Including 2-3 cups of green tea in your diet will help reduce that waistline, as well as provide a host of other health benefits.

7. Apples are one of the most popular negative calorie foods. This means that an apple burns more calories that it adds to the body, while being digested, making for a great, tasty snack that does nothing to add to body fat.

8. Eggs are a great source of protein and contain essential amino acids that the body needs to build everything from muscle fibres to brain chemicals. It is the perfect breakfast food, and ensures you feel less hungry during the day and reduces that urge to snack.

9. Almonds provide the body with minerals like magnesium, and regulate blood sugar levels. A stable blood sugar level is key to prevent cravings that can lead to overeating.

10. Salmon, tuna and mackerel, in addition to being a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, also improve metabolism and help burn fat faster by improving the body’s glucose-insulin response.

The Best Natural Remedies for Kids

2012-06-14T02:39:00.004-07:00

We've uncovered the natural remedies for kids that really work -- and the ones you should never try.

For lots of moms and dads today, non-pharmaceutical approaches to illness are more appealing than ever. In a 2009 survey of 6,000 parents conducted by Opinion Research Corporation, 40 percent of them said that they were interested in natural remedies for their kids, compared with 23 percent in a similar 2008 survey. "Parents want treatments that are gentle and natural, yet still effective," says pediatrician Hilary McClafferty, M.D., adjunct clinical assistant professor of medicine at the University of North Carolina, in Chapel Hill.
Of course, you should always call your pediatrician if your child has a health problem that may require traditional medical care. But which are the best science-backed and expert-recommended natural remedies? We've done the research for you.

The Problem: Colic
The Natural Solution: Chamomile

How It Works "Chamomile relaxes intestinal spasms and promotes a calm mental state," says Kathi Kemper, M.D., author of The Holistic Pediatrician. In fact, some research suggests that the active chemicals in chamomile have the same effect on the brain as a mild sedative, but without the side effects. Steep tea for five minutes, cool it to room temperature, and then put 1 to 2 ounces in a bottle.
The Proof The plant is a centuries-old folk remedy for colic, and recent research backs up its effectiveness. In one Italian study of breastfed colicky babies, crying time was reduced in 85 percent of babies given a chamomile herbal tea.
Keep in Mind Very rarely, a baby 6 months or older may be sensitive to ragweed (a plant similar to chamomile) and might develop a rash after drinking chamomile tea. If you notice a rash, stop giving your baby the chamomile tea.

The Problem: High Blood Sugar
The Natural Solution: Cinnamon

How It Works Cinnamon may have an active compound that works directly on cells to allow sugar to get inside and therefore lower blood sugar, says Shane Ellison, an organic chemist and author of Over-the-Counter Natural Cures. But because research in this area is fairly new, scientists are still studying exactly how cinnamon works to lower blood sugar.
The Proof Research on adults shows that cinnamon can help reduce blood sugar when added to foods or drinks. In one study of people with type 2 diabetes, blood-sugar levels were significantly reduced when they consumed about half a teaspoon to 2-1/2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon per day.
Keep in Mind Extra cinnamon in your child's diet should complement -- not replace -- lifestyle changes. One idea: Add it and reduce the sugar in recipes, and sprinkle it on cereal.

The Problem: Reflux
The Natural Solution: Chewing Gum

How It Works "Chewing gum stimulates the flow of saliva, which neutralizes stomach acid and makes kids swallow more often," says Leo Heitlinger, M.D., chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition. This can help move food down the digestive tract, reducing the risk of reflux. While the condition is much more common in babies, it's estimated that many kids suffer from occasional heartburn. (Kids who are overweight have a higher risk of developing reflux than other children do.)
The Proof A British study found that chewing sugarless gum after a meal can reduce acid in the esophagus and reduce reflux. Gum is safe for children ages 4 and older.
Keep in Mind Chewing sugarless gum is good for the teeth; increased saliva flow helps wash away food particles and reduce plaque-producing acids.

The Problem: Sunburn
The Natural Solution: Aloe Vera

How It Works The compounds in aloe vera speed healing by bringing fresh, oxygenated blood to the tiny blood vessels that feed the skin, explains Duffy MacKay, a licensed naturopath and vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs for the Council for Responsible Nutrition, in Washington, D.C. This helps your child's body repair the sunburned skin more quickly. Aloe vera also acts as a moisturizer, and skin wounds of all kinds (including burns) need moisture to heal.
The Proof In a study published in Burns, aloe vera reduced healing time for first- and second-degree burns by almost nine days.
Keep in Mind The highest concentration is found in aloe-vera gel, sold in most drugstores. (Moisturizers with aloe vera contain much less.) You can also keep a plant in your home and break off a leaf, split it lengthwise, and squeeze out the gel.

The Problem: Upset Stomach
The Natural Solution: Ginger

How It Works "Ginger has an antispasmodic property that helps settle down the muscle contractions in the tummy that produce nausea," explains Dr. McClafferty. "It's a very good remedy for many sources of nausea and upset stomach."
The Proof In one study of adults with a history of motion sickness, those who took a 1,000mg capsule of ginger before experiencing conditions that mimic those of a moving car suffered significantly less nausea than normal. Although this was a study of adults, the results may likely also apply to kids, says Dr. McClafferty.
Keep in Mind Ginger ale only has a little bit of real ginger, so have your child sip ginger tea about 30 minutes before getting into the car: Add a teaspoon of shredded fresh ginger to 4 ounces of boiling water and let it steep for five minutes. Serve it to your child warm or iced, and sweeten it with honey.

The Problem: Nasal Allergies
The Natural Solution: Apples

How It Works Quercetin, a flavonoid found in apples, inhibits the body's release of histamines, allergic compounds that trigger increased mucus production, sneezing, and watery eyes. "Adding foods that contain quercetin to your child's diet may mean slightly less severe symptoms or symptoms that don't last as long," says Michael J. Welch, M.D., clinical professor at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine.
The Proof In a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, quercetin (in supplement form) was more effective than a prescription antihistamine.
Keep in Mind Although quercetin is available as a supplement, most doctors recommend that kids stick with foods that have it (such as blueberries, raspberries, and onions), because they are loaded with many antioxidants and nutrients not found in supplements.

The Problem: Coughs
The Natural Solution: Honey

How It Works "Honey soothes irritated membranes by coating the throat, making swallowing less painful," says Dr. Kemper, director of the Center for Integrative Medicine at Wake Forest University Medical Center, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Honey also contains illness-fighting antioxidants and antimicrobials.
The Proof In a Penn State University study of more than 100 children ages 2 and older, a spoonful of honey given 30 minutes before bedtime calmed coughs better than over-the-counter cough syrup or no treatment at all. Parents also rated honey higher than cough syrups for lessening cough frequency and severity, as well as helping their little ones fall asleep.
Keep in Mind Honey shouldn't be given to babies younger than 1 because their immature immune system can't battle the bacteria found in some kinds.

The Problem: Diarrhea
The Natural Solution: Probiotics

How It Works Probiotics are healthy bacteria in yogurt, buttermilk, some soy foods and beverages, and supplements. They help stop antibiotic-associated diarrhea by replacing good bacteria that are killed by the drugs. "For infectious diarrhea, it's believed that the good bacteria in probiotics may crowd out the bad bacteria that live in the digestive system or kill off the bad bugs that cause an infection," says MacKay.
The Proof In a review of studies published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, probiotics were found to be beneficial for antibiotic-associated diarrhea as well as infectious diarrhea in kids.
Keep in Mind The probiotic species Lactobacillus reuteri, or L. reuteri, seems to be the most effective bacteria for diarrhea. "It's also one of the best researched of all the probiotics," says Dr. McClafferty. Look for it on yogurt labels.

The Worst Natural Remedies for Kids

BITTER MELON for preventing or treating type 2 diabetes: This plant may be toxic in children.
VALERIAN for sleep and anxiety problems: The herbal sedative is too strong for most children.
LICORICE for coughs and sore throats: Too much of this herb can cause heart irregularities

PEPPERMINT for nausea: If a child has reflux, peppermint oil in capsule or liquid form could make it worse

SENNA for constipation: This herb can cause diarrhea, dehydration, and heart problems in children.
KAVA for hyperactivity and sleep problems: It can cause liver failure.

Originally published in the January 2011 issue of Parents magazine.
All content on this Web site, including medical opinion and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others.

RiRi 'not happy' to be a size zero

2012-06-14T02:20:00.003-07:00

While many stars get on a crash diet to be size zero, here's one star who is not happy about it.

