Your Health Care

Home Remedies for Arteriosclerosis and Treatment

2010-01-25T00:27:00.000-08:00

by dr. sarkozy mikal

Arteriosclerosis is one of three main forms of cardiovascular disease. It is the condition in which a person's arteries harden.

Even although Arteriosclerosis is one of three main forms of cardiovascular disease, there are three main forms of Arteriosclerosis.

Two of those are Monck berg's Arteriosclerosis, which is when the center layer of the arteries becomes stiff because of deposits of calcium.

The other one, which affects the smaller arteries, is Arteriolar Sclerosis. The most widespread form of Arteriosclerosis is by far Atherosclerosis.

Once lots of deposits of fatty cloth and calcium, called plagues, get into the blood brook, the penalty of Arteriosclerosis begin. Because of the plagues, the arteries narrow and roughen which in turn, cause cells in the artery walls to break down

Causes of Arteriosclerosis

The most important cause of arteriosclerosis is excessive intake of white sugar, refined foods and high fat diet, rich in cholesterol.

A inactive life and excesses of all kinds are the major causal causes. Other diseases such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, rheumatism, malaria and syphilis may also reason harden of the arteries.

Emotional stress also plays an imperative part, and heart attack are more frequent during the periods of mental and moving disturbances, predominantly in those engaged in sedentary occupation. Heredity also plays its role and this disease runs in families.

Symptoms of Arteriosclerosis

* Abdominal aortic aneurysm

* Coronary artery disease

* Kidney disease

* Mesenteric artery ischemia

* Peripheral artery disease

* Renal artery stenosis

* Hypertension

* Stroke (cerebrovascular disease)

* Thoracic aortic aneurysm

Treatment of Arteriosclerosis

1] The patient should take several small meals instead of a few large ones. He should keep away from all hydrogenated fats and an surplus of saturated fats, such as butter, cream, ghee and animal fat.

2] He should also avoid meat, salt and all refined and processed foods, condiments, sauces, pickles, strong tea, coffee, white sugar, white flour and all products made from them. Foods safe to eat in aluminum and copper utensils should not be taken as toxic metals incoming the body are identified to be deposit on the walls of the vein and the arteries. Smoking, if regular, should be given up as smoking constrict the arteries and aggravate the condition.

3] Recent investigations have shown that garlic and onions have a preventive effect on the development of arteriosclerosis. Vitamin C has also proved useful as it helps in the change of cholesterol into bile acids.

4] One of the most effective home remedies for arteriosclerosis is the lemon peel. It is supposed to be one of the richest known source of vitamin P. It strengthens the entire arterial system.

Home Remedies for Arteriosclerosis

• Mixture of an equivalent amount of lemon juice and honey is beneficial. You can consume one teaspoon before bed times. It is one of the straightforward and successful home remedies for arteriosclerosis.

• Blanch parsley in a cup of water. Have this resolution daily. This is a well liked home remedy for arteriosclerosis

• Dietician recommends having onion and garlic in your daily meals.

• Eat spinach every day. Beware of the similar if you have acidity.

• Drink carrot juice daily.

• An onion juice in the amount of one teaspoon daily will help prevent the arteriosclerosis and is one of the easy home remedies for arteriosclerosis.

• Brewers yeast can lower your cholesterol and can help raising the helpful HDL. This could be beneficial for arteriosclerosis.

• The green tea, which is popular in south-east Asia and now in world, helps in these diseases very well. It is containing Epigallocatechin Gallatin known as EGCG. These protect our heart against danger of oxidations. It also helps LDL to lower and HDL to bring up.

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Treatment for Insomnia and Home Remedies

2010-01-25T00:25:00.000-08:00

by dr. sarkozy mikal

Insomnia is such a common condition, affecting millions of Americans, yet many people are not aware of the serious consequences of Insomnia.

Commonly referred to as insomnia or lack of sleep, insomnia can lead to harsh fatigue, anxiety, despair and lack of attention. Insomnia is serious, although unlike other diseases it does not kill. But only a sleep destitute person knows how forlorn and how terrible this state can be.

Causes of Insomnia

• Sleep Apnea is a condition that occurs when a sleeping person's breathing is interrupted, thus interrupting the normal sleep cycle.

With the obstructive form of the condition, some part of the sleeper's respiratory tract loses muscle tone and partially collapses. People with obstructive sleep apnea often do not remember any of this, but they complain of excessive sleepiness during the day

• Circadian rhythm sleep disorders cause insomnia at some times of the day and excessive sleepiness at other times of the day. Common circadian beat sleep disorders include jet lag and belated sleep phase syndrome.

• Parasomnia includes a number of disorder of arousal or troublesome sleep events including nightmares, sleepwalking, violent performance while sleeping, and REM performance disorder, in which a being moves his/her bodily body in reply to events within his/her thoughts.

• Gastro esophageal Reflux Disease causes repeated awakenings during the night due to unpleasant sensations resulting from stomach acid flowing upward into the throat while asleep.

Symptoms of Insomnia

Doctors associate a variety of signs and symptoms with insomnia. Often, the symptoms interweave with those of other medical or mental states.

• Some citizens with insomnia may protest of complexity falling asleep or waking up regularly during the night. The problem may begin with stress. Then, as you begin to connect the bed with your incapability to sleep, the difficulty may turn into chronic.

• Most often day symptoms will bring populace to seek medical concentration. Daytime problems caused by insomnia include the following:

o Poor concentration and focus

o Difficulty with memory

o Impaired motor coordination (being uncoordinated)

Treatment of Insomnia

After you and your doctor have treated any health problems related to your insomnia, there are many steps you can take to improve your sleep. Here are few examples:

• Avoid or limit caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. Don't use them at all late in the day or in the evening.

• Check all of your medicines with your doctor to see if they could be moving your sleep. To help keep away from sleep problems; you may be able to adjust your dose or change the time of day you take your medicine.

• Use the evening hours for settling down.

• Make exercise a standard part of your life, but don't do it within 3 to 4 hours of bedtime.

• Keep your bedroom quiet, dark, and cool. Try by a sleep mask and earplugs to help you sleep.

Home Remedies Insomnia

• Extract about 30 grams of the milk from the poppy seeds (Palaver somniferous) and mix this milk with an adequate amount of sugar. Take this one time in a day particularly after dinner, when preparing to sleep. This remedy is one of the effective home remedies for insomnia.

• Controlled breathing is also effective in inducing sleep.

• Take four nutmegs and pound it to a fine powder and take this powder every night before going to sleep. This is one of the most effective home remedies for insomnia.

• Regular, energetic exercises throughout the day and mild exercise at bedtime enhances the measure and superiority of sleep as the train stimulates the removal of lactic acid from the body. Walking, jogging, skipping and swimming are the good exercises. This is a good insomnia treatment.

• To defeat the trouble of insomnia one should stick to a standard sleeping timetable like going to bed at a flat time every night and receiving up at a permanent time in the morning.

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What is Brain Fitness?

2010-01-25T00:14:00.000-08:00

by Jonas Certa

What is Brain Fitness?

We have known for years that physical exercise is necessary to develop and maintain a healthy body. What is not as widely known is that the brain needs nurturing as well. A new body of research has shown that there are things we can do to help maintain and improve our brain fitness. These activities can be grouped into three areas: brain exercise ,stress reduction, and physical exercise.

Brain Exercise (Use It or Lose It)

A wide range of research since the 1990s shows that people who regularly challenge and stimulate their brains improve their mental functioning and maintain more of their abilities into old age. Scientists have recently discovered that exercising the brain can literally generate new brain cells (neurons) and strengthen their connections. This process is called "neurogenesis." Brain stimulation has also been shown to lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's symptoms. Games, puzzles, learning a new language, and reading have all good ways to exercise your brain. Computer programs and devices are also available that are specifically designed to stimulate the brain in more direct, targeted ways.

Stress Reduction

Prolonged exposure to chronic stress can damage the brain and inhibit the formation of new brain cells. There are a variety of things you can do to reduce chronic stress. Exercise can make you feel more relaxed and often reduces the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Exercise also promotes arousal and relaxation and improves the quality of sleep. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, biofeedback, and yoga have been shown to lower blood pressure, slow respiration, slow metabolism, and release muscle tension. The attitudes you hold about yourself can also influence the amount of chronic stress you experience. In general, believing that you are empowered and in control of your environment reduces stress. Spending time with friends, family, and even pets can help foster trust, support, and relaxation. There are also computer programs and other products that are designed to reduce stress in more targeted ways.

Physical Exercise

Exercising is another great way to improve your brain fitness. Aerobic (cardiovascular) exercise improves blood flow to the brain, helps the body detoxify, and can help reduce stress and depression. In order for an exercise to be considered "aerobic," it needs to elevate your heart rate to 60 to 85 percent of its maximum rate. Good examples of cardiovascular activities are walking, running, swimming, biking, aerobic dance, step aerobics, kick boxing, rowing, and jumping rope. Exercise has a direct effect on nerve cells. After exercise more neurotrophins are produced by the brain, which are compounds that increase the formation of new nerve cells and enhance their connectivity. They also make the neurons we have more resistant to the aging process. Aerobic exercise has numerous other health benefits such as burning body fat, strengthening your heart and lungs, and improving muscle tone.

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Weight Loss - Fast Weight Loss Made Easy

2010-01-25T00:11:00.001-08:00

by Vikram Kumar

When you want to have fast weight loss, then you need to use weight loss products that will help to eliminate fat cells right away by draining them out of your system. If you are looking for a way to get rid of excess pounds, then you may need a little bit of help. Fat cells can be very stubborn and even if you are eating right and exercising the weight may not be coming off as fast as you would like.

You can make your weight loss much easier by choosing products that can aid you when it comes to fast weight loss. These products consist of pills, patches and even creams that will help you get rid of stubborn fat. As everyone knows, fat can end up staying on your body for a long time, no matter how hard you exercise and diet. For those who are trying to lose weight in a hurry, there is no other option but to look for some type of help.

If you plan on losing weight through diet and exercise alone, then you will most likely lose about two pounds a week. This can be very disconcerting for someone who is looking for fast weight loss. Fortunately, there are products on the market today that can aid in weight loss and speed up the process by burning off the fat cells non stop during the day.

You can start losing weight right away in a fast and easy way by taking certain type of diet pills. These pills can help you get the weight loss that you are looking for in hurry, rather than waiting months for results and often getting frustrating because the weight does not appear to be coming off. When you want to lose weight quickly, you need to use the aid of diet pills that are made for fast weight loss.

In addition to diet pills, you can also use patches that will help you cleanse your system out as well. The secret to weight loss is to lose fat cells from your body. Once these fat cells start to come off, you will start to see the results that you are looking for right away. There is no need to starve yourself or exercise yourself to a frenzy when you are using these products. Some people report that they can go about their normal routine and still lose weight when they use these pills that melt away the fat from your system.

Too much fat in your system is unhealthy and also gives you an unattractive appearance. If you have weight to lose, then you need to start doing something about it right away. When you are looking for weight loss products, look for those that will not only allow you for fast weight loss, but also target the fat cells that you have in your body. Once you do this, you will start to see the pounds melt away, start to feel better about yourself and find that losing weight is easier than you ever thought it can be.

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Meal planning teaches how to lose weight fast

2010-01-25T00:10:00.000-08:00

by Vikram Kumar

There are many tools that people can use when they learn how to lose weight. One of the most effective is meal planning.

Meal planning has many benefits when learning how to lose weight fast. It helps determine what to eat in order to create the calorie deficit necessary for weight loss. It keeps dieters aware of good nutrition, which is essential to maintain good health while losing weight. And it teaches about portion control, another trick for shedding excess pounds.

Good meal planning helps both a dieter's waistline and budget. By planning meals in advance, people can shop in accordance with their weight loss program. They're less likely to purchase the unhealthy foods that have been adding too many calories, at the same time they're buying healthy foods that are "nutrient dense."

Nutrient-dense foods are those that provide plenty of sustenance for the amount of calories they contribute. For instance, you may have heard the term "empty calories." This is used to refer to foods that have a high calorie count, but contribute very little in the way of good nutrition. In contrast, foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts, low-fat dairy and lean meats provide the body with plenty of protein, carbohydrates, minerals and essential fats needed for energy, growth and tissue repair.

From a dieter's standpoint, adding nutrient dense foods to meal planning means that certain portions can be a little larger, which helps to stave off the hunger pains that can wreck a diet. A cup or two of salad greens, topped with other colorful vegetables and low-fat dressing, provide much more in the way of nutrition than the typical high-fat burger and fries.

Meal planning helps a dieter's household budget as well. Nutritionists often teach people who are learning how to lose weight to "shop the perimeter" of their grocery stores. Grocers typically stock fresh fruits and vegetables, meats and dairy, around the edges of a food store, while the high-fat, high-sugar (and often high-priced) processed foods are shelved in the middle of the store. By shopping the perimeter, those trying to lose weight fast get to the nutrient dense foods first, and avoid the unhealthy foods that have caused them to gain excess weight.

What's more, meal planning can simply be fun, and a strong element of fun can make it much easier to learn how to lose weight. Think of all the colors and textures and flavors in the fruit and vegetable section. Making vegetables and fruits the mainstay of a healthy eating program along with whole grains and nuts is key to losing weight fast and effectively.

Meal planning also complements another activity that's key to how to lose weight fast: Daily exercise. When you know you're going to do strength training in addition to your usual daily 30-minute walk, you'll want to plan meals that will help build those muscles you're exercising. Plus, you'll definitely want to have more water on a big exercise day, so you might want to put more limes and lemons in your shopping basket to add some zing to your drink.

Yes, effective meal planning is a key element in learning how to lose weight.

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Capsiplex: The Health Benefits and History of Pepper

2010-01-25T00:08:00.000-08:00

by mich valmonte

Peppers are widely use as part of the world's culinary necessities, however research shows that this small yet seductive and fiery fruit is bursting not only with spice but with numerous health benefits. To understand peppers even more let us first trace back the history and the discovery of this exotic spice.

According to some scholars chili peppers has long been part of human diet and was cultivated at least 7500 B.C. There were some evidences that show the existence of this specie somewhere in the southwestern Ecuador.

Christopher Columbus, the famous explorer was the first European to encounter them when they set sail in the Caribbean. He called them ‘Peppers' because of their taste similarity with the Old World black peppers of the Piper genus.

After Columbus discovery of Peppers, it was widely spread all throughout the globe.

In 1494, a physician in the name of Diego Alvarez Chanca brought the first chili in Spain and wrote about the medicinal effects of it.

Therefore when peppers were cultivated in Spain all of its colonies adopted the use of this spicy fruit in their culinary preparations. From Mexico, Philippines, India, China, Korea and Japan peppers played a big role in their daily cuisines.

Now that we understand how phenomenon the chili was way back centuries ago, let us now understand the new discoveries the modern time has to say about Peppers.

All kinds of peppers are rich in vitamins A, C and K but red peppers are with great exemption since this particular color of pepper is so much richer with all of those vitamins combined. Red peppers also contain Antioxidant, Carotenoid also known as lycopene and fiber.

To make it sound more appealing, let me elaborate further on the particular health benefits that peppers can bring to our body.

Peppers which are rich in Antioxidant prevent cell damage, cancer and diseases related to aging. The Vitamin K helps in promoting proper blood clotting, strengthens bones and helps protect calls from oxidative damage.

Caretonoid which can be found in Red Pepper is a great defense against prostate cancer as well as cancer of the bladder, cervix and pancreas. But recent studies shows that peppers contain a substance called Capsaicin, which is according to some scientist are very good for loosing weight.

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Natural Treatment Of Depression

2010-01-25T00:07:00.000-08:00

by barclay bert

Cure for depression is extremely important. There are many ways to cure depression. One can take psychiatric help or seek counseling. Cut down on tobacco, caffeine and alcohol is extremely important. The best way to out come out of depression is through herbs or herbal therapy. Therefore, a Depression herbal treatment is a good option.

Natural treatment for depression is said to be the best treatment because it does not cause any side effects. Natural methods of cure are always preferred for treating almost all kinds of diseases apart from depression. There are several natural treatments and herbal products available all over the world. These products are also available online, but only upon the advice of the doctor. When a survey was conducted to find the best possible cure, the first and foremost preference was given to the natural treatment for depression by 75% of the doctors all over the world.

Folic acid is normally found less in those people who are depressed. Folic acid is found in green leafy vegetables, in fruits, in beans and in grains. Those with low levels of folic acid do not respond well to medicines and anti depressants. Folic acid and omega-3 fatty acid help in curing depression. Other than herbs a person can also try doing regular exercises. A healthy body leads to a healthy mind. One can try basic exercises at home like breathing and chanting.

There are quite a few other drugs that professional herbalists believe can help with depression. Keep in mind that if you are visiting a professional herbalist you should listen carefully to his recommendations and even write them down. It is too easy to forget or make a mistake if you don't. So, keep a paper and pen handy. The other drugs include Damiana, Valerian root, ginseng, and others. Each of these herbs has its own special effect on the body and on depression. If you have been using these herbs and you feel they are really working for you then continue using them because they just may be.

A healthy diet is essential for a healthy body and brain. Stop eating fast foods and processed foods. Think of them as your adversary. They want to defeat you and bring you down. Take the challenge and defeat them.

Some herbal remedies could help. Passionflower can be used for anxiety, insomnia and restlessness. It can help to calm your nerves and mind. If your cholesterol levels are too low, below 150, then that could cause depression as well. So have your levels checked. Reducing stress can relieve mental fatigue and improve brain functions. There are various ways to do this including meditation and Yoga. Yoga can alter brain chemistry and stimulate the release of endorphins while releasing stress. Massages can enhance your well-being and relax you, so treat yourself. Maintaining close friends will help you to manage your moods and improve your lifestyle so get out there and mingle.

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Herbal Remedies For Allergy

2010-01-25T00:04:00.001-08:00

by barclay bert

Many people suffer from some type of allergy. It can be a food allergy, a pet allergy, or an allergy to pollen in the air. A mild allergy can make your life miserable and a severe allergy can be life threatening. Fortunately, there are herbal and home remedies that can help you prevent allergy attacks and control the symptoms when you do have one.

An allergy is the immune systems overly aggressive response to a common substance like a food or pollen. Allergy herbal remedies can help reduce symptoms in a safer and more natural way. Having said that, there are many herbal remedies that deal with a wide variety of ailments. So what are some of the herbal remedies for allergy that you can consider?

Camomile. This is an excellent herbal remedy for treating rashes and itches that accompany allergies. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic properties that make it suitable to be used as a herbal remedy for skin allergies. However, if you suffer from hayfever, you want to refrain from using this herbal remedy, because it is a member of the ragweed family, which may cause an allergic reaction.

Garlic and onion. Garlic and onion have anti inflammatory benefits and these are helpful to your sinus problems. You can find it easier to breathe easier and with less effort after using it.

Peppermint. This smells very good which is why it can calm the mucus membranes. Like the others, you can mix this in hot water and inhale it and drink it as tea.

Lemon balm. This is often used to fight bad breath. But it can also fight allergies and sinus infections since it is helpful in fighting off bacteria and viruses? You just have to buy the leaves and then mix this in hot water for about ten minutes. After straining, you can pour a cup and drink as you please.

To prevent allergies, Ayurveda medicine recommends cleansing and detoxifying your body and eating mostly organic foods. This will eliminate toxins from your system which will allow your body to deal with potential allergens more effectively. Ayurveda also recommends bitter orange for asthma and other respiratory allergies.

Turmeric: This is the basic grandma's remedy - just apply fresh turmeric paste along with curd and gram flour on to your face. Your complexion clears up within a few days, as turmeric is very good for skin health.