Rihanna has revealed that she is not happy about being a size zero and the effect her jam-packed schedule is having on her body.

Recently, the 24-year-old pop diva made the leap from the recording studio to the big screen with her star turn in 'Battleship'.

"I want to do two more [movies] before touring again next year," The Us magazine quoted the singer as saying. "My schedule is crazy!" she said.

In fact so jam packed is her schedule, that the Barbados-born Rihanna was hospitalized for tiredness following her appearance at the Met Ball last month, where she looked stunning in a black, reptile-inspired Tom Ford gown.

"I got no sleep [beforehand]," Rihanna said. "It's harsh on your body!" Her hospitalization - and her shrinking body - have some fans fretting that she's dealing with something more serious, though Rihanna assured that her nonstop schedule is the only thing to blame.

"I'm a size 0 -- and not happy about it!" she said. "I went way too far. I prefer myself a bit chunkier. I want my old butt back!" she added. The "Where Have You Been" singer is at work on her seventh CD. (ANI)

Take Tea to Avoid Heart Problems, Diabetes

2012-06-13T02:40:00.001-07:00

Take Tea to Avoid Heart Problems, Diabetes

London: While many of us may remain undecided about how much is too much for us to take tea in a day, researchers have claimed drinking three cups of tea a day could help us keep the heart attacks and type 2 diabetes at bay.

A review shows regular drinking of tea, with or without milk, can reduce the risk of heart problems by cutting levels of bad cholesterol and blood sugar, Daily Mail reported.

As per experts, the benefits of tea are largely due to the flavonoid content - antioxidant ingredients that counteract cardiovascular disease.

One cup of tea provides 150-200mg of flavonoids and it is the best source of antioxidants in the diet.

Drinking three or more cups of black tea a day protects against heart disease and two or more cups a day may protect against type 2 diabetes, a review in the journal Nutrition Bulletin found.

Nutritionist Carrie Ruxton, co-author of the latest review and a member of the industry-backed Tea Advisory Panel (TAP), said: "There is far more to the nation's favourite drink than we realise.

"With its antioxidant flavonoids, black tea packs a powerful punch with many health benefits particularly for the heart. And recent studies show that the flavonoids work their magic whether or not we choose to add milk."

In addition, a 12-week study of 87 volunteers showed how drinking three cups of tea a day produced a significant improvement in various cardiovascular risk factors.

Flavonoids found in tea are thought to control inflammation, reduce excess blood clotting, promote blood vessel function and limit furring up of the arteries.

Cut sugar, cut calories: All about the Sugar Busters Diet

2012-06-13T02:40:00.000-07:00

Fight the battle of the bulge by cracking down on your sugar intake -- here's how.

We all love adding sweetness to our lives. When we are happy, we want to treat ourselves to sweets. When we are sad, they help boost our mood. When we show thanks, we treat others to sweets. Whenever guests visit, we don't leave them before they do the traditional mooh meetha. When we ace an exam, we celebrate with sweets; when we fail, others bring us sweets to cheer us up.

So, is there anything to worry about with so much sweetness in our lives?

Yes, there is. Too much sweetness can bring bitterness in the form of diabetes. This explains why we see the emergence of various concepts which claim to battle your sugar cravings.

And this explains why we get to come across popular concepts like the Sugar Busters Diet, designed by Samuel S Andrews MD (endocrinologist), Morrison C Bethea MD (cardiac surgeon), Luis A Balart, MD (gastroenterologist) and H Leighton Steward (a corporate CEO).

In the following pages, we bring you a complete breakdown of the Sugar Busters Diet.

It tells you how, what and when to eat and exercise.
It encourages you to avoid refined sugar and processed grain products.
It encourages you to make a commitment to choosing the right carbohydrates -- low insulin-producing carbohydrates. Insulin causes you to convert and store excess sugar as fat and also to store the excess fat as fat.
It involves eating high-fibre vegetables, fruit and whole grains. The fibre in both these food products has a beneficial effect on your digestive process and overall health. Meats are an important source of protein, but should be lean and trimmed.
It encourages the intake of low-fat products when it comes to milk and cheese, while strongly advocating careful attention to saturated fats. Too many saturated fats and trans fats and oils used in fast food preparation are very harmful, not only to your waistline, but also to your heart and blood vessels.
Hydration is important and everyone is encouraged to drink six to eight glasses of water daily.
It is important to eat three regular meals daily and appropriate snacks are allowed. But moderation in portion size is most important. If you are not careful enough, you may end up eating too many health foods too.
Late-night snacking is not allowed. Eating at night before going to bed only raises your insulin levels and encourages cholesterol production, since most of the cholesterol is manufactured while you are sleeping.
Exercise is an important part of any successful nutritional lifestyle. You should strive to exercise at least twenty minutes daily four days a week, so as to raise your resting heart rate.
It encourages the voice of moderation.
If you choose alcohol, you should drink red wine.
Fruits are preferred over fruit juice and best eaten a half hour before the meal.

All refined sugar products and sugar itself
Potatoes
Corn
White rice
Bread made from refined flour
Beets
Carrots
Refined sugar
Corn syrup
Molasses
Honey
Sugared colas
Beer
Baked beans
Ripe bananas
Raisins
Bacon
Fried chicken

Image: You have to avoid all refined sugar products and sugar itself

Lean meats, fish, poultry, dairy products, whole grains and cereals.
Vegetables like beans, lentils, peas, spinach, lettuce, squash, zucchini, mushrooms, asparagus, artichokes, cabbage, celery, cucumbers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, eggplant and onions.
Fruits like apples, lemons and limes, pears, cherries, raspberries, kiwis, grapefruit, apricots, melons other than watermelon, tomatoes, tangerines and oranges.

In the short term, the Sugar Busters plan is likely to result in weightloss because it eliminates many foods, including baked goods and other sweets. And your food choices will be better, such as substituting whole grains for white bread, for instance.
You may become irritable and tired due to the restriction of carbs. You may also feel low on energy. This may not be the case with everyone, but it may trigger lethargy.
Sugar Busters stresses eating healthy foods, such as whole grains, legumes and beans and lean meats. And cutting out refined sugars in processed foods is a plus point.
Counting calories or measuring food is not a part of the Sugar Buster Diet, but it may become confusing for a layman without any portion sizes mentioned.
The authors themselves caution that the diet is not for exercise fanatics.
High-protein diets increase calcium excretion and possible side-effects include kidney and liver damage, fatigue, weakness and irritability.
It's good to stay sweet while imparting sweetness to other people's lives, but it's not sweet to go overboard with it. In fact, we don't know what brings sweetness to every individual -- what may work fine for one may not go down well with others. The Sugar Busters Diet may truly restrict unnecessary or extra fat, sugar or refined carb intake for some, while many others may just fail and surrender to the call of their taste buds.

Ancient Indian medicine Ayurveda trending in Dubai

2012-06-11T19:28:00.001-07:00

Dubai, June 8 (ANI): Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old Indian health system that is believed to cure all internal and external ailments by a combination of its eight branches, has been approved by the Dubai Ministry of Health and the Dubai Health Authority.
Those who use it believe it to be a complete system of medicine, whether the area for treatment is internal and external.

Ayurveda treatment

"The basic principle of Ayurveda is that there are three energies in our body, Vata, Pitta and Kapha, which are controlling all of our functions," Gulf News quoted Dr Asha Jones, an Ayurvedic Practitioner at the Dubai Herbal Treatment Centre (DHTC), as saying.
Vata is responsible for all movement in the body and is the most important of the three doshas. Pitta is responsible for all metabolisms in the body. Kapha provides the structures and the lubrication that the body needs.
"If they are balanced, our body will be perfectly healthy.
"When we see a patient, we see what energies have gone up or down with the main purpose of balancing these energies.
"The main aim of treatment is to remove toxins from the body and healing from ourselves.
"It is very popular in India and now it is accepted worldwide. Ayurveda has no side effects if you are diagnosed properly," she said.
More and more patients are beginning to realise the benefits of traditional healing.People are becoming aware of the side effects of medicines they take.
"Ayurveda has no side effects. I think that is the main reason people are getting attracted to Ayurveda," Jones said.
Durga M., a 47-year-old marketing researcher and professor, suffered from severe sciatica for two years. She was limping from pain and could barely walk.. for months, she had used pain pills in an effort to find relief. Then she discovered Ayurveda.
"I wanted something that would help me now and in the future as well," Durga said.
"I was told that pain pills would mess up my sciatica even worse," she said.
She took Ayurvedic medicines and 14 therapy sessions. She will return to DHTC next winter to continue treatment and permanently expel sciatica from her life.
"I did believe in Ayurveda, but the problem was it was expensive-but my friend dragged me there and I could tell immediate results. I was living with knee pains for a couple years. I didn't go for knee pains but this treatment helped in curing my knee pains as well," Durga added. (ANI)

10 Surprising Health Facts

Sugar is as bad for you as cigarettes: Although sugar does not have the same stigma attached to it as smoking, the truth is indulging on sweet treats or dessert could be as bad for you as lighting up a cigarette. According to research by a University of California team, sugar is as damaging as both alcohol and cigarettes and, according to the researchers, should therefore be regulated to control consumption.