Neem, tulsi: Drop some neem leaves into your bathtub, and you will feel the difference in your skin within a few days. If you have any external skin rash, infection, just apply a paste of neem or basil leaves to heal up, as they have excellent anti-bacterial properties, clear up pimples and acne; and keep the skin naturally invigorated.

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Weight Loss caused by Pepper?

2010-01-25T00:03:00.001-08:00

by mich valmonte

We thought of pepper as a typical ingredient present in every culinary cuisine we love, however a recent study at the Oxford Polytechnic in England shows that 12 volunteers whom they have fed identical 766-calorie meals . Alternatively they added chile powder and mustard on their meal, and the result was stunning, a total of 45 calories were burned.

To understand this even more let us discuss how Capsaicin in peppers really works as an agent of spice and how it causes weight loss to our body.

According to the Chemical & Engineering News, Capsaicin is an extremely powerful and stable alkaloid produced as a crystal by glands at the junction of the pepper's placenta and pod walls, according to Dave DeWitt, known as the "Pope of Pepper" and publisher of Fiery Foods & BBQ magazine. The chemical is found only in chili peppers and is said responsible for the spiciness of peppers.

Capsaicin can be found in the large quantities in the placental tissue which holds the seed, the internal membranes and to a lesser extent to the other fleshy parts of the fruits of plants in the genus Capsicum.

Capsaicin is also being studied as a remedy for Type 1 diabetes by researchers in Toronto, Canada. Capsaicin was injected subcutaneously affecting pancreatic sensory nerves of mice with Type 1 diabetes because of a suspected link between the nerves and diabetes.

On the other hand, capsaicin is also believed to be very effective in loosing weight upon the right combination of food taken in the body. Spices like peppers stimulate our body to release more stress hormone, which in turn causes fast consumption of fats. In addition to being a stress hormone stimulant, capsaicin is thermogenic in nature. Thus eating a bit more of chillies will help us loose weight without compromising our appetite.

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Women Fitness & Health Problems

2010-01-24T23:31:00.000-08:00

by Andrew Carl

For those of you who are unfamiliar with this indoor cycling exercise, I'll try and explain it a bit. Indoor Cycling is an aerobic exercise that takes place on a specially designed stationary bicycle called a spinning bike. In a class of other stationary cyclists, you pedal while motivating music plays and an instructor talks you through a visualization of an outdoor cycling workout.

When you think about losing weight and getting in shape, are you focusing on the past or are you looking to the future? Concentrating on failures of yesterday cannot change anything. No one has the power to alter the circumstances that took place previously. Nor can we predict the future. However, what we do today has a great impact on what will take place tomorrow.

Choosing an exercise plan is not hard to do what you want to make sure it is something that you can be comfortable with. If you find a plan that is very hard to do and you think you may quit after a short period of time, then try to search for something else. Remember the only way you're going to be successful is having an exercise plan that fits into your lifestyle. It will take time for you to reach your ultimate goal but once you do you will feel great about yourself.

All of the exercise routines are easy to follow and use real-life advice and recipes that you can use to involve your whole family. This website focuses on bringing out the best in women through free articles on health and fitness. All you need is thirty minutes a day and this website to have success with your health and fitness routine.

If you can overcome the initial fear of needles piecing your body, acupuncture can be a very relaxed experience while relieving stress and pain at the same time. The same can be said of massage, either by a professional therapist or even yourself. By massaging the lower abdomen the right way, cramps can be relaxed. Learning how to self massage would allow you to relief your cramps anytime. Both forms of such therapies are non-invasive nor medications are involved.

While Kegel exercisers are great and can also be used as sex toys, some women prefer practicing Kegel exercises without devices like Kegelcisers. You can start training whenever you feel ready, but you might also want to discuss it with your physician. It is always good to go about it the natural way. While therapies and operations may prove to be effective

Women who frequently suffer from period pain, irregular periods or periods that are too light or too heavy/too long or too short, have gained a significant benefit from massaging Sa Yin Jiao more often and/or for longer than the time suggested for normal health maintenance. It has also been found to be very useful in preventing and treating problems related to the female reproductive system, and in particular the uterus.

A monthly period can be deemed an inconvenience if it interferes with regular activities. Heavy bleeding can also be extremely inconvenient. There is an assortment of pads and tampons on the market today that should be able to allow a woman to still maintain her regular lifestyle, however.

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Knee Pain

2010-01-07T05:31:00.000-08:00

We bend them, kneel on them, run and jump on them daily, yet few of us give them a second thought. Knees. They're one of the most complex and most injury prone joints in your body. Why? Blame the knee's design. Unlike the more stable hip joint, which is a ball in a deeply cushioned pocket, the knee joint is more exposed and more vulnerable. Essentially, the knee is a rounded bone that rests on a relatively flat one. The thighbone (femur) ends in two rounded knobs (condyles), which sit on the relatively flat shinbone (tibia). The kneecap is a small, rounded bone that sits in a groove between the thighbone and the knobby ends and gives strength to the joint. As the knee bends and straightens, the kneecap slides up and down in the groove. A tendon attaches the kneecap to the thigh muscles above, and a ligament connects it to the shinbone below. The kneecap acts like a pulley, increasing the power of the muscles attached to it.

The knee flexes and extends, but it has little lateral rotation, says board certified foot surgeon Elliot Michael, D. PM., director of the residency program for Podiatric Medicine at Holladay Park Hospital in Portland, Oregon. The upper and lower leg bones act like long levers on the joint, increasing power and force. A small change in the levers is magnified many times over in the knee, says Michael. This intricate design can cause problems, especially for the kneecap, which accounts for about 20 percent of all knee pain, say knee experts. Proper functioning of the knee and its kneecap doesn't depend on the alignment of the bones themselves, but on the alignment of the surrounding structures. Think about the kneecap as a puppet controlled by string muscles, tendons and ligaments. As long as all of the strings pull in just the right way, the kneecap moves back and forth smoothly in its track. But if any string pulls too strongly or not hard enough, the kneecap is pulled out of its track and can no longer glide easily against the thighbone, which can cause pain and may even damage the kneecap.

Because women have wider hips, the upper-leg bone of a woman enters the knee at a greater angle, which twists the knee. This makes women more vulnerable to certain types of kneecap injuries, such as chondromalacia, in which the smooth layer of cartilage that undercoats the thighbone becomes roughened or cracked, according to orthopedic surgeon Michael Baskin, M.D., an assistant clinical professor in the department of Orthopedics at Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland. If the large muscles in the thigh (quadriceps) are inflexible due to disuse or lack of stretching before exercise or if these muscles are overused, they can cause inflammation of the knee tendons (patellar tendinitis), sometimes called jumper's knee. Muscle imbalances, in which one group of muscles is stronger than another and pulls harder, can cause knee problems, too.

While knee problems can result from trauma due to falls, automobile accidents, and athletic injuries or from diseases like arthritis, the vast majority of knee problems are caused from over stressing the knee, according to Michael. When there isn't an acute injury, most knee pain comes from doing too much too soon or from putting the wrong type of force on the knee, he says. Often, people who start a running program develop knee problems early on. They don't realize they're subjecting their knees to four to five times their body weight with every running step. Physical therapist Ellen Nona Hoyven, PT., owner and director of Ortho Sport Physical Therapy Pc. in Clackamas, Oregon, says most of the knee problems she sees are caused by deconditioned muscles. People put a high demand on their knees and their muscles without the proper conditioning, she says. Or they overuse their knees by doing only one type of activity over and over like kneeling, running or climbing. Of course, you can't always prevent injuries from occurring, and any serious knee injury should be evaluated and treated by a physician. However, if your knee problems are caused from overuse, disuse, or improper training, you can use the following strategies to keep your knees healthy and if you do develop pain, to help ease the hurt and speed healing.

Stay Trim : Being over normal weight stresses all the joints of the body, but those extra pounds are particularly tough on the knees. Because of the way the knee is structured, every time you take a step, you're putting one and a half times your body weight on your knee, says Michael. If you run, you're putting up to five times your body weight on the knees. Twenty, thirty, forty or more pounds of extra weight can really stress the knees. For example, if you're only 20 pounds over weight and you jog, you're putting 100 pounds extra force on each knee with every step. If you're overweight, says Baskin, it can really add to knee pain. Being over weight means you're going to need greater muscle strength to prevent injuries. Keep your weight with in normal limits with a low fat diet and regular exercise.

Look at Your Feet : There's an old saying. When your knee hurts, look to your feet. Hoyven agrees. When the feet hit the ground, everything changes, she says. Think of the body much like a slinky. If one part of the skeleton is out of balance, it will throw off the other parts. When the feet are not supporting the body properly, it can cause problems all over the body, including the knees. A common cause of knee problems is overpronatlon or rolling inward of the foot. A certain amount of pronation is normal, but too much can cause knee problems. When the foot pronates, it rotates inward and flattens out, explains Michael. At the same time, it rotates the lower leg, which malaligns the knee. This malalignment can cause the kneecap to track abnormally and grind, causing pain. You can correct overpronation with supportive shoes designed to prevent pronation or with orthotics, which are special shoe inserts. You can buy ready made, over the counter orthotics or you can get custom made ones from a podiatrist. orthopedist, chiropractor or sports medicine specialist.

Buy The Right Shoes : The right shoe can prevent all kinds of knee problems, says Kathleen Galligan. D.C., who specializes in sports injuries in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Wear the lowest heel possible. Galligan says the' body can tolerate a heel of about one inch. Higher heels throw the body forward and stress the knees. If you tend to pronate, buy a shoe that has antipronation devices. You can buy athletic shoes that have higher density materials on the inside of the shoe sole and cushioning material on the outside edge of the sole, says Michael. The higher density material doesn't allow the shoe to give on the inside and helps prevent pronation. Michael says you should also look for shoes that have a stiff heel counter, the part of the shoe that cups the heel. A stiffer heel counter will stabilize the heel and help prevent overpronation, he says.

Then Replace Them : Often, knee problems are simply caused from running shoes that are worn out, says Louisa Silva, M.D., who sees plenty of knee problems in her private practice in Salem. Oregon. Even if the sole of your shoe looks fine. the structure of the shoe may be worn out, she says. Then the shoe isn't giving your foot the support it needs. Shoe experts estimate that running shoes are good for 400 to 600 miles walking shoes for 600 miles or more before they need to be replaced.

Check Your Alignment : If you're bowlegged or knock kneed, you may be at greater risk for knee problems, according to Baskin. To check your alignment, stand with your ankles touching. If you're in alignment, both your ankle bones and your knees should touch. If your knees touch. but there's a large space between your ankles, you're knock kneed. If your ankles touch, but there's space between your knees, you're bowlegged. If you're out of alignment, says Baskin, you may need to avoid certain activities, like running, that stress the knees. Substitute activities like swimming, biking or working out on a cross country ski machine.

Don't Rely on Over the Counter Braces : Often, you see people wearing knee braces or bandages they've purchased at the pharmacy. An over the counter knee brace may make you aware of the knee and remind you to avoid overtraining, but it doesn't really correct or prevent problems, says Michael Martindale, L.P.T., a physical therapist at the Sports Medicine Center at Portland Adventist Medical Center in Oregon who specializes in sports injuries. Know that over the counter braces don't take the place of exercises you should be doing to strengthen your knees, says Baskin. He says if you do use a knee brace, opt for the one piece neoprene or elastic braces rather than the elastic wraps, which make it difficult to apply pressure evenly to the knee. Michael warns against becoming dependent upon a knee brace. If you've got pain that is persistent enough to buy a knee brace, you need to see a doctor, he says.

Avoid Knee Busting Activities : Deep knee bends may feel healthful, but they're too hard on the knees. Knee bends put way too much pressure on the knees, says Michael. I tell people to take squats and deep knee bends out of their exercise routine and to avoid kneeling whenever possible, especially on hard surfaces. Silva says one of the most common causes of knee pain among her patients is weight training. People can literally wear out their knees by lifting too much weight and putting the knee through its full range of motion, she explains. There are tremendous forces on the knee in the fully flexed position. Silva's recommendations to weight lifters. Never fully, flex the knee, and keep the amount of weight you ask the knees to lift to a minimum. If you're gardening or doing some other activity that requires kneeling, Michael says to use foam kneeling pads and to give your knees frequent rest periods.

Don't Run Through Knee Pain : Many people, especially athletes, believe that it's best to run through knee pain. However, they may be doing more harm than good. Pain is an indicator that something is wrong, says Martindale. If you're having pain, you may have biomechanical problems like overpronation, or you may be overtraining, training incorrectly, or wearing the wrong footwear. Michael agrees. You don't have pain in your body if everything is right, he says. The body is sending you a signal if it's hurting. Don't keep going. Stop stressing the part that hurts. The body heals it self with rest.

Change Surfaces : Michael, who was a national collegiate running champion, says running on the wrong surface can cause knee problems. Roads are canted, or slanted from the center, Michael explains. Runners who run only on one side of the road often overstress the knees. He recommends running or walking on the flattest part of the road. Switch sides of the road frequently if it is safe to do so. Hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt can increase the beating the knees take, too. Michael recommends running or walking on a soft surface, such as a forest pathway. Be careful of too soft sand, however, which can stress the knees. Running or walking downhill can cause knee problems as well. The natural tendency is to brake with the knees downhill, which can overstress them. Slow down and, whenever possible, traverse down hills. If you're already having knee problems, avoid training downhill.

Mix it up : Martindale says he's seen an increase in knee problems with activities like step aerobics. Anytime you overstress the knee with too much squatting or stepping, the knee is vulnerable, he says. Michael recommends cross-training, or doing a variety of physical activities rather than just one or two. Any repetitive routine strengthens specific muscles, he explains. Cross-training helps balance out the imbalances caused by training only particular muscle groups. It helps counteract the stress and strain caused from repetitive activities. He suggests combining running or walking with biking, swimming, dancing, aerobics, weight training or any other activity you might enjoy. He says if you choose biking as one of your crosstraining activities, be sure to raise the seat up so that the leg is almost fully extended on the downward stroke to prevent knee strain.

R.I.C.E. it : Ok despite all the good advice, you've overdone it and your knee hurts. Give it R.I.C.E. rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Take the weight off the knee. During the first 24 to 48 hours, use an ice pack (20 minutes on, 20 minutes oft) to keep the swelling down. Wrap the knee (not too tightly) in an elastic bandage to reduce swelling, and keep the knee elevated.

Take Anti Inflammatories : Aspirin or ibuprofen can reduce the pain, inflammation, and swelling, says Silva. Don't use anti-inflammatories, however, if you have an ulcer, a bleeding condition, or a sensitive stomach, warns Baskin. The only thing worse than a sore knee, he says, is a sore knee and a bleeding ulcer. Acetaminophen can help with the pain and may be easier on your stomach, but it won't do much for inflammation.

Avoid Heat : Ice prevents fluid buildup, but heat can promote it, says Michael. For the first 48 to 72 hours after a knee injury, avoid hot tubs or hot packs.

Massage It : While massage won't affect the bony structures of the knee, it does increase circulation and can loosen tight hamstrings or other structures around the knee, says Martindale. If you've already developed knee pain, says Michael, see a professional massage therapist or physical therapist, not just a friend, for a professional massage.

Is It Harmless To Apply Body Spray When Heavy With Child?

2010-01-07T04:45:00.000-08:00

Something that may not occur to most pregnant women is that parfum and other scented products may not be the most pleasing thing to wear during this time. Even though something applied to the skin topically seems harmless, there are a few things to consider if you wish to use perfume when pregnant. Currently the research on this matter is somewhat inconclusive. So, is perfume unsafe? Or is it something you can safely enjoy during your pregnancy?

While most research into whether it’s safe to use perfume when pregnant has not found a link to most of the common worries like miscarriage and stillbirth, some current studies have found that there may be a link between perfume use and reproductive problems in male children. It seems that perfume use between 8 and 14 weeks of pregnancy may lead to improper development of the male sex organs. Some of the potential problems include undescended testicles, risk of testicular cancer and low sperm count. It seems that some women who use perfume when pregnant risk absorbing chemicals that affect the development of testosterone in the male fetus.

So far though, the research remains largely inconclusive, partly because the most obvious results have only taken place in rodent test subjects, not human ones. Still, if you wish to err on the side of caution, it would be best to stay away from wearing perfumes or scented creams of any brand.

Commonly though, most experts would say it is quite safe to use perfume when pregnant. Many pregnant women find though, that scents they used to enjoy now trigger nausea, light-headedness or headaches. If this is the case, it’s usually best to remove all fragrance from your natural environment to begin with, and then gradually add one fragrance at a time, starting with the mildest. You may wish to experiment with body sprays and lotions, because they are often less intense than perfume, and tend to contain less alcohol parfum online.

If you wish to use perfume when pregnant, you might try some ordinary scents that are known for being pleasant and comforting. Scents like peppermint, ginger and cardamom have been known to help fight nausea, and citrus scents like lemon, neroli and mandarin seem to help soothe feelings of nausea as well as leaving a feeling of refreshment and relaxation. Other soft scents to consider are rose, chamomile and lavender. These scents make lovely massage oils as well.

While most perfumes are relatively safe, this is not always the case with essential oils. Because they are so concentrated, and are derived from plants, some can be toxic on the surface of the skin. Be sure to consult your doctor before using.

So, is perfume harmful? The answer is not completely cut and dry, but it most likely is safe for pregnant women to use. If you have any doubts over whether you should use perfume when pregnant, consult your doctor. As long as you feel comfortable, you can go on to enjoy scents that will make you feel relaxed and happy.

Helping Your Teen Lose Weight

2010-01-07T04:26:00.001-08:00

Following healthy habits are the essential key to teen weight loss. Without such a habit, teenagers may find it difficult to maintain their healthy weight. The way today's food consumption is being looked at in this country, healthy eating has surely been put at the wayside. Teenagers of today really have a myriad of delicious food choices to eat. But sad to say, most of them belong to the unhealthy food group. It is now easier for teenagers today to get fat because of the convenience brought about by fast food. Parents today live in a very busy world where time is spent more on work. Such parents may not have the time to prepare food and sometimes must rely on the nearest pizza or hamburger place to provide the nourishment for their children. But this should not be. Fastfood is considered to be one of the reasons why most teenagers are getting fatter. Fastfood is considered junk food since they are not able to supply all the nourishment that growing kids need. But fast food can really be fattening with the great amounts of fat and carbs that they contain. It is a bad choice if you wish to help your child stay at a healthy weight as he or she grows up. Your concern to see to it that your teenagers grow up to be healthy and fit individuals is the first step in keeping their weight down. Always bear in mind that teenage obesity is a dangerous and a growing problem in this country. But you can do something about it. You can make effective use of your concern about your teenager's weight by putting it into action. You can help show your teen the way by following a practical plan for success. There's no easy way for teen weight loss. The most important thing that you can do is letting your teenager adopt healthy habits that can last a lifetime. Here are some tips: 1. Start with a heart-to-heart talk. If your see that your teen is getting overweight, chances are, he or she is also concerned about the excess weight. Aside from bringing in lifelong health risks such as high blood pressure and diabetes, the social and emotional consequences of being overweight can have a devastating effect on your teenager. Talk to your teenager about it. Try to offer support and gentle understanding and make him or her verbally aware that you really are concerned. Try also to add in a willingness to help your teen take control of the weight problem that he or she is facing. 2. As much as possible, resist looking for quick fixes. Make your teen realize that losing and maintaining an ideal weight is a lifetime commitment. Encouraging fad diets may rob your growing teen essential nutrients essential to his or her continuing development. Buying weight-loss pills for your teenager and other quick fixes won't be able to address the root of the weight problem. The effects of such quick fixes are often short-lived and you teen may likely balloon back. What you should be able to teach is adopting a lifelong healthy habit. Without a permanent change in unhealthy habits, any weight loss program will only remain a temporary fix. 3. Promote and encourage doing more calorie-burning activities. Just like adults, teens also require about an hour of physical activity everyday. But that doesn't mean sixty solid minutes of pure gut-wrenching activity. You can plan shorter, repeated bursts of activity throughout the day that not only can help burn calories, but also become an enjoyable, fun and worthwhile affair. Sports and hiking can be probable options.