An hour’s sleep could make you happier than $60,000: What would it take to make you happier? A better job? A larger salary? Well, according to a US study by psychologist Daniel Kahneman and his colleagues, an increase in household income actually has little effect on your daily mood. In fact, the study suggests that getting one extra hour of sleep each night does more for your daily happiness than a $60,000 (£38,000) raise!

Cash machines are as dirty as public toilets: Few of us would wash our hands after getting money out from an ATM machine; however, cleanliness tests in Britain have revealed that cash machines are just as dirty as public toilets. Experts assessed swabs from the key pads on cash machines and also from nearby public toilets and found that they both contained the same types of bacteria known to cause sickness.

Chewing gum boosts your brain power: Don’t have time for your morning coffee? Try a piece of chewing gum instead to feel more alert. Researchers at Coventry University have discovered that chewing mint-flavored gum could dramatically decrease feelings of tiredness. Meanwhile, separate research studies have suggested that chewing gum can improve test scores and improve memory by 35%

Exercise won’t make you thin: Although many people use exercise as their sole method of weight management, many studies have shown that exercise, when not combined with dietary changes, does very little in respect to losing weight. A study published in The British Journal of Sports Medicine found that when a group of obese people completed 12 weeks of supervised cardio workouts without dieting, most did not experience any significant weight loss results. However, it is important to remember that, while it may not lead to weight loss by itself, exercise still has plenty of other health benefits.

Coffee can help ward off depression: We often hear about how caffeine is bad for us; however, a study from the Harvard School of Public Health has found that, for women, drinking four or more cups of caffeinated coffee a day could reduce risk of depression by 20 per cent. An earlier study of over 80,000 women also revealed that women who drink more than two cups of coffee a day are less likely to commit suicide.

Women are nine times more likely to suffer from a broken heart: Many people have felt at times like they were going to die from a broken heart, and research studies have now confirmed the existence of broken heart syndrome, a condition in which the release of adrenaline caused by shock (often due to overwhelming fear or pain) can lead to heart failure. Surprisingly research has also concluded that women are up to nine times more likely to suffer from this condition.

Less than one per cent of bacteria cause disease: In day to day to day life, we are surrounded by bacteria – in fact, healthy human skin is covered in around 1000 different species of bacteria. However, contrary to popular belief, most bacteria are not harmful and, in fact, less than one per cent cause disease. Furthermore, many forms of bacteria are actually good for you, including many of those that live on your skin and in your gut.

Being optimistic can save your life: We all know that thinking positively can have a great impact on your happiness, however research has also revealed that being an optimist can help you live longer. Research findings published in the European Heart Journal reveal that optimistic people are less likely to suffer from heart disease, while researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that heart patients who were more optimistic about their treatment lived longer than those who were not

Stretching before running may lower your endurance: Many of us have been taught to warm up before exercise, however recent studies suggest that stretching before a run may not be beneficial to your workout. A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that stretching before going for a run made a runner’s body less efficient so that they did not perform as well and were unable to run as far.

Natural Wonders - Tulsi

2012-06-11T19:28:00.000-07:00

Commonly found in many Indian households, the tulsi plant is rich in medicinal and healing qualities.

Natural Wonders - Tulsi

Tulsi and its rich nutrients

Tulsi, a scented plant also known as holy basil is a staple in many Indian homes. It grows easily in the earth or in a pot and many Hindus consider it to be a holy plant. The leaves, the seeds and the stems of tulsi are all consumed in different forms like dried powder, juice and extracted oil.
The many health benefits of Tulsi

Tulsi is a good source of biologically active compounds like Ursolic acid, Oleanolic acid, Rosmarinic acid, Eugenol, Carvacrol, Linalool, luteolin, β-caryophyllene and apigenin that possess medicinal properties. What does that mean in layman’s terms? Well, read on!

Cures respiratory disease: Tulsi is predominantly used to cure the common cold, cough, bronchitis and asthma. Tulsi chewed with 4-5 roasted cloves is an excellent cough remedy.
Tulsi leaves, poppy seeds and jethi madh (licorice) ground in equal quantity when taken with an equal quantity of sugar in warm water cures dry cough and sore throat.

A hot mixture of tulsi, dry ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, bay leaf, fern and black pepper prepared in water can help cure a chronic cold.

Oil prepared with tulsi and other herbs like black pepper, sindhav, dry ginger, peepar, drumstick seeds and bitter gourd can be put in the nostrils to ease breathing ailments.

Cures skin diseases: Tulsi extracts contains anti bacterial, anti biotic and anti fungal properties. Tulsi is widely used in curing skin ailments because the strong scented oil present in tulsi can restrict the growth of bacterium like E coli and B anthracis, which are responsible for skin infections.

A juice prepared by grinding 200-250 grams of tulsi leaves and boiled with an equal quantity of sesame seed oil creates an oil that can be applied on the skin to cure many skin diseases, including itching.

A mixture prepared by grinding Tulsi leaves and lemon tree leaves with curd, can help to cure ringworm.

Cures cuts and wounds: Tulsi is used in the treatment of ulcers, cuts and wounds because of its beneficial antiseptic healing power.

A paste formed by the rubbing tulsi stem on stone when applied on cuts and wounds gives great relief.
A mixture formed of equal quantities of tulsi juice and coconut oil when applied to burns, gives relief from pain.
Tulsi is used to treat pain caused by measles, chicken pox and small pox. It is even used to treat leprosy.
Cures digestive system: Tulsi can help people suffering from vomiting, lack of appetite and those with a poor digestive system.

A good way to stop vomiting is to chew tulsi leaves with cardamom. 20 grams of tulsi juice taken with crystal sugar, a pinch of powdered cardamom and pinch of powdered cloves is helpful in curbing vomiting
.
1 teaspoon of tulsi juice mixed with 1 teaspoon of ginger juice, 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice and 1/2 teaspoon of honey can be taken before meals to boost appetite.

25 grams of tulsi leaves juice mixed with drumstick leaves and sindhav salt can help cure constipation.
Cures fever: The phytonutrients (nutrients from plants that are essential for sustaining life) and healing oil present in the extract of tulsi are beneficial in curing ordinary to malarial fevers. Tulsi is a good germicidal and disinfectant, which protects the human body from all types of viral and bacterial infections.

Tulsi leaves boiled with powdered cardamom in 1/2 litre of water mixed with sugar and milk, taken at an interval of 3 hours helps to reduce severe fever and bring down temperatures.

Good to reduce stress: The anti-oxidants present in tulsi help in balancing different processes in the body. Drinking tulsi extract or chewing 10-12 tulsi leaves daily smoothens the nervous system and helps to relieve stress caused by routine incidents of our life.

Good to reduce heart ailments: Tulsi helps to remove the toxins present in blood and purifies it. Tulsi leaf tea can help in controlling blood pressure. The eugenol – anti oxidant present in tulsi can help in reducing blood cholesterol levels and blood glucose levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart attacks.

Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Tan

2012-06-10T20:20:00.001-07:00

So your beach weekend seems to have left its mark on you, quite literally that is. Don’t be worried about walking into office on Monday with that tan as we help you get rid of it and get back to your work mode. Follow these few natural remedies to get rid of tan easily.

Exfoliate

When you exfoliate, you remove your skin's dead cells. This way you can easily get the tan removed. When exfoliating your face, use a scrub that has soft granules so that your face does not get rashes. Also ensure that you use the scrub gently and not over-rub it. While exfoliating your body, you can use normal body scrubs that contain natural salts. But just because you have a bad tan don’t try to scrub it all away in one go as it can damage your skin.

Lime juice

Lime juice is the most tried and tested ingredient for tan removal. Slice a lime and rub it on the area that has tanned. Rub it for two minutes and leave it on for 10 minutes. Take a shower the way you would normally do. The citric acid in the lime juice breaks the dead cells down, thus removing the tan as well. Though this will help you feel fresh you should be careful when applying it. If your skin starts itching a lot, wash it off. There is a possibility that your skin might be sensitive and hence, unable to bear the effects of the acid in it.

Curd and Turmeric

Like lemon, curd is also acidic in nature, and that helps remove the tan. Mix in a bowl, some chilled yogurt and add a pinch of turmeric. Apply it on your face and neck and other tanned areas. Leave it to dry for about 30 minutes and wash it off with cold water. Turmeric will also help you get a glow that will camouflage your tan easily.

Potato

Potato is not just a treat for your taste buds but can also work wonders on your skin. Apply the potato juice on the tanned skin to make it lighter. You can even mix a tablespoon of lemon juice to the potato juice for a better effect. Apply this concoction with cotton and leave it on for 15 minutes. Do it daily for a few days to get back your natural shade.

Sugar and glycerine

In a bowl, mix 1/2 a cup sugar, few drops of glycerine and 1/4 cup of lemon juice. Use this scrub on the tanned area. Gently scrub your face with the tip of your finger. Sugar will scrub your skin well and glycerine will make it soft while the lime will lighten the tan.
Apart from this, you can also use sandalwood paste, honey and papaya skin or an over ripe banana to get the tan removed. But from next time on, take proper precautions before you step out in the sun. Wear sunglasses and sunscreen all the time to protect yourself from direct sunlight. Keeping yourself hydrated is also very important to keep your skin healthy and minimising the effect of the harsh sun rays.

8 Super Nutrients for Weight Loss

2012-06-10T19:03:00.000-07:00

You already know that nutrients like fiber, protein, and monounsaturated fats are necessary to sustain long-term health. Now, our Diet Doctor, Mike Roussell, phD, outlines the best ways to add 8 of these super nutrients to your diet so that you can optimize your weight-loss progress.

1. Monounsaturated fats: Replacing carbohydrates in your diet with monounsaturated fats will help you slim down by shuttling fat away from your midsection (See my Ask the Diet Doctor column on this topic for a more in-depth explanation).

Where to get it: Avocados, Macadamia nuts, and olive oil are great sources of monounsaturated fats. They also come packaged with great nutrients such as antioxidants (in olive oil), fiber (in avocado), and B-vitamins (in macadamia nuts).

2. EGCG: EGCG or Epigallocatechin gallate is an antioxidant found in green tea (and put in most weight-loss supplements available today). EGCG can increase thermogenesis or heat production through extra calorie burning and the use of stored fat as energy. Some research also shows that EGCG can stop the growth of new fat cells.

Where to get it: The greatest weight loss effects of EGCG are seen when combined with caffeine, as it naturally occurs in green tea.

3. Raspberry ketones: Raspberry ketones are an antioxidant found in raspberries that preliminary research shows have some interesting fat loss effects. Raspberry ketones can increase the production of the muscle-energizing, fat-burning hormone adiponectin as well as directly increasing the burning of stored fat.

Where to get it: You can't come close to getting enough raspberry ketones via eating raspberries so to reap these benefits you'll need to take a concentrated raspberry ketone supplement (they are inexpensive and available at more health food stores). Keep an eye out for more about raspberry ketones and weight loss as new research gets published.

4. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA): Docosahexaenoic acid or DHA is one of the two omega-3 fats found in oily fish like salmon. DHA can stop growth of young fat cells and actually causes them to die, says research published in the Journal of Nutrition.

Where to get it: To get more DHA in your diet, you can eat more oily fish or just take a fish oil supplement. If you are a vegetarian, pick up an algae-based DHA supplement to reap the same benefits.

5. Acetic acid: Vinegar, a dilute form of acetic acid, has potent glucose-lowering effects. One study in Italy found that when participants added just more than1 tablespoon of vinegar to their meal (as salad dressing) they experienced a 30 percent decrease in their post-meal blood sugar levels. Controlling blood sugar remains an essential component to weight loss and maintaining a lean body.

Where to get it: Adding vinegar to salads should be standard protocol, but if you can manage to find chocolate balsamic vinegar, it makes an excellent addition to a protein-packed chocolate smoothie.

6. Protein: Protein from lean sources like beef, poultry, fish, dairy, or soy are weight loss rock stars. The amino acids that make up protein cause your body to release the fat-burning and energy-stabilizing hormone glucagon. The process of digesting protein also stimulates your body to release the satiety hormone CCK. This one-two punch combined with the fact that it takes your body more energy to digest and breakdown protein compared to carbohydrates or fat makes it a must-have at every meal throughout your day.

Where to get it: The possibilities are endless, but lean proteins like Greek yogurt , cottage cheese, and organic grilled chicken strips are especially convenient.

7. Caffeine: Caffeine is one of the most potent weight loss compounds available to you each and every day. Caffeine blocks the breakdown of a compound call camp, which is responsible for mobilizing stored fats so they can be burned as energy.

Where to get it: If you are looking for a bigger fat-burning boost, then make sure to choose black tea over green tea or light roast coffee over dark roast for a larger dose of caffeine.

8. Fiber: Fiber is often touted to be a great nutrient for weight loss because it slows down digestion, allowing for sustained energy and stable blood sugar. However fiber can also optimize hormones released during digestion that are responsible for feelings of hunger and satiety.

Where to get it: Try to get your fiber in its raw form instead of from foods that have been overly processed. The processing of fiber can change its chemical make-up, which can decrease its effectiveness at promoting satiety or lowering cholesterol. Next time you

Heart diseases: How can we prevent them?

2012-06-09T19:57:00.001-07:00

Heart diseases: How can we prevent them?

Introduction to hypnotherapy

2012-06-09T19:57:00.000-07:00

Introduction to hypnotherapy
A far cry from the image of a man in dark robes dangling a pocket watch in front of you, hypnotherapy is a credible alternative therapy that’s used in conjunction with other medical treatments to help with various physiological and psychological ailments.

What is hypnotherapy?
As the name suggests, hypnotherapy is a therapy categorised under psychological alternative therapies along with many others like Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), past life regression and self-hypnosis. Basically, this therapy aims at restoring mental stability and balance among individuals undergoing stress and mental trauma by using hypnosis techniques that calm and relax the mind and attempts to bring about a beneficial change both physically and mentally.
When a person is hypnotised, he/she shows some characteristics that are different from the person in their un-hypnotised state and hence it becomes easier to manipulate with the functioning of the patients body.

The fundamentals of hypnotherapy
Unlike psychiatrists, who undertake a number of counselling sessions that try and make you open up yourself, hypnotherapy is designed to let you enter a calm, relaxed state of mind and give suggestions to your more active subconscious mind, altering mind-sets that may have caused harm to your mental stability and boosting self esteem.
Your hypnotherapist may also suggest self hypnosis techniques if you are unsure abut the process. This is helpful as you will probably be more calm and poised after trying your hand at self-hypnosis and getting acquainted about the process.

How does hypnotherapy work?
Hypnotherapy in real life is very different from what you may have seen on TV. There are no stage shows where the hypnotist addresses the audience to do as he says and wakes them up with a snap of the finger from the so-called slumber. Rather, it works by completely relaxing the body and mind. The hypnotherapist may ask you to relax completely and loosen up every single muscle of your body. Following this, he may tell you to visualise going into a very deep meditative state with every single breath. As you are relaxed, your subconscious mind, which is till awake, and probably more alert, accepts suggestions more readily without interference from that part of the mind that has deeply set misconceptions and age-old beliefs.
Suggestions are given according to your healing session and then you are returned to your initial state. Regular sessions like this cause the mind to function in a more positive manner, paving way to you physical and mental health.

Where you can count on hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy is not just limited to solving mental states among individuals who have undergone trauma or have low self-esteem. A large number of women in the US have been using hypnotherapy techniques to make childbirth easier. Also, hypnotherapy has shown miraculous results in curing people suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder.
Using hypnotherapy to get rid of addictions either smoking or excessive alcoholism, is a wise decision. People attempting to lose weight and get the better of stress have shown good results after having hypnotherapy sessions regularly.

Hypnotherapy – what to watch out for
While hypnotherapy is considered a fairly reliable form of alternative therapy, there are certain points that should be kept in mind before trying it out:
Remember to choose only a qualified hypnotherapist and not just anyone who claims to know the techniques.