77 tips for natural weight loss

2010-01-07T04:11:00.000-08:00

In the twenty years from 1979-1991 the hospital costs for children and youth have risen from 35 million in 1979-1981 to 127 million from 1997-1991 (Preventing childhood Obesity: Health in the Balance, 2005, Institute of Medicine).

The number of obese people is ever increasing. Here are some tips that may help people lose weight.

Weight Loss Tip #1 Eat in a small plate, this will allow you control the amount of food you eat.

Weight Loss Tip #2 Eat less, more often. Not only will it increase you metabolism through the day, but it will also help you control your diet. I suggest the following pattern:

8 a.m. BREAKFAST

11 a.m. SNACK

1 p.m. LUNCH

4 p.m. SNACK

6 p.m. DINNER

9 p.m. SNACK

Weight Loss Tip #3 Before you for for seconds always wait for at least 10 minutes you might not actually need them.

Weight Loss Tip #4 Use vegetable oil instead of butter for cook and baking.

Weight Loss Tip #5 Set realistic goals. It's okay if you plan to lose 2 pounds a week, but the main thing is you will accomplish it. If you accomplish your goals from the beginning you will be motivated to continue till the end.

Weight Loss Tip #6 Eat early and never miss a breakfast. Eating the majority of your daily caloric allotment early gives your body time to work those calories off, so it's best so it's best to have a healthy breakfast.

Weight Loss Tip #7 Take time to chew your food. Digestion begins with the mouth, when you chew your food it's mixed with your saliva which contain digestion enzymes . You can keep your body healthy if you achieve thorough digestion, so chew your food properly and savor the food.

Weight Loss Tip #8 Avoid stress. Stress causes weight gain due to chemical reactions, listen to so calm music and take deep breathes before eating.

Weight Loss Tip #9 Try salad as a main lunch.

Weight Loss Tip #10 Change your lifestyle. Adapt a new healthy lifestyle. Occassional fad diets will lead you only to gain more weight rather than lose weight.

Weight Loss Tip #11 Tell your friends and family that you want to lose weight. It's good to know that people around you are rooting for you and gives you a boost.

Weight Loss Tip #12 Focus elsewhere while exercise. When you workout make sure you have your iPOD or are listening to music. Divert your focus elsewhere. If you focus on your own body while working out, it will make the work out really boring.

Weight Loss Tip #13 If you want to really lose weight do it properly and join a good weight loss program. Here you can find the top weight loss programs.

Weight Loss Tip #14 Keep record of how much weight you lose, take pictures or keep a diary, to motivate yourself lose weight further.

Weight Loss Tip #15 Eat slowly. It tales time for the brain to send signals of fullness, so it may take some time before you know you're full. It helps you control your diet and lose weight.

Weight Loss Tip #16 Concentrate on more burning calories than you consume, rather than low carb and low fat diets, to lose weight.

Weight Loss Tip #17 Cut out all the negativity. People will try to discourage you when you're trying to lose weight, not necessarily because they don't want you to succeed, but you need to succeed in the goals you set until you are satisfied.

Weight Loss Tip #18 It's okay to compare yourself to others and use that positively, however, don't do everything exactly the same way. Everyone is different and do the workouts that suit your body and keep your own goal in mind.

Weight Loss Tip #19 Women are naturally supposed to lose weight slower the men... ladies don't feel that I'm prejudiced, but the matter of the fact is that biologically as women are the birthing sex therefore they have more fat on their bodies and lose wieght slower then men. Therefore, ladies separate your weight loss goals from that of men.

Weight Loss Tip #20 Avoid weight loss pills. Period. Why? Because it is dangerous both physically and psychologically. So if want to lose weight do it naturally.

Weight Loss Tip #21 Don't go for weight loss surgeries either, because these too can have fatal side effects on the body.

Weight Loss Tip #22 Vitamins are good. Even though vitamin pills are good for you, never ever, use them without consulting a professional.

Weight Loss Tip #23 Have dessert! Don't cut off dessert, your body needs fat. Being healthy means that your body gets all the nutrients it needs, so have dessert, but control at the same time.

Weight Loss Tip #24 Walk a lot. Try walking distances, if you want to go somewhere, try leaving the car home and walk, it makes a difference and helps in the process of weight loss.

Weight Loss Tip #25 There is no way to force weight to come off your stomach (or any other worrisome spots). The good news is cardio exercise is great for peeling off the pounds all over, whether your trouble spot is your tummy or your thighs!

Weight Loss Tip #26 Go for a walk after a meal. It helps in complete digestion.

Weight Loss Tip #27 Think before you eat. Am I really hungry?

Weight Loss Tip #28 Sugar is not good for your body. The more refined it is, the more damage it will do your body.

Weight Loss Tip #29 Don't have white bread, research proves that people who eat white bread are more likely to have bigger bellies. Instead try having whole grain white bread, it will help you in your weight loss plans.

Weight Loss Tip #30 Pasta ain't going to do you any favors if you want to lose weight either. Refined pasta prevents your body from weight loss. Instead of pasta you could try barilla, which is a good substitute which are high in fiber and protein.

Weight Loss Tip #31 Try having a burger with just lettuce, tomato and onion.

Weight Loss Tip #32 Drink LOTS of water. Some people think, not drinking water will help them lose weight. They could be further from the truth. If you don't drink water, whatever little water you do drink the body will store that and you will gain weight.

Drink more of water and you'll lose excess weight and your system will cleaner.

Weight Loss Tip #33 If you go out one night with friends and break your healthy diet. Don't grieve the next morning and start eating junk again. Get right back on track the next day. One night ain't going to make all the difference.

Weight Loss Tip #34 Keep a balanced diet. I suggest the following diet during the day:

Almonds (and other nuts)

Beans (and other legumes)

Spinach (and other green vegetables)

Dairy

Instant oatmeal

Eggs

Turkey (and other lean meats)

Peanut butter

Olive oil

Whole grains (breads and cereals)

Extra-protein powder (whey)

Raspberries (and other berries)

Weight Loss Tip #35 Sleep your weight away! Sleeping will help you burn fat, I suggest at least 8 hours a day. It will help you in you weight loss process.

Weight Loss Tip #36 Workout in patterns. I don't think many people can workout for 2 hours straight everyday. I would suggest that you would workout in sets every four or five days max a week.

Weight Loss Tip #35 Don't overdo yourself working out. Start off doing as much as you can, then slowly increase the work out.

If you can do only 10 reps of an exercise, do only 10 and then slowly increase. You can't lose weight overnight.

Weight Loss Tip #36 Having more of fiber at breakfast will make you feel fuller through the day.

Weight Loss Tip #37 When your feeling down talk to a close friend rather than turning to food. It will cause weight gain.

Weight Loss Tip #38 When you reach a even a small goal reward yourself and stay motivated.

Weight Loss Tip #39 If you know walking around in the kitchen is going to make you want to eat, then try avoiding staying in the kitchen or any other place where may feel like eating unnecessarily.

Weight Loss Tip #40 Having an organized refrigerator or kitchen will help you make better decisions as to what eat.

Weight Loss Tip #41 Try making better decisions to breaking bad older habits.

Weight Loss Tip #42 Just because you're getting something to eat for free doesn't mean you have to eat it. It ain't going to cost your wallet, but it's going to cost your waist, so be careful .

Weight Loss Tip #43 Don't wear oversized clothes cause they make you look heavier.

Weight Loss Tip #44 Try high fiber appetizers, it helps you prevent overeating and helps control diet.

Weight Loss Tip #45 Another reason not to skip breakfast is, because after eight hours of sleep, our bodies have consumed no food and in order to increase your metabolism and burn them calories, you need to have breakfast.

Weight Loss Tip #46 Talk to yourself positively, say " I can lose weight!". Motivate yourself. It will help 100%.

Weight Loss Tip #47 Instead of putting mayo in your sandwich try putting mustard, ketchup, horseradish, salsa or pickle relish in your sandwiches.

Weight Loss Tip #48 While baking and pouring milk use the powdered kind instead. It will help you put off calories and lose weight.

Weight Loss Tip #49 Make each meal a well balanced meal.

Weight Loss Tip #50 Make on day of the week vegetable day, not only will you decrease your fat intake and increase fiber intake, but you might also realize that you actually like vegetables.

Weight Loss Tip #51 Try to be more active in your everyday life. Try to walk unto people's desks at work rather than e-mailing them.

Weight Loss Tip #52 Don't avoid nuts as a snack, because they have fat, they also have protein and other nutrients. I suggest a pack of nuts, instead a pack of chips any day.

Weight Loss Tip #53 Sugar-free doesn't mean calorie-free.

Weight Loss Tip #54 Instead of having a soda at the restaurant have normal water, it will save you around 1000 calories per meal.

Weight Loss Tip #55 Skipping meals will help you take off a few pounds at first, but after a while your body will start banking calories and after a while your body won't lose any weight at all.

Weight Loss Tip #56 Always pack a snack with you to work, you don't when you might feel hungry at the office. Rather than eating junk from outside, keep a healthy snack with you.

Weight Loss Tip #57 Whenever you don't feel like working out, think about how good it feels after the work out, the feel of accomplishment and the energy flowing through your body.

Weight Loss Tip #58 Putting on your exercise clothes when you don't feel like it helps motivate you and puts you in the mood for a workout.