Hypnotherapy is generally not recommended for people with serious psychological problems.
It’s not a miracle cure that’ll work instantly, so be ready to put in the some time and effort.
One of the biggest drawbacks is that the suggestions from the therapist could create false memories in the person being hypnotised. It’s not, however, a form of mind-control and cannot be used to make a person do something they don’t want to do; unlike what we often see on TV.

11 Reasons Chocolate Is Good for Your Health

2012-06-08T23:32:00.001-07:00

It turns out that chocolate-especially dark chocolate-reduces body mass, prevents blood clots, improves numeracy, may prevent cancer, and doesn’t ruin your complexion.

A new study suggests that eating chocolate can help you stay thin. Researchers at the University of California-San Diego found that people who frequently eat chocolate have lower body-mass indexes than people who don’t. Other evidence indicates that chocolate can also ward off strokes, heart attacks, and diabetes. So here are 11 reasons to indulge in some s’mores this summer (no word yet on the health benefits of marshmallows) …

1. Chocolate decreases stroke risk

A Swedish study found that eating more than 45 grams of chocolate per week-about two bars worth-led to a 20 percent decrease in stroke risk among women. Chocolate contains flavonoids, whose antioxidant properties help fight strokes, the study’s author, Susanna Larsson, told HealthDay.

2. Chocolate reduces the likelihood of a heart attack

Other studies show that eating chocolate prevents blood clots, which in turn reduces the risk of heart attacks. Blood platelets clump together more slowly in chocolate eaters, the studies say.

3. Chocolate protects against blood inflammation

Eat one Hershey’s dark chocolate bar per week, and your risk of heart disease will decrease, a 2008 study found. About 6.7 grams of dark chocolate per day keeps the blood inflammation-inducing proteins away. Just like your mother always told you.

4. Chocolate helps with math

British psychologists found that flavanols (a class of flavonoids, which are found in chocolate) helped people with their mental math. Study subjects had an easier time counting backwards from a randomly-generated number between 800 and 999 after drinking a cup of hot chocolate than they did without the cocoa. “The findings suggest students who binge on chocolate when revising for exams may gain a real benefit from doing so,” the British Telegraph reported.

5. Chocolate may prevent cancer

Cocoa contains a compound called pentameric procyanidin, or pentamer, which disrupts cancer cells’ ability to spread. When researchers from the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center at Georgetown University treated cancer cells with pentamer back in 2005, the proteins necessary for cancer growth were suppressed and the cells stopped dividing.

6. Chocolate reduces the risk of diabetes

The Italians know a thing or two about good eating.And a small study from the University of L'Aquila, in Italy, found that eating chocolate increases insulin sensitivity, which reduces the risk of diabetes.

7. Chocolate is good for your skin

“Some people say that I eat too many chocolate bars …” Remember that acne infomercial from the 90s? No? Well, it doesn’t matter. Not only does it not cause breakouts, it’s actually good for your skin! (Well, dark chocolate at least.) Flavonoids found in dark chocolate protect women’s skin from the sun’s UV rays, according to German scientists. But that doesn’t mean you can skip the sunscreen.

8. Chocolate can control coughs

The most delicious way to kick your cough, apparently, is chocolate. One of the sweet’s chemical components, theobromine, seems to reduce the activity of the vagus nerve, the part of the brain that triggers coughing fits. Scientists are even working on a cough-quelling drug that uses theobromine in place of codeine—a narcotic common in cough medicine.

9. Chocolate improves blood flow

In 2008 Harvard scientists forced test subjects to undergo “two weeks of enhanced chocolate intake.” A fortnight of chocolate face-stuffing, they found, sped up blood flow through their subject’s middle cerebral arteries. In other words, more chocolate means more blood to your brain.

10. Chocolate strengthens your brain

Researchers at the Johns Hopkins University found that dark chocolate shields cells in your brain, and accordingly protects it from damage caused by stroke. Epicatechin, a compound found in chocolate, significantly reduced the brain damage in mice who suffered strokes, they found. Scientists at California's Salk Institute also found that epicatechin improved mice’s memories.

11. Chocolate makes you live longer

Jeanne Louise Calment lived to the age of 122—the oldest anyone has ever lived. She ate two and a half pounds of dark chocolate per week. Harvard researchers found that eating chocolate actually adds two years to your life expectancy.

But don’t just start binging on chocolate! Most of the chocolate you buy in the grocery store is heavily processed, which means that it has lost many of its healthy chemicals. And some of the research supporting chocolate’s healthy characteristics was paid for by chocolate manufacturers.

Eating cheese, milk could make you brainier

2012-06-08T23:13:00.001-07:00

Dairy food could be essential for a healthy brain, a new study suggests.

The study, by US and Australian researchers, involving 1,000 adults, found those who regularly have dairy products such as milk, cheese and yoghurt score better on tests of mental ability than people who never, or rarely, consume dairy products, the Daily Mail reported.

Although the research, published in the International Dairy Journal, needs following-up, as it did not conclusively establish the link between dairy and fatty diets and brain power, it highlights an intriguing line of research.

It follows another US study, involving 104 pensioners, where scientists found older people with higher levels of beneficial fats in their blood had less brain shrinkage typical of Alzheimer’s disease.

These beneficial fats – omega-3 essential fats – are found in foods such as oily fish.

The study, published in Neurology, the journal of the American Academy of Neurology, measured the levels of different fats in people’s blood, rather than simply relying on their reports of what they tended regularly to eat.

It’s now well established from brain-tissue studies that our mental functions depend heavily on a good supply of fat, the Mail said Tuesday.

Our brain is composed of 60 percent fat. The brain cells are insulated by sheaths of myelin composed of 75 percent fat. This myelin fat needs to be replaced constantly.

Snooze! 8 Great Health Benefits of Sleep

2012-06-07T23:29:00.005-07:00

Ah! The joy of sleeping! Along with being one of the most pleasurable activities known to man, it’s also got a whole bunch of health benefits. Read on for more!

If you’re not of the rare breed that worries about hours wasted while snoozing, you do love your daily dose of slumber. Perhaps you even look forward to it with unnatural enthusiasm. If so, you’re doing it right. Apart from being the most relaxing end to a long day, sleeping also has multiple health benefits.

Top 8 health benefits of sleep

Reduces stress: In the case of sleep deficiency, the body’s functions enter a state of high alert, and cause an increase in blood pressure and production of stress hormones. The stress hormones make it harder to sleep and the higher blood pressure amplifies the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Boosts memory: In the time you’re asleep, the brain processes any new knowledge, organises the skills learned while awake, makes connections between events, feelings and memories, and sensory input. This helps you to process information and perform better.

Healthier heart: A lack of sleep is often associated with increased blood pressure and cholesterol – factors directly responsible for heart ailments and strokes. Seven to eight hours of sleep will go a long way in promoting cardiovascular health.

Lowers inflammation: One of the most important benefits of sleep is that it helps to keep stress hormone levels in check. This allows the body to alleviate the levels of inflammation, which is known to increase the risk of heart-related diseases, premature aging, arthritis, cancer and diabetes.

Allows body repairs: The cells in the body produce more protein while you’re asleep, which aids the body in recovering from damage caused by stress, ultraviolet radiation, and other harmful exposures.

Lower risk of depression: Sleep has an impact on several chemicals in the body, including serotonin, which causes depression in people in the event of a deficiency. The right amount of sleep, close to 7 to 8 hours, can prevent the onset of depression by producing enough serotonin.

Weight management: Lack of sleep may lead to an imbalance of the ghrelin and leptin hormones, which are crucial in regulating appetite. Additionally, the same part of the brain that controls sleep also increases metabolism. So to maintain or control weight, it is imperative to get adequate sleep.

Higher alertness levels: It follows logically that a good night’s sleep leads to more energy and alertness the next morning. This prepares the body for a day’s worth of activity and engagement, and increases the likelihood of another good night’s sleep. It’s a good circle to be caught in.

Tips for better sleep

No blue light: Switch off the television and computer, and keep away the cellphone an hour before bedtime. The short waves of blue light may interrupt sleep.

Save the bed for sleeping: Your bedroom should only be limited for rest and relaxation. Keep the money talk, phone conversations and TV viewing out the door.

No caffeine: Caffeine interferes with deep sleep, so avoid even small amounts found in chocolate and decaf coffee anytime after noon.