Weight Loss Tip #59 If you're feeling down before a working out, have a soda or coffee, caffeine will speed up your metabolism for a while.

Weight Loss Tip #60 If you walk a lot talk things up a notch, try walking faster, jogging or even adding ankle weights.

Weight Loss Tip #61 There comes a time when diet and exercise stops helping lose weight, in that case increase physical activity. Not only will that add muscle, but also help in fat burning.

Weight Loss Tip #62 Let there be at least a three hour gap between your sleep and workout.

Weight Loss Tip #63 Make sure the exercises your doing are not only popular, but you enjoy doing them as well. Here is a weight loss program with good cardio exercises, people seem to really enjoy doing them.

Weight Loss Tip #64 You can take some sort of strength training, provided the doctor gives the OK. Being stronger will help you lose weight sooner.

Weight Loss Tip #65 Sit-ups, push-ups and pull-ups are part of strength training. I usually like to do modified versions, like doing push-ups on my finger tips.

Weight Loss Tip #66 Aerobic exercise is recommended to be done five days a week, however strength training needs to be done only two or three times a week.

Weight Loss Tip #67 Take a day of rest between strength exercise because your muscles need rest.

Weight Loss Tip #68 Keep your goal realistic, but don't keep the timeframe of the goal so far off that you may lose focus. For example you may plan to lose weight by the end of two years, after one year you may get tired and stop trying.

Weight Loss Tip #69 Make small changes to your daily routine and become more active. Small changes overtime will make a big difference in the future.

Weight Loss Tip #70 Checking your BMI (Body Mass Index) can help determine how close you are to reaching your goals.

Weight Loss Tip #71 Don't make a drastic cut in your calorie intake. People make the mistake of doing so, however, it will only cause your weight to stall.

Weight Loss Tip #72 Research has shown that snacking on peanut butter is an effective way to control hunger without leading to weight gain.

Weight Loss Tip #73 You should ask yourself these questions as you begin: Why do you want to lose weight? Are you truly committed?

Weight Loss Tip #74 If you want to lose weight your BAWH must change:

Behavior

Activity

What you eat

How you eat

Weight Loss Tip #75 No matter which way you look at it, 3,500 calories is one pound lost. Whether you take in 500 fewer or burn 500 more calories a day, by the end of the week you'll be one pound lighter!

Weight Loss Tip #76 Your weight will fluctuate from day to day. Resist the urge to weigh yourself on a daily basis, as doing so will discourage you. Weigh in the same time and day once a week.

Weight Loss Tip #77 Building muscle through strength training brings many benefits, including: increased endurance; flexibility; reduced risk for injury; increased energy; and boosted metabolism.

Support Your Teen's Weight Loss Struggle

2010-01-07T04:08:00.000-08:00

Lose weight before it's too late! Health issues arising from obesity is already known to vast majority of people. Unfortunately, due to changes is the phase of the modern day lifestyle, statistics show that 15 % of children aging 6 to 19 years of age are overweight (children and teens). What caused the change compared to the last generation? It is hard to determine the real culprit behind child obesity today.

More synthetic diets and fast living contributed a lot in the degradation of quality eating habits of children. Harsh economic conditions push women to enter in the working world. They are no longer fully in charge of the diet of the family unlike in the 60's. Actually this has nothing to do with a woman preparing the meal, but it is all about how much a mother would put extra effort in keeping the health of the family at best.

Children today live a sedentary lifestyle facing the TV, computer and video games without the guiding busy parents. A busy family with no time to do domestic task would let money feed their stomach. There is enough money to spend for the services of restaurants that pay no special concern other than getting their menus consumed. The way of making recipes tasty are either achieved by adding more oil and other harsh additives, which are not supposedly a big part of the daily diet. The influx of easy meals available around every corner are either fried or dredged with rich dressings. There is no more time to give it a second look.

With the situation, there is no doubt the picture of obese teens marks the proof of the reality. Before it's too late, something has to be done. In close to impossible situations, weight loss programs specifically for teens have to be sought. It starts by a comprehensive visit to a professional who will determine the factors affecting the teen's weight problem. It will be easy for a doctor to diagnose how much weight has to be shed off by doing calculations of the mass body index ration.

Actually anybody who has an understanding of this can easily determine his or her weight versus height. This has nothing to do whether you only appear thin or fat by other's opinion, the doctor will make sure to know how long the program has to be followed. The major ailments accompanying obesity will be given priority like rise and fall of blood sugar, blood pressure, heart condition and blood circulation.

Weight loss program for teen will also deal with the psychological aspects on how the teen can cope with its process. In this case, families are encouraged not to inflict discriminating attitude towards the plight of an obese teen. After all, it's partly the family's concern and lifestyle, which contributed to the weight problem itself. A program has to be followed to develop the habit of eating properly that goes along with healthy activities and daily routines. There has to be exercise and movements instead of continuous confinement at home during non-school days.

Formal and expensive weight loss program for teen may be an option for a family, but it may not be needed if the child's excess weight is manageable. Well-informed families can take do their own way of diet program approved and consulted to a doctor.

Overweight Teens, Marching To Summer Camps

2010-01-07T04:04:00.000-08:00

Weight loss camps, yes, they really do exist. If you've heard of training camps, band camps and all sorts of other summers camps then chances are you have an idea already why such summer weight loss camps exists. Various weight loss summer camps have distinct programs. You'll find camps that offer programs from traditional dieting and exercising to the newest fad in weight loss programs.

A summer weight loss camp in New York, for example, supplements traditional diet and weight loss programs with alternative means of loosing weight. The camp set their priorities to keep their programs enjoyable and entertaining.

The want the teens and kids that enroll in their summer camp to have fun more than anything else. Their programs are spread out to a diversity of extraordinary activities which increases, hastens and maintains the calorie burning process.

And before the summer camp ends, parents and the teens themselves are very happy on the results of their weight loss program. The good thing from these summer camps is that most of their weight loss programs are geared towards continuity. If they decide to stick with their program, they will surely loose weight even after they return to their homes.

It has been observed that traditional diet camps are not producing the desired results. It is therefore important that you choose well which camp you will send your kid to. Look for camps that have great programs and impressive backings from the academe as well as the scientific community.

It is comforting to know that the diet programs your kids or teens will undertake are based on scientific research and meticulous studies. You don't want to send your kids to a camp which will make them guinea pigs for a new exercise program. You want well established weight loss programs that deliver results.

Aside from diets and exercises, other camps offer skills trainings that will help kids and teens maintain a healthy body all through their life. Some still offers various behavioral therapies that will strengthen their mental and emotional state through whatever kind of issues that might arise from weight gain.

Also, there are summer camps that are specialized for the needs of teens with other issues aside from overweight like such as Autism, ADHD, Asperger's, obesity, different learning disabilities or behavioral problems. There are camps that will handle the needs of these special kids all the while addressing their problems in weight.

For parents, these camps are God send. It might prove to very difficult for the parents to encourage their teens and kids that are hounded by psychological disorders to loose weight. They sometimes need the experts' assistance on things.

One other thing the parents should look for in a weight loss camp is the ratio of instructors or counselors to students. The ratio of instructors and counselors to students should be high. By having more than enough instructors, camps will be able to focus on the kids and teens' programs.

They will make sure that the teens will be following the program correctly and will guide them to the right techniques in order to maximize the results. Expert instructors will make sure that kids and teens as well as their parents and sponsors will leave camp satisfied and have greater self esteem.

Weight loss summer camps are scattered all over the country. There are also winter camps for weight loss. You won't run out of options when it comes to health camps such as these.

The Importance Of Working Your Core Muscle

2010-01-07T01:30:00.000-08:00

Suppose that at a distance you see a brief, stooped figure walking with short, slow steps. Presumably, you will conclude that the person is old. The hunched posture offers you the clue.

Why will aging contort therefore several bodies in this way? The explanation is that a lot of people, throughout their lives, never extend the neck to its full vary, and therefore the muscles shorten. Long hours of reading, stitching, typing, or standing at a workbench take their toll. Eventually deposits of calcium salts in the joints complete the method of immobilization. Once this calcification takes place, nothing will be done to reverse it.

Fortunately, older persons will take action before it is too late. The best action is regular exercise that stretches the muscles with strength training muscles and improves flexibility, with special concerns on the core muscles. This sort of response is comparatively necessary for a variety of things that when taken with no consideration will only result in serious health problems.

What Are Core Muscles?

Core muscles pertain to the muscles found at the obliques, abdominals, lower back, and the glutes. These four areas of the body are the ones that sometimes frame the posture of a person. Hence, a good posture reflects the nice condition of these muscle areas.

What people don’t grasp is that core muscles are actually the “core” or the central part for all the strength that’s required to spice up perform totally different physical activities. This solely means that if a personal’s core muscle is strong, it will maintain equilibrium on the body and will stabilize the system each time the person is working out and moving.

Strengthening Core Muscles

The most responsibility of the core muscles is to provide enough power to the body so as to enable it to cope up with the dynamic challenges of every physical activity that a person encounters.

For that reason, several health and fitness consultants have realized that it’s comparatively necessary to strengthen the core muscles than with the opposite muscles in the body. Through some series of experiments and research, they have found out that having a stronger core can reduce a heap of health issues regarding posture.

As an example, a well-conditioned core muscle will project sensible posture. It can additionally improve the endurance of the back all the manner through the day.

Why? As a result of muscles that are included in the cluster of core muscles are literally the ones that initiate the right stabilization of the full upper and lower torso.

Thus, for those who would like to understand and perceive why it’s vital strengthen the core muscles, here may be a list of some of the advantages that you can use as references:

1. Strengthening core muscles can improve posture and forestall low back pain of the muscular origin.

This implies that as you incorporate stretching exercises in your routine, taking a particular target the muscles of the upper and front part of the trunk, together with the abdominal and trunk muscles, the activity has the tendency to strengthen the muscles of the back that stretch to the spine.