Eat light: You know what they say about eating like a pauper at night? Follow it. Prepare light, small meals for the night to get high-quality sleep.

Avoid naps: Though the occasional 20-minute power nap is a real boost, avoid any shut-eye eight hours prior to bedtime, as that can make falling asleep at night more troublesome.

Set a routine: Fix hours for when you sleep and wake up. This puts a healthy sleep cycle in place, and allows you to fall asleep quickly each night and sleep well through the night.

Stop smoking: If there aren’t enough reasons to kick the habit, here’s another: nicotine acts as a stimulant and can keep from falling asleep and worsen insomnia.

Unwind: Though it may seem self-indulgent at first, fix a downtime routine an hour before bed each night. Take a warm bath, read a book, listen to soothing music and lower the lights to give your day the perfect close.

Next time your friends rib on you for being a sleepyhead, bring this list out. A regular habit of seven to eight hours of sleep will help you stay active daily and ahead of the pack by keeping serious ailments at bay.

Chocolates may Help you Stay Slim

2012-06-07T23:29:00.004-07:00

Chocolates may Help you Stay Slim

London: People regularly eating chocolate tend to be thin, suggests a new study.

The findings have been made from a study of nearly 1,000 people in the US that looked at diet, calorie intake and body mass index (BMI) -- a measure of obesity, the BBC reported Tuesday.

Scientists believe even though chocolate is loaded with calories, it contains ingredients that may favour weight loss rather than fat synthesis.

The study found that people eating chocolate a few times a week were, on average, slimmer than those who ate it occasionally.

Despite boosting calorie intake, regular chocolate consumption was related to lower BMI in the study, which is published in Archives of Internal Medicine.

The link remained even when other factors, like how much exercise individuals did, were taken into account.

It appears it is how often you eat chocolate that is important, rather than how much of it you eat. The study found no link with quantity consumed.

"Our findings appear to add to a body of information suggesting that the composition of calories, not just the number of them, matters for determining their ultimate impact on weight," said lead author Beatrice Golomb, from the University of California in San Diego.

5 Simple Ways To Reduce Your Calorie Intake

2012-06-06T23:35:00.003-07:00

Going to the gym every morning might not be possible for all of us. And those guilt provoked three days/weekend works out is what you try to fit into your busy schedules.
But how helpful are they and more over how loyal are you to them? So if your lifestyle forces you to cheat on your exercise routine, here’s what you can do to keep your weight under control. We tell you five simple ways to reduce your calorie intake to keep yourself healthy.

Citrus Fruits: Citrus fruits, like lemon, guavas and grapes, are rich in vitamin C and fiber. While fiber helps to keep the intestines busy for a longer time, the high concentration of vitamin C is used for the body’s fat burning processes. Vitamin C is also required for stimulating formation of critical amino acids like Carnitine. This tends to fasten the body’s metabolism, ensuring that metabolic processes are kept busy, helping to overcome the hunger pangs. The high water content in most citrus fruits induces that typical, feeling of being quenched, which delays feeling hungry, again.

Low-Fat Yogurt Anytime of the Day: Yogurt or the humble Dahi, made from low-fat milk, is the perfect, around-the-clock kind of food. For starters, the low-fat variety too has a certain degree of creaminess to it. This tends to coat your tonsils, inducing the feeling of having eaten something substantial. Yogurt also induces a unique kind of aftertaste that turns-off the temptation to eat something else for some time. Further, yogurt provides the much needed dosage of healthy bacteria for better digestion and calcium for stronger bones.

The Anytime Wonder—Oatmeal: Oatmeal is among the most recommended of complex carbohydrate options that helps to keep you fuller without inducing a calorie overload. It can be eaten for breakfast or lunch. It takes the digestive system much longer to break down the complex fiber present within oatmeal. This helps to regulate the insulin levels, keeping you satiated for a longer time. Boiled oatmeal mixed with yogurt is the perfect, low-calorie choice that can keep you fuller for many hours.

Green Veggies: Some veggies have a very high concentration of soluble and insoluble fiber along with having a thermic effect. This refers to the overall effort exerted by the body in digesting foods. While proteins have a very high thermic effect, veggies like Spinach too have a high thermic value. When the metabolic processes are busy, trying to digest such foods, the tendency to feel hungry is automatically reduced. Further, more calories are burned in digesting such foods, which means they contribute to your weight-management goals! The idea is here to use Food itself as a tool for eating lesser, burning more calories and remaining healthier.

Eggs for Breakfast: Eggs are the perfect breakfast time. For starters, eggs are loaded with protein which needs a longer time to get fully digested. Two eggs, when eaten in the boiled or omelet form, comprise a healthy breakfast, of course, along with a few slices of whole grain bread. This combination of protein and complex carbohydrates helps to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels and keeps the digestive system engaged for a longer period, preventing you from feeling hungry soon.

Soups for Midday Meals: Some cultures suggest that soups are appetizers. However, this doesn’t need to be true if you consume more than average amount of soup and that too, the natural variety, consisting of lots of vegetables. Eating or sipping upon soup induces the feeling parallel to having a two-course meal. This helps the brain in perceiving that you are going through a proper meal. Around two bowls of vegetable soup to which some spicy condiments have been added are perfect for keeping you satiated for at least a few hours. The water content of soups ensures that you feel a bit heavy. However, this isn't the kind of heaviness associated with overeating. Fiber-rich soups, like those made from spinach, are particularly good for this cause.

Whole Grains for All Major Meals: Eating whole wheat or multi-grain bread or rotis is recommended since complex carbohydrates release glucose slowly. Slower release of glucose means that sugar levels are kept at a constant. Since there are no spikes or dips in sugar levels, there is lesser chance of being hit by a sugar craving. Further, whole grains are among the best sources of various types of Vitamin B.

Drink water before your meal
Half a glass of water before your meal will fill you up. This way the chances of overeating reduce drastically. This way, you will also reduce the chances of feeling stuffed post the meal.

Switch to skimmed milk
Replace your regular packet milk to a low calorie skimmed milk. Add the healthier milk to your morning cup of java. Another option for you is goat milk as it is tastier and healthier than the regular high-on-cream milk.

Eat slowly
The elders tell you to chew your food for a specific number of times before you swallow it. The trick is that, when you chew your food well, it aids the body in the digestion process. Your body understands the food well and you land up eating almost half of what you would normally eat. Ideally, one should spend a minimum of 20 minutes over each meal.

Select smaller portions
When eating out eat only half the portion of what has been served to you. Share the meal with your partner. Outside foods normally come in large portions and added ingredients like soda and Ajinomoto make the food difficult to digest. So, the next time you go to a deli split your serving with your partner.

Resist the calorific food
When you next visit a subway avoid adding mayonnaise, cheese to the sub. Initially, the flavour might be difficult to adjust but eventually you would get used to it. Replace the mayo with mustard. Bread is an integral part of our diet these days, switch to a lighter bread that will cut down upto 100 calories at least.

It is always best to carry your own lunch and eat wholesome home cooked food. Eat as many vegetables as you can and also make sure that you add a lot of colour to your platter. When craving for sweets, avoid chocolates or other desserts, binge on fruits or yogurts to satisfy the craving. If you follow these few tips while eating, your calorie count will steadily come under control and you will never have to feel guilty about missing your workout!

Drink Coffee, Live Longer

2012-06-06T20:47:00.000-07:00

You already know that coffee can help you live through a long morning meeting, but it also might help you live -- period! We have the scoop on why coffee might extend your life -- and some delicious new ways to drink it up.

The National Cancer Institute (NIH) study, just published in the New England Journal of Medicine, tracked over 400,000 older adults for almost 14 years and found that those who drank the most coffee were the least likely to die during the study. Men and women who drank four to five cups a day were, in fact, the least likely to die.

"Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in America, but the association between coffee consumption and risk of death has been unclear. We found coffee consumption to be associated with lower risk of death overall, and of death from a number of different causes,'' said lead researcher Neal Freedman, PhD, of the NIH. "Although we cannot infer a causal relationship between coffee drinking and lower risk of death, we believe these results do provide some reassurance that coffee drinking does not adversely affect health."

In other words -- this research doesn't prove it was the coffee that kept those long-livers from keeling over, but it's certainly not hurting them. Also noteworthy: researchers said that it didn't matter if the coffee was caffeinated or not -- good news if you get the jitters after one cup!

Now, we're not knocking a good old cup of Joe, but here are some new ideas for ingesting your java:

1. The new Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino and Chocolate Cookie Crumble Frappuccino are now available at Starbucks, but only for a limited time this summer. Definitely save these for a special treat; order a tall with skim milk and no whipped cream for the skinniest version.
(Skim, no-whip Mocha Cookie Crumble: 220 calories, 2.5 g fat, 49 g carbs for a 12 oz. "tall"; skim, no-whip Chocolate Cookie Crumble: 200 cals, 3 g fat, 41 g carbs per 12 oz.).

2. Dunkin' Donuts' new iced coffee flavor, Black Cocoa Creme, sounds like a delicious way to cool down this summer. Cookies and cream + coffee + a special pink and black straw!

(Without cream: 120 calories, 0 g fat, 70 g sodium, 26 g carbs, 23 g sugar per 12 oz.; with cream: 170 calories, 6 g fat [3.5 saturated], 80 g sodium, 27 g carbs, 23 g sugar per 12 oz.)

3. Make yourself an iced coffee and add a generous splash of Coffee-mate's new Low-Fat Vanilla NATURAL BLISS All-Natural Coffee Creamer. Made from nonfat milk, sugar, heavy cream, natural flavor and carrageenan (a natural thickener), each tablespoon only has 20 calories, 1 g fat and 3 grams of sugar.

4. In a smoothie mood? Try SELF's Banana Coffee Crunch recipe here -- ingredients include Greek yogurt and rum extract.

5. Not in the mood for a drink? How about dessert? These warm chocolate cakes with Coffee Creme Anglaise are only 139 calories each.

6. And if you really want a special, unique treat, check out SELF's Bananas Foster With Toasted Almond Coffee Ice Cream recipe. You start by making your own ice cream with toasted almonds, Greek yogurt and coffee ... and it just gets better from there.

Green tea: There is no end to the benefits of this super drink; green tea boasts a wealth of benefits that earns it the top spot in our anti-aging food list. Green tea is believed to help regulate blood pressure, lower blood sugar, boost the immune system, lower cholesterol and studies have even shown that green tea can be effective at preventing cancer. That's as close to the elixir of life as you can get.

Preventing Angina Pain

2012-06-05T23:35:00.001-07:00

Angina pectoris, commonly known as Angina, is chest pain due to ischemia (a lack of blood, thus a lack of oxygen supply and waste removal) of the heart muscle, generally due to obstruction or spasm of the coronary arteries (the heart's blood vessels). Coronary artery disease, the main cause of angina.

There is a weak relationship between severity of pain and degree of oxygen deprivation in the heart muscle (i.e., there can be severe pain with little or no risk of a heart attack, and a heart attack can occur without pain).

A regular exercise programme under the doctor's supervision can prevent angina.

A supervised weight-loss programme in over-weight persons also reduces the chances of angina.

Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet and avoid foods high in fat and cholesterol.

Always carry the medicines prescribed by the doctor along with the prescription.

Take sublingual nitroglycerin/isosorbide (or the emergency treatment for angina as advised by the doctor) if stopping an activity doesn't help the pain, or if the pain occurs at rest.

Get relaxed sleep at night.

The blood pressure should be checked regularly and kept as close as possible to 120/80mmHg.

Follow-up regularly with the doctor.

Avoid stress.

Foods That Make You Stink

2012-06-05T23:35:00.000-07:00

We spend not less than thousands on a good perfume. For most men smelling right is very important; after all it adds to your confidence! But have you ever noticed that post-lunch even if you don’t sweat you smell of something odd? It is not always necessary that body odour is the result of excessive sweating; your food can also be a reason behind it. We tell you of foods that might want to avoid before stepping into a meeting.

Red Meat: Irrespective of how delicious red meat looks on the plate, regular intake of it can lead to the foulest body odour. Meat takes a long time to get digested and, in the meanwhile, releases toxins in the blood that cause this odour. Try cutting down on your meat intake and replace it with sea food or veggies. The worst thing you can do to yourself is consuming red meat for dinner, avoid it completely.

Junk food: Stacking up on junk food is a mere adjustment that you do catch up with your fast track life. But this adjustment makes your body stink. Processed foods have sugar, oil and other preservatives that lead to body odour. Like red meat, junk food also takes a long time to get digested and eventually rots in your intestine. You might enjoy your burgers and fries for a quick bite but it is sure not the best smelling bid that you can get.

Coffee: You must have noticed this yourself a lot. Coffee gives you bad breath as it increases the acidity in your body. Caffeine may help you fight lethargy but will sure leave a bad smell in your mouth. Most of you love your coffee and smoke breaks but it only makes your co-workers' day worst as they need to bear the pungent odour with a smile.

Dairy products: Milk in itself has a smell that not everyone can stand. Dairy products contain protein which, when assimilated, is broken down into sulphurous by-products that lead to bad breath. A glass of milk before bed can be a good idea but brush your teeth post that, as your partner might not like that rotten egg-like smell.

Onion: This is a well-known fact that eating raw onions leads to bad breath. But a few people simply love their salad with lot of onions. Eating a large amount of onion can make you stink real bad. While digesting raw onion, your body releases sulphurous gas which gets absorbed in your blood, making you perspire. Though it is good to eat raw onions during summers make sure you don’t eat excess of it or else you will smell like an onion yourself!

No one likes to sit next to person who smells like a rotten egg. So wear the best of your fragrances and avoid eating the foods we mentioned right before a meeting or a date. Popping mint can be a good option but avoid chewing gums. And we don’t need to remind you to avoid smoking right after your meal as it will only make things worse for you.

Wonders of the Neem Tree

2012-06-04T22:07:00.001-07:00

FACTS:
The Neem tree is a fast growing evergreen that is native to Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Myanmar. This amazing tree is claimed to treat forty different diseases.
The use of neem as a medicinal herb dates back over 5,000 years. Today it’s benefits have been proven by

scientific research and clinical trials.

To give you an idea of the healing powers of the neem tree, here are a few names that the people of India have given it, Divine Tree, Village Pharmacy, Heal All and Nature's Drugstore.

DIABETES
In treating diabetes, neem has been found to actually reduce the insulin requirements by as much as 50% without altering the blood glucose levels. Take 3 to 5 drops internally each day.

BLOOD DISEASES
Neem cleanses the blood, stimulates antibody protection and strengthens the immune system which improves the bodies resistance to many diseases.

MOUTH INFECTIONS
Used as a mouth wash it treats infections, mouth ulcers, bleeding sore gums and will even help prevent tooth decay!

PINK EYES
For pink eye the juice of neem leaves can be used as eye drops, warm 5-10 ml and apply several drops.

JAUNDICE
To treat jaundice, mix 30 ml of neem juice with 15 ml of honey, take on an empty stomach for seven days.

BURNING SENSATIONS
If you suffer from burning sensations and excessive sweating, add 5 to 10 drops of neem oil in a glass of milk before going to bed.

ACNE
For acne problems take 2 capsules twice daily, you will start to see results within a few days.

SINUSITIS
For sinusitis, plain pure neem oil can be used as nasal drops. Use tow drops twice daily, morning and evening.

ATHLETES FOOT
For athletes foot, soak feet in warm water with 15 ml of neem oil.

EAR-ACHES
Neem oil will quickly stop earaches, just warm some oil and apply a few drops into the ear.

LICES
To kill head lice, neem oil should be massaged into the scalp and left on over night. Shampoo your hair as usual the next morning.

INFLUENZA
Drinking neem tea during an outbreak of influenza will help alleviate some of the symptoms and speed up the recovery time.

HEAD-ACHES
For headaches neem powder should be applied to the forehead, neem oil should also work in combating headaches when used the same way.

KINDEY PROBLEMS
Blood disorders such as blood poisoning, kidney problems and poor circulation have been benefited by the use of neem.

OTHER BENEFITS
Neem is highly effective in treating gastritis, indigestion and heartburn. With all of the countless medicinal benefits that are already provided with the use of neem, it is also being studied very closely for a treatment for AIDS, cancer, allergies, diabetes and both male and female forms of birth control!

Neem oil should be stored in a cool dark place, if the oil solidifies it can be placed in warm water to bring back to liquid form.

Don't mess with your shoulder joint

2012-06-04T22:07:00.000-07:00

If you're someone who thinks heavy behind-the-neck lat pull-downs and behind-the-neck barbell shoulder presses make you a badass lifter, you couldn't be fooling anyone but yourself. More than anything, it's just poor form!