2. It can help tone the muscles, thereby, avoiding any back injury

Exercising your core muscles will strengthen and tones your lower back muscles and buttocks while stretching the hip flexors and therefore the muscles on the front of the thighs.

Achieving this state will deter you from any serious lower back injury.

3. Improves physical performance

Exercising the core muscles with slow, static stretching is simply as effective in relieving stiffness and enhances flexibility. Once the flexibleness of an individual has improved, it follows that he will be in a position to perform his physical activities at a better state.

4. They do not cause sore aching muscles

Static stretching for core muscles is best for the muscles and connective tissues. And as a result of it employs slow stretches only, it can not cause any soreness, as do the quick, bouncing exercises that rely on jerky muscle contraction.

5. Lengthen muscles and avoid unbalanced footing as you get previous

Core muscle exercises lengthen the muscles that have contracted as a result of pain. It also prevents pain from vigorous exercise if they are included at the tip of each workout.

Health and fitness experts highly suggest starting core figure out immediately and repeating the routine a minimum of 2 times a week. The method will be done once the workout or even during the activity, for concerning ten to 20 minutes only.

Indeed, core Muscles are fully vital in determining the nice posture of the body. Strengthening them will absolutely eliminate those nuisances of back pains.

Weight loss for teens

2010-01-07T00:26:00.000-08:00

With teen celebrities all losing weight, there is no doubt that there is a trend on weight loss going on. From teenage girls to teenage boys, upper class, middle class, middle school, high school, everybody, it seems, wants to have a slim body. Dieting is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, when done right, dieting can do great things for the body. Eating the right foods and exercising, which are the hallmarks of proper dieting, can produce a healthy body that is strong and fit. Unfortunately, the proper form of dieting may take a long while, too long for teenagers who are hell-bent on losing weight the fastest way possible and also the easiest way. The need for a form of diet that will be fast and also easy on the stomach has opened doors for all kinds of weight loss programs. Some target the diet and the food intake of the person. Others go for the exercise part of the diet program. A few target those who want to lose weight in a matter of days and they can only achieve this by going under the knife. The prevalence of these kinds of weight loss programs that are not healthy and in the long run bad for ones body has alarmed a lot of people in the medical industry. To ensure that your teeners are losing weight the right way, here are some tips that will come in handy. Show your support Teeners may want independence but they are much too young to lose your guidance. They still need your support despite claiming that they want to decide for themselves and stand on their own two feet. The problem I guess with most teeners right now is the fact that they are not being guided by their parents in their choice of diet. Some do not even tell their parents that they are undergoing some kind of diet. If you want to really help your teener, make sure that you show your support. Be their friend and confidante. You may not agree with everything that they want but at least you know what is going on in their lives. This way, you can help them make the right choices and guide them to the right path. As they say, if you cant beat them, join them. Emphasize more than looks Teeners who are obsessed enough with their looks to want to lose weight fast are those that do not have much self-esteem or those who place much importance into how they look and not who they are. It is important that parents nowadays teach their children, especially teenagers that there are more things in life more important than looks, that they can be accepted and become successful with other things such as good grades, achievements in the arts or in music, excellence in sports or leadership skills. Become a good example There is no right way of teaching your kids the value of the right kinds of diet than by example. If they see you using the easy way out by going under the knife or starving yourself to death just to lose a few precious pounds, you will find it hard to convince them that they should not do it too. After all, you are doing it. Why shouldnt they?

Tips For Emergency Preparation During Severe Climate Changes

2010-01-07T00:20:00.000-08:00

Due to all-around abating and added factors, the changes in our distance acquire become drastic. We acquire credible the abashing of accomplishments and cities. Many lives acquire additionally been absent due to air-conditioned typhoons and hurricanes, which acquired flooding, and acutely hot acclimatize condition, which acquired calefaction wave. Since we are no best constant what acquaint of acclimatize will hit our locality, all of us should be able for whatever bearings absolute distance changes and situations would bring.

Tips for advancing for hurricanes and storms

Check your house

Our address is our chantry during storms; thus, we allegation to consistently assay the artlessness of our roofs, walls, etc akin afore the draft assay arrives. Since our address is our abandoned advocacy abut abounding rains and able winds, we allegation to ensure that it can buck acid acclimatize conditions, abnormally if we animate in draft collapsed areas.

Once a draft admonishing has been issued, we allegation to alpha boarding up our windows and doors. We additionally allegation to shut off our gas and electricity and achieve constant that all chantry that can abatement or fly about allegation be removed.

Prepare for provisions

When a draft admonishing has been issued, you allegation to achieve constant that you and your ancestors has abounding admit and aliment to aftermost for days. Be constant that the aliment you will be stocking up are those that can be eaten akin afterwards amiable and does not allegation to be refrigerated. Moreover, you allegation to achieve constant that you acquire abounding acknowledgment admit for you and your family.

Aside from food, you allegation to acclimatize for candles, matches, flashlights and batteries. In acclimation for you to be consistently beside on what is happening, you allegation to acquire a battery-operated radio available.

Heed government warnings

If the government has declared for an evacuation, do not ahead twice. Hunt the admonition of the government. Above achieve constant that your home is appropriately anchored afore you leave.

Tips for advancing for calefaction wave

Extremely hot acclimatize can be dangerous, actually for boyish children, old people, and those with absolute blossom conditions, such as able illness, amore and animation problems.

Listen to the news

We allegation to anxiously adviser the bearings and adjournment for warnings and bulletins issued by the government. Many bodies acquire died because they did not apperceive that there is a calefaction angishore and it was alarming for them to go out during the hottest allocation of the day.

Stay out of the sun

It is actually adapted to breach axial aback there is a calefaction wave. If you allegation go out, you allegation to ensure that you are acid able accouterment and acquire a advocacy abut the sun, such as a hat or an umbrella. You additionally allegation to calendar your day able so that you will be axial from 11pm to 3pm, the hottest allocation of the day.

Shower up

Take a algid ablution or array several times a day. If you cannot do that, above ablution your face and nape with air-conditioned admit occasionally or whenever you feel hot.

Regularly assay on your age-old ancestors and neighbors

Old bodies are usually the ones who accept to calefaction wave, appropriately you allegation to assay your old ancestors or neighbors already in a while. See if they are bubbler affluence of admit and are action well. If you cannot physically arrangement them, you can consistently anxiety them during the day and consistently advise them to hunt blossom bulletins for calefaction wave.

Does Your Child Have Constipation?

2010-01-06T22:23:00.000-08:00

Child have constipation just like adults and perhaps more often since they don't like to eat food that has a lot of fiber - vegetables and more vegetables. Children with constipation can use the same natural remedies as adults, but in lesser amounts.

You can use these guidelines for children 3 and older. Children should have a bowel movement everyday. It would be best for them to have at least two, if they are eating three meals a day. If your child is having three or less bowel movement per week, it is time to get worried and take action.

If you use some natural remedies, and your child still has only 3 or less bowel movements per week, then its time for you to take your child to see a doctor. Continual constipation can reflect a more serious condition, especially if your child is eating the foods that promote natural bowel movements.

Here is a list of things that you can do for your child with constipation. In fact, these recommendations are also good for you if you have constipation.

1. Drink more water - children are very active and will perspire more than an adult during the day and lose water. If the body needs water it will take from the stools and make them hard and difficult to expel.

2. Eat more fiber - fruits and vegetables is where the fiber is. Using artificial fiber and laxative products is not a good idea. The body can become dependent on these products and lose its bowel sensitive and colon wall tone.

3. Having a bowel movement when it is time - teach your children to go to the bathroom when they get the urge. A lot of times they will put it off if they are playing or doing something they like. Putting it off will de-sensitize the colon and it will stop giving the bowel movement signal after a time. This will lead to constipation.

4. Use natural products that promote bowel movements - there are many fruits and vegetables that promote bowel movements. Use these as snacks. In cases where you use a natural remedy that is bitter, remind your child that it is medicine to help them go to the bathroom more frequently.

Drinking Water

Have your constipated child drink more water throughout the day. Use distilled water. Minimize the use of sodas, tea, and sweeten juices, as these are not water. Eating fruits and vegetable provide the body with distilled water since they contain up to 70% water. Drink unsweetened fruit and vegetable juices provide water and promote bowel movements.

Eating Fruits and Vegetables

The best time to give your child fruits is in the morning. From the time they wake up to noontime is when the body is detoxifying. Heavy foods like meat, milk, cereal, and eggs hinder the detoxifying process. Fruits and their juices accelerate the detoxifying process and promote bowel movement, provided no protein or carbohydrates are eaten. A good breakfast is simply a bowel of fruit. A glass of juice can also be provided.

When in season use a big bowl of watermelon and cantaloupe slices. Otherwise, use a variety of seasonal fruits. Use fruits as a snack between meals. But do not give fruits after a meal as desert. Wait 2-3 hours after a meal before giving fruit. This helps digestion and promotes bowel movements.

Vegetables should be eaten with each meal at noontime and dinner. Vegetables provide water, fiber, and an array of minerals and vitamins necessary for good digestion and colon function.

Article Source: http://www.articles4free.org/viewarticle.php?id=31

10 Easy And Natural Ways To Get Rid Of Acne

2009-12-20T22:18:00.000-08:00

Author: Nicholas Ahern

Are you looking for acne solutions that really work? The good news is, whether you're a teenager or an adult suffering from acne, you don't have to live with it. Here you can find 10 super easy and effective ways to get rid of acne.

1. Do not pick, press or rub your pimples. These actions actually increase the sebum production and rupture the membranes below your skin. The infection and sebum will spread underneath your skin and cause more pimples. Also, you risk increasing the chances of leaving scars on your face.

2. Wash your face twice a day using a mild soup. It is even better if you can buy sulfur-based soap especially for acne. If your skin is too oily, use a soap with benzoyl peroxide. Do not use rough sponges, brushes, or anything similar on your face. You shouldn't, however, over-wash your face because it will actually stimulate your sebaceous glands to produce more sebum which will increase your acne.