Both these exercises are detrimental for your shoulder joint, for the very reason that this joint is not supposed to rotate enough to take the arms that far behind the head. They put the joint in a position we call the closed-packed-a position where the joint stability is at its lowest.

The shoulder, a ball-and-socket joint at the top part of our arm bone (humerus), is ball shaped as the name suggests and sits in a shallow socket (glenoid fossa) made by the shoulder blade (scapula). Structures like the shoulder capsule and ligaments keep your arm bone securely anchored in the shoulder socket.

But in the closed pack position the shoulder joint surfaces become maximally fit and the capsule and ligaments are bound in their ability to lengthen, leaving the shoulder joint compressed and immobile. To understand what's happening to your shoulder joint in this position, imagine a towel held at both ends and twisted in opposite directions. The shear stress caused by the behind the-neck movement subjects the shoulder to unwarranted damage.

Understand that more than the position, it is the amount of resistance the weight puts on your shoulder in an unnatural position. To decrease stress on the joint and reduce its risk of injury, the best position undoubtedly is to bring the bar in front of the shoulder.

This is the position where your shoulder is least jeopardised, given that it gives the joint the best freedom of movement in the capsule and ligaments and thus providing a safer alternative to avoid injuries in the future.

While some tried and tested old school techniques still remain as the mainstay of most workouts, the highly acclaimed behind-the-neck movements claiming to work the muscle in the upper and middle back (rhomboids and the lower and middle trapezius) remains a die-hard misnomer.

On the contrary, pulling heavy weight behind the neck might just make you hit the bar to your cervical spine and cause injury. The lat pull-downs and the front shoulder press are very effective and more than adequate for building strong shoulders and a V-taper in your upper body. Remember bad form is the catalyst to most muscular injuries.

It's a good idea for moms to have kids after 40?

2012-06-03T22:57:00.001-07:00

SO YOU thought having babies after 40 was a bad idea? It turns out that middle- aged mothering may, in fact, be good for your children.

A recent report says that older mothers make better parents.

Researchers at the Institute of Child Health, University College London, said children born to mothers over 40 are less likely to have accidents, develop a broader vocabulary from a young age, and score higher in IQ tests. These mothers were better at spotting and avoiding potentially risky situations for their children too.

For a lot of women here too, the tickling biological clock doesn't matter anymore. " There is a huge rise in the number of women who become first- time moms after 35. About 30 per cent of women who come to us belong to the late pregnancy category.

marry late and delay motherhood too. Women want to be financially stable in their careers and don't jump into motherhood till they are mentally ready for it," Dr Asha Sharma, consultant, obstetritics and gynaecology, Rockland hospital, said.

While there might be physical complications, mentally it's just the perfect time to be a mom.

"Older first-time mothers are more mature, patient and tolerant. They are also more responsible when it comes to taking the doctors' advice seriously," she said.

For Nirmala Nathan Singh, turning a mother after the age of 40 was a decision she would never regret. " It's great to be a parent after 40 because understanding is higher. In short, you know better. There were complications when my sons were born as they were premature babies. But that hasn't affected them as now they are perfectly healthy, smart and intelligent," she said.

Though technologically, there is much help available in terms of infertility treatments and diagnostic tests, doctors pointed out that medical complications are the biggest deterrent. "There is a 20 per cent rise in late motherhood cases over the past few years. But there are medical complications from difficulty in conceiving to children born with the down's syndrome and diabetes, among others. Some of these problems can be prevented by right detection techniques during the last stage of pregnancy," Dr Nadir said.

But for these mothers, age hardly matters. "You are never too old to be a mom," Singh said.

Killer' tobacco companies that are making billions

2012-06-03T22:57:00.000-07:00

The World Health Organisation estimates that tobacco caused 5.4 million deaths in 2004 and 100 million deaths over the course of the 20th century.

Similarly, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes tobacco use as "the single most important preventable risk to human health in developed countries and an important cause of premature death worldwide".

While rates of smoking have leveled off or declined in the developed world, tobacco consumption is rising by 3.4 per cent per year in the developing world.
Philip Morris

Revenue: $31.1 billion (2011)

Philip Morris International is an international cigarette and tobacco company, with products sold in over 160 countries with 15.6 per cent of the international cigarette market outside the United States.

Because tobacco, the main constituent of cigarettes, is considered the single greatest cause of preventable death globally and is considered addictive, the company's operations (and its competitors) are highly controversial and are increasingly the subject of litigation and restrictive legislation from governments concerned about the health impacts of its products.

Until a spin-off in March 2008, Philip Morris International was an operating company of Altria Group. Altria explained the spin-off, arguing PMI would have more "freedom" outside the constraints of US corporate ownership in terms of potential litigation and legislative restrictions to "pursue sales growth in emerging markets".

The shareholders in Altria at the time were given shares in PMI, which was listed on the London Stock Exchange and other markets.

The company is headquartered in New York City, but operates through its operational headquarters in Switzerland and does not operate in the United States, with Philip Morris brands there still owned by PMI's former owner Altria.

RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company

Revenue: $8.54 billion (2011)

The RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company, based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and founded by RJ Reynolds in 1875, is the second-largest tobacco company in the US (behind Altria Group).

RJR is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Reynolds American Inc. which in turn is 42 per cent owned by British American Tobacco of the United Kingdom.

RJ Reynolds brands include Camel, Kool, Winston, Salem, Doral, Eclipse,and Pall Mall. Brands still manufactured but no longer receiving significant marketing support include Barclay, Belair, Capri, Carlton, GPC, Lucky Strike, Misty, Monarch, More, Now, Tareyton, Vantage, and Viceroy.

The company also manufactures certain private-label brands.

British American Tobacco

Revenue: $28 billion (2011)

British American Tobacco is a British multinational tobacco company headquartered in London, United Kingdom. It is the world's second-largest quoted tobacco company by market share (after Philip Morris International), and has a leading position in over 50 countries and operations in more than 180 countries.

BAT has a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange and is a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index. As of 26 December 2011, it had a market capitalisation of 59.2 billion pound, the sixth-largest of any company listed on the London Stock Exchange.

It has a secondary listing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange

Japan Tobacco Inc

Revenue: $7.47 billion (2011)

Japan Tobacco Inc is a cigarette manufacturing company. It is part of the Nikkei 225 index. In 2009, the company was listed at number 312 on the Fortune 500 list.

The company is headquartered in Toranomon, Minato, Tokyo. The international headquarters are in Geneva, Switzerland.

In 2011, JTI employed about 25,000 people around the world at 90 offices, 24 factories (producing cigarettes), six research and development centers and five tobacco processing facilities.
Gallaher Group

Revenue: $12 billion (2006)

Gallaher Group is a major United Kingdom-based multinational tobacco company. It was traded on the London Stock Exchange and was a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index, prior to its April 2007 acquisition by Japan Tobacco.

The business was originally founded in 1857 by Tom Gallaher in Derry, Ireland.[1] By 1896, he had opened the largest tobacco factory in the world in Belfast.

The business was incorporated on 28 March 1896 to "carry on in all their branches the businesses of tobacco, cigar, cigarettes and snuff manufacture".

Formerly produced in London and Dublin, Gallagher's moved its production to Belfast (cigarettes) and Wales (cigars) in the early 20th century.

Altadis

Revenue: $8 billion (2006)

Altadis is a multinational manufacturer of cigarettes, tobacco and cigars. Altadis was formed via a 1999 merger between Tabacalera, the former Spanish tobacco monopoly and SEITA, the former French tobacco monopoly.

Through its international holdings, including ownership of the former Consolidated Cigar Corporation, and half ownership of the Cuban state tobacco monopoly, Habanos, Altadis is today a major producer of mass market and premium cigars in the world, as well as the fourth-largest producer of tobacco products.

The company was acquired by the British tobacco giant Imperial Tobacco in 2008.

Imperial Tobacco Group

revenue: $30 billion (2011)

Imperial Tobacco is a British multinational tobacco company headquartered in Bristol, United Kingdom. It is the world's fourth-largest cigarette company measured by market share (after Philip Morris International, British American Tobacco and Japan Tobacco), and the world's largest producer of cigars, fine-cut tobacco and tobacco papers.

Imperial Tobacco produces over 320 billion cigarettes per year, has 51 factories worldwide and its products are sold in over 160 countries.
Its brands include Davidoff, West, Gauloises Blondes, Montecristo, Drum (the world's second-largest-selling fine-cut tobacco) and Rizla (the world's best-selling rolling paper).