3. Check if it is because of the food. For many people, food allergy can cause very serious acne condition. You should avoid eating too much oily and spicy food. Recent studies have shown that acne can also be caused by milk which contains hormones as well as seafood with relatively high levels of iodine. If possible, cut down on those foods. Other foods you may consider avoiding are: sugar, dairy products, deep-fried food, meat, nut butters, etc. On the other hand, it is believed that green vegetables, vegetable juices and foods rich in zinc can help alleviate acne condition.

4. Drink more water every day. "Eight glasses of water a day can keep acne away." says Jennifer Thoden, a respected acne expert. The reason is that water can carry waste material out of our body and it really helps heal and prevent acne flare-ups.

5. Do not wear makeup if possible. Makeup products can clog your pores, cause more blackheads and pimples. If you have to wear makeup, make sure it is water-based. Be sure to clean your makeup brushes regularly and cleanse your skin before you sleep.

6. Do not use oily products. Avoid products such as hair pomades, intense oil-based facial moisturizers, and oily cleansers.

7. Keep your face clean. Do not rest your chin on your hands or constantly touch your face. Regular shampoo your hair and keep it off your face, especially when you sleep.

8. Exercise moderately as it helps in blood circulation and elimination of toxins.

9. Stay stress-free. Studies have shown that stress not only worsens acne flare-up, it also worsens the overall skin condition. Talk to your friends, listen to your favorite music, or take a walk in the park. There are many things you can do to be stress free.

10. Get Sunshine and fresh air. Sunshine stimulates vitamin D in the body, an essential vitamin for healthy skin. Fresh air and sunshine can also reduce stress (tip #9) and increase oxygen to the skin. Don't get burnt in the sun though. Burnt and heavily tanned skin forms a layer on the skin that doesn't exfoliate quickly enough and can lead to blocked pores.

10 Basic Health Habits

2009-12-20T22:04:00.000-08:00

Author: Scott Larson

1. Three prudent meals a day at regular times and only one or two small non-sugary snacks.
2. Eat Breakfast everyday.
3. Get enough sleep (about 7 hours a night).
4. Never smoke and if you do try to stop.
5. Use alcohol only in moderation, if at all. (There are better ways to reduce disease risk)
6. Maintain a reasonable & healthy body weight.
7. Exercise regularly, at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days.
8. Use a daily multi-vitamin.
9. Build your spirituality. (i.e. Pray & meditate each day.)
10. Maintain healthy relationships & social involvements.
Tip:
Check off the things you are currently doing and congratulate yourself! Then look at the things you're not and pick one and work on it.
When this has become a regular part of your lifestyle take on another!

Do Traditional Hair Loss Remedies Have Any Relevance Today

2009-12-20T22:01:00.000-08:00

by: Richard Mitchell

Could it be possible that our ancestors got it right with some of their traditional hair loss remedies? Folklore tells us they certainly went to great lengths to find solutions to thinning hair.

Although each culture had its own approach influenced by local conditions, there seem to have been many examples of common practices. Nettles, for example, formed an important element of traditional hair loss remedies throughout the world.

The samples outlined here have been sourced from the very informative work “Hair Loss Prevention Through Natural Remedies” by Peters et al. This book provides a wealth of information on this topic and can be easily purchased through Amazon or other good booksellers.

Rosemary Solution - this herb crops up frequently in herbal texts for its ability to cleanse the scalp and stimulate the hair root. Here is one recipe that features rosemary as its core ingredient.

Recipe: boil rosemary, sage, peach leaf, nettle and burdock in water. Strain and use to wash hair daily.

Apple Cider Vinegar - this is mentioned often in folk remedies for hair loss. It is believed to exert a normalizing effect on the scalp’s oil glands and has a strong cleansing effect.

Method: Part hair into sections. Apply two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar directly to the scalp with a moistened cotton ball. Allow between fifteen minutes and three hours before shampooing.

Essential Oils - essential oils distilled from plants have long been recognized for their ability to improve scalp circulation and encourage cell generation. Amongst the most useful are cedarwood, clary sage, eucalyptus, lavender and rosemary.

Method: mix ten drops of essential oil with one ounce of carrier oil (jojoba or olive oil). Massage it into the scalp for a minimum of fifteen minutes before shampooing.

Cayenne Pepper Hair Tonic - the ability of this herb to irritate the skin, increase blood flow and stimulate cell division is well known.

Recipe: mix four ounces of cayenne pepper with one pint of one hundred proof vodka or pure alcohol diluted with 20 percent distilled water. Let it stand for two weeks, shaking the mixture once each day. Strain through several layers of fine cloth until the mixture is free of pepper. Once or twice a day, rub a small amount onto the thinning areas of the scalp.

High Fructose Corn Syrup Causes High Blood Pressure

2009-12-17T20:42:00.000-08:00

It was recently announced by WebMD that the presence of high fructose corn syrup in the soft drinks can actually increase your blood pressure. This can happen even if you are otherwise healthy. This is according to a new study by the University of Colorado Denver Health Sciences Center in Aurora, Colorado.

A researcher named Diana Jalal, MD has said "High fructose intake is linked to high blood pressure,".

The amount of soda that it takes to cause you high blood pressure is two and half sugary soft drink per day. This is said by researcher Jalal

The study examined 4,528 adults, all age 18 or older, who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in 2003 and 2006. None of the participants had a history of high blood pressure. Participants were surveyed about diet, and fructose intake was estimated based on answers about consumption of soft drinks, fruit juices, candy, and other types of foods. The researchers did not include the natural fructose from fruits in this study. Natural fructose is not harmful because other substances (like antioxidants) in whole fruits counteract any harmful effects. The study found that the median fructose intake was 74 grams per day - approximately 2.5 sugary soft drinks a day.

The researchers found the link between high blood pressure and high fructose intake even though they varied the factors like age, level of activity, intake of calorie ans salt. The trial participants who are given 74 grams of fructose or more responded with 36 higher risk of having high blood pressure.

Dr Jalal, MD elaborated this by saying "We know that fructose has the potential to reduce nitric oxide production within the blood vessels,". "Nitric oxide relaxes the vessel and is supposed to lower blood pressure. Fructose reduces the production of nitric oxide and makes it difficult for the vessels to relax and dilate."

Blood pressure can also be raised by fructose by raising the uric acid in the blood. And that informs kidney to eliminate very low level of salt.

Maureen Storey from the American Beverage Association commented, "It's important to remember that this is an abstract presented at a scientific meeting. It is not a published, peer-reviewed paper where the study, the data and the results and conclusions have undergone the rigors of peer review. There is nothing unique about soft drinks and/or high fructose corn syrup when it comes to risk for high blood pressure."

Fruits naturally contains fructose. Fructose products such as high fructose corn syrup does carry a health problem as suggested from different studies even though the beverage association comment otherwise. And a latest research has found that the samples tested on high fructose corn syrup contains substance of mercury.

Most of these foods including soft drinking just brings in empty calories. You will see immediate benefits once you stop drinking soft drinks. IF you are an addict for soft drinks then you can search for soft drinks that is still made with natural sugar to avoid intake of fructose corn syrup. Even though the research is still ongoing at present the best thing to do is to avoid refined fructose altogether to reduce the risk of getting high blood pressure. In this case the products you need to avoid are soft drinks, fruit juices, baked goods, and candies.

In general, you should try to avoid all artificial, processed foods. Opt for natural foods, and eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. If you're at risk for high blood pressure or have high blood pressure, you should also exercise regularly. Think of exercise as your medicine! But exercise doesn't have to be strenuous. It can be relatively easy. To learn more about how you can reduce your stress levels and lower your blood pressure naturally, see this set of easy high blood pressure exercises.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/high-fructose-corn-syrup-causes-high-blood-pressure-1593224.html

Effective and Safe Home Remedies for Weight Loss

2009-12-17T01:09:00.000-08:00

By : Ryan Mutt

Obesity or overweight results from the excessive accumulation of fat. The main causes of being obese are eating too much and/or not being physically active enough. If you eat more calories than you burn, the extra calories are accumulated as fat. Everyone has some fat, but too much accumulated fat results in being overweight or obese. There are other factors that may affect your body weight viz. your genes (obesity tends to run hereditary), weak metabolism, and your age. Sometimes medicine can contribute to weight gain. To prevent this problem, there are some useful, effective and safe home remedies for weight loss.

Home Remedies for Weight Loss

Water: Drinking 8-10 glass of water is one amongst the foremost speedy weight loss remedies that dieticians suggest to individuals. It helps in reducing the weight and burn more calories.

Eating Habit: Eating smaller quantity is recommended. Do not take all meals at a time. Eat your meals at regular intervals. Eating fruits and vegetables with each meal certainly helps in reducing the weight. Avoid processed food (raw food is the best). Grind some mint leaves and take with every single meal. It will help in the proper breaking down of the fats.

Green Tea: It has excellent properties that can help in weight loss by increasing your metabolism. A better metabolism results in faster burning of energy. An apple or green apple is a good source of oxidation and energy. If it is taken with a cup of green tea, it provides enough oxidation and energy to replace one meal.

Honey and Lime: Lime juice and honey are a great combination to fight with obesity. Mix juice of half a lime, a teaspoon of honey and take with a glass of lukewarm water at regular intervals. This juice suppresses appetite without any loss of energy. Fasting on lime juice and honey is very effective in weight loss without the loss of energy and appetite. On an empty stomach early in the morning, drink 1 glass of lukewarm water mixed with juice of half a lime and 1 teaspoon honey. It is very effective and safe home remedy to lose weight.

Indian Plum: Leaves of the Indian plum also have excellent fat burning properties. Take some Indian plum leaves and soak overnight in a cup of water. Next day in the morning drink the water on an empty stomach.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.

Article From http://www.articlehealthandfitness.com/